Choosing the correct shorts for your weekly workout shouldn’t be taken lightly – as they can often be the difference between a sub-standard and a successful session. While it can be argued that runners will require shorts that are spacious with a high cut to reduce overheating (and maximising movement), those who put themselves through studio and gym workouts will need a longer leg and coverage for those angled stretches and lunges.
If you’re training indoors you may also want to think about breathable fabrics that draw moisture away from your skin, leaving you feeling fresh and dry during and after exercise. And, just as importantly, you’ll want a pair (or pairs) that are stylish, so as to give the message you’re as serious about your workouts as you are your wardrobe – a statement of intent.
But which shorts are making waves in the international market right now, and what separates one from the other? With so much choice and quality available, we’ve put together this guide to help you discover some of the best designs from around the world – all made by the most celebrated sports houses – created to strike that fine balance between performance and style.
Rhone
Rhone is an American sports apparel brand that was set up in 2014. It is inspired by the Rhone River that passes through Switzerland and France, an aesthetically beautiful stretch of water that links multiple communities together.
One of their standout pieces is the Mako Unlined shorts, designed for those who enjoy variety in their exercise, from yoga and gym to hiking and running. They are made from a four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric, and feature a media pocket for small music devices.
Under Armour
Under Armour made its name in the 90s, creating performance sports undergarments that kept US football players cool, dry and light when performing - wicking away moisture build-up. Now they produce sports clothing across a range of disciplines, including these UA Launch SW 7” shorts for those who a serious about running.
This ultra-light running aid has been created with stretch woven fabric for unrestricted movement, with an inner mesh lining promoting optimum breathability. They’re also quick-drying, with added reflective detailing for when the light falls yet the challenge remains.
Outdoor Voices
Set up in 2013, one year after CEO Tyler Haney graduated from Parson’s School of Design in New York.,Outdoor Voices is a real American success story. It has gone on to become a beacon for high-quality sportswear in the mid-range price bracket.
Their Rec Shorts have a 7” inseam and are made for both running and gym workouts. They’re lightweight, stylish and stretchable, and are available in four well-considered colourways that will effortlessly slip into your existing sportswear collection.
Olivers Apparel
Californian brand Olivers provide stylish performance solutions for the modern athlete, reimagining sports clothing for the 21st century. They specialise in pants, tees and mid-layers that look and feel great whether you’re covering distance or winding down post-workout.
Their All Over Shorts are an ideal example of this, made to accompany you on a variety of adventures from walking and running to trekking and gym sessions. They’re made from a four-way stretch, water-repellent fabric and feature a handy inner pocket for your car or house key.
Gymshark
The clue is in the name for this British startup sportswear brand. Founded in 2012 and taking serious advantage of social media as an advertising platform, Gymshark has grown exponentially to become of the leading brands for gym apparel.
With such an extensive range, picking out a pair for you isn't always so easy, but we've singled out the Critical Shorts for their simple approach to short design, with a roomy regular fit and being made from a fabric blend that includes elastane for some added stretch, they'll accompany you everywhere you need to go.
Lululemon
When Lululemon Athletica was set up in Vancouver, Canada back in 1998 their aim was simple - to create technical athletic apparel around a community hub, promoting healthy living for both men and women.
Their Pace Breaker Shorts are a versatile short made for the serious fitness fanatic who demands comfort and performance.
Suitable for both running and training, they’re made using lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that can be worn comfortably with or without leggings for year-round practicality. And if that wasn’t enough, they’re super stretchable - helping you conquer any type of terrain with maximum movement.
Reigning Champ
What Canadian brand Reigning Champ seem to do better than most is design sportswear that easily crosses over into casual street fashion. They look back to move forward and create multi-functional pieces that appeal to both athletes and lovers of classic streetwear.
Their 9” Training Short is ideal for both regular workouts and casual, laidback days. This mid-thigh length, regular fitting short also features hand and hidden zip pockets. They’re classy, comfortable and seriously on-trend.
Nike
If you’re in the market for a more tailored, versatile short, then these Dri-FIT shorts from the innovative team at Nike should do the trick.
Nike needs little introduction - they’ve led the sportswear revolution for close to 50 years. With these shorts, they have created a sleek and lightweight gym aid that will leave you feeling fresh, focused and confident during every workout.
An elasticated waistband also helps keep the shorts in place when tackling circuits and aerobics workouts.
Adidas
There are few major sports that German giant Adidas have not been associated with since they started out 95 years ago. They’ve become a name synonymous with quality and innovation, perfectly highlighted here by their Own The Run 2-in-1 Shorts. A regular fitting high cut with moisture-absoring AEROREADY means they’re perfect for those long, energy-sapping runs where staying cool can be the difference between an average day and a personal best. They also feature a built-in pair of compression tights to help keep everything where it should be and to further help wick away sweat.
