5 Best Quick Dry Athletic Shorts That Make Workouts Feel Easier

You want shorts that dry fast, move with you, and keep stuff safe, so try these five: Puma Jackpot golf shorts for tacky waistband and stretch, G Gradual 5 inch running shorts for light, fast wicking and zip pockets, G Gradual 11 inch basketball shorts for coverage and deep pockets, generic 10 inch quick dry gym shorts with drawcord and roomy pockets, and NY Threads loose-fit quick-dry shorts for comfort and airflow. Each blends polyester stretch, secure pockets, and easy care, and provided that you keep going you’ll learn how to match them to your routines.

More Details on Our Top Picks

1. Puma Mens Golf 2019 Men’s Jackpot Short

   Performance Golf Pick

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   Should you play golf and want shorts that stay comfortable all day, the Puma Mens Golf 2019 Jackpot Short is a great pick because it uses moisture-wicking fabric and a lighter mesh stretch waistband with silicone gripper tape to keep your shirt tucked and dry. You’ll like the breathable construction and 4-way stretch that follow your movements, so swings feel natural and walks stay easy. The floral-inspired pocket bags add a fun touch while on-seam pockets keep essentials handy. Made from 54% recycled polyester and 46% polyester, they wash in a machine and close with a button. They come in 14 colors and are imported.

   • Material:54% recycled polyester / 46% polyester
   • Moisture management:Moisture-wicking
   • Waistband type / adjustment:Lighter mesh stretch waistband with silicone gripper tape (button closure)
   • Pockets / storage:On-seam pockets (plus printed pocket bags)
   • Intended activity / use:Golf / casual athletic
   • Care instructions:Machine wash
   • Additional Feature:Lighter mesh waistband
   • Additional Feature:Silicone gripper tape
   • Additional Feature:Floral pocket bags

2. G Gradual Men’s 5″ Quick-Dry Running Shorts

   Best for Running

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   In case you want shorts that stay light, dry, and secure during every run, these G Gradual 5″ quick-dry shorts are a smart pick for active men who move a lot. You’ll feel the lightweight polyester blend wick sweat fast, while four way stretch keeps you comfortable. The elastic waistband and internal drawcord let you dial in a snug fit, and the side slit enhances stride freedom and airflow. Deep zippered pockets protect your phone and keys so you don’t worry. They work for running, gym sessions, or easy lounging, but do keep in mind to hand wash to keep them lasting.

   • Material:95% polyester / 5% spandex
   • Moisture management:Quick-dry, wicks away sweat
   • Waistband type / adjustment:Elastic waistband with internal drawcord
   • Pockets / storage:Two deep side zipper pockets
   • Intended activity / use:Running, gym, athletic training, workouts
   • Care instructions:Hand wash only
   • Additional Feature:5″ inseam short
   • Additional Feature:Zippered side pockets
   • Additional Feature:Split-leg design

3. G Gradual Men’s 11″ Athletic Basketball Workout Shorts

   Court-Ready Choice

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   Pick the G Gradual Men’s 11″ Athletic Basketball Workout Shorts whenever you want lightweight, quick-dry performance that keeps you comfortable during long practices and hot gym sessions. You’ll feel the breathable 100% polyester move with you, wick sweat fast, and dry before you overthink it. The knee-length 11″ inseam gives coverage and freedom, while the elastic waistband and external drawstring let you dial the fit. Two deep side pockets hold your phone, wallet, and keys securely whenever you sprint or jump. Machine wash care makes them low fuss. They work for gym, court, training, tennis, and casual days.

   • Material:100% polyester
   • Moisture management:Quick-dry, moisture-wicking
   • Waistband type / adjustment:Elastic waistband with external drawstring
   • Pockets / storage:Two deep side pockets
   • Intended activity / use:Basketball, gym, training, tennis, casual wear
   • Care instructions:Machine wash
   • Additional Feature:11″ knee-length inseam
   • Additional Feature:Knee-high rise
   • Additional Feature:External drawstring

4. Mens Athletic Shorts with Pockets Quick Drying Activewear for Gym Workout

   Versatile Training Essential

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   You’ll love these Quick Dry Athletic Shorts provided you want gear that moves with you and keeps your phone safe; they’re built for active people who expect comfort, storage, and fast-drying performance during long workouts or busy days. You’ll notice breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that dries fast and stays soft against your skin. The 10-inch inseam gives balanced coverage for running, weightlifting, or basketball. An elastic waistband with drawstring keeps the fit secure while deep side pockets hold your phone, keys, and cards. You can machine wash them, they’re imported, and they work for gym sessions, jogging, cycling, or lounging.

   • Material:(not specified exact blend) breathable quick-dry fabric (polyester implied)
   • Moisture management:Moisture-wicking, quick-drying
   • Waistband type / adjustment:Elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring
   • Pockets / storage:Deep side pockets
   • Intended activity / use:Gym, workout, running, weightlifting, basketball, outdoor activities
   • Care instructions:Machine wash
   • Additional Feature:10″ inseam
   • Additional Feature:Soft comfort fabric
   • Additional Feature:Multi-sport versatile

5. NY Threads Men’s Quick-Dry Loose-Fit Athletic Shorts

   Comfy Everyday Pick

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   Should you want shorts that keep sweat off your skin while giving plenty of room to move, NY Threads Men’s Quick-Dry Loose-Fit Athletic Shorts are a smart pick for runners, gym-goers, and anyone who likes active comfort. You’ll feel the lightweight 100% polyester fabric wick moisture fast and breathe during long sessions. The loose fit and 8-inch inseam give ideal coverage and easy mobility, while the elastic drawstring waist lets you tighten or relax. Two pockets hold your phone and keys. They resist wrinkles, stretch with motion, and clean easily in cold machine wash. They’re imported and built to last.

   • Material:100% polyester
   • Moisture management:Moisture-wicking, quick-dry
   • Waistband type / adjustment:Elastic waistband with adjustable drawstring
   • Pockets / storage:Two pockets (side)
   • Intended activity / use:Running, gym, workouts, indoor/outdoor sports
   • Care instructions:Machine wash cold (with like colors)
   • Additional Feature:8″ inseam
   • Additional Feature:Wrinkle-resistant finish
   • Additional Feature:Loose-fit silhouette

Factors to Consider When Choosing Quick Dry Athletic Shorts

When you choose quick dry athletic shorts, consider the fabric and how it controls moisture so you stay comfortable during long workouts. Also check the fit and mobility, plus the waistband and closure for a secure, chafe-free feel, while considering pocket security options for your phone and keys. Finally, make sure the shorts are easy to care for and durable so they keep performing wash after wash.

Fabric And Moisture Control

Pick fabrics that work like a teammate and keep sweat moving away from your skin so you stay comfortable and confident during any activity. Choose synthetic blends such as polyester, recycled polyester, or polyester spandex mixes because they wick moisture and dry much faster than cotton. Look for lightweight weaves under about 150 g/m² and mesh panels since they increase surface area for evaporation and speed drying. Fabrics with four way stretch or three to seven percent spandex reduce cling and let air flow, which helps sweat evaporate faster. Technical finishes that are hydrophobic or use capillary action move moisture to the outer layer for quick drying. Also consider antimicrobial or odor control treatments to limit bacteria and keep shorts fresher between washes.

Fit And Mobility

Should you want shorts that move with you, focus initially on fit and mobility because they decide how freely you can run, jump, or bend without distraction. Pick an inseam that matches your activity: shorter 3–5 inches for sprinting, mid-length 7–9 inches for gym sessions, and longer 10–11 plus inches for basketball or casual wear. Choose fabrics with 4-way stretch or blends containing 5–10 percent spandex so lunges, cuts, and jumps feel natural. Look for a gusseted crotch or articulated seams to cut seam stress and chafing during wide movement. Check pocket design and placement; deep on-seam or zippered pockets keep items secure without bouncing. These elements work together to give you comfort, confidence, and real freedom of motion.

Waistband And Closure

You’ve dialed in fit and mobility, so now look at the waistband and closure because they keep your shorts where you need them while you move. Pick elastic waistbands with an internal or external drawcord whenever you desire quick, secure adjustments during sprints or circuits. Choose a wide, 4-way stretch band in case you hate pinching or riding up; it spreads pressure and feels gentler on your skin. Look for silicone gripper tape or a textured inner band to stop shirts from untucking and to keep the waist from shifting. Should you like a casual look, button or zip fly options add structure, but expect less flexibility. Finally, seek flatlock seams and low-profile closures to cut chafing on long runs and repeated motion.

Pocket Security Options

Should you’re on the move, pocket security can make or break your comfort, so look for features that actually keep items put. You want zippered pockets whenever you run or jump because they lock precious items in and cut the risk of losing things. Deep on-seam or internal pockets that sit below the hip hold phones steady and stop sideways slipping. Elastic or mesh linings with silicone grippers or small retention loops add friction without bulk, so items stay where you put them. Combine those with concealed stash pockets in the waistband for cash or cards whilst you travel. Also consider placement: side or front pockets with closures protect better during lateral movement than rear pockets, which can let things fall out while you move.

Care And Durability

Good pocket design keeps your phone and keys safe while you move, but care and durability determine how long those pockets and the shorts themselves will keep working for you. Check fabric composition initially, since higher polyester or polyester with spandex dries faster and fights water better than cotton. Inspect stitching and seam construction subsequently. Double-stitched seams and reinforced pocket openings resist tearing during repeated use and wash cycles. Follow care labels exactly; wash in cold water and air-dry or tumble-dry low to preserve moisture-wicking finishes and elastic fibers. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat, because they break down treatments and stretch. Look for a small percentage of elastane for shape retention and abrasion resistance, so your shorts keep fitting and performing longer.