What to Consider
Fabric and Material
Just like our favorite athletic shorts, look for breathable fabrics like polyester or mesh, since they offer more breathability than cotton. They should have moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body. Opt for durable knits like nylon mesh or polyester spandex blends that can withstand the rigors of intense play and frequent washing.
Fit
The best basketball shorts should have enough stretch to allow full range of motion as you’re on the court. Make sure the ones you choose have a comfortable waistband, preferably with an adjustable drawstring to ensure a secure fit without digging into your skin. Consider your preferred length—common options are 5-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch inseams.
5-inch inseams
If you prefer shorter shorts that have a lightweight feel and plenty of breathing room to move freely, this length is for you.
7-inch inseams
This length strikes a perfect balance—they’re not too short or too long. It’s great for guys who want a bit more coverage while still maintaining excellent mobility.
9-inch inseams
As the longest cut of the crew, this length offers the most coverage and works best for taller gents. It provides a slightly looser fit and more modesty on the court.
Design and Features
At the very least, your shorts should have ventilation zones or mesh panels to enhance airflow and keep you easy breezy during a heated game. Secure and well-placed pockets are important for stashing small essentials like keys or a phone safely without interfering with your performance. Decide if you prefer linerless shorts for more flexibility and personal choice of underwear, or if you want built-in liners for additional support and less laundry to do.
Read More: Best Athletic Shorts
How We Selected
Experts including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, tried a variety of basketball shorts first-hand to evaluate their fit, fabric and style. We also considered picks from our fashion editors who know a thing or two about pairing athletic shorts with off-the-court ensembles. Ahead, read on for the best basketball shorts to buy now.
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GymShark’s newest basketball short brings that streetwear vibe with its sharp, tailored fit and trendy colorways like ash blue and fog purple. The pair is fully lined, with luxe materials, and have a nice, hefty weight to them—but not too thick or unbearable in hotter temps. We also like that there’s open side pockets and subtle branding that keep the look clean and modern. It perfectly blends performance and style that makes it great to wear off the court, whether you’re catching an outdoor movie or heading to a music festival this summer.
A 7-inch inseam on basketball shorts is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, the modest length maintains excellent airflow and breathability, helping to keep you cool and comfortable during your games or workouts. Another highlight is its premium mesh texture, which is built to stay intact after going through rounds of washes.
| Material | 100% Polyester |
|---|---|
| Fit | Regular |
Pros
- Produced with double technology to keep you dry
- Side vents allow more movement
- Laid-back shape
Cons
- Not as sleek as others on the list
It’s impossible to curate a list of the best basketball shorts without featuring a design from Champion. For decades, the OG athletic brand has been churning out quality sports apparel that bridges the gap between style and function. The same can be said about this budget-friendly pair, which has a standard fit that provides a classic, chill aesthetic. Our editors found that its laid-back shape is not too snug or too loose—rather just right for shooting a three-pointer or attending a backyard barbecue.
Unlike other options in this list, this one is produced with double dry technology, a proprietary fabric that quickly evaporates moisture and controls sweat buildup. Based on our testing, we found that it kept us feeling dry and fresh, post-workout. We found that the fabric is super durable and stands up to frequent wear and tear, making them a reliable choice for regular play. On top of that, it feels insanely soft, like a second skin.
| Material | 100% Polyester |
|---|---|
| Fit | Standard |
Cons
- A bit costly, but the fit is super flattering
With linerless basketball shorts, you stay breezy and light, without that annoying inner layer cramping your style or performance. Take Lululemon’s version for example. This short has specially placed vents across the back panels that prevents a swampy seat as you’re sprinting up and down the court. Instead, the airflow helps you remain cool as ice.
What really sets this short apart is the updated polyester-elastane waistband, which is comfy, and doesn’t bunch up. Based on our testing, we found that it’s ultra-soft, with a streamlined design that lays flat and smooth against your body. Our editors also love that the Pace Breaker has plenty of stretch, and moves with us easily during our twists, turns and jumps. The fabric blend isn’t irritating or too tight; it feels more like a gentle hug than a tight squeeze.
Ever get tired of stuff bouncing around in your pockets during a game? That’s not the case with this short. It features hand pockets and a zippered pocket, so your essentials stay put without while you’re hustling hard. Another bonus: this short comes in three different lengths—5-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch inseams. Whether you like your shorts a little shorter or prefer more coverage, there’s something for you.
| Material | 86% Recycled Polyester, 14% Elastane |
|---|---|
| Fit | Tailored |
Pros
- Excellent range of motion
- Stripe details add a nice finishing touch
Cons
- Most expensive on the list, but offers great range of motion
Some folks love rocking short shorts, but a pair with optimal length has its perks. Enter the Vuori Zone Short. With an 8.5-inch inseam, it hits that sweet spot where it’s not too long to trip over but lengthy enough to keep things comfortable and modest. This version offers a great range of motion, so you can jump, pivot and sprint without feeling constrained. You get all the freedom you need for those quick cuts and high jumps.
Yes, this is the most expensive option on the list, but you get what you pay for. The fabric is super soft, like the brand’s signature joggers. We found that it’s super durable and built to last. It wicks away moisture like champ, meaning you’re never drenched in sweat. And it’s versatile enough to wear on a coffee date or grocery store run. Plus, the stripe details add extra style points and give me a sleek, athletic look.
Read More: Best Joggers for Men
| Material | 100% Recycled Polyester |
|---|---|
| Fit | Relaxed |
If you’re going to play ball during rainy days or want a short that can double as a swim trunk, this Steph Curry-designed knit has you covered. That’s because the surface of its nylon fabric is treated with Under Armour’s storm technology, which is a water-repellent coating that causes water to bead up and roll off, rather than soaking into the material. In other words, you’ll stay dry in light rain or drizzle.
We found that it also has a loose, fuller cut that gives your legs some breathing room, without looking sloppy. None of that tight, restricting stuff here—it’s all about letting you move freely as you’re making plays and pulling off those sick crossovers. And with a 6-inch inseam and no liner, there’s more room to maneuver without any extra layers getting in your way. Performance aside, this short looks good with a simple t-shirt and some fresh kicks.
Read More: Best Swim Trunks
| Material | 100% Nylon |
|---|---|
| Fit | Loose |
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