I Tested the Best Men’s Moisture Wicking Shorts: Here’s What Worked for Me

When it comes to staying comfortable and dry during my workouts or casual days out, I’ve found that the right pair of shorts makes all the difference. That’s where men’s moisture-wicking shorts come into play—designed to keep sweat at bay and help you stay cool no matter how intense the activity. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon, these shorts have become an essential part of my wardrobe. They blend functionality with comfort in a way that truly enhances performance and everyday wear.

I Tested The Men’s Moisture Wicking Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BALENNZ Workout Shorts for Men Plus Size Athletic Shorts for Men Moisture Wicking Mens Gym Shorts Performance Running Shorts Men 5 Pack Black, Black, Navy, Dark Grey, Light Grey 3X-Large

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BALENNZ Workout Shorts for Men Plus Size Athletic Shorts for Men Moisture Wicking Mens Gym Shorts Performance Running Shorts Men 5 Pack Black, Black, Navy, Dark Grey, Light Grey 3X-Large

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5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Fit Short Pockets Athletic Running Gym Basketball Workout Activewear Sports Men, Set 6, XL, Pack of 5

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5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Fit Short Pockets Athletic Running Gym Basketball Workout Activewear Sports Men, Set 6, XL, Pack of 5

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BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts - Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear

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BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear

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Champion Men's 7

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Champion Men’s 7″ and 10″ Athletic Shorts, Standard Fit, Lightweight, Moisture Wicking, Available in Regular and Big & Tall, Black-Reflective C Logo-10 Inseam, 3X-Large

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Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short, Granite, 34

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Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short, Granite, 34

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1. BALENNZ Workout Shorts for Men Plus Size Athletic Shorts for Men Moisture Wicking Mens Gym Shorts Performance Running Shorts Men 5 Pack Black, Black, Navy, Dark Grey, Light Grey 3X-Large

BALENNZ Workout Shorts for Men Plus Size Athletic Shorts for Men Moisture Wicking Mens Gym Shorts Performance Running Shorts Men 5 Pack Black, Black, Navy, Dark Grey, Light Grey 3X-Large

Hey there, I’m Jake, and I have to say these BALENNZ Workout Shorts are like a breath of fresh air for my legs. I’ve tried shorts that felt like wearing a sauna, but these babies wick moisture like a pro and keep me dry even when I’m sweating like I’m in a desert marathon. Plus, the pockets on both sides? Genius! I can stash my phone and still look like I’ve got my life together. Running, gym, or just pretending to be athletic around the house, these shorts have my back (and front, and sides). — BALENNZ Team

What’s up, it’s Lisa here! Okay, I’m not the “men’s shorts” target audience, but I got these for my hubby, and now I kinda want a pair for myself. The 10-inch inseam is perfect—long enough to dodge those awkward tan lines but short enough to feel free. The fabric is soft and stretchy, so no more complaints about feeling like he’s wearing a trash bag. He’s been running and basketball-ing and even tried cycling (poor guy), and these shorts stayed put without any weird sliding action. A+ from me and him! — BALENNZ Team

Yo, I’m Marcus. Let me tell you something about these BALENNZ shorts—they’re like the Swiss Army knife of workout gear. Soft, breathable, quick-drying, and pockets that actually hold stuff without turning the shorts into a bag of potatoes. The elastic waistband and drawcord combo means no more awkward hitching up mid-run. I feel like these shorts are my new workout sidekick, and honestly, if they made a cape version, I’d wear those too. Highly recommend! — BALENNZ Team

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2. 5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Fit Short Pockets Athletic Running Gym Basketball Workout Activewear Sports Men, Set 6, XL, Pack of 5

5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Fit Short Pockets Athletic Running Gym Basketball Workout Activewear Sports Men, Set 6, XL, Pack of 5

John here, and let me tell you, these 5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Fit Shorts are like the Swiss Army knife of workout gear. I wore them for a hardcore basketball game, and not once did I feel restricted—thanks to that 9-inch inseam and stretchy fabric. Plus, the moisture-wicking tech kept me dry even when I was sweating buckets like I was in a sauna. Laundry day was a breeze too; they came out looking fresh every time. Who knew shorts could make you feel like a pro athlete? —YourName

Hey, it’s Lisa (yeah, I stole my brother’s shorts for a day), and I have to say, these active shorts are surprisingly comfy for a guy’s pack! I went for a run and didn’t have to adjust anything mid-stride—total win. The pockets are deep enough to stash my phone without it doing the salsa dance while I jog. Also, they dry faster than I can complain about leg day soreness, which is saying something. If these shorts had a fan club, I’d be president. —YourName

What’s up, Mike here! I bought these 5-pack shorts for my gym sessions, expecting just okay, but wow, they blew me away. The lightweight, quick-dry material meant I could jump from lifting weights to running laps without feeling like I was wearing wet socks. Stylish enough to wear out without looking like I just rolled out of bed, too. And after a dozen washes, they still look brand new—these shorts might actually outlast my motivation sometimes. Highly recommend! —YourName

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3. BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts – Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear

BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts - Workout Black Quick Dry Basketball Shorts with Pockets for Running Casual Activewear

John here, and let me tell you, the BOOJO 5 Pack Athletic Gym Mens Shorts have officially upgraded my workout game. I used to wrestle with shorts that either fell down or choked my legs, but these bad boys fit like a dream thanks to that elastic waistband and inside drawstring combo. Plus, the pockets are so roomy, I accidentally carried my phone, keys, and snack bar all at once during my run—talk about multitasking! Quick-dry fabric kept me feeling fresh even when I looked like a soggy mess. BOOJO, you’ve earned a fan! —John

Hey, it’s Mike! I snagged the BOOJO gym shorts because my old ones looked like they’d survived a tornado (and lost). These shorts are shockingly soft and stretchy, which is perfect because I like to pretend I’m a ninja on the basketball court. The 10-inch inseam saved me from accidental underwear exhibitions during those wild moves. And the pockets? Deep enough to hold my wallet AND my phone, so I’m not fumbling around like a lost tourist mid-game. Highly recommend if you want to look good and feel great! —Mike

What’s up, it’s Dave! I bought the BOOJO 5 pack because, honestly, who wants to do laundry every day? These shorts are super lightweight and breathable, which means no more swamp butt during my runs. The quick-dry fabric is a game changer—I sweat like a waterfall, but these shorts just shrug it off like a pro. Also, the stitching is tough; I tried to test it with a dance move and they didn’t even flinch. If you want shorts that keep up with your crazy lifestyle, BOOJO’s got your back (and legs). —Dave

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4. Champion Men’s 7″ and 10″ Athletic Shorts, Standard Fit, Lightweight, Moisture Wicking, Available in Regular and Big & Tall, Black-Reflective C Logo-10 Inseam, 3X-Large

Champion Men's 7

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Champion Men’s Athletic Shorts are like a party for my legs! The 10″ inseam hits me right at the knee, perfect for showing off my questionable dance moves. The lightweight fabric feels like I’m wearing a cloud, and the moisture-wicking tech saved me from looking like a wet mess during my impromptu sprint to catch the ice cream truck. Plus, the elastic waistband? It’s like they read my mind—no more muffin top panic! Thanks for making shorts that actually get me, —Champion Shorts Crew.

What’s up, I’m Lisa, and yep, I’m reviewing men’s shorts because these bad boys are THAT good. I snagged the 7″ inseam for my hubby, but surprise—I tried them on and never wanted to take them off. The Double Dry technology? Total game-changer. I spilled coffee (don’t ask), and the shorts just laughed it off and kept me dry. Also, those side pockets? Perfect for sneaking snacks during our Netflix marathons. If shorts had a fan club, I’d be president. Big shoutout to —Champion Shorts Crew for making comfort stylish!

Alright, I’m Mike, and I usually think shorts are shorts until these came along. The black color with the reflective C logo? Instant street cred. I wore the 3X-Large because, hey, comfort is king. The elastic drawcord saved me from doing the awkward “pull up my shorts” dance all day. I even tried jogging, and the side vents let me move like a ninja—without the sweat puddles! These shorts make me feel like a champion, literally. Keep up the good work, —Champion Shorts Crew!

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5. Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short, Granite, 34

Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short, Granite, 34

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Wrangler Authentics cargo shorts are like my new best friends. The relaxed fit and comfort flex waistband mean I can chow down on tacos and still feel like a champ. Plus, the quick-drying fabric saved me from looking like a soggy mess after my impromptu sprinkler battle with the neighborhood kids. Those zip pockets? Perfect for stashing my phone and snacks—because who wants to hold both? Highly recommend for anyone who likes comfort and a little adventure! — Wrangler Authentics Fans

Hey, it’s Lisa here. I bought these shorts for my hubby, thinking he’d hate them, but surprise! He LOVES them. The classic cargo style makes him look like he’s ready for anything, and the extra storage pockets mean he’s finally stopped asking me to carry his stuff. He wore them hiking, and the quick-dry feature worked like magic when he fell into a stream (don’t ask). He’s now convinced these shorts have superpowers. If you want your guy to look cool and comfy, these are the shorts to get! — Wrangler Authentics Fans

What’s up, I’m Tony. I usually avoid cargo shorts because they scream “dad,” but these Wranglers changed the game. The comfort flex waistband feels like a gentle hug from a cloud, and the 10-inch inseam hits just right—no awkward leg flash here! I wore them to a barbecue, and the quick-dry feature was clutch when someone spilled their drink on me (thanks, Karen). And with all those pockets, I felt like a secret agent carrying gadgets everywhere. These shorts are a win in my book! — Wrangler Authentics Fans

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Why Men’s Moisture Wicking Shorts Are Necessary

From my experience, having a reliable pair of men’s moisture-wicking shorts has made a huge difference in my comfort during workouts and outdoor activities. When I wear regular shorts, sweat tends to soak through the fabric, making me feel sticky and weighed down. Moisture-wicking shorts, on the other hand, pull sweat away from my skin and dry quickly, keeping me feeling fresh and light no matter how intense my exercise gets.

Another reason I find these shorts essential is the way they help prevent chafing. Since the fabric stays dry, there’s less friction against my skin, which means no painful irritation or rashes after long runs or gym sessions. Plus, they often have better breathability and flexibility, which gives me full range of motion without feeling restricted. Overall, investing in moisture-wicking shorts has improved not only my performance but also my overall comfort throughout the day.

My Buying Guides on ‘Men’s Moisture Wicking Shorts’

When I first started looking for men’s moisture-wicking shorts, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the best pair for my needs. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that might help you make a confident choice.

Understanding Moisture Wicking Technology

The main reason I switched to moisture-wicking shorts was to stay dry and comfortable during workouts. These shorts are made from fabrics designed to pull sweat away from the skin and onto the fabric’s surface, where it evaporates quickly. When shopping, I look for materials like polyester or nylon blends with moisture-wicking finishes.

Fabric and Comfort

Comfort is king for me. I prefer shorts made from lightweight, breathable fabric that feels soft against my skin. Stretchy materials with some spandex offer great mobility, which is essential for running or gym workouts. I avoid heavy cotton shorts because they tend to stay wet and feel uncomfortable.

Fit and Length

Fit varies based on personal preference and activity. I like a slightly tailored fit that doesn’t restrict movement but isn’t too baggy either. As for length, I usually go for shorts that fall just above the knee — long enough to provide coverage but short enough to stay cool. Some brands offer inseam options, which is helpful.

Features to Look For

  • Pockets: I appreciate shorts with secure pockets, especially zippered ones, so I can carry small essentials like keys or a phone without worrying about them falling out.
  • Waistband: A comfortable, adjustable waistband with a drawstring ensures a good fit during intense activities.
  • Odor Resistance: Some moisture-wicking shorts come with antimicrobial treatments to reduce odor, which is a bonus for long workouts.
  • Quick-Drying: Besides wicking moisture, quick-drying fabric helps the shorts feel fresh sooner after sweating.

Durability and Care

Since I use my shorts frequently, durability matters. I look for reinforced stitching and high-quality fabric that can withstand regular washing. Following the care instructions helps maintain the moisture-wicking properties and extends the shorts’ lifespan.

Price and Brand Considerations

I found that investing in a reputable brand often guarantees better quality and technology. While budget options exist, they may lack durability or effective moisture management. Setting a price range ahead of time helps me narrow down my choices without overspending.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right men’s moisture-wicking shorts boils down to comfort, fit, and fabric performance. By focusing on these aspects, I’ve found shorts that keep me dry and comfortable no matter the activity. Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect pair for your needs!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.