The athletic shorts you’ll actually want to wear outside the gym

Let’s be honest: most gym shorts don’t see much action at the gym. They get thrown on for corner shop runs, worn on long-haul flights, maybe even make an appearance at brunch if you’re pushing it.

So if your athletic shorts are still the same ones you’ve had since university — mesh, baggy, slightly questionable waistband — then it might be time for a rethink.

The right pair of workout shorts should do more than just get you through a training session. They should move with you, help keep you cool, and ideally, still look good outside the gym. Moisture-wicking fabric is a plus. Secure pockets? Even better. But the real test is whether you’d want to wear them on a day off, even if your only plan is scrolling on your phone.

Because that’s the goal: shorts that work when you’re moving, but don’t fall apart when you’re not. Comfortable enough to sweat in, relaxed enough to lounge in.