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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
For CrossFit, your shorts have one job: stay put through burpees, squats, and rope climbs without riding up, bunching, or leaving you adjusting your waistband mid-WOD. The right pair stays put through burpees, squats, and rope climbs without riding up or bunching. This guide breaks down the best CrossFit shorts for men by inseam, liner, and pocket strategy, so you can pick the pair that handles the workout, not just the mirror.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Your shorts need to survive box jumps, cleans, and thousands of squats without chafing or losing their shape. This breakdown of the top crossfit shorts for men helps you find the pair that fits your training style, so you can focus on the workout, not your waistband.
Our Picks at a Glance
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What wins people over is the build quality — the thick, non-see-through material earns the most praise from owners.
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The real value here isn’t just the low price — it’s having a clean backup ready when your main pair is in the wash.
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Adidas built these for strength training with AEROREADY technology, which moves sweat away from your skin so you stay dry when the…
Check Price on AmazonHow To Choose The Best Crossfit Shorts for Men
CrossFit throws a lot at a pair of shorts: deep squats, explosive pulls, and plenty of sweat. The right pair moves with you through deep squats and explosive pulls without needing a single adjustment between rounds. Start with inseam length, liner type, and pocket security—not the brand logo.
Inseam length: the true deciding factor
Buyers report that a 7-inch inseam (the length from the crotch seam to the hem) hits the balance for most box-goers. It stays out of the way during squats and lunges, yet keeps you covered when you bend forward for deadlifts. A 5-inch inseam gives even more freedom for sprints and box jumps, but you trade away coverage. Your height and leg shape matter more than any size chart, so measure yourself before ordering.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Inseam | Liner | Pockets | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| maamgic Gym Shorts★ Best Overall | All-Around Performance | 7″ | Compression | Zip + Phone | Amazon |
| CANGHPGIN 2 PackBest Value | Best Value 2-Pack | 7″ | Unlined | 4 Pockets | Amazon |
| adidas Sereno CutBrand Icon | Brand Reliability | — | Mesh Inner Brief | Side Seam | Amazon |
| maamgic 2 in 1 Stretch | Durable Training | 5″ or 7″ | Compression | Zip + Inner | Amazon |
| Nike Dri-FIT Flex 7 | High-Intensity Comfort | 7″ | Unlined | Side Pockets | Amazon |
| Nike Flex Woven | Deep Stretch Moves | 7″ | Unlined | Yes | Amazon |
| Under Armour Launch Run | Ventilated Training | 7″ | Unlined | Hand + Phone | Amazon |
| HOPLYNN 5 Pack | Bulk Gym Rotation | — | Compression | Deep Front | Amazon |
| Rhone Pursuit 7” | Premium Tailored Fit | 7″ | Medium Compression | Hidden | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. maamgic Gym Shorts for Men 7 inch Inseam with Liner
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 950+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
A 7-inch inseam, compression liner, and zippered pockets cover every CrossFit movement.
What wins people over is the build quality — the thick, non-see-through material earns the most praise from owners. Beyond the fabric, you get a full compression liner, a zippered side pocket for valuables, and a lined phone pocket that fits an iPhone Pro Max, so your gear stays put from warm-up to cash-out. The 7-inch inseam hits that ideal CrossFit length, keeping you covered through deadlifts and box jumps without ever needing a tug.
One owner explains the appeal perfectly: “I typically wear a 30 in most pants. I got a size small and these fit perfectly.” The liner is cozy and not too tight, which is exactly what you want for a 45-minute WOD where you’re constantly in motion. Owners mention the dark colors hide stains well and the drawstring keeps everything locked in — “if you’re on the fence, just get em” is the consensus.
The honest trade-off: that excellent liner isn’t universally loved. A few owners found it too long or not snug enough, and a slimmer build in a size small wished it was tighter. If you prefer underwear-level compression from your liner, this pair might feel a touch loose on the first wear.
What Owners Rave About
- Thick, high-quality fabric that isn’t see-through
- Zippered and lined phone pockets secure your valuables
- Versatile enough for gym, running, swim, and hiking
Who Should Look Elsewhere
- Runners may find the liner not snug enough for chafe-free miles
- Buyers with thinner builds may prefer a tighter liner fit
The crowd-pleaser: the best all-around pick for anyone who wants one pair that handles every movement in the box.
A note for runners: if your WOD is mostly long-distance, a snugger liner might serve you better.
2. CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Men’s Workout Athletic Shorts 7″
The real value here isn’t just the low price — it’s having a clean backup ready when your main pair is in the wash. The 7-inch inseam works for training, tennis, or travel, and the four pockets let you carry your phone, keys, and wallet without a bag. The fabric is “soft and thin” yet holds its shape; customers note washing these “quite a few times and they hold up well and still look brand new.”
This is a lightweight, quick-dry pair that loves a busy schedule. One owner describes them as “my new favorite gym shorts” and notes the pockets are a good size with zippers that work well. They also offer a stretchy waistband with drawstring, so you can dial in the fit whether you’re hitting a barbell or a beach vacation.
The catch is a touch of inconsistency: most praise the quality, but an occasional pair arrives “pretty see through,” and a few noted the zipper hardware feels less premium than branded rivals.
Why It’s a Steal
- Durable fabric that stays looking new after repeated washes
- Deep pockets keep your phone secure during movements
- Lightweight material that dries fast between WODs
Heads-Up
- Some pairs come in a see-through material
- The zipper quality is the most common complaint
Best for budget rotations: ideal if you need multiple pairs without spending a week’s meal budget on gear.
Think twice if: you’re doing heavy barbell work in front of a mirror — check the opacity when it arrives.
3. adidas Men’s Sereno Cut 3-Stripes Shorts
AEROREADY technology wicks sweat away to keep you dry through heavy barbell work.
Adidas built these for strength training with AEROREADY technology, which moves sweat away from your skin so you stay dry when the barbell work gets brutal. The mesh inner briefs handle coverage, while the elastic waistband with drawcord keeps everything locked down through box jumps and ball slams. The 100% recycled polyester stands up to intense sessions and repeated washing.
Reviewers point out the fabric performance is the headline: “for something that’s thick it’s actually pretty lightweight,” and it stays comfortable and breathable. The durability also gets real credit — it holds up well through many washes. One buyer who got them for a 13-year-old who is “six feet tall and very slim” noted they fit more like an above-the-knee athletic short.
The sizing story is mixed, so don’t assume your usual size is automatic here. Some owners found them true to size, while others advise sizing up, and a couple of reviews describe the fabric as thinner than expected.
Trusted build: reliable sweat management from a household name, with a fit that leans athletic and snug rather than baggy.
4. maamgic Men’s Workout Shorts 2 in 1 Stretch 5″/7″
The 4-way stretch short that survives marathon miles and heavy squats alike
This 2-in-1 short wins on sheer versatility, with a choice of 5-inch or 7-inch inseam and 4-way stretch fabric that moves through everything. Shoppers say wearing them for “my first marathon” and still finding the color lasts after “the pool and sun” — a durability proof point that stands out. The compression liner offers support without restriction, and the deep double-layer pockets keep your phone and keys locked in even during sprints.
The “towel loop” and hidden liner design make this a gym-to-street favorite. A buyer who owns five pairs says they’re “high quality and last a very long time” and wear them to the gym constantly. Unlike some other picks, these don’t ride up or slip down, which is the #1 complaint you’ll read about lesser shorts.
The trade-off to know: this pair runs small for some builds, so sizing up is common advice, and the liner runs about an inch longer than the outer shell on certain fits.
Standout Features
- 4-way stretch fabric that never restricts a deep squat
- Deep, double-layer pockets for secure gear storage
- Durable enough to survive 8 months of consistent training
Keep In Mind
- Runs small for some body types — size up
- The liner can sit longer than the outer shorts
For the dedicated athlete: a shorter inseam and real durability make this a go-to for heavy training blocks.
Not for those between sizes: the fit runs small, so expect to move up a size.
5. Nike Men’s Dri-FIT Flex 7″ Workout Short
Nike’s Dri-FIT fabric and 7-inch inseam deliver a classic athletic fit for training days.
Nike’s Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your skin to keep you dry, and the 7-inch inseam with elastic waistband and drawcord delivers that classic athletic fit. Side pockets give you easy reach for your phone between rounds, and the polished details are exactly what you’d expect from a premium brand at this level. It’s a clean, unlined short that works for training days and casual summer walks.
Buyers describe the fit as “true to size” and love the fabric quality and details — one buyer ordered five more after the first pair arrived. It’s become a favorite for both workouts and “walking with friends on a pleasant summer afternoon.” While it’s often bought as basketball shorts, it handles CrossFit fine thanks to that 7-inch inseam and flexible fabric.
The main thing to flag: the gray colorway runs darker in person than the photos suggest, so don’t be surprised when it arrives.
Trusted comfort: if you want a brand you recognize with a fit that just works — this is it, just be ready for the darker-than-photo gray.
6. Nike Men’s Dri-Fit Flex Woven Shorts 7″
The flex-fabric short built for lunges, squats, and every deep bend
Nike’s Flex fabric stretches with every move, and the vents at the hems are tailor-made for deep bends like lunges and squats. That makes this a serious pick for CrossFit, where mobility is the whole game. Dri-FIT technology pulls sweat away for quicker evaporation, so you stay dry and comfortable through high-intensity training.
Buyers report the shorts are “extremely comfortable, breathable, moisture-wicking,” and the pockets fit your phone and keys. The “standard fit” offers a relaxed, easy feel that doesn’t hug your quads like a liner short would. They’re light with a strong waistband.
The recurring pattern in reviews: these run small. Multiple owners warn to order at least one size up from your normal, and an occasional unit arrives missing the pockets that the listing promises — so check yours on arrival.
Built to Move
- Flex fabric and hem vents designed for deep squats
- Breathable and moisture-wicking for hot WODs
- Lightweight feel with a strong, secure waistband
Flag Before Buying
- Runs tight — order at least one size up
- Some units arrive without the promised pockets
Mobility first: the top choice for anyone whose workouts live in the squat rack and on the lunge mat.
Size caution: this is not a true-to-size fit, so go up a size and verify the pockets when it lands.
7. Under Armour Men’s Launch Run 7 Inch Unlined Shorts
The featherlight run short that openly breathes on leg day
Under Armour added super-breathable mesh panels for ventilation, which is exactly what a hot box needs. The woven fabric wicks sweat and dries “really fast,” and the soft knit waistband with an internal drawcord keeps the fit secure without digging in. The 7-inch inseam hits the CrossFit balance, and the open hand pockets include a right-side internal phone pocket, so your phone stays put during burpees.
Owners mention they’re “extremely lightweight and comfortable and durable” and survive “every weekend” washing with no problems. The mesh panels make a real difference — “nice & thin but well made” is a recurring take from runners who also lift. Plus, the main body fabric is at least 90% recycled polyester, so it’s a more sustainable pick.
The mixed feedback centers on the fabric feeling thin or cheap for some, and the sizing that runs small for certain builds. It’s also unlined, so you’ll want your own base layer if you prefer built-in support.
Breathe easy: a high-ventilation, unlined pick for athletes who overheat fast and need a pocket for their phone.
8. HOPLYNN 5 Pack Men’s 2 in 1 Running Workout Shorts
If you train daily, this 5-pack means laundry day never dictates your schedule. Each pair comes with a compression liner for support during squats, deep front pockets to secure a large phone, and a liner pocket that’s a pleasant surprise. Customers note the fit works great for a 6’0″, 260lb athlete in XL, and the side pocket holds a big phone securely “for walks/jogs.”
The standout review sums it up: “a quality zipper pocket” and “strong seams, solid drawstring, thick stretchy waistband” for what feels like a much pricier product. The liner provides privacy during squats, and the thick yet stretchy fabric holds its shape after months of use. It’s a versatile rotation for running, workouts, and daily wear.
The honest caveat: a few buyers found the size runs small and the fabric slightly thicker than expected. And as with any bulk pack, the generic look won’t turn heads — but it also won’t empty your wallet.
Why It’s a Win
- Compression liner holds up during deep squats
- Deep front pocket secures even a large phone
The Fine Print
- Sizing runs small — plan to size up
- The fabric is thicker than average for hot boxes
For the everyday athlete: stock your drawer for a full week of WODs while staying affordable.
Skip if: you only buy premium, tailored athletic wear — this is about volume and value.
9. Rhone Men’s 7″ Pursuit Shorts
All-Way Stretch fabric and a medium compression liner create a bespoke fit for lifting and cardio.
Rhone brings a tailored, premium feel to the gym, with All-Way Stretch fabric and a medium compression liner that holds up for both cardio and lifting. Reviewers point out the liner fits “large thighs securely” and the size L fits a 36″ waist with 3-4″ of stretch, so it moves with you rather than against you. The 7-inch seam and adjustable waistband let you dial in a fit that feels bespoke.
One owner calls it “Every bit as good as Lululemon,” while another highlights “no loose threads or zippers issues” — a build-quality vote that many premium brands can’t claim. The hidden pockets and breathable panels round out a short that works from the squat rack to the street. It’s high quality, comfortable, “fit as expected.”
The premium price is the main friction point, and a couple of owners found the liner thinner than expected for the cost. Also, if you need a back pocket for your phone, this pair doesn’t have one — a real consideration for some athletes.
Luxury Details
- Exceptional tailored fit with adjustable waistband
- Compression liner designed for both cardio and lifting
- Hidden pockets and breathable panels
The Trade-Off
- Premium price tag for a performance-focused buy
- No back pocket for phone storage
For the discerning lifter: a premium, tailored short that justifies its cost with fit and finish.
Not for bare-bones buyers: if phone-in-back-pocket is non-negotiable, this short won’t work.
Understanding the Specs
Inseam Length
This is the measurement from the crotch seam to the hem. A 7-inch inseam is the CrossFit favorite — long enough for coverage during deadlifts and squats, short enough to stay out of the way. A 5-inch or 5.5-inch inseam offers even more freedom for sprints and box jumps, but sacrifices some coverage. Your height and leg shape matter more than any size chart, so check the measurements before you order.
Built-in Liner vs. Unlined
A 2-in-1 short with a compression liner gives you built-in support and chafe protection without needing a separate base layer. That’s a huge win for a WOD. Unlined shorts give you total freedom and breathability but require you to wear your own underwear. If you’re doing heavy squats and box jumps, a compression liner often feels more secure; if you run hot, an unlined pair breathes better.
FAQ
What is the best inseam length for CrossFit shorts?
Are lined or unlined CrossFit shorts better?
Should I size up for CrossFit shorts?
Do CrossFit shorts need zippered pockets?
What is a liner phone pocket for?
How do I stop CrossFit shorts from riding up?
Are quick-dry shorts worth it for CrossFit?
Can I wear CrossFit shorts for running and hiking?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
If you want one pair that does everything right — quality, support, and pockets — the maamgic 7-inch is the choice, and its design holds up as the standout option across the reviews. For serious mobility work and deep squats, the Nike Flex Woven delivers with its flex fabric and hem vents. And for volume training on a schedule, the HOPLYNN 5-pack keeps your drawer full all week without stretching your budget.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, Gardening Beyond earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.