CrossFit workout shorts sizing hinges on waist measurement plus a 5-9 inch inseam, chosen for mobility and coverage.
Getting CrossFit workout shorts sizing right means you won’t be yanking at fabric mid-burpee or worrying about coverage during box jumps. The two numbers that matter are your waist and the inseam, though some brands also factor in hips for a more precise fit. Measure once, compare against the brand’s chart, and the guesswork disappears.
How Do You Measure For CrossFit Shorts?
Grab a soft tape measure and take three simple body measurements. The waist drives most men’s sizing, while women’s charts often rely on both waist and hips.
Stand naturally with the tape horizontal:
- Waist: measure around the narrowest part, usually just above the belly button.
- Hips: measure around the fullest part, keeping the tape level and snug.
- Inseam: run the tape from the crotch seam down to the hem, or just compare against a pair that already fits well.
When you land between sizes on a chart, most official guides point to the larger size for comfort during training. Some brands, though, advise the smaller size for a tighter fit — the brand’s own chart is the final say.
What Inseam Length Works Best For CrossFit?
The 5-inch to 9-inch range is the standard for CrossFit-style training. Shorter inseams give you unhindered leg drive for squats, lunges, and sprints; longer ones trade a little mobility for coverage and confidence.
If you’re not sure, 7 to 9 inches offers solid coverage and works well for CrossFit and outdoor sessions. Lined shorts — the kind with a built-in liner — run snugger in the thigh, so sizing up helps if you have larger legs or sit between sizes.
Common Sizing Mistakes To Skip
Shoppers trip up on the same four things every season. Here’s what to avoid:
- Mixing up waist and hips. Men’s shorts usually track waist; women’s charts often hinge on hips. Use the right one.
- Ignoring inseam. Too long restricts movement, too short hurts coverage in deep squats.
- Skipping the brand chart. A medium in one lineup may be a large in another — sizes vary widely.
- Trusting your pants size. Street jeans fit differently than training shorts; measure instead.
Brand Size Charts: Expect Differences
Official charts confirm that standard sizes across brands don’t line up neatly. Gymshark’s men’s bottoms guide, for instance, runs XS to 3XL with an inside leg fixed at 32 inches across all sizes — the waist alone moves from 29.5 to 41.5 inches. adidas’ men’s guide takes the opposite approach, asking for chest, waist, hip, inseam, and height measurements before matching you to a size. It applies across both their shorts and pants.
| Detail | Gymshark (Men’s Bottoms) | adidas (Men’s Pants & Shorts) |
|---|---|---|
| Size range | XS to 3XL | Varies by product line |
| Key measurements | Waist; inseam is fixed | Chest, waist, hips, inseam, height |
| Waist span | 29.5 to 41.5 inches | Follows the size chart |
| Fit between sizes | Larger size recommended | Follow the largest applicable measurement |
Because every chart resolves borderline cases differently, checking the official page each brand publishes is the only reliable way to size up. For a wider view on current options, our breakdown of the best CrossFit shorts for men pairs sizing notes with tested picks.
FAQs
Should I Size Up For Lined Workout Shorts?
Yes, if you have larger thighs or you fall between sizes. The built-in liner adds a snug second layer, so a size up usually improves comfort and leaves room to move. Check the brand’s own fit notes first — some liners are cut looser than others.
What If My Waist And Hip Measurements Point To Different Sizes?
Match the larger measurement when the brand’s chart lists both. For men’s shorts, waist alone usually decides it, but women’s and fitted cuts often combine waist and hip. Choosing for the bigger measurement avoids a too-tight fit and keeps movement unrestricted.
Can I Use My Jeans Size To Pick CrossFit Shorts?
It’s a rough starting point, but training shorts fit differently than denim. Waist measurements in street pants can be vanity-sized, and the cut around the legs varies. Measure your waist with a tape and compare to the brand’s own chart for a reliable match.
References & Sources
- Gymshark. “Men’s Size Guide.” Official bottoms sizing with fixed inseam and waist range.
- adidas. “Men’s Pants & Shorts Size Chart.” Official guide listing required body measurements for correct fit.