We know shopping for workout shorts can be overwhelming. Considering length, activity, and what’s in trend, it’s no easy feat. But finding your perfect length can be a game changer when it comes to your training, and we won’t judge you if you buy more than one pair of shorts because of it.
Read on to find the best short length for your height, style, and activity with our detailed guide. With all the info you need and advice from our menswear designer, James Redish, you’ll soon feel confident shopping for a pair of shorts.
What Is The Inseam On Shorts?
“The inseam of your shorts is the length of the inside leg from the rise seam (crotch) to the hem.” says our menswear designer, James Redish.
Often measured in inches, it’s a key sizing measurement that will determine which pair of shorts you’ll end up buying.
Most of us have heard of the rule ‘shorts should be 2 inches above the knee’, but with fashion trends constantly changing, this might be as outdated as skinny jeans and ankle socks. In recent years, hoochie daddy shorts have taken centre stage, gaining notoriety for being shorter than short, while social media has helped the resurgence of old-school basketball shorts. So, finding the perfect short length for you just isn’t a one-size-fits-all.
How To Measure Your Inseam For Shorts
To find out what your perfect inseam is, find a pair of shorts (workout or otherwise) that fit you well length-wise. Take them off, lay them down, and measure the distance between the crotch and the bottom of the inner leg. This will give you your preferred inseam.
If you don’t have a pair of shorts that you like the length of and you’re finding your shorts are too long for you, try putting them on and rolling them up to the perfect length, then clip them in place and remove the shorts. When off, you can measure the inseam length to capture the desired length.
Alternatively, if you feel the shorts you have are too short, you might want to measure the inseam as it is and opt for the next length up.
What Length Should My Gym Shorts Be?
The right inseam for you is dependent not just on preference, but also on your height and the activities that you’ll be wearing them for. While some athletic shorts require more range of movement (ROM) and therefore, less fabric, for others, you’ll want slightly more coverage for a comfortable fit. Here are the most common inseam lengths that you’ll find available:
5” Inseam: The shorter of the bunch, 5-inch shorts will generally sit on the upper thigh, making them perfect for running unrestricted and flaunting your quads on leg day.
7” Inseam: One of the most popular lengths, and it’s no wonder why, 7-inch shorts should sit on your mid to lower thigh and are the epitome of versatility - they’re ready for whatever’s on the agenda.
9” Inseam: Dipping into longer territory, 9-inch shorts can sit at or just above the knee, depending on your height. Offering a little more coverage than their shorter counterparts, they are ideal for any gym workout.
11” Inseam: 11-inch shorts are the longest of the bunch and generally sit on or below the knee; this length may be a little restrictive for the gym but will bring style and comfort to rest day.
How To Find The Right Inseam Length For My Activity
How Long Should My Running Shorts Be?
A popular inseam length of choice for running shorts is 3-4 inches. "Running benefits having a smaller inseam as it promotes freedom of movement, feels lighter and more breathable due to their being less fabric" says James Redish. You can afford to go shorter her due to the linear motion you create when running - there’s no deep squatting or bending involved, so you don’t need to worry about the limited fabric stretching or lifting in unwanted places.
We’re all about working out in what makes you feel comfortable, so if the thought of short-shorts makes you recoil, why not try 2-in-1 shorts which contain a slightly longer, fitted pair of inner shorts for additional coverage and a little extra support.
What Length Should My Shorts Be For Working Out?
For generalist gym-goers, 5” and 7” shorts should be your go-to. The ideal all-rounders; these mid-length shorts offer the best of both worlds by keeping most of your leg free, offering freedom of movement and breathability. So you can stay cool as you work up a sweat while remaining comfortably covered.
What Shorts Length Should I Be Wearing For Weightlifting?
Shorter shorts such as 5” and 4” are a cult fave for bodybuilding and weightlifting. Think back to the golden era of bodybuilding, and it’s short-shorts and stringers that come to mind. Sitting at the upper thigh, 4” and 5” shorts offer more than just an opportunity to flex your quads. With less fabric sitting around your leg and restricting your movement, it’s easier to reach deeper in your squats and hinge freely during your deadlifts, gains loading.
How Long Should My Shorts Be For HIIT and Hybrid Training?
When it comes to hybrid training, you need to be able to move your body in every twist, jump, and lift at speed, so shorts that support your movement are a no-brainer. That’s why we’d recommend mid-length 5” and 7” shorts, which generally sit at the mid-thigh and allow for unrestricted movement and breathability, while also providing the coverage and support you need to comfortably move from burpee to v-up. Lightweight and moisture-wicking, our 7-inch shorts are exactly what you need to hit your goals.
Our 2-in-1 shorts also make a great match for HIIT and functional workouts, thanks to the fitted inner shorts that help keep you supported and covered from every angle as you go set after set.
The Perfect Short Length For Rest Day
On rest days, it’s 9” and 11” shorts that take centre stage. The longest of their counterparts, 9” shorts such as jogger shorts offer a comfy and relaxed fit that’s perfect for active recovery exercises such as walking, stretching, and lounging. The longer and looser fit gives laid-back vibes, while more spacious pockets allow you to store everything you need for the day ahead.
FAQs
How are gym shorts supposed to fit?
The way your shorts fit is as individual as your workout goals, but there are risks associated with them not fitting quite right. Too tight and you are restricted and packed in, risking them ripping while moving, but too loose and you forego support and put yourself at risk of them dropping down as you put in the work. So take a look at our pointers below and put them to the test.
Waistband:
The waistband on your gym shorts should fit comfortably, you want them to feel secure and held in place but not so tight that it’s digging in or uncomfortable in when moving. Test exercises like squatting, deadlifting and jumping, and ensure the shorts aren’t falling down or digging in. For a customizable fit, opt for a pair of shorts that have an adjustable waistband with a front-tie drawcord.
Legs:
You don’t want your gym shorts to fit too tight around the legs, in particular the thighs, crotch, or glutes, as these can be restrictive areas when work out and might put you at risk of an accidental rip. Test lunging, deadlifting and stretching in your shorts to ensure there is enough material for you to do so comfortably.
Length:
Still unsure how to find the right length gym shorts? Well, lucky for you we’ve got you covered — literally. Scroll up for a reminder on how to measure and choose short-length.
What length of men’s shorts are in style now?
For your workout fit, it’s short-shorts (3” and 5”) that are in style, put back on the map thanks to the likes of TikTok and celebrities advocating for the trend. But when it comes to rest day style, we’re seeing a resurgence in retro street style, making longer shorts (9” and 11”), such as basketball shorts, take centre stage for the perfect laid-back look.
Your shorts, your style. Wear what feels good to you
At the end of the day, the length of your shorts isn’t a big deal—while certain lengths offer advantages for specific sports, the most important thing is choosing what feels best for you. And while it might be important for you to keep up with the trends, they’re changing all the time anyway, so make sure you feel good in the length you opt for. If you’re really not sure on what length of shorts to go for… it never hurts to ask your partner or trusted friend for some advice on what looks best on you.
