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The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Men's Athletic Shorts

The Men's Athletic
Shorts Guide

From run to recovery, there’s a short for every way you move.

The Men's Athletic
Shorts Guide

From run to recovery, there’s a short for every way you move.

From run to recovery, there’s a short for every way you move.

The Men's Athletic
Shorts Guide

From run to recovery, there’s a short for every way you move.

Shop By Activity

Track To Trail

Running

Push And Pull

Strength + Training

Full Court Coverage

Tennis

Recharge And Reset

Mobility + Recovery

Customer Reviews

The Short That Started It All

When we created the best-selling Vuori Kore™ Short in 2015, we set out to define a new standard for workout shorts: a style that could work hard and look good anywhere. Ten years later, that original idea has evolved into a full range of high-stretch, moisture-wicking shorts perfected for any activity under the sun.

“Took a boxing fitness class, lifted kettlebells, and played pickleball all in the same day. And all in these shorts.” - James K.

Men’s Athletic Shorts Faq

What type of shorts are best for the gym?

For general training, the Vuori Kore™ Shorts are the most adaptable option with lightweight stretch wovens and a supportive liner for everyday workouts. For added breathability during warmer sessions, Kore™ Breathe Shorts offer a lighter, more ventilated feel. For high‑sweat, high‑performance sessions, Vuori HardKore™ Shorts offer a durable ripstop shell, side vents, and a technical performance liner built for intensity. For weight training or powerlifting, Grafton Shorts provide a stable, durable build with abrasion resistance and a supportive fit. Banks Session and Banks Shorts also work well for gym days, especially when you want an unlined, breathable feel with quick dry details that transition into lifestyle wear.
Vuori Kore™ Shorts are the most versatile option, offering an easy fit and lightweight stretch woven fabric that moves from training sessions to travel and everyday wear. The Banks Short Collection blends performance and lifestyle with relaxed fits, quick-drying stretch wovens, and land‑to‑sea versatility—making them a strong choice for beach days and workouts like beach volleyball, too. Fleet Sport Shorts also transition well, offering cool‑handed comfort and a clean silhouette suited for the gym, golf, and casual weekend plans. For a softer, lounge-leaning feel, Sunday Performance Shorts are an easy go-to for recovery days and relaxed wear.
For casual runs and everyday training, Course Shorts offer lightweight stretch wovens, a quick-dry brief liner, and a relaxed running fit. For peak performance and PR‑focused miles—from trail to marathon—Terrain Shorts deliver the most technical build with durable ripstop fabrics, side vents, and a high‑performance liner designed for longer, harder efforts. For short mixed‑training days that include some running, Vuori Kore™ Shorts remain a solid, balanced option.
Vuori HardKore™ Shorts are the top choice for HIIT and max‑effort training thanks to their durable ripstop shell, secure performance liner, and mobility vents that support high sweat and fast movement. Grafton Shorts are another strong option for strength‑driven, high‑output sessions, offering a sturdy and abrasion‑resistant build that performs well in weight and powerlifting environments.
For hikes and outdoor movement, Grafton Shorts offer a durable, abrasion-resistant build that holds up on the trail, while Vuori Kore™ Shorts provide lightweight stretch and everyday comfort for less demanding routes. Both move easily from the trailhead into the rest of your day.
Crosscourt Shorts are designed for tennis and training with a crispy stretch woven fabric, secure waistband, and performance-ready mobility. The Vuori HardKore™ short also supports multi‑directional training when you want a more technical build. And for moderate, low-sweat sessions, the Fleet Sport Shorts have you covered.
Shorter inseams around five inches tend to hit higher on the thigh to maximize mobility and airflow, typically preferred for running, agility sessions, faster-paced training, and are trendier. A seven inch inseam usually lands closer to the top of the knee, offering a balanced fit that works across strength workouts, HIIT, yoga, cycling, golf, and tennis. Longer inseams provide extra coverage at or below the knee and a more structured silhouette for travel, lifestyle wear, or lower‑intensity training.
Lined shorts offer built‑in support and help manage sweat during dynamic movement, making them a common choice for running, HIIT, or high‑intensity training. The Vuori HardKore™, Course, and Terrain Shorts all use performance liners for secure comfort during heavy effort. Unlined shorts offer a lighter feel and the option to wear your own base layer. Banks and Banks Session Shorts feature breathable, unlined designs for gym sessions, outdoor movement, and everyday wear. Liner preferences vary from person to person, so the right choice ultimately comes down to how you like your shorts to feel.

Built To Perform

model training in vuori clothing

With lined or unlined styles and plenty of inseam options, our men's athletic shorts are here to keep your options open. From mornings on the tennis court to post-work runs, these versatile shorts offer technical details like moisture-wicking materials and four-way stretch fabric that work hard and feel good.

Shop All
Shop All
model training in vuori clothing

With lined or unlined styles and plenty of inseam options, our men's athletic shorts are here to keep your options open. From mornings on the tennis court to post-work runs, these versatile shorts offer technical details like moisture-wicking materials and four-way stretch fabric that work hard and feel good.

Shop All
Shop All