Men's Shorts Buying Guide: Find the Right Fit
By Asana Hawaii | Check out our exclusive deals on Island | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to choose men's shorts for sports and casual wear. Compare fabric, inseam length, and features to find the best fit for your activity.
Quick answer
Focus on inseam length, fabric stretch, and pocket layout to match your main activity. For most sports, a 6.5-inch inseam with four-way stretch and water-repellent fabric covers running, gym, and swimming.
Why inseam length matters more than you think
The inseam determines how much leg coverage and freedom of movement you get. A 6.5-inch inseam, common in athletic shorts, hits above the knee and allows full range of motion for running, squats, and kicks. Shorter inseams (5 inches) feel lighter but may ride up during cycling or leg presses. Longer inseams (7-9 inches) offer more coverage but can restrict high knees or deep lunges.
If you're between sizes or prefer a looser fit, sizing up with a 6.5-inch inseam gives extra room without adding bunching. Most men's athletic shorts from Asana Hawaii use this length, making them a versatile starting point.
Fabric stretch and water resistance: what to look for
Four-way stretch fabric lets you move in any direction without restriction. It's essential for weightlifting, yoga, or any sport that involves bending or twisting. Polyester blended with elastane or spandex provides that stretch while keeping the shorts lightweight and quick-drying.
Water-repellent or moisture-wicking finishes are worth considering if you plan to swim or sweat heavily. They help the fabric dry fast and prevent chafing. The trade-off is that water-repellent coatings can wear off after many washes, so check care instructions.
Pockets: convenience vs. minimalism
Mesh side pockets are great for carrying keys, phone, or a card during a run or hike. They drain water quickly, so they won't weigh you down after swimming. Some shorts omit pockets entirely to reduce weight and bulk — ideal for competitive runners or gym sessions where you don't want anything flopping around.
Think about your daily carry. If you always have a phone and keys, choose shorts with secure mesh pockets. If you're heading straight to the gym floor, pocketless or minimal-pocket designs keep things streamlined.
How to choose men's shorts: decision rules
- Start with your main activity: Running or swimming: look for water-repellent or quick-dry fabric with a 6.5-inch inseam. Gym or weightlifting: prioritize four-way stretch and a secure waistband. Yoga or flexibility work: choose stretch fabric and a shorter or mid-length inseam to avoid bunching. If you do multiple sports, a general-purpose short with 6.5-inch inseam and stretch fabric covers most needs.
- Check the inseam against your height and preference: If you're under 5'8" or prefer a shorter look, a 6.5-inch inseam hits above the knee. For taller men (over 6'), the same inseam may look more like a mid-thigh short. Try on or measure a pair you already own to compare. There's no universal 'right' inseam — it depends on your height and comfort with leg exposure.
- Match fabric features to your environment: Water-repellent fabric is useful if you run in rain or plan to swim. Moisture-wicking fabric helps in hot, humid conditions. If you mostly exercise indoors, standard polyester-spandex blend is fine and often more breathable. Don't pay extra for water repellency if you only use shorts in the gym.
Men's shorts we recommend
- Pelemaka Men's Shorts: Pelemaka Men's Shorts feature a 6.5-inch inseam, four-way stretch water-repellent microfiber fabric, and an elastic waistband. The water-repellent finish and stretch fabric make these a solid choice for running or swimming without worrying about fabric getting heavy when wet.
Pelemaka Men's Shorts - Lāʻape Men's Athletic Long Shorts: Lāʻape Men's Athletic Long Shorts have mesh side pockets, quick-dry fabric, and a slightly lighter fabric weight of 4.7 oz/yd². The mesh pockets let you carry small items while the lighter fabric keeps you cool during high-intensity workouts or hot-weather runs.
Lāʻape Men's Athletic Long Shorts
Who should buy which shorts
Best for
- Active guys who run, lift, and swim in the same pair of shorts
- Anyone who wants a versatile 6.5-inch inseam with stretch and quick-dry fabric
Not for
- Those who prefer a longer, knee-covering inseam (7+ inches) for modesty or sun protection
- Competitive athletes who need ultra-light, pocketless shorts for racing or meets
