Best CrossFit Shorts for Men and TOP 14 Reviews 2024
When you are in the middle of a Bulgarian Split squat the last thing you want to worry about is if your shorts are showing off your underwear (or worse).
When you are working out, you should not need to think about your clothes, they should be functional, just like your training.
If you have to worry about the fly popping open, need to continually pull them up, or they won’t allow your legs to bend, its time to look for a better pair of CrossFit shorts.
Contents
- CrossFit Shorts “MUST Haves” to Make the List of Best CrossFit Shorts for Men
- What Characteristics are Nice to Have on CrossFit Shorts
- Top 14 Best Men’s CrossFit Shorts for 2024
- Reebok Men's Crossfit Super Nasty Speed Shorts
- 5.11 Tactical Men's Recon Vandal Shorts
- Anthem Athletics RESILIENCE
- Epic MMA Gear WOD Shorts for Men
- Amrap Hybrid Men's Crossfit Shorts
- Reebok Cross Fit Speedwick Shorts
- Pro WOD Performance Shorts
- Anthem Athletics DEFIANCE
- Elite Sports Black Jack Series Shorts
- OPTIMAL HUMAN Men's Crossfit WOD Shorts
- WOD Warrior Shorts - WW 3.0
- Under Armour Men's HeatGear Armour Compression Shorts
Not a man?
Not to worry. Our list of best CrossFit shorts for women is right here.
CrossFit Shorts “MUST Haves” to Make the List of Best CrossFit Shorts for Men
- Flexible and moveable. They must allow you to move your legs, squat deeply and not restrict your movement. 4Way stretch fabric is best.
- Fasten securely. Some shorts use Velcro, a drawstring, or an elastic waistband or a combo of these. I prefer an elastic waistband and drawstring as Velcro wears in the wash and can chafe skin, but if you chose a Velcro close, make sure the Velcro is concealed so it does not rub against your skin.
- Long enough to keep you covered. Self explanatory, but some shorts are long, but have long side slits that may show more thigh than you intended. It all depends on what you are comfortable with.
- Durable. CrossFit is hard on shorts. If you are lifting heavy weights, the knurl of the barbell may catch the fabric, and the constant bending can wear cheap fabric. The pressure from your torso during deadlifts may bust the fly of lesser shorts. As far as durability goes, you get what you pay for.
What Characteristics are Nice to Have on CrossFit Shorts
- Pockets – some like pockets, others don’t. Check out the pocket situation before you buy. Envision the weight of whatever you plan on storing and think about if it will get in the way during your routine. Ideally carrying nothing is best, but sometimes t is necessary.
- Waterproof – If you sweat a lot, or plan to use the shorts for the water, you may want shorts that dry quickly.
Below I review 14 of the best CrossFit shorts for guys.
We also have a large list of the best workout clothes for men and women so be sure to check that out.
Top 14 Best Men’s CrossFit Shorts for 2024
Reebok Men's Crossfit Super Nasty Speed Shorts
- Polyester/Elastane fabric
- Slim fit construction
- 8 inch inseam
- Adjustable Drawstring and elastic waistband
- All-over print
Review: These Comfortable and high quality Reebok shorts will not disappoint. They are made of a lightweight, water repellant material that fits in at the pool or gym, or wherever life takes you.
The elastic waistband, side vents and gusset make this one of the coziest shorts you will ever wear.
Pros
- 2 Side pockets.
- Water repellent material takes you from the beach to the box, no problem.
- 10” inseam.
Cons
- Runs large.
Takeaway
All day wear performance CrossFit shorts.
5.11 Tactical Men's Recon Vandal Shorts
- The 5.11 RECON Vandal Short is built from a lightweight, poly/spandex blend of four-way stretch fabric for flexibility and enhanced freedom of movement
- A full gusseted crotch provides superior mobility and a front tie closure ensures a secure fit while exta heavy seams add strength
- Moisture wicking technology keeps you cool and dry, and the offset zippered pockets securely store your keys, wallet, and cell phone
- The 5.11 RECON Vandal Short was engineered to provide balanced support and flexibility in the gym or during your workout
- Whether you need reliable cross training shorts or full featured MMA shorts that stand up to rugged use, 5.11 RECON Vandal shorts give you the performance you need to go the extra mile
Review: These 5.11 Vandal shorts are lightweight, breathe easy and have an ample 19” inseam for good coverage.
If you dislike a Velcro close, these do not have one, just the drawstring to hold them up. They tend to run large, so order a size down so they fit at the waist.
Pros
- 4 way stretch fabric.
- Drawstring closure-no Velcro.
- 2 zippered pockets.
Cons
- There feel insecure if being pulled on, think Martial arts or Mud runs.
Takeaway
Good CrossFit shorts for those who like longer style shorts.
Anthem Athletics RESILIENCE
- Tear-resistant, fast-drying fabric with advanced, sublimation printing for logos and graphics - will never crack or peel
- Two-fold velcro waistband with drawstring - non-chaff front
- Aggressive side slits and 4-way stretch crotch for optimal movement
- Shorts optimized for BJJ, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Muay Thai, WOD, Krav Maga, Pankration
- SIZING NOTE: These shorts are designed to fit closer to your true measurement. This may be slightly different than your typical pant size. To ensure a proper fit, please measure the circumference of your waist. If in between sizes please order a size up (for example, a 37" waist should order a 38").
Review: Anthem Athletics Resilience shorts are super light weight, made with quick drying moisture wicking fabric and sublimated graphics that will not peel.
They have no pockets, so if you don’t like the extra fabric on account of pockets, these may be the best shorts for CrossFit workouts.
Pros
- Velcro waistband plus drawstring close.
- Slim fit cut.
- 4 way stretch fabric.
Cons
- Run small, order one size up.
Takeaway
So light and just flexible enough you almost feel like you are finishing your WOD with no shorts on.
Epic MMA Gear WOD Shorts for Men
- Pull On
- side slits
- side pocket
- 4 way stretch - Full range of motion
- Great for WOD
Review: What sets these Epic WOD shorts apart are the large leg openings, with an ample 28” of space to squat and deadlift, plus the smooth elastic waistband with drawstring close make them pretty comfortable.
They are narrower in the groin area and flare a bit at the legs to maintain agility and range of motion. Plus they have one pocket on the right. Nice for lifting WODS.
Pros
- No Velcro, drawstring and elastic waist close.
- Lightweight, some may say thin material.
- 4 way stretch fabric with 3” vent on the side.
Cons
- Waist sits a tad high.
Takeaway
Best workout shorts for CrossFit, especially for leg days or heavy lifting days.
Amrap Hybrid Men's Crossfit Shorts
- material is a polyester stretch fabric
- light weight and quick drying material
- triple closure with adjustable drawstring
- hidden pocket for small, personal items
- 3” side slits allows full leg movements for squats and lifting
Review: These AMRAP hybrid shorts are long, wide at the leg opening and narrower in the waist and groin area.
They are designed specifically for CrossFit, with stretch fabric and plenty of room to bend your legs, without being baggy and awkward at the waist.
They weigh a mere 6 oz and will not hold you back. They are also very high quality shorts you can expect to wear for years, no flimsy material here.
Pros
- 4 way stretch fabric, plus 3” side vent slit for mobility.
- Small internal pocket for keys.
- Three way close, with drawstring and Velcro.
Cons
- Not available in larger sizes.
Takeaway
Sturdy and serviceable pair of CrossFit Shorts.
Reebok Cross Fit Speedwick Shorts
Review: These Reebok CrossFit shorts are made from 4 way stretch fabric and sit low. They are very comfortable and high quality CrossFit shorts that will not bunch up as you squat or jump.
The speedwick material keeps you cool and dry and the drawstring plus stretch waistband means the shorts will stay secure.
They have an attractive slim fit, even through the legs and the hem falls a little lower than mid-thigh, so mobility is not a problem.
Pros
- Fast drying moisture wicking speedwick material.
- Low rise shorts.
- Elastic waist plus drawstring.
Cons
- May be too short for tall guys.
Takeaway
High quality no nonsense pair of CrossFit shorts.
Under Armour Men's Raid 10
- HeatGear fabric is ultra-soft & smooth for extreme comfort with very little weight
- UPF 30+ protects your skin from the sun's harmful rays
- 4-way stretch fabrication allows greater mobility in any direction
- Moisture Transport System wicks sweat & dries fast
- Anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor causing microbes
Review: These Under Armour Raid shorts are roomier and baggier than most in this list, for the man who wants extreme comfort.
They sport both a drawstring and an elastic waist, so they allow for some adjustment in the waist. These shorts are great for the gym or casual wear.
Pros
- Drawstring plus elastic waist.
- 2 side pockets.
- Made from Anti odor and sweat wicking technology fabric.
Cons
- The material moves easily, causing whatever is in your pockets to jostle around.
Takeaway
One of under Armour’s most popular gym shorts because they are comfortable and functional.
WarriorXGear Spartan Pro Training Short
- FULL SUBLIMATION
- 4-way stretch body, Two 3″ side slits for maximum range of motion
- Hook and loop drawstring for secure closure
- Two pockets (front and side)
- Velcro fly for comfort and safety
Review: These warrior shorts are on the long side, 21” from waist to hem, for guys who need a little more coverage. They are attractive and quite durable, they even hold up in muddy wet conditions.
They shed water easily and will not weight you down. They have just the right amount of stretch to give you mobility, without being flimsy in the slightest.
Pros
- Two pockets, one front pocket and one side pocket.
- 4 way stretch fabric with side vents for ease of movement.
- Drawstring plus Velcro fly closure.
Cons
- Runs small, order a size up.
Takeaway
Perfect for mud runs, OCR races and CrossFit.
Pro WOD Performance Shorts
- Full Sublimation, Light fabric with Ultra-Stretch
- Soft, loose fit for enhanced range of motion & breathable comfort.
- 4-Way Stretch,3 inch side slit fabrication allows greater mobility and maintains shape.
- Draw string style with a Velcro for added comfort.
Review: These shorts are heavy duty and long, about knee length. They will stand up to abuse and stay put thanks to the drawstring and Velcro close.
These shorts have no pockets, so there is nothing extra to weigh you down.
Pros
- 4 way stretch fabric, 3 “ side slits for movement.
- Stay secure with Velcro and drawstring, even if you are dragging yourself through the mud.
- High quality durable fabric that withstands punishment.
Cons
- Snug in the thigh and bum area.
Takeaway
Best CrossFit shorts for those who abuse their gym clothes.
Anthem Athletics DEFIANCE
Review: Here is a pair of CrossFit shorts for men who like the mid thigh length style. They have a Velcro and drawstring closure, with a fold over Velcro panel that prevents the annoying Velcro chaffing on your stomach.
These shorts have no pockets, and small side vents, offering freedom of movement from squats to kicks, these shorts will not hold you back.
Pros
- Mid thigh length.
- Velcro plus drawstring close for security.
- Stretch panel gusset for maximum mobility.
Cons
- Material is thin.
Takeaway
You put in the time on leg day and these shorts will allow you to show off your hard work.
Elite Sports Black Jack Series Shorts
- ✅ MATERIAL – The Elite Sports Black Jack MMA shorts also can be worn as No-Gi, MMA, BJJ, UFC fight shorts and other martial arts that you like. These BJJ shorts are made from lightweight high-quality microfiber fabric that will increase your range of motion and your performance by keeping you comfortable.
- ✅ COMFORT – Elite Sports UFC fight shorts are lightweight and the ultra-soft microfiber fabric that does not resisted you at all, instead it lets you move freely. Comfortable fitting and elastic fit waistband are combined to give you the perfect fit and the fabric of our men’s MMA shorts is durable so there is nothing to worry about.
- ✅ PUSH YOUR LIMITS - The tear-resistant microfiber fabric or these UFC shorts allows you to push your limits keeping you comfortable and free. Our grappling shorts are versatile and can be worn to train, spar, or competitions. These boxing, UFC, MMA, Jiu Jitsu, BJJ No GI shorts are perfect for different martial arts.
- ✅ SECURE and DURABLE- The Black Jack MMA fight shorts have elastic waistband which is paired up with a drawstring closure that will keep these Jiu Jitsu shorts in place during intense training and fights. Now you can move freely with worrying about your MMA shorts falling during the match or sparring.
- ✅ SIDE SLITS – The side slits stretch of these Jiu Jitsu shorts is so that you can move quickly with improved leg work. As there is no resistance and hindrance your movement hence your range of motion and flexibility increase. As a result of this your performance and focus on the game improves.
Review: These low rise, long Elite Sports Jack series shorts make excellent CrossFit shorts because they have a Velcro and drawstring close that keeps them up, no matter what WOD is on the menu.
Plus the Velcro is the fold-over style so it will not rub against your stomach and cause irritation.
The best part? They are offered at a great price.
Pros
- Knee length, good coverage.
- Made with sweat wicking anti microbial fabric.
- Great price.
Cons
- Side vents cause shorts to ride up, so maybe wear compression shorts underneath.
Takeaway
Comfortable and high quality, best CrossFit shorts 2024 for cheap.
OPTIMAL HUMAN Men's Crossfit WOD Shorts
- ✔️ VERTICAL DROP POCKETS | No more worrying about your phone or keys falling out of your pockets while working out; especially when bench pressing or performing floor exercises. Due to the pockets being at a 90 degree angle (straight up & down) and having zippers, you'll never have to worry about things falling out.
- ✔️SIDE STRETCH PANELS | With stretch panels on the outer-thigh and inner-thigh; you can perform those high range of motion activities in comfort. So squat and lunge to your heart's content!
- ✔️DESIGNED FOR CROSS-FIT BUT EXCELLENT FOR EVERYTHING | We created these shorts with CrossFit in mind so naturally they are great for any active workout or gym activity.
- ✔️PAIR WITH OUR KNEE SLEEVES & WRIST WRAPS | For the ultimate look, pair them with the Optimal Human Knees Sleeves and Wrist Wraps. Look good, train good!
- ✔️100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE / SIZING | We strive to provide a 5 star service, so for if any reason you are not satisfied we will provide a full refund or exchange. No questions asked! / Sizing | X-Small (28") | Small (30") | Medium (32") | Large (34") | X-Large (36") | 2XL (38") | 3XL (40") Go down one size for SLIM FIT
Review: These Optimal Human WOD shorts are designed with three pockets, to are zippered side pockets that hold your phone flush to your thigh so you can listen to tunes or keep your phone nearby for tracking.
There is also a smaller inner key pocket. These shorts are large and roomy, with a longish inseam.
Pros
- Elastic plus drawstring waist.
- 2 large deep zippered vertical pockets that can hold large cell phones.
- 4 Way stretch material.
Cons
- Run a bit large.
Takeaway
Long and roomy, ideal for bigger guys, with enough pockets for everything you need.
WOD Warrior Shorts - WW 3.0
- Shorts
- Stretch panel / Spandex crotch
- Tripple stitching
- Side slits
Review: The WOD warrior 3.0 CrossFit shorts have a double Velcro plus drawstring close for a secure fit.
These shorts are stylish yet simple and they have a reasonable price so they will make a great pair to throw into the rotation.
Pros
- Large leg openings, for ease of movement and to accommodate larger men.
- Velcro close pocket for phone.
- Side slits in the legs for lunges, squats, etc.
Cons
- Runs Large.
Takeaway
Simple, sharp looking WOD shorts at a good price.
Under Armour Men's HeatGear Armour Compression Shorts
- HeatGear fabric, with all the benefits of UA Compression, comfortable enough to be worn all day
- Under Armour’s mission is to make all athletes better through passion, design and the relentless pursuit of innovation
- Where we started? It all started with an idea to build a superior T-shirt
- The technology behind Under Armour's diverse product assortment for men, women and youth is complex, but the program for reaping the benefits is simple: wear HeatGear when it's hot, ColdGear when it's cold, and AllSeasonGear between the extremes.
Review: Under Armour makes these popular compression shorts in both a long and short style so you can choose what suits you best.
They are made with cooling “heatgear” fabric and incorporate both sweat wicking and anti microbial technology because the last thing you want near your skin is moisture and microbes.
These make an excellent base layer for traditional CrossFit shorts.
Pros
- 9” inseam for the long style.
- Mid level compression.
- Wide flat roll free waistband.
Cons
- Heather grey color feels rougher than the other colors.
Takeaway
Best compression shorts for CrossFit to keep your workouts chafe free.
Compression shorts are a great supplement to CrossFit shorts. We have an entire list of the best compression tights here.
This concludes my list of the best CrossFit shorts for men.
My favorite, if I had to choose, would be the Anthem Athletics RESILIENCE
Because the fabric dries quickly, they have no pockets, and are a slim fit style.
Let me know in the comments below what YOUR favorite shorts are for CrossFit, Mud runs, OCR or whatever Spartan sport you are into.