Best Gym Shorts for Men (That Don’t Ride Up) + Squat-Tested Picks

You're partway through a set of deep squats or holding a pose in yoga, and then you find yourself yanking your shorts down again just to refocus. When your gym shorts ride up, the annoyance becomes a distraction that takes your focus away from the right form and performance.

Finding the right pair of gym shorts men can trust shouldn't be complicated. Most athletic shorts fail the moment you start moving. They slide during squats, restrict flexibility during yoga flows, or need constant adjustment. 

In this guide, we’ll explore what works in performance shorts, how to test them properly, and which styles support different training methods.

What Makes a Great Pair of Gym Shorts?

The best athletic shorts combine three essentials: unrestricted movement, breathability, and a secure waistband that doesn’t dig into your skin. When you test shorts through high-motion workouts like yoga, squats, and HIIT, look for designs that move as an extension of your body.

Fit and Length That Move With You

• Inseam lengths between 5-7 inches work best for moves like squats and lunges, where you're moving deep and low. 

• Shorter inseams, particularly men's short shorts in the 5-inch range, maximize flexibility during yoga sessions and leg days.

Waistband and Support Design

• Your waistband should be the anchor of your shorts. 

• It should be secure through dynamic movements and remain comfortable for extended wear. 

• At 4-rth, our comfort waistbands are designed to stay put, even in motion.

Breathable, Stretchable Fabrics

• Moisture-wicking fabrics draw sweat away to keep you cool. 

• Modal and Tencel blends are top-performance materials that are also sustainable. 

• Four-way stretch provides a full range of motion. 

• Avoid stiff, heavy fabrics that trap heat or restrict mobility.

The right fabric should feel weightless, move with your body, and keep you focused on performance, not on readjusting mid-workout.

The Squat Test: How to Know If Your Shorts Pass

Think of the squat test as your gold standard for testing men's squatting shorts, a simple but telling check of flexibility and coverage.

How to Perform the Squat Test

1. Put on your shorts and stand relaxed. 

2. Drop into a deep squat, keeping your chest lifted and knees back above the toes. 

3. Pay attention to the fabric. Does it stretch smoothly, or does it pull and bunch?

4. Perform a few lunges, alternating legs. Note if the shorts rotate, slip, or pinch. 

5. If your shorts stay in place and stretch comfortably, they pass.

Why Most Shorts Fail

Most failures come from poor elasticity, bad cuts, overly tight hems, or fabrics that lack true stretch. Many athletic shorts use stiff materials or designs that prioritize aesthetics over function. Sustainable stretch-blend fabrics solve this by maintaining flexibility and shape retention over time.

Squat-Tested Picks by Activity

Different training styles, including yoga, running, workout, and everyday athleisure, demand different features from your gym shorts.

For Yoga & Mobility Training

Yoga demands unrestricted flow and flexibility. Look for lightweight, ultra-stretch fabrics that move invisibly with your body. Shorter inseams are best here, usually in the 5-6 inch range. Flexible waistbands stretch freely for deep twists and folds without pinching. Avoid built-in liners to eliminate wear bulk and limit movement in inversions.

4-rth’s men’s yoga shorts deliver studio-ready performance and sustainability-minded construction. The Modal blend fabric stretches and maintains coverage throughout your practice.

For Strength & Squat Workouts

Strength training benefits from a slightly thicker fabric that enhances durability without compromising flexibility. Waistbands should stay secure under load and not slip. Opt for mid-length, fitted silhouettes that won't ride up when lifting heavy weights.

For Running & HIIT

Whether you're running or doing high-intensity interval training, you will produce heat and sweat. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing with high drying/sweat-wicking properties keeps you comfortable. A tapered fit minimizes the amount of additional flapping fabric that’s created when running or moving at high velocities.

For Everyday Athleisure

The best athletic shorts transition seamlessly from training to daily life. They look intentional enough to wear beyond the gym while maintaining performance. The time-tested shorts from 4-rth drop seamlessly from studio to street without a second thought.

Choosing the Right Inseam & Fit

Your ideal inseam length largely depends on your training style, body, and your comfort level with fit and style.

Shorter Inseams (5-6 inches)

• Great for yoga, pilates, and unrestricted mobility. 

• Allow more airflow and freedom of movement.

Mid-Length (7-8 inches)

• The most versatile option, balancing movement and coverage. 

• You can hit the gym and go out with friends after your workout. 

• Great for mixed training and casual wear.

Longer Cuts (9+ inches)

• Better for taller men or those preferring more coverage. 

• Be mindful: excessive length can restrict deep movements like squats.

Ultimately, choose the inseam that supports your form and comfort. Your gym shorts should move with you, not against you.

Sustainability Meets Performance

Performance gear shouldn't cost the planet. Eco-friendly fabrics such as Modal and Tencel deliver stretch, breathability, and durability. 4-rth focuses on low-impact, biodegradable materials, proving sustainability and performance can coexist.

By choosing sustainable gym shorts, men can train confidently knowing every movement supports both performance and the planet.

FAQs: Gym Shorts That Don't Ride Up

How do I stop my gym shorts from riding up? 

Choose shorts made from stretchy fabrics, the right inseam length, and a secure waistband. Use the squat test to determine fit before committing to a purchase.

What's the best inseam length for squatting? 

Most athletes find their best performance while squatting in a 5-7 inch inseam. This inseam length gives the benefit of the full squat depth, without restriction.

Are men's short shorts good for yoga? 

Yes! Shorter inseams give full mobility for twists and inversions. Look for soft, stretch fabrics that allow for movement with your practice.

What's the most breathable material for gym shorts? 

Modal is among the most breathable, moisture-wicking, and sustainable fabrics.

Should gym shorts have liners or not? 

Depends on your workout. Liner-free for yoga and mobility, lined for strength and running.

Train Harder, Move Freer

The best gym shorts men wear should never shout for attention. Instead, they work quietly in the background, supporting your performance, not distracting from it. 

Focus on what matters when your gear moves with you, stays put, and lasts through multiple training sessions.

Discover 4-rth's Men's Shorts, made for squats, flow, and everyday performance.