Mens Athletic Shorts Brand Comparison

by Michael Harding on May 9, 2010

If you’re like many men, working out is a major part of your life. Whether you’re pumping iron in the gym or heading out for a Saturday morning bike ride, you need to be wearing a good pair of mens athletic shorts if you want to be functioning at optimal levels. You’ll need a pair of shorts that not only fit you well but are made of a good material, have a cut that suits the activity that you’re engaged in, and are not only comfortable but also practical for your lifestyle.

Not all athletic shorts for men are created equal. There is one simple reason for this: they are not all created for the same purpose. If you have ever tried running a marathon in hiking shorts you know, there are different shorts for different functions. Keep this in mind when selecting a pair that works for your needs—it is not just color you need to worry about. That being said, a variety of colors and styles are important—and that is a fact: sporting teams dressed in black have been proven to be more aggressive than teams in any other uniform color. To help you select the best men’s athletic shorts for your activities take every factor into account.

If you find yourself enjoying a number of sports or endurance activities, there are several brands to take into account. Russell produces a variety of products that might be just the right fit. The basic Russell Athletic Shorts are equipped with pocket for storage of the essentials, made of a cooling baseline mesh and cut specifically for crossover performance so whether you are running, shooting a basketball or playing a game of flag-football they will provide the comfort you are used to. Mesh athletic shorts, mainly made from polyester, serves to keep airflow moving so you stay dry and cool. Russell also has a number of mens cotton athletic shorts designs. Cotton has the advantage of being moisture wicking, pulling sweat from your body and keeping you cool. The major difference between the two fabrics is the method of cooling: cotton absorbs moisture; polyester is thin and promotes airflow but does not tend to absorb moisture as much. Whichever shorts design you prefer, both materials are great for absorbing friction, important for the way you go all out when you compete.

Athletics Works shorts make a variety of cuts all utilizing the Dri-More fabric, composed of a polyester, elastene material. Like Russell, Athletic Works utilizes several materials for its shorts including cotton and polyester. Athletic Works shorts work well for any sporting events or just working around the house, they are built to last. They also feature athletic shorts with pockets so you can store your keys, wallet or other belongings too important to leave behind making them ideal for trail running and outdoor gallivants.

Champion Athletic Shorts again, are designed with crossover sporting in mind, though they sell shorts specifically for basketball and running among other single sport shorts. The most popular cut, the “Men’s Lacrosse Cut” have a four needle sewn elastic waistband and taping trims. The great advantage to the trim is keeping the shorts sleek to your body; there is not a lot of excess in this cut. The close cut makes these shorts ideal for close contact sporting.

Each brand sells their own version of athletic compression shorts so it serves you best to know the design and purpose of the compression shorts cut. They are designed as an undergarment for any athletic short, as a way to reduce skin on skin friction and enhance body movements while keeping your core warm and flexible. They can be worn under any athletic short for extra comfort and performance. Similar to biking shorts, compression shorts are made from spandex and are form fitting. The spandex material is highly breathable not adding to moisture retention and is perfect for avoiding chafe.

Regardless of the shorts you are looking for, it is best to keep in mind that there is so much more to consider than color. Finding the cut that works best for you will enhance your athletic prowess and help you find that zone. The right short will keep you on the edge of your game. So think through it and find the pair that is best for your needs.

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