10 Best Basketball Shorts Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Even though it may seem like all basketball shorts are the same, and in many ways they are, there can actually be big differences in the quality, materials, and once you know what to look for you'll start to see the differences between different pairs of shorts.
With this list of the 10 best basketball shorts, we break those factors down for you, to help you find a great pair of shorts without spending a ton of time or money doing it.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Materials
Typically you can purchase basketball shorts made of either polyester, cotton, or a blend of different materials. Whatever your choice is, make sure that the ones you select have more advantages than disadvantages. It is important to note that a pair made of cotton material will be the most comfortable, but they will absorb sweat easily and dry slowly. Polyester and blend shorts are still extremely comfortable, however, and are much better for working out because they will dry more quickly than cotton. Another tradeoff you may want to look at is that the cotton shorts will be more durable than polyester.
Special blend materials such as Nike's Dri-Fit have flooded the market in recent years, and do a good job of offering the consumer both a high level of comfort and durability, along with wicking moisture and drying quickly. These blends are also much lighter than cotton, which is something to keep in mind when you're trying to soar towards the rim on the court or fly around the track working towards a new personal record. These blended materials are a bit more expensive than shorts made from 100% cotton or polyester, however, but as always you get what you pay for.
Breathability
Even though basketball shorts tend to be naturally breathable because of their loose fit, it doesn't hurt to have a pair made out of materials that are specially designed to wick moisture away from your body to the outside of the fabric where it can dry in the air. In terms of breathability, cotton is very breathable but dries slowly, polyester isn't very breathable at all but dries quickly, and a good blend will have the best of both worlds, being very breathable and drying quickly. We took this into account as we looked at the materials each pair of shorts is made from as well as what reviewers had to say about their real-world performance.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to look at when you're choosing the best basketball shorts. When you work out in them they'll be exposed to salty, corrosive sweat, and maybe even barbells and burpees, so you need something tough. No one wants to spend their hard earned money on a product that wears out and becomes useless quickly. By the nature of their simple design, basketball shorts tend to be pretty durable, but even within the products on our list, some products are more durable than others, so we assigned each one a score based on real-world performance to help you pick out the best pair for you.
Band
For a proper fit and maximum comfort during training, you need a pair with an elastic waistband. However, the waistband on any pair you buy shouldn't be too tight as it may lead to discomfort and cause abrasions where they ride on your hips. If you can, try out different sizes to find what is most comfortable for you. Don't just buy a product simply because it is within your budget or looks cool, but instead base it what you would be most comfortable wearing. This is because your level of performance is often determined by the degree of comfort you have with the gear you wear.
Value
Our Favorite Basketball Shorts
1. Champion
Champion shorts exist in a variety of designs depending on the material used in making them. For instance, consumers could come across the designs that are made of pure cotton or the designs that are partly cotton and partly polyester. Whatever the case, cotton usually takes up the greatest proportion of these types of gear. This only means that such types would guarantee consumers maximum comfort during training or when running.
Read moreDrawstring Closure
The drawstring closure integrated as part of the design helps in ensuring that consumers get the proper fit with all the gear they buy. This is so that even when you add weight or increase in waist size all you have to do is adjust the waistline using the drawstring to ensure that the cloth fits proportionally to your body.
Elastic Waistband
Other than, the amazing logo that is found on the left hem, this particular brand has an elastic waistband. The waistband aids in ensuring that the products consumers buy properly fit and will stretch accordingly based on the consumer’s body movements during the game. The elasticity of the waistband also helps minimize the likelihood of the wearer experiencing abrasions when gaming or training.
Cost and Value
This product comes in a range of prices from the affordable types to the costly designs. This makes it possible for individuals to find it easy to find a suitable pair that would serve their individual needs and still be within their budget. They can easily be cleaned with the washing machine. It is adjustable due to the elastic waistband and it has side pockets that consumers could use if need be. The line of stitching on the inside is well fitted for maximum durability. This feature guarantees the consumers durability, warmth and comfort. If you have minimal options, this is a good pair to start with, in your training and competitions.
2. Russell Athletic
Russel Athletic is made of pure Cationic polyester material. However, its lining is designed with 100% polyester material. The material makes this pair comfortable and long-lasting.
Read moreBreathable Mesh Construction
The pair is made with a mesh design that provides great ventilation thus increasing the degree of comfort enjoyed by the consumer during use. You would be able to wear it for a prolonged duration without feeling the need to change into a different attire.
Dri-Power Technology
This particular feature used in developing the structure helps to drain away excess moisture to keep your body dry and cool at the same time. This guarantees maximum comfort during workouts and during the competitions.
Cost and Value
For its price, I could say this product is worth buying. Further, it has an internal drawcord as well as an elastic waistband that makes this pair an adjustable fit. The side pockets on the short would help consumers keep their small valuable items if need be which is more than any person would bargain for.
3. Under Armour Raid
These come with a lot of features such as anti-odor technology, UPF 30+ protection against the sun, smooth and comfortable fabric, and a design and fit that allows wonderful freedom of movement.
Read moreMaterials
These are made from 100% polyester that is lightweight as well as incredibly soft and smooth. They are also treated with anti-microbial technology that keeps them from smelling too bad even after tough workouts, and they are UPF 30+ rated for protection against the sun.
Breathability
The 100% polyester makes them moisture-wicking, however, the UPF 30+ comes from a tighter weave which makes them score slightly lower than other options in this category.
Durability
Under Armour is know for making tough gear, and these shorts live up to that reputation for the most part, although a couple of users questioned how well the thin, lightweight fabric would hold up over time.
Band
The waist has elastic and a drawstring for a comfortable and custom fit.
Value
A little more expensive than other products. An interesting note to mention is that sometimes Under Armour products can be more or less expensive depending on what size and color you choose.
4. Adidas
This Adidas brand has a triangle shaped logo at the hem labeled Adidas. The good reputation of Adidas products over the years gives this product the added advantage compared to other brands that have not yet developed any reputation to win the hearts and minds of consumers.
Read moreElastic Waistline
The pair has an elastic waistline that improves how well it fits. Other than the elastic waistline, the pair has a drawcord that the player can conveniently use to secure it on the waist. This helps in boosting the confidence of the player. Subsequently, the performance of the player would equally increase.
Climalite Fabric
The fabric used to design the inner lining of this pair absorbs sweat at a tremendous rate to help keep the user cool and dry.
Cost and Value
This product is available in a variety of prices from the slightly priced designs to its designs that would cost you a good fortune. If you are the consumer, who loves Adidas products then, this type of short is right for you. Besides, it is made of polyester material assures you of the product’s durability and outstanding value.
5. CYZ
This option comes in a valuable 2-pack. Despite the low price most users really liked them and found them to be comfortable, durable, and stylish. A few users found the material to be a bit thinner and shinier than they'd prefer, but overall a good product and coming in a two-pack really comes in handy.
Read moreMaterials
They're made of 100% polyester that is lightweight and comfortable. It is very thin and most people liked them but a few found them be too thin.
Breathability
Because of the polyester fabric these will wick moisture away from your body, but these don't have any additional ventilation features such as mesh panels.
Durability
We didn't find many issues in this department, but the fabric is lighter and thinner than some others and may not last as long.
Band
This part of the shorts is made of elastic and has a drawstring. One user reported the drawstring pulled inside of the waistband too easily.
Value
Overall these are a good deal. Having two pairs of basketball shorts really comes in handy and these are basically priced two for one.
6. Pro Club
These are a high-quality option that gets high praise from reviewers for their comfort and fit. The waistband is wider than on most shorts which disperses the elastic compression over a wider area making them even more comfortable. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors so there should be something for everyone. Keep in mind that this brand is known to run large, so check the sizing chart carefully and consider choosing a size smaller than normal if you're looking for a less baggy fit.
Read moreMaterials
As with most products on this list they are 100% polyester for breathability. The rear zippered pocket is a nice touch that you won't find on other products of this type. The fabric is mesh for enhanced breathability but the stripes on the side are solid.
Breathability
With the 100% polyester fabric that has a mesh pattern, these do a good job of allowing moisture to escape. The fabric is a little bit thicker than most other options on our list so they aren't the absolute best in terms of wicking moisture, but they certainly won't leave you wet and uncomfortable.
Durability
Users found these to last a long time because of the thick material and good quality construction.
Band
The waist is elasticated and extra wide, thus spreading the compression over a larger area meaning they won't pinch and are really comfortable. They come with a drawstring for a more custom fit.
Value
These are about average in terms of price for a product of this type, and their comfort and durability make them a good buy.
7. Tesla
Tesla shorts have very deep pockets that allow consumers to keep their essentials during a workout. You would be able to comfortably carry your phone or wallet along when you go out training or jogging all thanks to the side pockets incorporated as part of this pair’s design.
Read moreSoft and Smooth Mesh
The apparel’s design allows good air circulation to help keep the consumer cool. The material has a good moisture absorption capability that makes it dry quickly in situations whereby individuals sweat uncontrollably when gaming or training. Moreover, it is designed using an extra soft material that makes it extensively comfortable wear.
HyperDri Design
The fabric material used in designing the inside of the pair is soft on the skin and has a very lightweight which makes it very convenient as it allows the ease of movement for the player. The pair would help improve your level of performance during workouts and in the gym.
Cost and Value
This reasonably priced pair comes with a lot of benefits that would leave the consumer with no regrets after making a purchase. Its deep side pockets are good storage points for essential items. The material used to design HyperDri help safeguards the skin of the consumer from the dire effects of ultraviolet rays when exposed to the strong sunlight. If you value your health and want what would be best for you during running and workouts then, this is the best pair you could ever buy.
8. Starter
This pair of is made of a pure polyester material, which makes them light and easy to move around in. They can be washed in the washing machine and offer a perfect fit to improve a runner’s performance during training.
Read moreMesh Feature
This feature makes them breathable. They have a drawcord on the waist that the consumer would use to adjust the waistline to end up with a perfect fit.
DRI-STAR Design
This addition to its construction assists in keeping consumers cool and dry throughout training and during the entire game. No matter how much you sweat, this pair would help keep you comfortable.
Cost and Value
This fairly priced pair does not shrink after washing, unlike other brands that shrink after they are washed. This helps ensure that your pair would still fit perfectly no matter how many times you wash it. Moreover, the pair is thick enough to keep the player comfortable and warm throughout the period of play.
9. NIKE
Nike basketball short is made of a pure polyester material, which improves the consumers’ appearance while guaranteeing great comfort during play. Its stylish look makes it one of the most preferred brands to most runners.
Read moreDri-FIT Technology
This form of technology helps in making sure that the user stays dry and comfortable throughout their training and workouts. Any gear designed with this particular technology absorbs the sweat generated by the body during vigorous exercises or a rigorous competition to leave the area of the body covered dry and cool at all times.
Performance Fit
This wear is accurately cut right above the knee area to make it less bulky while ensuring that it does not hinder the consumer’s mobility. The player has to be able to move freely without the gear that he or she has on hindering the ease of movement. Therefore, this pair is perfect for the players who wish to enhance their performance.
Cost and Value
This pair may be slightly overpriced when compared to other designs that are available on the market. However, the value would convince any potential buyer to go for this option. For one, they have convenient storage pockets on the sides. It fits perfectly and does not hinder the movement of the player in any way. It comes with an elaborate trademark on the left leg that consumers cannot miss noticing when making a purchase. The fact that it keeps the wearer dry even in intense exercising activities or games should be enough to convince players who sweat intensively to fetch for one from the stores. Besides, this product would last you years of use.
10. The North Face Reactor
This is a very high-quality option for those of you looking for a pair of basketball shorts that will last a long time. They feature The North Face's Flash Dry technology and are 100% polyester so they're breathable and when they do get wet won't stay that way for long. They're more expensive than most other options but you get what you pay for.
Read moreMaterials
These are made from 100% high-quality polyester and feature the company's Flash Dry technology. They have a pocket on each side and the fit is loose but not baggy.
Read also about are north face shoes good.
Breathability
The 100% polyester allows moisture to escape instead of staying stuck next to your skin. Synthetic fibers such as polyester cannot absorb moisture so it must pass around them to the outside air where it can dry naturally.
Durability
The North Face is known for making gear that last and these shorts are no exception.
Band
The waist features an elastic waist and a drawstring so you can easily and quickly get a custom fit.
Value
These are definitely more expensive than other options, but The North Face is an excellent company that consistently puts out high-quality gear.
