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Donning a pair of sports shorts gives you the opportunity to show your allegiance to your art, whether it’s basketball, football, or something altogether more niche (but no less cool), like Muay Thai. Thanks to their activewear origins, a pair of sports shorts guarantees lightweight breathability that makes them ideal for the warm summer months. What’s more, sports shorts often carry an eye-catching, color-blocked design either inspired by or in reference to team colors. That's visual interest.

We've selected the web’s best sports shorts, ranging from established classics like adidas and Nike to exciting (relative) newcomers like Parisian-based Satisfy and Switzerland's On. Each of the selections boasts premium material construction with a strong twist of contemporary style, making this the definitive summer shorts roundup.

Soar Hot Weather Running Shorts

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SOARGray & Black Hot Weather Shorts
$155
Buy at ssense

Engineered for warm runs, the Soar Hot Weather Shorts deliver lightweight, four-way stretch comfort with laser-cut rear ventilation to maximize airflow and minimize friction. Add to that its zip-secure rear pocket to stash your essentials and you'll be dry, cool, and ready to go. Are you a trail runner? Check out the brand's recent Altra collab!

Nike Pro Training Men's Dri-FIT 6" Shorts

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NikePro Training Dri-FIT 6" Shorts Purple
$60
Buy at NIKE

Technically built for your hardest training sessions, the Nike Pro Training Men’s Dri-FIT shorts excel in performance. Their sleek fit, zippered pockets, and moisture-absorbing fabric make them a polished, pop-of-color option for daily wear, too.

District Vision Ripstop Layered Shorts

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District VisionDrawstring Layered Shorts Anthracite
$190
Buy at Mr. Porter

The layered Trail Shorts from District Vision merge technical running design with standout style, featuring a lightweight ripstop shell, integrated half-tights, and secure storage hidden and visible. Further gadgets include a clever drawstring waistband pouch.

Satisfy TechSilk™ 5” Shorts

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SatisfyTechSilk™ 5” Shorts Black
$199
Buy at END.

It's more difficult than you might think to craft a pair of technologically perfect shorts, and it's even more difficult to make them look this good at the same time. Push harder, go farther, and look sharp doing it. Bravo Satisfy.

adidas Designed for Training Workout Shorts

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adidasDesigned for Training Workout Shorts Chalky Brown
$40
Buy at adidas

These streamlined training shorts from adidas combine functionality with a minimalist design. Cut from lightweight woven fabric, they incorporate AEROREADY technology to keep you dry during intense workouts. The elasticated waistband with a drawstring ensures a secure fit, while zip-up pockets provide convenient storage for your essentials.

New Balance AC Lined Short 7"

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New BalanceAC Lined Short 7" Black
£60
Buy at New Balance EU

The New Balance AC Lined Short 7" keeps you cool and comfortable with lightweight, breathable fabric, a lined inner brief for support, and a relaxed fit made for easy movement on every run.

On Focus Shorts

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OnFocus Shorts Arctic
$80
Buy at On Running

Swiss-based running company On has swept the world of running over the past few years. Now one of the frontrunners of the culture, it's high time to introduce this label into your workout wardrobe.

Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short 7"

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LululemonPace Breaker Linerless Short 7" Green Multi
$68
Buy at Lululemon

Designed for versatility, the Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short 7" offers a lightweight, four-way stretch Swift fabric that wicks away sweat and dries quickly. Its classic fit provides ample room for movement, while the grid mesh inner waistband ensures comfort against the skin.

Puma x SAYSKY Running Shorts

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PUMA x SAYSKY Running Shorts Gold
$80
Buy at PUMA

Lightweight and performance-focused, these shorts feature PUMA's ULTRAWEAVE fabric for unrestricted movement, a breathable mesh waistband with an internal drawcord, and an inner brief for added comfort.

Arc'teryx Incendo Incendo Short 9"

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Arc'teryxIncendo Short 9" Men's Green
$100
Buy at Arc'teryx

The Arc'teryx Incendo is a lightweight, durable, and versatile short designed for a range of mountain adventures. Crafted from the breathable Fortius Air 50 nylon fabric, it offers comfort and freedom of movement. The 9-inch inseam provides added coverage, with open hand pockets offering easy access to essentials.

Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit the HS Style Guide for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.

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