Basketball shorts are part of the standard attire worn by players on the court, and during practice sessions. The shorts must fit correctly for the player to have full range of motion and comfort while they are playing.
Several of our readers asked us what we considered to be the best basketball shorts. We asked our expert players and coaches to give us information on the shorts they wear the most often, and why they choose those shorts over all of the others.
The responses of those experts taught us that these shorts are not just apparel; they are actually a game accessory that plays a vital role in the player’s ability to play their best.
Top 7 Basketball Shorts of 2024 [Review with Buying Guide]
1. Champion Men’s Long Mesh Short with Pockets
These are knee length shorts that are designed to fit loosely and allow freedom of movement.
The material is very soft and it resists shrinking and pilling so they fit better and they look better. The elastic in the waist of the shorts retains its shape so it does not easily get stretched and allow the shorts to be too big.
Inside the shorts there is a lining that increases coverage. The lining does not make the shorts hotter to wear. It does make the material slightly thicker so they pants cover well and cannot be seen through.
What We Like
- Made from a 100% polyester mesh fabric that is comfortable to wear and cool.
- There are pockets for your things
- These shorts do have an inner lining that help protect modesty
What We Don’t Like
- These shorts do not have zippers on the back pockets
2. Choice Apparel Men’s Two Tone Basketball Shorts
The Choice Apparel two tone shorts are attractive and can be worn as basketball shorts or simply as around the house comfort apparel. They have both a drawstring and there is also an elastic waistband so you have double security that your shorts will not slip as you play.
The polyester material of the shorts is thin and very lightweight. It breathes so you do not get extremely hot while wearing the garment. Since they are made from polyester they can be washed and dried in a machine,
The design of this active wear allows you to move freely with no restrictions. You can run, jump, bend, and perform any physical activity with confidence.
What We Like
- Drawstring closures allow you to customize the fit at the waist.
- Made from 100% polyester
- The length is just below the knee
What We Don’t Like
- These shorts do not have a lining
3. Nike Men’s Dry Training Shorts
These are quality men’s shorts that are comfortable and attractive. They are also affordable, and extremely durable.
This is men’s active wear that is designed with pockets so you have a place for wallets, keys, and other items. These pockets are stabilized so while you are running and jumping your pockets stay in position and your stuff does not fall out of them.
Made from 100% polyester that is durable and capable of being washed and dried frequently. This polyester will not shrink in the dryer, it does not fade easily, it does not stretch out of shape easily, and it does not get little piling puffs with age.
What We Like
- Dry fit technology used so the material actually wicks moisture away while you are wearing the garment.
- These shorts have a drawstring closure for a better fit. They also have an elastic waist band for security and comfort.
- The shorts have mesh pockets.
What We Don’t Like
- The shorts do not have a lining
4. Adidas Men’s Essentials 3-Stripe Shorts
These are knee length basketball shorts that fit loosely, and give you total range of motion. The material is colorfast and will not fade quickly, and it is shrink resistant. Polyester is a lightweight fabric that can withstand daily washings, and allows your skin to breathe.
The elastic in the waistband of these garments is sturdy and dependable. It does not easily get stretched out of shape, and it retains the ability to stretch without breaking even when you dry the item in clothes dryer.
Ability to move is a major concern of athletes. These are shorts designed to let you move freely without creating any restrictions.
What We Like
- These are 100% polyester
- These shorts have both an elastic band at the waist and a drawstring to make them fit perfectly
- These shorts have 2 front pockets for storing your items in
What We Don’t Like
- The string used for the drawstring is not very sturdy and can easily be broken
5. TOPTIE Men’s Basketball Shorts
These are very comfortable shorts that allow you to run, jump, and play without restricting movement, or being uncomfortable. They can be machine washed and dried. The fabric is extremely durable and it holds its shape without stretching, shrinking or piling. Wash after wash you will find your shorts looking nice, and feeling great.
Mesh inserts inside the garment have moisture wicking properties. You stay drier and more comfortable while wearing these garments. The wicking away of moisture also helps reduce chafing and odor that can occur while you play.
Athletes that participate in basketball and football love these shorts because they fit loose enough to allow freedom of movement but tight enough that they have no concerns about their pants slipping.
What We Like
- 100% polyester material
- The fabric is very light, and the knee length shorts fit loose enough that you have complete freedom of movement with no restrictions.
- Elasticized waist band with a drawstring to adjust the fit.
What We Don’t Like
- These garments do not have pockets
6. Pro Club Men’s Heavyweight Mesh Basketball Shorts
These are comfortable shorts that provide plenty of moving room, and the material is light and helps you to stay cool while you play. These shorts are made of premium polyester fabric that resists fading, shrinking, or stretching.
They have an elastic waistband and a drawstring so you can adjust the fit to suit your body. You will not experience any pinching or binding from the garment.
They have a right rear pocket that has a zipper closure so your wallet or valuables do not spill out while you are active. They also have two front pockets with ample room for anything you need to carry.
What We Like
- 100% polyester
- Increased comfort and durability
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- The inseam is larger than average.
7. Under Armour Men’s Raid Shorts
These may be the most comfortable shorts you have ever worn. They are comfortable, cool, machine washable, and the perfect knee length for basketball. Material has wicking properties so moisture is wicked away and you stay cool and comfortable with no chafing.
Maintaining these shorts is easy because you can simply wash them and dry them in your machine. The material is durable polyester that also has UPF 30 properties so it stops you from getting sunburn when you are playing outdoors.
Along with the built in sun protection these garments are designed with anti-odor technology designed into it to help stop the growth of microbes that can cause odor.
What We Like
- lightweight
- The material has a four way stretch that allows you to move more freely.
What We Don’t Like
- These shorts do not have a built in liner
What Things to Consider Before Buying a Basketball Shorts Have?
Buying shorts is not difficult. Buying the right pair of shorts to wear when playing basketball; requires you to consider the following things about the clothing; so you can get the style, size, and durability that you desire.
Material
One of the critical considerations that you have when buying shorts is the material the garments are fashioned from. You want material that is lightweight, cool, has a little give, and if possible able to wick moisture away from your body.
100% cotton is a great material for your boxer shorts, but not a material that you want your basketball shorts made from. You are looking for materials that are polyester or polyester blends.
Polyester materials are easy to wash and care for. You want shorts that are machine washable and that will last for a long time, even though you launder them frequently.
Mesh style materials are going to be cooler when you are wearing them. You want to remain cool.
Closures
You want shorts that have elastic or drawstring closures. You do not want to have to be buttoning and zipping your shorts.
Length
You want basketball shorts to come to your knee or just below your knee. You want these shorts to fit loose, and to have no elastic or drawstrings on the lower edges.
Brand Loyalty
Most people like to buy items that are in brands they know and trust. You should also look at other brands, and consider the possibility of brands that are recommended by other sports players.
Color
Colors make a difference if you are buying shorts to wear to team events. You want to make certain that you get color combinations that are appropriate for your team.
Pockets
Pockets are nice to have, but they are not always practical when you are playing basketball. You will not likely have many things in your pocket while you are on the court. Shorts that have a back pocket that has a zipper closure are better when you are playing because your wallet or whatever you put in the pocket cannot simply fall out.
Price
Everyone considers price when they are buying clothing. Do not allow yourself to buy a garment just because it is the cheapest one you find. Compare the features of the garment, and the materials then determine whether the price makes a difference.
What Size of Basketball Shorts Do I Need?
Mist people simply buy a size they have been able to wear in other garments. If they normally wear a large they simply order a large, or grab a large when they are in the store. Most of the time this policy works; but sometimes, the shorts simply do not fit, and then you have the hassle of returning them.
Take the time to do the proper measuring and then when you order shorts you can compare the measurements each size is supposed to fit and you will get a better fit.
Use a measuring tape
When you are measuring for shorts you need an accurate measurement of your hips, your waist, and the length between your waist and your knee. To get these measurements, use a soft tape measure, and measure without other clothing.
Be sure and write your measurements down so you do not forget them. Look at the apparel site and find the chart they have that describes what measurements each of their sizes will fit.
In-Store Purchasing
Most guys do not like to take the time to try on clothing. That is why most guys buy so many articles of clothing that are ill-fitting. Take the time to go into the dressing room and try the shorts on. Different clothing companies size their apparel differently. A size medium in one brand of shorts may fit you perfectly, and in another brand that size medium may be too small or too big.
Last Word
Wearing the right basketball shorts improves your game because they allow you to move freely, and have confidence. If your shorts do not fit perfectly you will be uncomfortable and less likely to jump high, or make quick turns.
Your basketball shorts should be so comfortable that you forget you are wearing them. This type of comfort is only achieved when you take proper measurements to insure that your shorts have the perfect length and waist circumference.