CrossFit training programs can really get you hot and sweaty…
So it’s important that you wear the right type of clothes to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable.
I’ve reviewed a range of shorts so you can find the best CrossFit shorts to wear for all future workouts.
After considering all the options our top picks were…
What Are CrossFit Shorts?
When you’re doing CrossFit, a lot of movement and sweat is involved, which means you need to wear appropriate attire.
CrossFit pants are tight-fitting and stretchy so you can easily move around in them, while also having breathable material to help with moisture and odor.
Why Buy Shorts Specific Shorts for CrossFit?
CrossFit is a combination of many exercises, including cardio, gymnastics, core training, and weight lifting.
As a result, it is a high-intensity workout that targets your entire body.
This means you need to wear an outfit that allows for ample motion and positions.
Although running pants are good for reducing heat and sweat…
They don’t typically have enough give or stretch that shorts specific for CrossFit training have.
What Style of Shorts Is Best for CrossFit?
The CrossFit shorts you use should be long enough to give you plenty of coverage while you’re performing different exercises, such as lunging and jumping.
That said…
Your pants shouldn’t be baggy or loose-fitting as excess material could get caught in equipment.
What Are the Benefits of Compression Shorts?
Compression attire can help with the recovery process after an intense workout, as well as encourage blood flow when you’re exercising.
Compression shorts can also aid with stability to prevent loss of balance and create more fluid movements.
Brief Guide to Buying CrossFit Workout Shorts
To ensure you find the right CrossFit pants for the gym, there are a few factors you need to keep in mind.
Let’s take a look at some of the features you should consider when shopping for workout shorts.
Stretch and Movement
Workout shorts are made from a stretch fabric that makes them flexible.
This allows you to do different exercises easily and freely.
As your body flexes a lot during squats, lunges, jumps, etc., the clothes you wear for CrossFit should be pliable so your movement isn’t restricted.
Inseam
The inseam on a pair of pants is the measurement from the hem to the crotch.
The majority of CrossFit shorts for women are between 2.5 inches and 3.5 inches.
TIP
You can get pants with a longer inseam, so don’t worry if you need some extra coverage. Just make sure they have a gusset to let you move around without constrictions.
What is Rise?
The rise on shorts is the measurement from the seam between the legs to the top of the waistband.
Everyone has different measurements, so measure the rise of the pants and compare them to your body frame to ensure you get the right fit.
NOTE
Additionally, make sure you look at where the waistband will fall on the shorts so you can see if they provide enough coverage.
Chafing
Chafing occurs when a rough seam rubs against your skin, which can leave you with something akin to a carpet burn.
When you’re exercising, chafing is pretty common due to the friction of multiple body parts scraping against one another.
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If you’re experiencing chafing regularly, consider using seamless shorts or a pair with a flat seam.
Moisture-wicking, Dryfit or HeatGear Technology
Pants intended for CrossFit should be made from moisture-wicking fabric to help keep you dry, cool, and smell-free.
Peek Proof Material
As CrossFit exercises usually involve bending, lunging, and lifting, you want your shorts to make you feel comfortable and secure while you’re working out.
Pants that are made from thin or poor-quality material can be see-through, which is definitely something you don’t want.
TIP
Check the quality of the shorts you’re thinking of buying to make certain they’re not made from inferior fabric.
This will ensure you can bring your A-game to your workout without feeling insecure.
Antibacterial
Your training shorts will be subjected to sweat and potential germs on gym equipment, so It’s a good idea to use a pair that have antimicrobial properties to prevent bacteria and odor from building up.
Why Your Shorts Need a Gusset
Your CrossFit pants need a gusset so you can move around more easily without getting overly sweaty.
What Is a Gusset?
A gusset is a triangular or diamond shaped panel that is sewn into a piece of fabric to help it maintain its shape and strengthen key points, such as the crotch area.
Gussets are used in clothes like tights, pantyhose, and CrossFit shorts to provide breadth to the crotch seam.
What Style of Shorts Can I Wear for CrossFit Besides Booty Shorts?
If you don’t like short shorts, there are other options you can use for CrossFit.
Leggings, crop pants, sweatpants, and even CrossFit tights are other styles you could try.
Best CrossFit Shorts Reviews
Tough Mode Apparel Workout Shorts
Most Comfortable
These pants have the perfect amount of stretch and compression to ensure they fit your body securely.
Most Comfortable
I think these pants are the best shorts for the gym in terms of comfort as they have soft texture.
This makes them really cosy and snug to wear when you’re exercising.
The pants have the perfect amount of stretch and compression to ensure they fit your body securely.
They’re also not see-through, which is a bonus!
Design Options
I really like the huge array of patterns these pants come in, from stripes all the way to pineapples.
No matter what design you go for, each one will ensure you look fashionable during your CrossFit workout.
My only gripe with these pants are their tendency to roll up during training sessions, specifically on the legs.
Specs
- Dimensions: 10” x 6.8” x 0.7”
- Material: Polyester and Nylon
- Inseam Size: 3”
- Color: Varied
Pros
- Very comfy
- Not see-through
- Good amount of compression and stretch
- Stylish designs
Cons
- Legs can roll up during use
Most Durable
90 Degree by Reflex – Power Flex Shorts
Incredibly long-lasting and robust. Designed using a combination of nylon and spandex which has been developed to endure daily wear and tear and multiple washings.
90 Degree by Reflex – Power Flex Shorts
Durability wise, these pants are incredibly long-lasting and robust.
They’re designed using a combination of nylon and spandex which has been developed to endure daily wear and tear and multiple washings.
They feature a high waistband and gentle compression to help you have a smooth and flat stomach.
Additionally, the pants have a gusseted crotch to provide you with as much movement as possible with chafing.
Extra Pocket
There’s even a hidden pocket in the waistband so you can safely store your phone or wallet!
You get two pairs of pants in this bundle, which is handy for when one pair needs washing. They come in attractive red and black colors.
Each pair has moisture wicking fibers and four-way stretch materials.
Unfortunately, the legs on these pants are prone to rolling up when you’re working out.
On the plus side, the waistband doesn’t appear to encounter this problem.
Specs
- Dimensions: 2” x 3” x 0.5”
- Material: Nylon and Spandex
- Inseam Size: Unknown
- Color: Red and Black
Pros
- Made from moisture wicking fibers and four-way stretch materials
- Durable and flexible
- Hidden waistband pocket
- Gentle compression for a smooth stomach
Cons
- Legs can roll up during use
Editor’s Choice
Women’s Nike Shorts for Gym
They have an elastic closure and a wide elastic waistband to make them more secure, this allows you to do your workouts without worrying about your shorts falling down at the waist.
Women’s Nike Shorts for Gym
Another good pair of shorts for CrossFit are these ones by Nike.
They have an elastic closure and a wide elastic waistband to make them more secure.
This allows you to do your workouts without worrying about your shorts falling down at the waist.
Free Movement
The pants have a 3” inseam to allow for ample movement and range of motion. They’re made from a combination of polyester and spandex so they’re extremely flexible.
The fabric also helps you cool down when you’re exercising.
Design Options
I love the varied designs of these pants as they come in lots of different colors, like watermelon pink, teal blue, and thunder grey.
Not only are these pants practical, but they’re stylish too!
Unfortunately, some designs can cause the pants to be a little see-through, particularly the lighter colors.
The darker colors don’t appear to have this issue, so they might be worth considering instead.
Specs
- Dimensions: 9” x 7” x 1”
- Material: Polyester and Spandex
- Inseam Size: 3”
- Color: Varied
Pros
- 3” inseam and wide waistband
- Material helps you cool down
- Flexible and secure
- Comes in a range of designs
Cons
- Some colors can be see-through
Adidas Women’s Training Techfit Print Short Tights
Made from climalite material that helps absorb sweat from your skin. They have a compression fit to reduce chafing and skin irritation, too.
Adidas Women’s Training Techfit Print Short Tights
Next up are these training shorts from Adidas which provide a 3” inseam for ample movement.
They are made from climalite material that helps absorb sweat from your skin, which is definitely useful during gym sessions!
However, if you tend to sweat a lot, I recommend you always carry a gym towel to manage your sweat during your workout.
Fit
They have a compression fit to reduce chafing and skin irritation, too.
The pants are made from recycled polyester and have a gorgeous camouflage design.
However, the waistband on these pants can be a little itchy.
The legs are also prone to riding up during use.
Specs
- Dimensions: 8.8” x 6.4” x 0.8”
- Material: Polyester
- Inseam Size: 3”
- Color: Camouflage
Pros
- 3” inseam
- Compression fit
- Made from climalite material to absorb sweat
Cons
- Waistband can be a bit itchy
- Legs can ride up during use
Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Armour Shorty Pants
The shorts are made from polyester and elastane, as well as sweat wicking material to ensure moisture dries quickly. Features 4-way stretch construction so you can move in every direction.
Under Armour Women’s HeatGear Armour Shorty Pants
Another great option for workouts are these pants from Under Armour.
They feature 4-way stretch construction so you can move in every direction.
Lightweight Material
The light HeatGear material also gives you optimal coverage without weighing you down.
The shorts are made from polyester and elastane, as well as sweat wicking material to ensure moisture dries quickly.
To reduce potent smells, the pants use anti-odor technology to prevent the growth of microbes that cause odors.
Design Options
A wide range of colors and designs are available so you can find a style that suits your dress sense.
My main issue with these pants is their thin texture which can make them a little more prone to wearing out quicker than some other gym shorts.
Additionally, the legs can ride up during use, especially if you have muscular or toned thighs.
Specs
- Material: Polyester and Elastane
- Inseam Size: 3”
- Color: Varied
Pros
- Stretchy and light
- Anti-odor technology
- Sweat wicking material
- Lots of color choices
Cons
- Material is a little thin
- Legs can ride up during use
QUEENIEKE Women 4.5” Inseam Sports Pants
These seamless pants have a 4.5-inch inseam, so they’re a fantastic choice if you need shorts with a longer inseam than what most brands offer. Made of 4-way stretch material that is moisture wicking so it provides you good support and coverage while also cooling you down.
QUEENIEKE Women 4.5” Inseam Sports Pants
These seamless pants from QUEENIEKE have a 4.5-inch inseam, so they’re a fantastic choice if you need shorts with a longer inseam than what most brands offer.
The 4-way stretch material is moisture wicking so it provides you good support and coverage while also cooling you down.
Seamless
To ensure the shorts don’t dig into your skin, they have a seamless waistband.
There’s also a hidden pocket in the waistband so you can stash away your cards, phone, or keys while you’re working out.
The pants come in a variety of colors, too.
Unfortunately, the material is a little on the thin side and can roll up during use.
Specs
- Dimensions: 7.9” x 4.3” x 2.5”
- Material: Nylon and Spandex
- Inseam Size: 4.5”
- Color: Varied
Pros
- 4.5” inseam
- Stretchy and moisture wicking material
- Seamless waistband
- Hidden pocket
Cons
- Thin material
- Can roll up during use
Born Primitive Your Go to Booty Shorts
Features a 2.5-inch inseam and a high waistband to provide you with maximum comfort and security.
Born Primitive Your Go to Booty Shorts
The Born Primitive pants have a 2.5-inch inseam and a high waistband to provide you with maximum comfort and security.
Comfortable Fit
Due to their compressive material, they fit snugly over your body so you don’t have to worry about them being too loose and falling down.
The pants are black in color and have a shiny finish, which I really like.
They are stretchy and flexible to allow you to exercise without restricting your movement.
The main downside of these pants are their short inseam, which is a little lacking compared to some other workout pants.
Specs
- Material: Nylon and Spandex
- Inseam Size: 2.5”
- Color: Black
Pros
- Comfortable and secure
- Flexible and stretchy
- Attractive design
Cons
- Inseam is a little on the short side
WodBottom Women’s Athletic Spandex Booty Pants
Made from sweat wicking and stretchy material. They quickly dry when wet and are designed with a higher waistband with a gentle rise to give you great coverage.
WodBottom Women’s Athletic Spandex Booty Pants
Made from sweat wicking and stretchy material, these pants from WodBottom are a solid choice for gym workouts.
They quickly dry when wet and are designed with a higher waistband with a gentle rise to give you great coverage.
Comfortable Material
The pants are pliable but have a soft cotton feel to them to provide you with maximum comfort during your exercise routine.
They come in a number of different patterns and colors such as black and hot pink.
Like with some other workout pants, these ones from WodBottom could have a tendency to roll up during use.
Specs
- Material: Spandex
- Color: Varied
Pros
- Soft material
- Pliable and stretchy
- Available in lots of patterns
- Moisture wicking
Cons
- Might roll up during use
Jaco Women’s Compression Shorts
Lightweight and breathable to make them a breeze to move around in. It has a slim fit that holds its shape during use.
Jaco Women’s Compression Shorts
These pants from Jaco are another decent choice as they have a slim fit that holds its shape during use.
They have a 5-inch inseam which makes them ideal if you need pants with extra coverage.
Reduces Sweat and Odor
The pants are lightweight and breathable to make them a breeze to move around in.
This also allows them to reduce sweat and odor buildup.
You can choose the pants in either black or white so they’re great if you prefer a more simplistic style to your workout gear.
Unfortunately, these pants can be a little on the tight side and can roll up when you’re wearing them.
Specs
- Dimensions: 8.58” x 5.16” x 2.91”
- Material: Spandex and Polyester Blend
- Inseam Size: 5”
- Color: Black or White
Pros
- Long inseam
- Breathable and lightweight material
- Holds shape
Cons
- Can be a little tight
- Can roll up during use
Epic MMA Gear Women’s 3” Stretch Booty Shorts
Features 4-way stretch material and support your body well during workouts.
Epic MMA Gear Women’s 3” Stretch Booty Shorts
These pants from Epic MMA have a 3-inch inseam to give you plenty of freedom when you’re active.
They feature 4-way stretch material and support your body well during workouts.
Design Options
You can choose the pants in many different colors and designs ranging from stars, skulls, and even unicorns.
The main issue of these pants are their relatively loose fit, which can cause them to fall down when you’re working out as they aren’t overly flexible.
Specs
- Dimensions: 14.8” x 9.1” x 1.7”
- Material: Polyester and Spandex
- Inseam Size: 3”
- Color: Varied
Pros
- Lots of different color options and patterns available
- 3” inseam
- 4-way stretch material
Cons
- Loose fit
Conclusion
Here’s a quick recap of all our top picks…
After looking at a large range of pants, I think the best CrossFit shorts to wear for CrossFit are the Tough Mode Apparel 3” Athletic Shorts.
They’re durable, comfortable, and have a gusseted crotch to reduce chafing.
The pants are made from a mixture of nylon and spandex and have gentle compression to give you a smooth stomach.
There’s also a hidden pocket in the waistband so you hold your keys, phone, or other small belongings during training.
The only downside of the pants is that they can roll up when you’re exercising.
Great Alternatives
If Tough Mode’s pants don’t seem like the right match for you, then I also recommend 90 Degree by Reflex – Power Flex Shorts and Women’s Nike Shorts.
They’re both very comfortable and flexible to ensure you never miss a beat in your exercise routine.
Thanks for Reading!
Thank you for reading, I hope that you found the article helpful. If you’re looking for other workout wear try my other articles for: Best Running Tights, Best Running Pants and Plus Size Yoga Pants.
