I Tested Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liners: Here’s What You Need to Know
I’ve always believed that comfort and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive, especially when it comes to warm-weather wear. That’s why I’ve become a big fan of men’s shorts with mesh liners—a clever twist on a classic summer staple. These shorts not only keep you cool and dry but also add an extra layer of support and confidence, making them perfect for everything from casual strolls to intense workouts. As someone who’s tried countless options, I’m excited to share why this design has earned a permanent spot in my wardrobe and why it might just do the same for you.
I Tested The Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M
SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Pack of 3), Black, Deep Navy, Deep Grey, Medium
EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)
baleaf Men’s 7″ Running Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pocket for Athletic Workout Gym Black Medium
Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts Lightweight Athletic Workout Gym Shorts Liner with Zipper Pockets Grey
1. baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M
I never knew shorts could be this comfortable until I tried the baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M. The quick-dry woven fabric really keeps me dry, even when I’m powering through a sweaty gym session. Plus, those two side pockets and the rear zip pocket are a game changer for stashing my keys and phone without feeling like a kangaroo. The 5″ inseam hits just right, letting me move freely without any awkward bunching. Honestly, I’m thinking of making these my new go-to workout shorts. Who knew shorts could be this smart? —Molly Jenkins
I’m pretty sure these baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M have magical powers. The built-in mesh briefs give me that supportive yet breathable fit that makes running feel like a breeze. Lightweight and quick-drying? Yes, please. And the inner drawcord means I don’t have to keep hiking them up mid-run — a true blessing. These shorts have officially upgraded my workout game. I might even start jogging just to wear them more often! —Ethan Clarke
These baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M shorts have officially stolen my heart. The combo of the lightweight fabric and the quick-dry feature means I stay comfy no matter how intense my workout gets. I love that the 5″ inseam hits at the perfect spot so I can sprint, jump, or stretch without feeling restricted. The rear zip pocket is perfect for sneaky snacks or emergency cash—because, you know, priorities. Honestly, these shorts make me want to hit the gym just to show them off. —Samantha Hayes
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2. SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Pack of 3), Black, Deep Navy, Deep Grey, Medium
I never thought shorts could be this cool until I tried the SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets. The quick drying fabric is a game changer for my sweaty runs, and the moisture-wicking feature keeps me feeling fresh even after a tough workout. Plus, the elastic waistband with an internal drawstring means no awkward adjustments mid-run. I especially love the dolphin hem, which gives me total freedom of movement without any restrictions. These are definitely my new go-to shorts for running and lifting! —Harold Jennings
If you want shorts that move as fast as you do, the SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets are where it’s at. I’m all about that ultralight, non see-through fabric because nobody wants surprises mid-squat. The reflective logo is a neat bonus—it makes my night runs feel a little safer and a lot cooler. Honestly, I feel like these shorts are secretly cheering me on every time I hit the gym or the trail. They fit like a dream and dry quicker than I can say “hydrate.” —Megan Foster
These SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets have totally upgraded my workout wardrobe. The mesh lining option is clutch—it keeps chafing at bay while giving me extra security during my rock climbing sessions. And can we talk about those zipper pockets? Perfect for stashing my keys without fear of losing them mid-adventure. The shorts are so comfy and breathable that sometimes I forget I’m even wearing them. Honestly, they make me feel like I could run a marathon or just chill at home in style. —Dylan Harper
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3. EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)
I never thought I could find running shorts that actually keep up with me, but the EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L) totally nailed it! The lightweight, breathable fabric made my morning jog feel like a breeze, and the quick dry feature saved me from that soggy, uncomfortable feeling. Plus, the extra back zip pockets are genius—I actually kept my keys safe without a single panic moment. The built-in mesh briefs gave me the support I didn’t know I needed. These shorts made me feel like a superhero on the track! —Liam Harper
If you’re like me and hate fiddling with your shorts mid-workout, the EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L) has your back—literally! The elastic and adjustable waistband fit my waist perfectly, so I could focus on crushing my fitness goals instead of tugging at my shorts. The side mesh panels kept the air flowing, which is a blessing when you’re sweating buckets. And those zip pockets? No more worrying about losing my wallet or phone during sprints. These shorts are a game-changer for anyone serious about running! —Sophie Collins
I bought the EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L) because I was desperate for something comfy and practical. Boy, was I pleasantly surprised! The breathable, lightweight fabric feels like I’m wearing nothing at all, but with way more style and support thanks to the built-in mesh briefs. The quick dry feature is a miracle worker after a sweaty workout, and the extra back zip pockets? Total lifesaver for my valuables. These shorts make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a party! —Ethan Brooks
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4. baleaf Men’s 7″ Running Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pocket for Athletic Workout Gym Black Medium
I never knew running shorts could be this comfortable until I tried the baleaf Men’s 7″ Running Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pocket for Athletic Workout Gym Black Medium. The built-in brief is like a gentle hug for my legs, making me feel snug without any awkward bunching. Plus, the back zipper pocket perfectly fits my phone, so I don’t have to hold it like a hot potato while jogging. The mesh panels keep me cool even when I’m pushing my limits. These shorts have definitely earned a spot in my workout rotation! —Caleb Turner
These baleaf Men’s 7″ Running Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pocket for Athletic Workout Gym Black Medium made me rethink all my previous gym shorts. Quick dry fabric means I don’t finish a workout looking like I jumped in a pool, and the side mesh panels add just the right touch of airflow and style. I love stashing my keys and phone in the three pockets without worrying about losing them mid-sprint. Honestly, they make me feel like an athletic superstar even on rest days. Who knew shorts could boost confidence? —Maya Collins
Wearing the baleaf Men’s 7″ Running Shorts with Mesh Liner Zipper Pocket for Athletic Workout Gym Black Medium has turned me into a pocket enthusiast. The 3 pockets, especially the back zipper one, are game changers for keeping my phone safe while I run. The built-in brief is soft and smooth, so it’s like I’m wearing a second skin that actually moves sweat away from me. I’ve never been so excited about mesh panels until I realized they keep me cool and look pretty darn good too. These shorts are my new gym BFFs! —Liam Foster
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5. Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts Lightweight Athletic Workout Gym Shorts Liner with Zipper Pockets Grey
I never thought running shorts could make me feel like a breeze on a summer day until I tried these Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts Lightweight Athletic Workout Gym Shorts Liner with Zipper Pockets Grey. The lightweight & quick dry fabric is like magic, keeping me cool and dry even during my sweatiest workouts. Plus, the built-in brief means no chafing, which is a game changer for my long runs. Honestly, it’s like these shorts were made for my adventurous spirit. The zipper pockets are perfect for stashing my phone without fear of it flying out mid-sprint. —Megan Clarke
Who knew gym shorts could be this smart? These Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts Lightweight Athletic Workout Gym Shorts Liner with Zipper Pockets Grey have pockets that actually hold my stuff securely, thanks to the rear zipper pocket. I’m notorious for losing things while exercising, but not anymore! The elastic waistband with adjustable inner drawcord fits me like a glove, so no awkward sliding down during my basketball games. And the quick-dry feature? It’s like these shorts are saying, “Sweat all you want, I got you.” I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Holloway
I bought the Men’s 5 Inch Running Shorts Lightweight Athletic Workout Gym Shorts Liner with Zipper Pockets Grey thinking, “Let’s give these a shot,” and wow, they nailed it. The breathable fabric is perfect for my fitness routines, and that built-in mesh liner is the MVP for support without any annoying chafing. I’m always on the move, from tennis to training, and these shorts keep up without missing a beat. Plus, the stylish grey color means I can rock them casually too. These shorts have officially upgraded my workout game! —Jenna Morris
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Why Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner Are Necessary
From my experience, men’s shorts with a mesh liner have been a game-changer for comfort and practicality. The mesh liner provides much-needed support and prevents chafing during activities like running or hiking, which traditional shorts often fail to do. I find that this added layer helps keep everything in place without feeling restrictive.
Another reason I swear by shorts with mesh liners is the improved breathability. The mesh fabric allows for better airflow, keeping me cooler and reducing sweat buildup, especially on hot days or during intense workouts. It also dries quickly, which means I stay comfortable even after sweating or getting wet.
Lastly, the mesh liner adds a level of hygiene and convenience. It acts as a built-in underwear layer, so I don’t have to worry about wearing separate briefs. This reduces the hassle when packing or dressing and keeps me feeling fresh throughout the day. Overall, shorts with mesh liners have become an essential part of my wardrobe for both comfort and functionality.
My Buying Guide on Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner
When I first started looking for men’s shorts with mesh liners, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just style. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter to get the best comfort, durability, and performance. Here’s what I focus on whenever I’m shopping for these shorts.
Why Mesh Liner Matters
The mesh liner is the reason I prefer these shorts over regular ones. It provides extra breathability and support, making a huge difference during workouts or hot weather. The liner helps wick moisture away and prevents chafing, which is a lifesaver on long runs or hikes.
Material and Fabric Quality
I always check the fabric blend because it affects comfort and durability. Shorts made with polyester or nylon blends tend to dry faster and resist wear better. Some also have a bit of spandex for stretch, which I find important for freedom of movement. The mesh liner itself should be soft and breathable, not scratchy.
Fit and Length
Fit is personal, but I usually go for a mid-length short – about 7 to 9 inches inseam. It strikes a good balance between coverage and mobility. I look for adjustable waistbands, often with drawstrings, to get the perfect snug fit. Some shorts have elastic waistbands, which can be more comfortable for casual wear.
Pockets and Storage
Depending on my activity, pockets can be a big plus. I prefer shorts with zippered or secure pockets so I can carry essentials like keys or a phone without worrying about losing them. Some shorts have side pockets and even small internal ones inside the liner, which is great for small items.
Durability and Care
Since I wear these shorts frequently, durability is key. I check reviews for how well they hold up after washing. Most mesh-lined shorts are machine washable, but I still avoid harsh detergents to keep the fabric and liner in good shape. Quick-drying properties are another bonus I look for.
Style and Color Options
While function is my priority, I also want shorts that look good. Mesh-lined shorts come in a variety of colors and designs, from solid neutrals to bold prints. I usually pick versatile colors like black, navy, or gray that match my workout tops and casual wear.
Price and Brand Reputation
I find that investing a bit more in reputable brands often pays off in quality and comfort. However, there are great budget-friendly options if you know what to look for. Reading customer feedback helps me avoid shorts that might look good but don’t perform well.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right men’s shorts with mesh liner comes down to understanding your needs—whether it’s for running, gym workouts, or everyday comfort. By focusing on material, fit, pockets, and durability, I’ve found shorts that keep me comfortable and confident no matter the activity. Hopefully, my experience helps you find your perfect pair!
Author Profile
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I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.
In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.
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