7 Best Shorts For Squats in 2024
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
When shopping for the best shorts for squats, you want to buy a pair that has the right material to give you a flexible and breathable pair of shorts, along with some added resistance and protection, so the shorts don’t ride up or pinch your skin as your workout. Inseam is another trait to consider as that will largely determine how comfortable the shorts will be during your workout.
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Men’s WBCM Compression Shorts L8.
Starting our list of the best shorts for squats is Men’s WBCM Compression Shorts L8. They are made up of Supplex Sport material, which is made to combat the wear and tear of shorts that are frequently rubbed against the metal of the bar.
Certified experts and professional athletes on our team have tried out 12 different pairs of shorts for squats, with only 7 earning a spot on this list. The shorts underwent a detailed assessment based on 7 essential criteria, and our team invested over 20 hours in hands-on testing. Alongside the comprehensive testing, we pored over hundreds of online user reviews. This list sees regular updates, so don’t hesitate to share your experiences by leaving a comment!
Top 7 Best For Squats Reviewed
- Men’s WBCM Compression Shorts L8 – Top Pick
- Rogue Ranger Panties – Runner Up
- Reebok Workout Ready Shorts
- Operator Essential Shorts
- New Balance Men’s Accelerate 7 Inch Shorts
- Under Armour Men’s Raid 2.0 Workout Gym Shorts
- Champion Men’s 9 Inch Compression Shorts
| Product | Total | Material Quality | Sizing | Colour Diversity | Resistance & Protection | Comfort | Design | Value of Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WBCM L6 Shorts | 68 | 10 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Rogue Ranger’s | 67.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 10 |
| Reebok Ready Shorts | 67 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 10 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 | 10 |
| WOD Operator Shorts | 66 | 9.5 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8.5 |
| New Balance Accelerate 7 | 65.5 | 9 | 10 | 9.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 9 |
| Under Armour Raid 2.0 Shorts | 63.5 | 9 | 10 | 9.5 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 | 8.5 |
| Champion Compression Shorts | 62.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 9.5 | 8.5 | 9 | 9 | 8 |
1. Top Pick: Men’s WBCM Compression Shorts L8
The WBCM compression shorts are unique in that they are made up of Supplex Sport material, which is made to combat the wear and tear of shorts that are frequently rubbed against the metal of the bar. These are some of the best shorts for weightlifting. The shorts also keep their bright and fresh look because the side panels have a sublimation process.
- Material: Supplex Sport
- Inseam: 6.5″
- Sizes: XS to XXL
- Colour palette: Black
Material Quality
As mentioned before, the shorts are made of a material called Supplex Sport, which is a blend of nylon and spandex. Apart from having longevity benefits, the material favours comfort as the shorts made of Supplex Sport are stretchy and breathable.
Sizing
WBCM has a varied sizing range. So, whether you wear extra small or double XL, you should be able to find a pair of shorts to match your needs. The waist of the shorts ranges from 30.7″ to 38.5″ with their hip length coming between 20″ to 28″ and the height being from 63″ to 78.7″.
Colour Diversity
For now, the shorts only come in black, so you won’t find much diversity in this. But, because of the sublimation process used for the shorts, they will keep their bright and fresh look after several washes.
Resistance and Protection
The Supplex Material adds protection to the areas of the shorts that come in contact with the metal barbell. So, you can safely perform exercises such as the snatch or clean, without worrying about damaging your clothes.
Comfort
The material is both flexible and breathable, which are the two main categories for comfort. The inseam fits the right length so that it shouldn’t interfere with your workout, especially when you’re squatting deep.
Design
The compression shorts reach down to just above your knees and come with a sleek look that will stay the same after multiple uses and washes.
Value of Money
The compression shorts are well worth the price as they will last longer than most of its competitors because of the material used in the shorts and the sublimation process along the side panels of the product. So, these definitely fall in the tier of the best shorts for squatting.
The WBCM compression shorts are unique in that they are made up of Supplex Sport material, which is made to combat the wear and tear of shorts that are frequently rubbed against the metal of the bar.
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2. Runner Up: Rogue Ranger Panties
Stylized as military running shorts, the Ranger Panties are very lightweight and come with a nylon tricot liner brief, making them one of the best squat shorts and also best womens weightlifting shorts. Also, a problem with workout shorts can be that they don’t have pockets for things like your keys and phones. Well, the Ranger Panties addressed this issue with their product, as the shorts have an inside key pocket.
- Material: 100% lightweight nylon tricot
- Inseam: 2 - 2 1/4”
- Sizes: S to XL
- Colour palette: Various
Material Quality
Nylon is the best material for running shorts, which is why it’s used in the Ranger Panties. It makes the shorts both breathable and stretchable, which allows the Ranger Panties to be multifaceted as you can use them for running but also for lifting weights.
Sizing
The sizing covers the basics from small to extra large. But if you fall outside that sphere, like extra small or double XL, you might not find the right fit for you. The sizing of the waist goes from 28-30 inches to 40-42 inches.
Colour Diversity
There are a range of colours you can select from. Of course, the basic black and navy blue are there, but you can also find the shorts in camo print and even stylized with the American flag pattern if you’re really feeling patriotic.
Resistance and Protection
The shorts have a slight slit cut on the side to ensure that they don’t cause any snag or drag when you’re performing your exercise. So the free range of motion that the shorts provide work with you, instead of getting in the way. Although the material doesn’t have any protective features.
Comfort
The shorts are stretchable and breathable, so you should find them comfortable. Plus, the free range of motion adds another layer of comfort. However, they are on the shorter side in terms of length and not everyone is comfortable wearing shorts like that.
Design
The shorts take after running shorts, so the design of it is free flowing in a way that you can take large strides without it interfering or squat deep without it riding up your leg. But as mentioned above, they are definitely short shorts, so keep that in mind.
Value of Money
The cheaper price tag increases the value of the shorts, along with the multifaceted nature of the shorts, as you can use them for various physical activities and they come in multiple color choices.
Stylized as military running shorts, the Ranger Panties are very lightweight and come with a nylon tricot liner brief, making them one of the best squat shorts.
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3. Reebok Workout Ready Shorts
The Workout Ready Shorts are mens squatting shorts that are made of a special speedwick fabric, which keeps you cool and dry as you workout. Another aspect that separates these shorts from its competitors is the drawstrings, which allow you to tighten and loosen the shorts as you see fit.
- Material: Speedwick polyester plain weave
- Inseam: 9"
- Sizes: S to L
- Colour palette: Various
Material Quality
The speedwick polyester has several benefits. Shorts made of this material are flexible, lightweight, and durable. However, one issue with polyester material is that it’s not as breathable as the other.
Sizing
The sizing of the shorts covers a wide range. The regular fit sizing should be plenty for you to find the right match according to your needs and dimensions.
Colour diversity
The shorts come in various colours from the usual dark black and blue to something brighter, like lime green or teal blue.
Resistance and Protection
The polyester material provides you with a durable product that not only withstands training sessions, but can be washed repeatedly, losing none of its benefits. Although the shorts don’t come with a slit on the side.
Comfort
As the shorts are made to keep you cool and dry, they are comfortable to wear during your workout. They also have the added advantage of being flexible, although there are breathability issues.
Design
The shorts aren’t eye-catching. They are your typical regular pair of workout shorts. But the added design of the drawstrings helps with the fit and comfort of the shorts.
Value of Money
The shorts are pretty valuable for the money as not only can you use it for several forms of exercising, but they have a casual enough look to them to be worn outdoors as well.
The Workout Ready Shorts are mens squatting shorts that are made of a special speedwick fabric, which keeps you cool and dry as you workout.
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4. Operator Essential Shorts
The Operator Essential Shorts come with a spandex inner thigh lining, which makes it easy to squat and be mobile with the shorts on. These mens squatting shorts have convenience in mind, as you not only have a back zipper pocket, but two front pockets as well for storage.
- Material: Polyester and spandex
- Inseam: 5" and 7"
- Sizes: S to XXL
- Colour palette: Green or Blue print
Material Quality
The combination of polyester with spandex makes for a flexible and lightweight pair of shorts. This will allow you to squat deep without any hindrance and also do other mobility drills and exercises.
Sizing
The sizing range is between small and double XL, so you should be able to find the right combination for you. The waist of the small size is 29-31 inches, while the XXL is 37-39 inches. The inseam is adjustable as well, as you can pick between 5 or 7 inches.
Colour diversity
The shorts come in this camo print style where they can either have a forest green colour to them or a more navy blue. But you’re stuck between just these two choices.
Resistance and Protection
Polyester is a great durable material, and so is spandex. The combination of two should provide you with a long-lasting pair of shorts. Also, the shorts have a quick drying feature, which will prevent them from chafing and rubbing your legs.
Comfort
The lightweight shorts have a comfortable fit. The elastic waistband also helps avoid any type of pinching sensation as you squat or do other exercises. The spandex part of the shorts also prevent them from riding up as you squat down, so you should feel comfortable during your workout.
Design
The design of the shorts has convenience in mind as they come with both a back pocket and two front ones. So, you can store your wallet, phone, and keys while exercising. Also, the length of the shorts can either go just above your knees or can be shorter depending on the inseam selection.
Value of Money
Although the shorts have several positive features to them, one thing that it doesn’t have is a cheaper price tag. One reason being because the shorts come with so many features and design quirks. So, if you’re just looking for a pair of shorts to squat in, you might find other shorts that fit the bill.
The Operator Essential Shorts come with a spandex inner thigh lining, which makes it easy to squat and be mobile with the shorts on.
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5. New Balance Men's Accelerate 7 Inch Shorts
As the name suggests, the New Balance shorts come with a 7 inch inseam, so you know right away what you’re getting. They also have a fast-drying technology to keep you dry during your workout. The shorts are designed with athletics in mind, so you should be able to move freely while working out, so they can double as great deadlift shorts and powerlifting shorts, too.
- Material: Polyester
- Inseam: 7"
- Sizes: XS to 5X-Large
- Colour Palette: Various
Material Quality
The 100% polyester material makes these shorts both lightweight and durable, along with giving them a flexible feeling that will allow you to workout with them without any problem. The material also comes with a NB dry technology that allows the shorts to dry quickly and keep the moisture away.
Sizing
The New Balance product has the most diverse sizing range out there. As you can pick up to 5X large. So, at the smallest range you have the option of a waist size of 27-29 inch and at the largest possible size it is at 46-50 inches.
Colour diversity
Colour diversity is another thing the shorts excel at, as you can pick from a wide variety that ranges from just black to green and even camo print.
Resistance and Protection
The shorts don’t come with a side panel cut, so there is a possibility of them riding up as you exercise. However, the material itself is very resistant to washing and usage, so you are getting a long-lasting pair of shorts.
Comfort
The lightweight pair of shorts have a comfortable fit, especially because of the mid-rise, which sits below the waist. This allows for a good fit and more mobility during your workout.
Design
The shorts come with pockets, but other than that, the design of the shorts is pretty typical and common. The 7 inch inseam design is also in the right range for workout shorts.
Value of Money
There is plenty of value for your money with these shorts, despite not having a lot of leeway with the inseam. However, the material quality and the comfortable fit give you a pair of shorts that will work well for any workout.
As the name suggests, the New Balance shorts come with a 7 inch inseam, so you know right away what you’re getting.
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6. Under Armour Men's Raid 2.0 Workout Gym Shorts
The Under Armour lifting shorts come with a unique 4-way stretch construction that will allow you to freely workout without any hindrance to your mobility. They also have a mesh back panel that works well with their material to give a fast drying pair of shorts.
- Material: 90% Polyester and 10% Elastane
- Inseam: 10"
- Sizes: XS to 4X Large Tall
- Colour palette: Various
Material Quality
The combination of polyester and elastane is pretty ideal for a pair of workout shorts as they will be both lightweight and flexible. That is exactly what you’re looking for if you plan on squatting and doing various mobility type drills.
Sizing
There is an abundance of sizing options that surpass many other competitors. The shorts take into consideration how tall an individual might be as they offer both a common large and above size and also one that is suited for tall individuals.
Colour diversity
The colour palette ranges from the darker shades of black, blue, and forest green to something bright like red and a blend of pink and orange.
Resistance and Protection
The shorts do lack a side panel cut, however they are moisture resistant. This is through both a mesh back panel and the material itself that wicks sweat and can dry quickly. However, there is nothing to prevent the shorts from being damaged by the bar itself.
Comfort
The lightweight shorts should make for a comfortable fit. They also come with a drawstring, so you can tighten and loosen the shorts as you see fit. But, the shorts are naturally on the looser side, so keep that in mind.
Design
The shorts come with open hand pockets, so the design has convenience and practicality. But as mentioned earlier, the looser design of the shorts might not be for everyone. Especially with the 10 inch inseam.
Value of Money
The shorts have a wide price range depending on the size you pick. They also don’t have a lot of protection and inseam options. But they make up for that with their size availability and lightweight elastane material.
The Under Armour lifting shorts come with a unique 4-way stretch construction that will allow you to freely workout without any hindrance to your mobility.
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7. Champion Men's 9 Inch Compression Shorts
Compression shorts can be excellent for exercising, as they provide an added benefit of heat to your muscles. The Champion product also comes with a double dry fabric wick, which keeps you moisture free and cool during your exercise.
- Material: 92% Polyester and 8% Spandex
- Inseam: 9"
- Sizes: XS to XXL
- Colour palette: Various
Material Quality
Typical workout shorts have a combination of polyester and spandex, as seen with many other brands. So, there isn’t anything wholly unique, but you get the basics of lightweight and flexible material.
Sizing
The sizing variation spans several options. At its lowest end, you have the option of a 26 inch waist size and at its highest end there are 48-50 inch waist sizes. However, the inseam remains the same at 9 inches.
Colour diversity
The colour palette ranges from black and navy blue to lime green and even a cream coloured pair of shorts. So, if you’re looking for a diverse look, you can find it here.
Resistance and Protection
The compression shorts can provide more oxygen to your muscles and reduce the risk of muscle strains. However, these don’t have a specialized material to prevent it from being damaged by the metal of the bar.
Comfort
The fabric is designed in a way to mold to your body, so the fit of the shorts should be comfortable as long as the sizing is correct. Although you have to prefer a tighter fit.
Design
The design of the shorts comes with a cooling component and a fast drying one as well. So, you can prevent moisture from settling on the shorts for too long as there is enough airflow to prevent it.
Value of Money
On the whole, there is value for your money with this product as the price tag is on the cheaper side. However, a couple of the drawbacks are addressed with other competitors that can make the value of these shorts go down.
Compression shorts can be excellent for exercising, as they provide an added benefit of heat to your muscles.
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What To Look For In Squat Shorts
1. Inseam Length
The inseam length is connected to the stretchability of the fabric. There are more chances of a longer short to impede your squat than there are of shorter squats. This has to do with the inseam length of the shorts, as the longer shorts have an inseam length between 15 and 21 inches.
While, ideally, you want your inseam length to be between 3 to 9 inches. With 9 being at the extreme end. The 3 to 9 inch range covers everything from short fitting shorts to ones that are just at the kneecap. These are less likely to interfere with your squats when performing the exercise.
Tips From the Champ
You absolutely need a pair of squat shorts that are made of stretchable fabric. When you squat, it’s only natural for your thighs to push out at the bottom position, where, if the shorts aren’t stretchable, they will cause discomfort and even a pinching sensation. This can interfere with your depth and proper squat form.
Just have to make sure the shorts aren’t pulling or resisting as you squat. Particularly in the groin region.
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
2. Breathability
Having breathable fabric is important, but not a deal breaker, either. If you can get shorts with a breathable fabric, it’ll help your skin keep cool and dry as air can pass through such fabrics more freely.
There are many factors that go into keeping you cool during your workout. How thick or thin the fabric is or how light or heavy it is can be equally important. Along with how tightly or loosely the shorts fit. That’s why you can offset this category with other ones if the shorts check off all other boxes for you.
3. Leg Opening
Similar to the stretchiness of shorts, the leg opening also plays a role in your squat form and comfort. Leg opening comes as a slit on the side of your shorts. This slit can either be small or large, depending on what you like. But it’s an important factor to consider as the slit will allow for the shorts to naturally open up as you squat down, thus preventing any discomfort.
4. Tight or Loose Fit
Fit is another natural thing to consider, as it is with most of your clothing. This is also one of those categories where you have to find the right balance for yourself. Some people get confused by the tightness of the fit because they associate tightness with being bad. As mentioned above, if the shorts are tight to the level that they are uncomfortable, then of course you should look for some other pair of shorts. But if the shorts are simply form-fitting, but don’t restrict your movements, then they are perfectly tight for you.
In the same sense, loose fitting shorts aren’t bad in of themselves. You don’t need form-fitting ones as long as the loose shorts don’t have any inseam issues. If the loose fitting shorts are too long, then they can interfere with your squat form, and only then are they considered a poor choice for squatting.
5. Squatting In Shorts vs Leggings
Both of them have their benefits and setbacks. If you are a visual lifter and like to see your muscles working and contracting during your workout, then shorts are better for squatting. Also, with shorts, it’s easier to see when you’ve squatted below the hip crease and if you get a good pump, your legs will feel less restricted in shorts.
While leggings can provide more comfort as you don’t have to worry about them riding up your legs when squatting like shorts can. Plus, a pair of leggings can provide heat and keep your legs warmer.
FAQ
Can You Squat In Running Shorts?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on some factors discussed above. The main one being the stretchiness of your running shorts. Not all running shorts are made the same, so as long as they have a stretchy material, you can perform your squats without any discomfort.
What Does It Mean For Shorts To Be Squat Proof?
Squat proof shorts are those made of a material that stretches out in the bottom, but doesn’t reveal any of your undergarments. A squat proof short is typically made up of spandex material and comes in darker colours.
Also, the sizing of the material plays a role as if it’s too tight, then there are more chances that the fabric will stretch and become too revealing.
Are Compression Shorts Good For Squats?
Compression shorts are an excellent option for squatting. They are less likely to chafe your inner thighs and won’t ride up your thighs as you squat down. Compression shorts can also provide more oxygen to your muscles, which can reduce the chances of muscular strain.
Conclusion
A pair of squat shorts need to be flexible and lightweight, so you can squat freely. The best kind also has the correct inseam to prevent the shorts from pinching or riding up as you exercise. While a compression element can give you added benefits.
Also read:
- Weightlifting Compression Shorts
- What Are Compression Shorts
- Best Powerlifting Singlet
- Best Fitness Shorts for Men
- Best Squat Rack for Home Gym
- Best Weightlifting Shoes for Men
- Best Lifting Shoes for Women
References:
- How Long Your Athletic Shorts Should Be, Based On Your Favorite Sport // Men's Health:
- https://www.menshealth.com/style/a22688751/athletic-shorts-length/
- What Compression Therapy and Its Benefits Are // Health Line: https://www.healthline.com/health/what-compression-therapy-and-its-benefits-are
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With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.
All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.
The product testing process is described in more detail here
Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiries considering product reviews, you can reach out to us via email – [email protected]
