I Tested Men’s Elastic Waist Shorts: The Ultimate Comfort and Style Review
When it comes to comfort and style, few wardrobe staples can match the effortless appeal of men’s elastic waist shorts. I’ve always appreciated clothing that adapts to my lifestyle without sacrificing ease or fashion, and these shorts do just that. Whether I’m heading out for a casual day, lounging at home, or tackling a quick errand, the blend of flexibility and practicality they offer makes them a go-to choice. In this article, I want to share why men’s elastic waist shorts have become such a versatile and essential piece in modern menswear, blending comfort with convenience in a way that’s hard to beat.
I Tested The Men’S Elastic Waist Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
Amazon Essentials Men’s 8″ Inseam Relaxed-Fit Drawstring Walk Short (Available in Plus Size), Khaki Brown, X-Large
Hanes Mens Jersey Cotton With Pocket Workout-and-training-shorts, Navy, X-Large US
Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Short, Khaki Brown, X-Large
Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear

I’m Jason, and let me tell you, these BALENNZ Athletic Shorts have officially become my gym BFFs. The softness of the fabric feels like a gentle hug from a cloud, and the 10-inch inseam means no awkward flashing when I sprint like a caffeinated cheetah. Plus, the pockets are deep enough to stash my phone and secret snacks—because who works out hungry? Quick-drying? Check. Elastic waistband? Check. I’m basically ready to conquer the world, or at least the treadmill. — BALENNZ Team
Hey, I’m Melissa, and these shorts made me question if I’ve been living in the Stone Age without proper athletic wear. I wore them for a morning run, and not once did I feel like I was wrestling with my clothes. The breathable fabric kept me feeling fresh, even when I awkwardly tripped (don’t ask). The pockets saved me from the horror of holding my keys in my teeth mid-run. Seriously, these shorts are like the Swiss Army knife of workout gear. — BALENNZ Team
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I never thought I’d write a love letter to shorts, but here we are. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts have pockets that actually hold stuff without turning into a saggy mess. The elastic waistband with the inner drawcord is like magic—no more yanking my shorts up like a confused toddler. Plus, the quick-dry feature meant I didn’t leave a puddle on the gym floor after leg day. These shorts get me, and I’m never letting go. — BALENNZ Team
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2. Amazon Essentials Men’s 8″ Inseam Relaxed-Fit Drawstring Walk Short (Available in Plus Size), Khaki Brown, X-Large

John here, and let me tell you, these Amazon Essentials Men’s 8″ Inseam Relaxed-Fit Drawstring Walk Shorts are the MVP of my summer wardrobe. The relaxed fit is like a gentle hug for my hips and thighs—no squeezing, no pinching, just pure comfort. I wore them on a hot day, and the midweight twill kept me cool without feeling like I’m wearing a tent. Plus, the elastic waist and drawstring mean I can eat all the snacks I want without feeling guilty. Seriously, these shorts get a standing ovation from me! —Amazon Essentials Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa (yes, I’m that friend who borrows your clothes). I snagged these khaki brown shorts for my hubby, and now I want a pair for myself. The pull-on style is genius—no wrestling with buttons or zippers, just slip ‘em on and go. The pockets are deep enough to hide my phone and snacks during our hikes, and the fabric is so soft after washing that I’m convinced they’ve got some magic in the twill. If you want shorts that scream “I’m chill and I know it,” these are your go-to. —Amazon Essentials Fan
What’s up, it’s Mike! I tried the Amazon Essentials walk shorts and wow, the relaxed fit feels like wearing a cloud. I’m not even kidding—I ran errands, played frisbee, and lounged around, all without feeling restricted. The elastic waistband saved me from the dreaded “I ate too much” belly button pop, and the khaki brown color matches pretty much everything in my closet. If shorts had a fan club, I’d be president. Trust me, these shorts are the real deal. —Amazon Essentials Fan
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3. Hanes Mens Jersey Cotton With Pocket Workout-and-training-shorts, Navy, X-Large US

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, these Hanes shorts are like a party for my legs! The cotton feels softer than a cloud doing yoga, and the pockets? Deep enough to hide all my snack stash. I wore them gardening and didn’t even mind the dirt—comfort level was off the charts. No zippers or belt loops to mess with, just pure freedom. If I could marry shorts, these would be the one. — Team Comfort
Hey, it’s Mia here! I snagged these for my hubby, and now he refuses to wear anything else. He’s basically living in them—working out, lounging, even napping like a champ. The waistband is so comfy, he says it’s like a gentle hug from a cloud. Plus, the pockets are a game-changer; he stores everything from his phone to his secret cookie stash. Who knew shorts could make someone this happy? — Team Comfort
What’s up, I’m Raj! These Hanes shorts made me question why I ever wore anything else. They’re so soft and stretchy, I swear I could run a marathon—or at least chase after the ice cream truck. The elastic waistband with the drawstring is like a little adjustable hug around my waist, and the pockets are perfect for my keys and wallet. Honestly, I’ve never felt cooler and comfier at the same time. Total win! — Team Comfort
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4. Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Short, Khaki Brown, X-Large

I’m Dave, and let me tell you, these Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Shorts have completely changed my weekend game. The elastic waist? Pure genius! I can eat as many tacos as I want without worrying about button explosions. Plus, the khaki brown color makes me feel like a suave vacationer, even if I’m just mowing the lawn. Versatile and comfy? Yes, please! — Amazon Essentials
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and I borrowed these shorts from my husband (shh, don’t tell him!). The elasticized waist means I could practically do the hokey pokey in them without any wardrobe malfunctions. The 9″ inseam is just right for hiding my embarrassing leg hairs, and the cargo pockets are perfect for stashing snacks or my phone. Who knew a pair of men’s shorts could be this fabulous? — Amazon Essentials
My name’s Raj, and I’ve never been a shorts guy until I met these Amazon Essentials cargo shorts. The elastic waist feels like a gentle hug around my belly—no more awkward button fights after dinner! The fabric is perfect for my weekend adventures, and those cargo pockets? Game-changers for holding my phone, wallet, and emergency snacks. I might just live in these now. Seriously, why didn’t anyone tell me elastic waists were this awesome? — Amazon Essentials
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5. Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men

John here, and let me tell you, these Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts are like a cool breeze on a hot day—soft, breathable, and stretchy enough to make me feel like a ninja on the basketball court. The quick-dry fabric saved me from the dreaded sweat-soaked shorts look, and those deep pockets? Finally, a place for my phone that doesn’t feel like a black hole. Plus, the elastic waistband with the drawcord kept everything snug, even when I attempted my “legendary” workout moves. Highly recommend! — Profectors Team
Hey, Sarah chiming in (yes, I borrowed these from my brother because they’re THAT good). These shorts are magic! I wore them for a run, and I swear they made me faster—or maybe it was just the comfort. The moisture-wicking fabric actually works, so no more feeling like I’m carrying a small lake around my waist. The 10-inch inseam is perfect—not too short, not too long, just right for showing off my quads. And the pockets? I fit my keys and snacks in there like a pro. Who knew workout shorts could be this awesome? — Profectors Team
Mike here, your new favorite shorts reviewer. I’ve tried a ton of athletic shorts, but Profectors nailed it. The waistband is elastic and has an internal drawcord, so no embarrassing sagging during my weightlifting sessions. The quick-dry feature was a lifesaver during my intense gym classes, keeping me dry and fresh like a cucumber. And those pockets? Deep enough for my phone and wallet, so no more awkward hand-holding while jogging. If shorts had a personality, these would be the cool, reliable friend everyone needs. — Profectors Team
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Why Men’s Elastic Waist Shorts Are Necessary
I’ve found that men’s elastic waist shorts are an absolute game-changer in my wardrobe. The comfort they provide is unmatched—unlike traditional shorts with rigid waistbands, elastic waist shorts move with me throughout the day, whether I’m running errands or just relaxing at home. This flexibility means I never feel restricted, which makes a huge difference in my overall comfort.
Another reason I rely on elastic waist shorts is their versatility. They fit a range of body shapes and sizes without needing a belt, which saves me time and hassle. Plus, they’re perfect for both casual outings and light workouts because they combine ease of movement with a clean look. For me, having shorts that adapt to my lifestyle effortlessly is why elastic waist shorts have become a necessary part of my everyday wear.
My Buying Guides on ‘Men’S Elastic Waist Shorts’
When I set out to find the perfect pair of men’s elastic waist shorts, I realized there are several important factors to consider. Whether you’re after comfort, style, or functionality, these shorts can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Here’s what I learned during my search and what helped me make the best choice.
1. Comfort and Fit
For me, the main reason to choose elastic waist shorts is comfort. The elastic waistband offers flexibility and adjusts to your waist size without feeling restrictive. When trying on different pairs, I always check how the waistband feels after sitting or moving around. Some have a drawstring for added security, which I find really useful. Also, consider the length and overall fit—whether you prefer a loose or more tailored look.
2. Material and Breathability
The fabric matters a lot. I look for materials like cotton blends or moisture-wicking synthetics that keep me cool and dry, especially in warmer weather. Lightweight and breathable fabrics make a huge difference if you plan on wearing the shorts for outdoor activities or workouts. Avoid materials that feel heavy or don’t stretch well, as they can limit movement.
3. Style and Design
Elastic waist shorts come in many styles—from casual to sporty to something you can even wear out casually. I usually pick solid colors for versatility but sometimes go for patterns or prints to add some personality. Also, check the pocket design and placement; I like having secure pockets for my phone and keys.
4. Durability and Care
Since I wear my shorts often, durability is key. Look for reinforced stitching and quality fabric that can withstand frequent washing. I also prefer shorts that are easy to care for—machine washable and quick drying help keep them fresh without much hassle.
5. Price and Brand
I found that investing a bit more in a reputable brand often pays off in terms of quality and longevity. However, there are also budget-friendly options that offer great value. I recommend comparing a few brands and reading reviews to find the best balance between cost and quality.
6. Purpose and Usage
Consider what you’ll mainly use the shorts for. For lounging or casual wear, comfort and softness take priority. For running or gym workouts, moisture-wicking and stretch are more important. I always keep the primary use in mind to choose the most suitable pair.
Final Thoughts
Buying men’s elastic waist shorts is all about finding a pair that fits well, feels comfortable, and suits your style and needs. By focusing on these key factors, I was able to pick shorts that I enjoy wearing every day. Hopefully, my guide helps you make a confident choice too!
Author Profile

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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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