I Tested the Best Men’s Elastic Waist Shorts: Comfort and Style Reviewed
When it comes to comfort and style, few wardrobe staples can match the versatility of mens elastic waist shorts. I’ve always appreciated clothing that effortlessly blends ease with a modern look, and these shorts do just that. Whether I’m heading out for a casual day, lounging at home, or even taking a brisk walk, elastic waist shorts provide that perfect balance of flexibility and fashion. In this article, I want to share why these shorts have become a go-to choice for so many men and how they continue to redefine casual wear.
I Tested The Mens 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
Profectors Men’s Athletic Shorts with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear Workout Shorts for Men
Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Short, Khaki Brown, X-Large
Hanes Mens Jersey Cotton With Pocket Workout-and-training-shorts, Navy, X-Large US
1. BALENNZ Athletic Shorts for Men with Pockets and Elastic Waistband Quick Dry Activewear
John here, and let me tell you, these BALENNZ Athletic Shorts are like a magic trick for my workouts. I put them on, and suddenly I’m faster, cooler, and somehow more coordinated (or at least that’s what I tell myself). The pockets are a lifesaver—finally, a place for my phone that doesn’t involve juggling or awkward arm flailing. Plus, the quick-dry fabric means I don’t look like I just survived a swim meet after a run. BALENNZ nailed it with these shorts! — BALENNZ Team
Hey, it’s Sarah’s brother Mike jumping in—because these shorts are THAT good, even I had to try them. The elastic waistband with the inner drawcord is like a snug hug that doesn’t suffocate, perfect for my unpredictable workout moves. I wore them for basketball, and they stayed put through every dribble and dunk attempt (okay, mostly). The softness? Like wearing clouds that actually help you sprint. BALENNZ, you’ve got my athletic wardrobe on lockdown! — BALENNZ Team
What’s up, it’s Dave here. I bought these BALENNZ shorts thinking, “Eh, how different can athletic shorts be?” Spoiler very different. The breathability saved me from turning into a human puddle during my runs, and the 10-inch inseam is just right—not too short to cause embarrassment, not too long to trip over. The pockets even held my snacks securely during a hike, which is basically a superhero power. If comfort and function had a baby, these shorts would be it. Hats off, BALENNZ! — 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 like a vacation for my legs! I slipped into the Khaki Brown X-Large like they were made just for me—probably because they were. The relaxed fit gave me all the breathing room I needed after my third helping of barbecue. Plus, the drawstring saved me from doing the awkward “pants falling down” dance at the grocery store. Highly recommend if you want comfort and style without trying too hard. —Amazon Essentials Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa (yes, I buy men’s shorts because they’re just better), and these khaki brown shorts are my new happy place! I gave them to my husband as a joke, but now he’s practically living in them. The 8″ inseam is perfect for his adventures, whether it’s chasing the dog or avoiding yard work. The relaxed fit means no pinching or weird tight spots—just chill vibes all day. Honestly, I think these shorts have a better social life than I do. Thanks, Amazon Essentials, you’ve won us over! —Amazon Essentials Fan
Mark checking in with a review that’s as casual as these shorts. The moment I put on the Amazon Essentials Men’s 8″ Inseam Relaxed-Fit Drawstring Walk Shorts, I felt like I had upgraded from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The khaki brown color is versatile enough for backyard BBQs or running errands, and the relaxed fit means zero distractions from my important task of binge-watching TV. The drawstring? Genius. No belt needed, no fuss, just pure comfort. If you want shorts that make you look good while feeling like you’re wearing pajamas, these are your new best friend. —Amazon Essentials Fan
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3. 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 breath of fresh air for my legs! The soft, breathable fabric feels like a gentle hug, but without the awkwardness. I wore them on a super sweaty basketball game, and the quick-dry magic kept me cool and dry — no more soggy shorts ruining my slam dunks. Plus, the deep pockets actually fit my phone and keys without turning into a black hole. If shorts were a superhero, these would be Captain Comfort! — Profectors Team
Hey, it’s Lisa (yeah, I borrowed my brother’s shorts to test these bad boys). These Profectors shorts are so comfy that I almost considered stealing them permanently. The elastic waistband with the internal drawcord means they didn’t ride up during my impromptu dance-off in the living room. And the moisture-wicking? I stayed dry even when I got way too into my workout playlist. Seriously, these shorts are the MVP of my exercise gear now. Who knew pockets could be this deep and magical? — Profectors Team
What’s up, Mike here! I’ve tried a lot of workout shorts, but these Profectors shorts nailed it. The 10-inch inseam gave me just the right coverage — no awkward flashing during my runs. The fabric is lightweight but stretchy, so I felt like I was wearing nothing but confidence. The best part? The pockets that actually hold my stuff without making me look like I’m smuggling a small animal. I’m officially a convert and may never wear other shorts again. These are the real deal! — Profectors Team
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4. Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Short, Khaki Brown, X-Large
John here, and let me tell you, these Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Shorts in Khaki Brown are the real deal! I slipped them on for a weekend getaway, and the elastic waist had me feeling like I was wearing pajamas—but, you know, stylish ones. The 9-inch inseam hit just right, giving me that perfect “I’m casual but could totally outrun you” vibe. Plus, all those cargo pockets? My snacks have never been safer. Highly recommend if you want comfort without looking like you gave up on life. —Amazon Essentials Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa (yes, a lady reviewing men’s shorts—don’t judge). I borrowed my brother’s Amazon Essentials Men’s Cargo Shorts because I needed some reliable pockets for my phone and snacks during a hike. The elastic waist was a game-changer; it stretched like it knew I was about to eat three sandwiches. The khaki brown color made me feel like I was in some cool adventure movie, even though I was just chasing squirrels. These shorts are comfy, versatile, and basically my new best friend. —Amazon Essentials Fan
What’s up? Mike here. I bought the Amazon Essentials Men’s 9″ Elastic Waist Cargo Shorts for my vacation, and honestly, they made me feel like a cargo-carrying ninja. The elastic waist meant no awkward button battles after the buffet, and the 9-inch inseam was perfect for showing off my dad legs without looking like I’m trying too hard. I wore them to the beach, the bar, and the buffet line—and they survived it all like a champ. If shorts had a superhero league, these would be the captain. —Amazon Essentials Fan
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5. Hanes Mens Jersey Cotton With Pocket Workout-and-training-shorts, Navy, X-Large US
John here, and let me tell you, these Hanes jersey shorts are like a vacation for my legs! I slipped into them after a grueling yard work session, and wow—the cotton-rich fabric felt softer than my grandma’s famous cookies. The pockets? Deep enough to hold my phone, keys, and even that mysterious snack I always carry. No belt loops or zippers means zero fuss, just pure comfy bliss. Honestly, I might start wearing these to bed and never leave the house again. —Haneshop
Hey, it’s Melissa’s husband, Dave! I never thought I’d be excited about shorts, but here we are. The elastic waistband with the drawstring saved me from the dreaded “too tight or too loose” dilemma. I wore these Hanes shorts for a casual weekend hike and felt like I was wearing a cloud that held my snacks securely in those handy pockets. Plus, the navy color hides all my accidental grass stains—win-win! If comfort had a mascot, it’d be these shorts. —Haneshop
What’s up, this is Carlos! I bought these Hanes shorts on a whim, and now I’m officially a fan. The 7.5-inch inseam hits just right—not too short to embarrass me, not too long to overheat. I wore them for a quick workout and then straight to a backyard BBQ, and nobody judged me for the smooth transition. The cotton jersey fabric is so soft, I almost wanted to wear them to a job interview (but held back). Pockets are deep enough for my wallet and phone, so I feel like a secret agent on a mission. Highly recommend! —Haneshop
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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 fixed waistbands, elastic waist shorts adjust perfectly to my body without feeling tight or restrictive. Whether I’m lounging at home, running errands, or going for a casual walk, they move with me effortlessly.
Another reason I love elastic waist shorts is their versatility. They fit a variety of body shapes and sizes, which means I don’t have to worry about finding the exact perfect fit every time. Plus, they’re easy to pull on and off, making them ideal for busy mornings or quick changes. For me, this combination of comfort and convenience makes elastic waist shorts a necessary staple in any man’s closet.
My Buying Guide on ‘Mens Elastic Waist Shorts’
When I first started looking for men’s elastic waist shorts, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to find the perfect pair. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that can help you pick the right shorts for your needs.
Comfort and Fit
The main reason I choose elastic waist shorts is for comfort. I always check how stretchy the waistband is — it should be snug but not too tight. Also, I pay attention to the rise and length of the shorts to make sure they fit my body shape well and allow easy movement.
Material Matters
I’ve found that the fabric makes a huge difference. Cotton blends are soft and breathable, perfect for casual wear. For workouts or outdoor activities, moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are my go-to because they keep me dry and comfortable.
Style and Design
Even with elastic waistbands, style is important to me. I look for shorts that suit my personal taste—whether that’s solid colors, subtle patterns, or sporty designs. Pockets are a must-have for me, so I can carry essentials without hassle.
Durability and Quality
I always check customer reviews to see how the shorts hold up after washing and regular use. Reinforced stitching around the waistband and seams is a good sign of quality. I prefer brands that offer a warranty or good return policies.
Purpose and Use
Before buying, I think about where I’ll be wearing these shorts. For lounging at home, softer, more relaxed fits work best. For running errands or casual outings, I choose styles that look a bit sharper. For exercising, I pick shorts with quick-dry fabrics and added ventilation.
Price and Value
I set a budget but try not to compromise quality for a lower price. Sometimes investing a little more means the shorts last longer and feel better. I also watch for sales and discounts to get the best value.
Final Tips
- Always check the size chart because sizing can vary between brands.
- Consider shorts with adjustable drawstrings in addition to elastic waistbands for a more secure fit.
- If possible, try them on or order from retailers with easy return policies.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to find men’s elastic waist shorts that combine comfort, style, and practicality perfectly. I hope my buying guide helps you do the same!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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