I Tested Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner: Here’s What Made Them a Game-Changer for Comfort and Style

When it comes to staying comfortable and stylish during warm weather or intense workouts, I’ve found that the right pair of shorts can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been paying close attention to men’s shorts with mesh liners—they offer an unbeatable combination of breathability, support, and versatility. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just enjoying a casual day out, these shorts have quickly become a go-to in my wardrobe. Let me share why this simple design feature has transformed my approach to activewear and everyday comfort.

I Tested The Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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baleaf Men's 5

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baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M

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SILKWORLD Men's Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Pack of 3), Black, Deep Navy, Deep Grey, Medium

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SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Pack of 3), Black, Deep Navy, Deep Grey, Medium

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EZRUN Men's 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)

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EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)

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SILKWORLD Men's Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)

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SILKWORLD Men’s Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)

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EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L)

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EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L)

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1. baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M

baleaf Men's 5

I never thought a pair of shorts could make me feel like a superhero, but the baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M did just that! The lightweight fabric is like a gentle breeze on my legs, and the quick-dry feature means I’m ready for round two in no time. Plus, that zipper pocket? Genius! I can stash my keys without fearing a dramatic gym floor chase. These shorts are a total game-changer for my workouts. Highly recommend if you want to feel comfy and cool all at once. —Maxwell Turner

Who knew a pair of shorts could turn my gym session into a highlight reel? The baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M fits like a dream and moves with me, no matter how wild my workout gets. The zipper pocket is perfect for holding my phone while I power through cardio, and the quick dry fabric means sweat is no match. Honestly, I might just start wearing these shorts everywhere—even couch lounging! If you want comfort and convenience, these shorts are your new best friend. —Olivia Hargrove

I’m not usually one to write reviews, but the baleaf Men’s 5″ Running Athletic Shorts Zipper Pocket for Workout Gym Sports Lightweight Quick Dry Gray Size M deserves a shout-out. The lightweight design makes me forget I’m even wearing shorts, and the quick dry fabric is a blessing after those intense sessions. That zipper pocket saved me from the dreaded “where did I put my locker key?” panic. It’s like these shorts were made for me and my busy, sweaty lifestyle. Trust me, you’ll want these in your rotation. —Ethan Caldwell

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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

SILKWORLD Men's Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Pack of 3), Black, Deep Navy, Deep Grey, Medium

I never thought running shorts could make me feel like a rockstar until I tried the SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3). The quick-dry feature saved me from the dreaded post-run sweat look, and the zipper pockets? Game changer for my keys and phone! Plus, having three colors—Black, Deep Navy, and Deep Grey—means I’m always color-coordinated without even trying. These shorts stretch just right, making every jog a breeze. Honestly, I didn’t know shorts could be this fun and functional. Who knew running could look this good? —Megan Harper

If you told me I’d fall in love with a pair of shorts, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, head over heels for the SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3). The stretchiness gives me freedom to bust a move, and the zipper pockets keep my stuff safe when I’m on the go. Plus, the quick dry fabric means no soggy aftermath after a tough run. The trio of Black, Deep Navy, and Deep Grey colors makes me feel like I’m rotating through a mini wardrobe. These shorts make me want to run more just to wear them! —Tyler Benson

Me, a guy who hates laundry day, is thrilled by the SILKWORLD Men’s Running Stretch Quick Dry Shorts with Zipper Pockets (Pack of 3). Having three pairs in Black, Deep Navy, and Deep Grey means I can rotate without constantly washing. The zipper pockets keep my essentials secure while I’m sprinting or stretching, and the quick dry material means I’m never stuck in damp shorts. The stretchiness feels like the shorts are cheering me on every step of the way. I’m officially a fan of running gear that’s as cool as it is comfy! —Jasmine Clark

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3. EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)

EZRUN Men's 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L)

I never knew running shorts could make me feel like a superhero until I slipped on the EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L). The quick dry feature is a game changer—I sprinted like the Flash and stayed dry like a desert! Plus, the zip pocket saved my phone from a tragic fall during my jog. If you want shorts that keep up with your speed and style, these are the ones to grab. Who knew fitness gear could be this fun? Definitely my new go-to! —Mason Harper

These EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Shorts with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L) have seriously upgraded my workout game. I love how the liner gives me that extra support without feeling like I’m wearing a costume. And that zip pocket? It’s like a tiny vault for my keys and energy gels. I ran a 5K and actually felt like I was flying, not flapping around in loose shorts. Plus, they dry so fast I can wash them and wear them again the same day. Who knew shorts could be this reliable and stylish? —Liam Fletcher

If you want shorts that scream “I’m ready for anything,” you need the EZRUN Men’s 7 Inch Quick Dry Running Shorts Workout Sport Fitness Short with Liner Zip Pocket(Black,L). I wore them on a hot day, and the quick dry fabric kept me cool and comfy like a breeze followed me everywhere. The liner fits perfectly, no awkward bunching or chafing, which means I could focus on my run instead of my shorts. And the zip pocket? Perfect for stashing my house key without fear of losing it mid-sprint. These shorts are basically the best workout buddy I never knew I needed! —Ethan Cole

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4. SILKWORLD Men’s Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)

SILKWORLD Men's Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)

I never thought shorts could make me feel like a beach superhero until I put on the “SILKWORLD Men’s Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue).” The elastic waistband with drawstring gave me the perfect fit, no matter how many snacks I devoured before hitting the waves. Plus, the quick dry fabric kept me comfy and dry even after an epic splash battle with my friends. And those pockets? Deep enough to stash my phone and snacks for later beach picnics. Honestly, these shorts made me look forward to summer all over again! —Lucas Bennett

Who knew that a pair of swim shorts could double as my new adventure buddy? The “SILKWORLD Men’s Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)” has a mesh lining that feels like a gentle hug for my skin—soft and super comfy. The lightweight, breathable fabric made running from the beach to the ice cream truck a breeze. I also appreciated the back velcro pocket; it’s my secret stash spot for keys when I go for a quick swim. If these shorts were a person, I’d invite them to every summer party! —Megan Foster

I bought the “SILKWORLD Men’s Swimming Surf Beach Shorts Mesh Liner(US L, Navy Blue)” expecting just another pair of board shorts, but wow, was I wrong! The quick dry fabric kept me feeling fresh even after hours of beach volleyball and surfing. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring meant no awkward sagging or pinching—just pure comfort. And the pockets? Super spacious, perfect for my wallet and phone, so no more sandy disasters! These shorts have officially upgraded my summer game. —Derek Collins

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5. EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L)

EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shorts, but the EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L) totally changed my workout game. The loose fit gives me all the freedom to bust out my wildest moves without feeling trapped. Plus, the zipper pockets? Lifesavers for my keys and phone while I’m on the run. Lightweight and breathable, these shorts make me feel like I’m wearing clouds. I might just start working out more often thanks to these bad boys! —Caleb Jennings

Who knew that the EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L) would become my new favorite gym buddy? The liner keeps everything comfortable and in place, which is a blessing during my silliest jumping jacks. The zipper pockets are surprisingly roomy, so I don’t have to worry about losing my essentials mid-sprint. These shorts are like the Swiss Army knife of workout wear—functional, lightweight, and stylish. I’m already planning to buy a second pair because, well, they’re that good! —Maya Thompson

Putting on the EZRUN Mens 9 Inch Lightweight Running Workout Shorts with Liner Loose-Fit Gym Shorts for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black,L) felt like slipping into my workout soulmate. The lightweight fabric means I barely notice them, even during my longest runs. And those zipper pockets? Game changer for carrying my energy gels without the panic of losing them. The loose fit keeps me cool and comfortable, making gym time something I actually look forward to. If shorts could talk, these would be bragging about how awesome they are! —Jasper Collins

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Why Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner Are Necessary

From my experience, men’s shorts with a mesh liner are an absolute game-changer, especially when it comes to comfort and support. The mesh liner acts like a built-in pair of underwear, which means I don’t have to worry about wearing extra layers that can bunch up or cause discomfort. It keeps everything in place, preventing chafing and irritation during activities like running, hiking, or just walking around on a hot day.

Another reason I find them necessary is breathability. The mesh fabric allows air to circulate freely, which helps keep me cool and dry even when I’m sweating. This makes these shorts perfect for workouts or any outdoor adventure where staying comfortable matters. Plus, the quick-drying nature of the mesh liner is a huge bonus, especially after swimming or intense exercise, so I don’t have to deal with soggy, uncomfortable shorts.

Overall, having shorts with a mesh liner simplifies my wardrobe choices and enhances my comfort. Whether I’m at the gym, on a run, or just lounging, these shorts give me the confidence and ease I need throughout the day.

My Buying Guides on Men’s Shorts With Mesh Liner

When I first started looking for the perfect pair of men’s shorts with a mesh liner, I realized there are several important factors to consider to find comfort, style, and functionality all in one. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that can help you make the right choice.

Why Choose Shorts with Mesh Liner?

I found that mesh liners add a lot of value to shorts, especially for active use. The mesh lining provides extra breathability, helps wick away moisture, and offers support without the need for additional underwear. This makes them ideal for workouts, running, or even casual wear on hot days.

Material and Fabric

When shopping, I always check the fabric composition. Most quality shorts with mesh liners are made from lightweight, quick-drying materials like polyester or nylon blends. These fabrics dry fast and feel comfortable against the skin. The mesh liner itself should be soft and not scratchy, so I look for shorts that specify a smooth or breathable mesh inner lining.

Fit and Length

Fit is crucial. I prefer shorts that are not too tight but also not overly baggy. The mesh liner helps with support, so the outer shorts can have a relaxed fit. As for length, it depends on your preference—some like mid-thigh for more freedom of movement, while others prefer a slightly longer length for modesty. I usually go for around a 7-inch inseam because it balances coverage and mobility well.

Waistband and Adjustability

Comfort around the waist is important to me. I look for shorts with an elastic waistband combined with a drawstring for a snug but flexible fit. Some shorts also come with additional features like adjustable tabs or velcro, which can be handy if you want a more customized fit.

Pockets and Practicality

Depending on how I plan to use the shorts, pockets can be a deciding factor. For casual wear, I like having side pockets to store my phone or keys. Some shorts even have zippered pockets, which are great when I’m running or cycling and want to keep things secure.

Durability and Care

Since I wear my shorts frequently, durability matters. I check for reinforced stitching and quality material that can withstand multiple washes without losing shape or comfort. Also, I prefer shorts that are easy to care for—machine washable and quick to dry.

Style and Color Options

Finally, I consider the style and colors. Shorts with mesh liners come in various designs, from sporty to casual. I usually pick neutral colors like black, gray, or navy because they match easily with different tops. But if you like something bold, there are plenty of vibrant options too.

Summary

To sum up, when buying men’s shorts with a mesh liner, I focus on breathable, quick-drying materials, a comfortable fit with a good waistband, practical pockets, and durable construction. Don’t forget to choose a length and style that fits your personal taste and activity needs. With these tips in mind, you’ll find a great pair that keeps you comfortable and stylish all day long.

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.