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Some players care most about performance. Others want shorts that work just as well off the court.
If you’re looking for a new pair, here are five basketball shorts worth knowing.
Best for: All-around basketball performance
Standout feature: Comfort and moisture control
Nike’s Dri-FIT DNA shorts are a strong all-around option for players who want something simple, lightweight, and easy to move in.
The moisture-wicking material helps keep sweat under control during longer sessions, while the elastic waistband and drawcord give you a secure fit.
They also include zippered pockets, which can be useful when you’re heading to and from the court and need somewhere to keep smaller items.
These are the type of shorts that work for almost everything.
You can wear them for pickup, shooting workouts, training sessions, or just casually throughout the day.
If you want one reliable pair of basketball shorts without overthinking it, Nike’s DNA line is a good place to start.
Best for: Players who like a longer fit
Standout feature: Breathability and durability
Under Armour’s Perimeter shorts offer a more traditional basketball look with an 11-inch length.
The textured knit material is designed to stay breathable, while mesh panels help improve airflow when you’re playing for longer periods.
They also have an interior drawcord that helps keep the waistband secure while running, defending, or changing direction.
Some players simply prefer longer basketball shorts.
If you don’t like the shorter styles that have become more popular in recent years, the Perimeter shorts give you more coverage without feeling overly heavy.
They’re especially useful for players who care about durability and want shorts that can handle regular pickup sessions.
Best for: Lightweight everyday basketball
Standout feature: Freedom of movement
The Adidas Creator 3-Stripes shorts keep things pretty simple.
They’re lightweight, easy to move in, and made with moisture-managing material that helps you stay more comfortable while playing.
The classic Adidas three-stripe design also gives them a recognizable basketball look without being overly flashy.
These are a good middle-ground option.
They work for basketball, workouts, and casual wear, making them useful if you don’t want to buy shorts that are only practical on the court.
If you like a traditional Adidas look and want something versatile, they’re worth considering.
Best for: Affordable basketball shorts
Standout feature: Airflow and value
You don’t need expensive basketball gear to get a good pair of shorts.
Champion’s mesh practice shorts use an open-hole mesh material that provides plenty of airflow while keeping the classic loose basketball-short feel.
The 9-inch length also puts them between the longer traditional styles and some of the shorter modern basketball shorts.
Value.
If you play often and want several pairs of shorts in your rotation, spending a lot on every pair can add up quickly.
Champion mesh shorts are simple, breathable, and easy to wear, which is sometimes exactly what you need for pickup basketball.
Best for: Basketball style and performance
Standout feature: On-court look
Jordan’s Diamond shorts are probably the most style-focused option on this list.
The design takes inspiration from classic basketball uniforms while combining that look with lightweight mesh and Nike’s Dri-FIT technology.
They’re made for basketball, but they also stand out enough to work as part of an everyday outfit.
If you care about how your basketball gear looks as much as how it performs, Jordan is difficult to ignore.
The Diamond design feels more like an actual basketball uniform than a basic pair of gym shorts.
They’re a strong option for players who want performance without giving up style.
There isn’t one pair that works best for every player.
If you want the strongest all-around option, start with the Nike Dri-FIT DNA shorts.
If you prefer a longer traditional fit, try the Under Armour Perimeter shorts.
For something lightweight and versatile, look at the Adidas Creator 3-Stripes shorts.
If price and breathability matter most, Champion Mesh shorts are hard to overlook.
And if style is part of the equation, the Jordan Sport Diamond shorts stand out.