The 15 Best Basketball Shorts to Ball in Style

best basketball shorts
The 15 Best Basketball Shorts to Ball in StyleHearst Owned


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You think you have baller status. You've got the shoes, the bag, and even the shorts. But let's be honest—your shorts are pretty old. The worn mesh is probably tearing at the seams, boasting some smelly gym odor that the countless laundry cycles haven't been able to combat. So if you really want to retain your status, it's time for a new pair of basketball shorts.

Don't just go to the store and pick out the first pair you can find. Put as much thought into shopping for them as you do into your jump shot. There are a few things to consider when selecting your shorts, namely fit, material, and style. First and foremost, you want a pair that are baggy enough to allow for full range of motion, but are snug enough where they won't trip you up. Then, you want to look for breathability, which makes mesh a more favorable material. And lastly, you can search for style, finding a pair of shorts that fit your fashion sense. If you prioritize these three key pieces of criteria, you're going to hit nothing but net.

Now excuse our baller puns, and start shopping for your new look. These are the 15 best basketball shorts to ensure you are the best dressed on the court. With one of these pairs, it's a slam dunk.

Dri-FIT DNA Basketball Shorts

Nike's basketball shorts combine fashion and quality to deliver a pair that is iconic on the market. Coming in ample colors and sizes, you can find a pair (or three) that suit your body and style. Made from 75 percent recycled polyester, we also love the sustainable aspect.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nike.com%2Ft%2Fdri-fit-dna-mens-basketball-shorts-FL74Td&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Dri-FIT DNA Basketball Shorts</p><p>$50.00</p><p>nike.com</p>

Mesh Shorts

You can't go wrong with Champion's OG classic mesh shorts. Comfortable, lightweight, and lined, they are a solid choice for anyone looking to build out their basketball wardrobe.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JC0YJQ?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10054.g.44375313%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Mesh Shorts</p><p>$17.84</p><p>amazon.com</p>

Shop Now

Mesh Shorts

$17.84

amazon.com

Pace Breaker Linerless Shorts

A pair of 7" shorts from Lululemon take you from the courts to the gym to everyday life. Pick from 22 different colors and 3 lengths in this performance-driven silhouette. The sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric is keeping you cool as you move.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fshop.lululemon.com%2Fp%2Fmen-shorts%2FPace-Breaker-Short-Linerless-7-Update%2F_%2Fprod11400112&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pace Breaker Linerless Shorts</p><p>$68.00</p><p>lululemon.com</p>

Mesh Sweat Shorts (5-Pack)

Want to get the most bang for your buck? You can't get any better than a 5-pack of mesh shorts from Real Essentials.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NDP7ZTX?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10054.g.44375313%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Mesh Sweat Shorts (5-Pack)</p><p>$34.99</p><p>amazon.com</p>

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Mesh Sweat Shorts (5-Pack)

$34.99

amazon.com

Zone Shorts

Get in the zone. Literally. Vuori's extremely soft shorts feature 4-way stretch, back and side pockets, a zip pocket, and moisture-wicking capabilities.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fvuoriclothing.com%2Fproducts%2Fzone-short-black&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Zone Shorts</p><p>$78.00</p><p>vuoriclothing.com</p>

Traction Arena Shorts

This performance short incorporates an interlock waffle fabric to deliver a lightweight silhouette with breathable detailing. And if you're feeling fancy, the infinity blue is a striking shade.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aloyoga.com%2Fproducts%2Fm6138r-9-traction-arena-short-infinity-blue&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Traction Arena Shorts</p><p>$98.00</p><p>aloyoga.com</p>

x Champion Mesh Shorts

Todd Snyder joins forces with Champion to perfect the mesh shorts in sporty fashion. Hitting mid-thigh, this shorter pair is inspired by varsity styles invoking a retro feel.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toddsnyder.com%2Fproducts%2Fmesh-shortclassic-burgundy%3Fgclid%3DCj0KCQjwtO-kBhDIARIsAL6LorfoOsYj9vxq3sab57dmiZ-8UAA9q-ilvlLcg4SH4GKnFkwyqIuQTPwaAmcwEALw_wcB&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>x Champion Mesh Shorts</p><p>$128.00</p><p>toddsnyder.com</p>

UA Tech Graphic Shorts

As basic as it gets, this affordable pair from Under Armour is sweat-wicking and quick-drying. It's simple, sleek, and a surefire bet.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HW8YLM?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10054.g.44375313%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>UA Tech Graphic Shorts</p><p>$15.99</p><p>amazon.com</p>

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UA Tech Graphic Shorts

$15.99

amazon.com

Strype Mesh Shorts

From casual lounging to a pickup game, these sports transition seamlessly among activities. The signature bunny patch adds a playfully branded touch.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.psychobunny.com%2Fcollections%2Fshorts%2Fproducts%2Fmens-strype-mesh-short-b6r827x1po-001-black&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Strype Mesh Shorts</p><p>$75.00</p><p>psychobunny.com</p>

x Rhuigi Basketball Shorts

Celebrate New York City and the birth of hip-hop while you hoop. The cotton blend may not be as breathable as mesh, but you definitely get style points with this pair.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.farfetch.com%2Fshopping%2Fmen%2Fpuma-x-rhuigi-basketball-shorts-item-20282312.aspx&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>x Rhuigi Basketball Shorts</p><p>$95.00</p><p>farfetch.com</p>

Vintage Mesh Game Shorts

A pair of basketball-inspired shorts from John Elliot are keeping your on and off court game equally fresh. Vented cuffs and an elastic drawstring waist showcase traditional elements in this vintage pair.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.neimanmarcus.com%2Fp%2Fjohn-elliott-mens-vintage-mesh-game-shorts-prod264160045&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Vintage Mesh Game Shorts</p><p>$248.00</p><p>neimanmarcus.com</p>

Basketball Drawstring Shorts

The Canadian art and fashion label contrasts white and black in a pair of shorts that are super slick and cool. Hitting just above the knee, it's appropriately baggy with a cinched waist for form.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.farfetch.com%2Fshopping%2Fmen%2Fdomrebel-basketball-drawstring-shorts-item-18102053.aspx&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Basketball Drawstring Shorts</p><p>$123.00</p><p>farfetch.com</p>

x Uninterrupted Swingman Shorts

Get some standard shorts that rep your team. Obviously, this Celtics pair is pretty irresistible.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F6784869&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>x Uninterrupted Swingman Shorts</p><p>$124.99</p><p>nordstrom.com</p>

Space-Dyed Drawstring Shorts

Having been inspired by mesh basketball shorts, this knitted pair is more for fashion than function. Sure, you can wear them on the court, but they're prettier to look at.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrporter.com%2Fen-us%2Fmens%2Fproduct%2Famiri%2Fclothing%2Fcasual-shorts%2Fstraight-leg-space-dyed-bandana-jacquard-cotton-drawstring-shorts%2F1647597293118504&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Space-Dyed Drawstring Shorts</p><p>$594.00</p><p>mrporter.com</p>

Basketball Shorts

Need your shorts to be designer? Givenchy's got you covered with a baby blue pair set to turn heads.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.saksfifthavenue.com%2Fproduct%2FGivenchy-Basket-Ball-Shorts-In-Mesh-0400019431575.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.esquire.com%2Fstyle%2Fmens-fashion%2Fg44375313%2Fbest-basketball-shorts%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Basketball Shorts</p><p>$790.00</p><p>saksfifthavenue.com</p>

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