We Compared the Most Advanced Gym Shorts on the Market. This ASRV Pair Is in a League of Its Own
When you're pushing through a sweaty workout, the wrong pair of shorts will quickly remind you exactly why they're a problem. For instance, the heavy pair of basketball shorts that got pushed to the back of your drawer probably load up with sweat and cling to your legs. It's distracting at best, but at worst, it leads to uncomfortable chafing and feeling weighed down during a workout. That's where lighter, performance-driven shorts come in, noticeably improving how your workout feels. Less weight, better airflow, and a comfortable fit allows you to move freely, from the warmup to final set.
Take the ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Shorts, for example. During our 2026 Fitness Awards testing, they stood out enough to earn our pick as the best lightweight workout short. The fused construction blends the outer shell and inner liner into a seamless fit that minimizes chafing through dynamic movement. The liner delivers next-to-skin comfort with a touch of compression, while strategically placed ventilation panels help keep airflow consistent as you start to heat up during a workout.
Related: We Sweat-Tested the Best Workout Shorts. These Go the Distance Round After Round
Why ASRV Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short Is the Best Lightweight Workout Short of 2026
Lightweight workout shorts can make all the difference when you're flying around a HIIT circuit or interspersing your strength training sessions with calisthenics, sprints, or other explosive movements. With a unique fused construction, ASRV's Aerotex Hybrid Liner Short cuts weight unlike anything else we've tested to elevate your training and style.
Instead of the traditional shell and liner configuration, these shorts blend elements of both layers into a single piece, giving you the functionality of a compression liner combined with the appearance of shorts. Furthermore, this innovative design swaps standard pockets for bounce-free drop pouches that are integrated directly into the liner for easier access. The perforated waistband is a nice touch, too, helping to shuttle sweat away from your body, and reflective detailing throughout optimizes visibility at night.
Key Product Features
- Materials: Nylon, elastane, polyester, spandex
- Inseam: 5 inches
- Waist: Elastic, drawstring
- Liner: Integrated compression liner
Why You Should Trust Us
Men's Journal has spent over three decades as a leading authority on fitness and outdoor gear. We don't just summarize product specs. Our recommendations come from legitimate hands-on testing and the direct guidance of industry experts. We constantly refine our buyer's guides, ensuring every pick remains the absolute best available.
Related: We Sweat-Tested Workout Shirts Through Heavy Lifts and Long Runs. These Are Worth Wearing
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the Health & Fitness section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 11:39 AM.