Lined vs. Unlined Gym Shorts: Which Wins Your Workouts?

When it comes to the small things that can make a big difference in a workout, gym shorts rank up there with shoes and a good water bottle. A pair that keeps you from chafing, wicking sweat away, and staying out of the way can actually improve your performance.

Two basic designs dominate the market: shorts with a built‑in liner (think compression underwear stitched inside) and the more straightforward, unlined version that leaves you to wear whatever underwear you prefer. The choice isn’t just about fashion—it’s about how you move, how much you sweat, and even what you do after the gym.

The built‑in liner usually comes in the form of a thin pair of compression shorts, sometimes mesh, sometimes a brief‑style cut. They’re sewn into the bottom of the garment, extending to the mid‑thigh or lower. The idea is to give you extra support, reduce friction, and help wick moisture away from the skin. If you’re a runner who spends a half‑hour on an air bike, or you love box jumps that send a lot of bounce up and down your legs, the extra compression can feel like a built‑in safety net.

Unlined shorts, on the other hand, are just the outer shell. They give you freedom to pair them with your favorite underwear—whether that’s a soft cotton brief, a high‑performance compression brief, or nothing at all if you’re feeling daring. This flexibility can be a boon for people who find compression fabrics itchy or too restrictive, or for those who switch between activities that demand different levels of support.

When should you lean toward a lined short? If you tend to sweat a lot, you’ll appreciate the extra moisture‑wicking layer. High‑friction moves—think sprint intervals, hill repeats, or any sport with a lot of lateral shuffling—can also benefit from the liner’s ability to keep the fabric from rubbing raw. And if you already own a set of compression shorts, a lined gym short can shave off a layer, streamlining your gear.

When is an unlined short the smarter pick? For weight‑training sessions where you’re mostly stationary, the extra compression isn’t essential. Many lifters prefer a looser feel around the hips and thighs to avoid any “pinching” sensation when they’re squatting deep. Plus, if you’re heading to the grocery store right after a quick run, an unlined pair lets you swap in regular underwear and feel less “gym‑clothes‑only”.

Below are a few of our favorite models, split by whether they come with a liner or not.

Best All‑Scenario Lined Short – Vuori Kore Breathe
Price: $88 (Bloomingdale’s)
Pros: ultra‑soft recycled polyester blend, built‑in boxer‑brief liner, sleek enough for casual wear.
Cons: a bit pricey for a gym short; the liner can feel snug if you like roomy underwear.
Why we like it: the fabric is breathable yet supportive, and the multiple inseam lengths (5‑, 7‑, 9‑inch) make it easy to find a fit that works for both the squat rack and the coffee shop.

Best Lined Short for Running – HOKA Glide
Price: $70 (HOKA)
Pros: compression‑style liner, several zip and mesh pockets, stretchy shell, longer 7‑inch inseam for extra coverage.
Cons: the two‑layer construction can feel warm on hot days; the design leans toward a technical look.
Why we like it: runners love the secure feeling of the liner, and the discreet storage options let you stash a gel pack or keys without a bulge.

Best Unlined Short – Lululemon Pace Breaker
Price: $68 (Lululemon)
Pros: lightweight, quick‑dry fabric, generous cut for full range of motion, simple pocket layout.
Cons: no built‑in support, so you’ll need separate compression shorts if you want them.
Why we like it: the fabric drapes nicely, making it comfortable for yoga, mobility work, or a relaxed jog. Pair it with your favorite briefs and you’ve got a versatile everyday gym short.

Best Budget Unlined Option – Nike Dri‑Fit Training Shorts
Price: $45 (Nike)
Pros: affordable, sweat‑wicking Dri‑Fit material, roomy side pockets.
Cons: minimal styling flair; the fit can be a touch boxy on some bodies.
Why we like it: for newcomers to the gym, these shorts deliver the basics without breaking the bank. Slip in a set of inexpensive compression shorts if you need the extra hold.

Bottom line? There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. If you gravitate toward high‑intensity cardio or you already own compression underwear, a lined short can simplify your prep. If you lift, do low‑impact cardio, or just like the freedom to pick your own underlayer, go unlined. Test a couple of styles, feel how they move with your body, and you’ll quickly discover which design keeps you focused on the workout—not the waistband.

Whatever you choose, invest in quality material and a fit that lets you move without irritation. Your legs will thank you, and you’ll spend less time adjusting and more time crushing your goals.