If you want to stand out on the track or trail or in the gym, the stylish Tracksmith Session 5-inch shorts have got you covered.

What’s true of Tracksmith’s shorter and racier Twilight 3-inch best running shorts is just as true of these excellent 5-inch Session shorts. The US athletic-wear company produces not only some of the best-looking retro-styled speedsters, but also some of the best gym shorts too. 

Men’s Fitness verdict

The Session shorts are certainly stylish but with all the Tracksmith kit we’ve tried, it’s by no means style over substance. They’re comfy and breathable, with UV and antimicrobial protection too.
Pros
  • Excellent comfort
  • Smart retro styling
  • UV and antimicrobial protection
Cons
  • Fairly expensive
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How we test the best gym shorts

Our reviewers tested each pair of gym shorts over a wide range of gym sessions and drills – from cardio and HIIT to strength and floor work – for a period of at least four weeks, to bring you the best of the best.

Tracksmith Session Shorts design

As the name suggests, these shorts are made to be versatile, to keep you moving with freedom and comfort whatever your training schedule throws up. And they definitely tick that box. They are equally at home smashing out track 800s as they are on longer off-road outings. 

The cut is light and loose with small side splits. The silky-soft, lightweight Veloce stretch knit fabric feels extremely comfortable against the skin. It’s airy, floaty and flexible with UV protection, as well as excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties.  

Tracksmith Session Shorts features

The liners are softer and more comfortable than the Twilight’s mesh feel, too. But they pack the same Polygiene antimicrobial powers to ward off whiffs. They also come with good storage, too. That includes a small internal drop-in pocket that’ll hold the odd gel and a bigger rear zippered pocket that’ll swallow a larger smartphone. 

The Tracksmith Session shorts come in six sizes from XS to XXL with seven eye-catching colours to choose from, including navy, emerald, charcoal, wine and black. These are the kind of shorts you can definitely get away with at the post-run social, too. And if you want the same style with a little extra inseam, there’s also a 7-inch option.

Specifications

Materials:86% polyester, 14% elastane
Features:Zip pocket and drop-in pocket, antimicrobial liner,
available in 5-inch and 7-inch versions
Sizes:XS – XXL
Colours:6 colours available

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