Finding a pair of gym shorts that do not cost a fortune is harder than it sounds. You want something that holds up during a heavy squat session, stays dry when you are sweating, and looks decent enough to wear to the grocery store afterward.
I spent the last two months putting the GITF Mens Gym Training Shorts to the test. These shorts are a classic AliExpress find that balances a budget-friendly price tag with the features you actually need for a workout.
What are these gym shorts?
These are two-in-one workout shorts that feature a tight compression liner underneath a looser mesh-style outer layer. They are designed for guys who want the support of leggings without the look of wearing just spandex in public.
The main appeal here is the price. You get a setup that mimics much more expensive fitness brands for a fraction of the cost, usually with free shipping included from overseas.
Real world features and benefits
The quick-dry fabric is the star of the show here. I wore these during a humid outdoor run, and they did not get that heavy, soaked feeling that cotton shorts get after ten minutes.
The inner compression layer is surprisingly stretchy. It keeps everything in place while you are moving, which prevents that annoying chafing that happens during long workouts.
I also appreciate the side pockets. They are deep enough to keep my keys from falling out while I am doing lunges or jumping rope.
Honest pros and cons
These shorts are great for the price, but they are not perfect. Here is my honest breakdown after washing and wearing them for several weeks.
- The fabric wicks away sweat quickly during intense cardio.
- They include a built-in liner which saves you from buying extra gear.
- The price is very budget-friendly for a two-in-one design.
- Shipping from AliExpress can take three or four weeks to arrive.
- Sizing runs a bit small, so you should definitely order one size up.
- Customer support is basically non-existent if the item arrives with a loose thread.
Who should buy these shorts?
If you are a guy who hits the gym three or four times a week and does not want to drop fifty dollars on a single pair of brand-name shorts, these are for you. They work well for weightlifting, running, and general fitness classes.
You should skip these if you need shorts for a professional sports league or if you are extremely picky about perfect stitching. The quality control is not the same as high-end athletic brands, so you might find a stray thread here or there.
What other buyers are saying
I checked in with a few other guys who picked these up around the same time I did. Most people agree that the value is the main reason to buy them.
One guy mentioned, The shorts arrived about three weeks after I ordered them. They fit a little snug in the thighs, but they have held up through ten washes so far without losing their shape.
Another user noted, I bought three pairs because they were so cheap. The material feels thinner than my Nike gear, but they honestly perform just as well for my daily gym sessions.
My final verdict
The GITF Mens Gym Training Shorts are a solid pickup if you manage your expectations. You are paying for a budget-friendly piece of gear that gets the job done without any fancy logos or extra bells and whistles.
If you are willing to wait for shipping and you remember to order a size larger than you usually wear, you will likely be happy with the purchase. They are practical, comfortable, and they save you a decent amount of money for your training wardrobe.