I Swapped My $80 Luxury Shorts for This $20 Target Pair. They Outperformed Most Premium Brands

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Finding a pair of workout shorts that can survive high-mileage runs, soul-crushing HIIT sessions, and heavy deadlift PRs is a rare feat. Most high-end brands demand a good chunk of your paycheck, while the bargain-bin alternatives threaten to fall apart the moment you break a sweat. Finding that holy grail pair that is breathable enough for the rack, sharp enough for a post-gym grocery run, and loaded with enough technical detail to keep them from looking plain Jane is a tall order.

That’s why, during our rigorous testing for the Men’s Journal 2026 Fitness Awards, we did the dirty work for you. We hunted down a pair of shorts that are easy on the wallet but thrive on whatever hell you put them through. That search led us right to the Target Men’s Stretch Woven Shorts 7”, which are the ultimate budget-friendly option for your weekly rotation.

Best Budget Workout Short: Target Men’s Stretch Woven Shorts 7”

If you’re just looking for a pair of workout shorts to throw on so you can rip deadlifts off your garage floor, there’s really no need to break the bank—especially not when Target has some low-key incredible value on offer, like these versatile Stretch Woven Shorts that will cost you less than a group fitness class. And with hundreds of five-star reviews vouching for their comfort, fit, breathability, and more, you might just want to pick up a couple extras.

These unlined shorts aren’t exactly bare-bones, either. The clean design makes them a viable option for running errands outside the gym, while zippered pockets on either side give you a place to store small daily carry. There’s a nice range of color options, too. In terms of performance, the fabric provides more stretch than you’d think, and the well-ventilated construction does well to support air flow.

Key Product Features

• Price: $20
• Materials: Nylon, spandex
• Inseam: 7 inches
• Waist: Elastic
• Liner: Unlined

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