NORTHYARD Men’s Running Athletic Shorts (5",/7",/9",) – Quick-Dry Gym & Workout Shorts
Product description
If you want shorts that feel light during a run or gym session, NORTHYARD’s men’s running athletic shorts are built around quick-dry comfort and storage you can actually use. They’re linerless and made with lightweight, breathable fabric meant to manage moisture so you stay comfortable while you move.
That “move-first” approach matters because these aren’t the kind of shorts you just wear around the house. They’re designed for workouts, tennis-style movement, basketball, walking, and even day-to-day casual wear. Still, like most performance shorts in this category, they can fall short if you’re expecting heavy-duty weather protection or a lot of structure.
Key takeaways
These shorts focus on three practical wins: breathable quick-dry fabric, flexible movement, and secure pocket storage.
The reflective trim on the side zip pockets is a nice touch if you sometimes train in lower light. And the elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring gives you a better chance of getting a fit that doesn’t constantly shift.
The main limitation is that they’re single-layer, splash-resistant only for light precipitation, and they’re linerless—so comfort and coverage preferences will vary.
What they’re good for (and why)
On paper, these are the type of men’s workout shorts you buy when you want less cling and more airflow. The fabric is described as moisture-managing and quick-drying, and the design includes a micro air mesh panel plus side splits at the hem to keep air flowing.
In real use, that translates to a more breathable feel during cardio—think a jog where you’re getting warm, then transitioning into gym work. The side splits can also make longer strides or lateral motion feel less restricted.
Also, if you carry small essentials, the pockets are part of the pitch: there are 2 side pockets and 1 back pocket, all with zippers. That’s meant to help keep items more secure while you move.
Where you’ll notice the design
The waistband is built with an elastic band and a built-in adjustable drawstring. If you’ve ever had athletic shorts ride up or sit awkwardly after a few minutes of activity, this is the kind of adjustability that can help.
Storage is addressed in a straightforward way. You get zip pockets on the sides (including reflective elements edging the pockets for improved visibility in dim light) plus a zip back pocket. This setup is intended for safer carrying of items like a phone, keys, and cards.
One more detail worth noting: the shorts come in different inseam lengths (5",, 7",, 9",). That can change the feel a lot—shorter inseams tend to feel more athletic and less warm, while longer inseams can offer extra coverage if you prefer it.
Tech specs
- Type: Men’s running/workout athletic shorts (linerless)
- Inseam options: 5", / 7", / 9",
- Fabric: Lightweight, breathable, quick-dry, splash-resistant for light precipitation
- Pockets: 2 side zip pockets + 1 back zip pocket
- Waist: Elastic waistband with built-in adjustable drawstring
- Airflow features: Micro air mesh and side splits at hem
- Sun protection: UPF 50+
- Reflective elements: Reflective edging on the side zip pockets for improved visibility in dim light
- Fit: Slightly loose fit (per sizing recommendations)
Who it suits best—and who should skip it
It’s a solid pick if you want linerless, quick-dry gym shorts with pockets that zip and a fit you can fine-tune with a drawstring. It makes sense if you do a mix of activities—gym workouts, walking, basketball, or casual wear—and you don’t want to change shorts between settings.
It might not be the best match if you strongly rely on built-in liners for chafe reduction, because these are single-layer and linerless. You may also want to look elsewhere if you need serious rain protection—this is splash-resistant for light precipitation only. And if you prefer a very structured, thick fabric feel, the “super lightweight” approach could feel too minimal.
A practical way to decide: if your top priority is staying comfortable when you’re warm and moving, these are designed for that. If your priority is heavy weather resilience or extra coverage/structure, you’ll likely feel the compromises.
Maintenance & care
The product details provided focus on performance features rather than cleaning instructions. To keep the quick-dry fabric and UPF treatment working as intended, it’s worth following the care guidance on the label when it arrives.
Is it worth it?
Buy NORTHYARD’s men’s running athletic shorts if you want lightweight, breathable, quick-dry shorts that handle sweat, stay comfortable with side-split movement, and give you zip storage for a phone, keys, or cards. The UPF 50+ treatment and reflective pocket edging add extra value for outdoor walking or low-light training.
Skip them if you need a lined short, expect strong rain protection, or prefer a thicker, more structured gym short feel. Also, because the fit is described as slightly loose, pay attention to the sizing recommendations so you don’t end up with extra fabric moving around during workouts.
Mini FAQ
Do these shorts have a liner?
No—these are described as linerless, single-layer workout shorts.
Are the pockets secure during movement?
They include 2 side zip pockets and 1 back zip pocket, which is meant to help protect small items while you’re active.
Are they meant for outdoor use?
Yes. They’re described as suitable for activities like walking and casual daily wear, with UPF 50+ sun protection and splash resistance for light precipitation.
What’s the difference between the 5",, 7",, and 9", lengths?
Only the inseam options are provided. In general, shorter lengths typically feel more open and athletic, while longer lengths offer more coverage—choose based on how much coverage you prefer.
Can you adjust the waistband?
Yes. The waistband has an elastic band plus a built-in adjustable drawstring for a more personalized fit.