NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Shorts in Polyester Blend

Some workout shorts prioritize a built-in liner or a simple, open pocket design. These take a different route: they’re unlined, with three zippered pockets and details aimed at running and other active use. That setup makes sense if you want to carry small essentials securely and choose your preferred inseam length.

The fabric combines polyester and elastane, with four-way stretch and moisture-wicking construction. Just keep in mind that unlined shorts don’t provide the coverage or support of a lined pair.

Key specifications

NORTHYARD’s men’s athletic shorts are made from 90% polyester and 10% elastane. The lightweight fabric is described as quick-drying, breathable, moisture-wicking, water-resistant, and rated UPF 50+. Four-way stretch is intended to allow movement, while side vents add airflow. Flatlock seams are included to help reduce chafing, and the elastic waistband has a drawstring for an adjustable fit.

Storage is a notable part of the design: there are two deep side pockets and one back pocket, all with zippers. For a run, that means keys and cards can stay secured rather than shifting in an open pocket, the pocket interiors use breathable mesh. Reflective strips on the front and back are intended to improve visibility in low-light conditions, though they are not a substitute for dedicated visibility gear.

The shorts are unlined and listed in 5-inch, 7-inch, and 9-inch inseam options. Sizes run from XS to 4XL, and the product listing describes more than 29 color choices. Check the selected option when ordering, since the preferred length, size, or color may not apply to every variant.

Who it’s for

These are aimed at men who want one pair for workouts and everyday active wear, including running, gym sessions, basketball, tennis, hiking, walking, or travel. The zip pockets suit a phone, keys, or cards, while the drawstring offers another way to secure the waist during movement. Picture heading out for an early jog with your keys zipped away and reflective details on the shorts, that’s the kind of practical use this design targets.

A solid pick if you prefer lightweight, stretch fabric and useful storage over a built-in liner. Not the best choice if you rely on lined shorts for support or want a specified pocket capacity, since no capacity is provided.

Everyday use

The combination of an elastic waist, drawstring, vents, and quick-drying fabric is geared toward changing activity without changing shorts. The range of inseams also lets you choose a shorter or longer cut rather than settling for one fixed length. For casual wear or less intense workouts, that versatility may be more useful than choosing a highly specialized pair built for one sport.

There are tradeoffs. The shorts are explicitly unlined, so anyone who prefers integrated coverage will need to wear a separate base layer or choose a lined style. And while the pockets zip shut, the listing does not give their dimensions, so it’s hard to judge how a larger phone will fit based on the available details alone.

Before you decide

Are these shorts lined? No. The product is described as unlined, so there is no built-in liner.

How many pockets do they have? Three zippered pockets: two deep side pockets and one back pocket. The listing does not specify their exact dimensions.

What inseam lengths are available? The listed choices are 5 inches, 7 inches, and 9 inches. Confirm the selected length and size for the option you want.

Buying verdict

NORTHYARD’s shorts are worth considering if your priorities are secure zip pockets, a drawstring waist, stretch fabric, and a choice of inseam lengths in an unlined design. They cover a broad mix of workouts and casual activities without leaning on one sport-specific feature. If built-in support, known pocket dimensions, or a lined construction matters more to you, a different style will be a more informed choice.