NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Shorts 7-Inch Inseam

If you want running shorts that can carry small essentials, pocket security may matter more than a minimal, pocket-free feel. NORTHYARD’s athletic shorts pair zip closures with a lightweight, unlined design.

The 7-inch inseam is one of three listed lengths, alongside 5-inch and 9-inch versions. That gives you a choice between a shorter cut and more coverage without changing the basic pocket-focused setup.

If you prioritize secure storage and stretch, these details are appealing, if you prefer built-in lining, the unlined construction is a meaningful difference.

Where it shines

Three zippered pockets—two at the sides and one at the back—are the practical draw. They’re designed to hold items such as a phone, keys, and cards during movement, while breathable mesh pocket interiors and larger zipper pulls make access more convenient. For a jog, that means you can zip away your keys and card rather than carry them in your hand or rely on an open pocket. The description doesn’t give pocket dimensions, though, so a particularly large phone may be worth checking against the shorts in person.

The fabric is listed as 90% polyester and 10% elastane, with four-way stretch and moisture-wicking properties. An elastic waistband and built-in drawstring let you adjust the fit, while flatlock seams are intended to reduce chafing. Side vents add airflow, and reflective strips on the front and back can help you be more visible during early or late workouts. They’re a useful detail, not a substitute for dedicated visibility gear when conditions call for it.

What to know

These are unlined shorts with a relaxed athletic fit, not a built-in-liner design. That can suit people who want to choose their own underlayer, but it also means the shorts don’t provide the coverage or support some shoppers expect from lined running gear. The elastic waist and drawstring offer adjustment, but the maker recommends choosing the right size for comfort, the product details don’t provide measurements for comparing the fit.

The listed features also include UPF 50+ sun protection and a water-resistant coating, according to the maker. Those claims may appeal for outdoor workouts, but the description doesn’t explain the conditions or duration they cover. The shorts are offered in 5-, 7-, and 9-inch inseams and sizes XS–4XL, so check the specific length and size you want rather than assuming every option fits the same way.

How to take care of it

The product is described as machine washable, which keeps routine laundry simple after gym sessions, runs, or casual wear. No washing temperature, drying guidance, or special-care instructions are provided, so avoid assuming that a particular cycle or heat setting is recommended.

Should you buy it?

You’ll appreciate it if you want lightweight athletic shorts with zippered storage, an adjustable waist, and a choice of inseam lengths for activities such as running, basketball, tennis, or gym workouts. The combination is more geared toward carrying essentials securely than toward a stripped-down design with minimal pocket hardware.

It may not suit you if you specifically want a built-in liner, need confirmed pocket dimensions for a larger device, or expect detailed care and fit measurements before choosing a size. If those aren’t priorities, the 7-inch version offers a middle-ground length with the same listed storage and fabric features, choose another inseam if you know you prefer a shorter or longer cut.