14 pairs of sweat shorts to get that athleisure vibe.

Sweat Shorts

Athleisure is at a height, especially coming off of the past two years of so much more at-home time. Sweatpants have become a favorite, as have leggings, hoodies, and more. But how do you make them a little bit more stylish? Opt for shorts. 

With a pair of sweat shorts, you instantly lose the bulk, giving off 1980s and ‘90s sporty vibes and not that covered-up at-home leisure look you’ve been serving up as of late. But, while you might be throwing It back to decades past with this particular trend, there are so many options ripe for the picking. 

Whether you go high waisted or slouchy low-rise; colorful or classic heather gray; there is a pair of sweat shorts you’ll love. Style them with bodysuits, cropped tees, and the like, keeping the look as casual as ever, without feeling sloppy.

Your summertime wardrobe has been waiting for this off-duty staple. Now is the time to try it. Start here and shop our favorite sweat shorts now.

OUR TOP PICKS

1.

Alexander Wang Essential Cotton Jersey Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Luisa Via Roma

Keep it classic with a pair in heather grey. With a three-banded elastic waistline and slit pockets, these sweat shorts are just like the ones you remember from gym class. But better.

2.

Aerie On My Way High Waisted Shorts

Shop Now at Aerie

These sweat shorts were made for styling, with a wide waistband that’s designed to be worn at your waist or folded over for a slouchier feel at your hips.

RELATED: Best High Waisted Bikinis of 2022

3.

Theory Cotton Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Luisa Via Roma

For a twist on the traditional gray sweat shorts, look to Theory, who added a slit on each side that reveals a striped lining as you walk.

4.

J. Crew Tie-Waist Towel Terry Short

Shop Now at J. Crew

Sweat shorts go summer with this beach-ready inside-out version of your classic athletic bottoms. In bright colors and that soft towel feel, these shorts are a great swimwear topper when you’re poolside.

RELATED: 14 Best Swim Shorts With Tankini Tops

5.

Adidas High Waist Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Nordstrom

There’s nothing quite like a classic and, for that, turn to one of the OG sportswear brands who championed the sweat shorts in the ‘90s. Adidas. From them, shop an elongated pair with a slim, high waisted silhouette for the most authentic take on the retro trend.

6.

Abercrombie & Fitch Dolphin-Hem Fleece Shorts

Shop Now at Abercrombie & Fitch

Get that 1980s vibe with a pair of high waisted sweat shorts that boast a drawstring waist and an ultra-wide waistband.

7.

WSLY The Ecosoft Organic Cotton-Blend Jersey Shorts

Shop Now at Net-a-Porter

Go pretty in purple with a pastel version of the sweat shorts. With an overall athleisure feel, these shorts have a thinner waistband than most and slightly looser raw hemline, making them feel a little bit lighter on the body as some of the traditional heavier styles.

8.

Eberjey The Boyfriend Shorts

Shop Now at Saks Fifth Avenue

There’s nothing quite like the feel of a pair of Eberjey pajamas, and these shorts fit in with the rest. Cut in the traditional borrowed-from-the-boys silhouette of the trend, they’re as soft as butter and hang loose from your waistline with more movement than the rest.

9.

Something Navy Classic Mini Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Something Navy

It’s white on white on white…before or after Labor Day—when you shop their certified cotton mini sweatshirts from Something Navy. Pair them with a matching pullover and you’ll feel like your sportiest self.

10.

Perfect Moment Misty Terry Shorts

Shop Now at Net-a-Porter

Sweat shorts for the tennis pro: with court-approved colors and a summery terry cloth feel.

11.

Pangaia 365 Shorts

Shop Now at Pangaia

Instead of a bright neon, try a pastel on for size this summer with a pair of sweat shorts from Pangaia. That said, these minis come in a rainbow of tones so you can shop one for every day of the week—and then some.

12.

James Perse Fleece Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Shopbop

Go casual with a pair of washed-out navy sweat shorts that boast an unfinished hemline and classic contrasting white drawstring waist.

13.

Loeffler Randall Sydney Floral Drawstring Sweat Short

Shop Now at Loeffler Randall

For a Laura Ashley ‘90s vibe, opt for a pair of floral printed sweat shorts in muted tones of pink and green, designed by accessory maven Loeffler Randall.

14.

Versace Logo Drawstring Sweat Shorts

Shop Now at Saks Fifth Avenue

For a high-fashion splurge, shop Versace’s take on the trend. Designed in pale pink with a logo to one side, these shorts have a micro-mini feel with a hip-slung silhouette.

Pro Tip

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Opt for a pair of sweat shorts that isn’t too bulky. With too heavy of a fleece material, you won’t be able to properly lean into the silhouette of the sporty bottoms. 

For a twist on your off-duty look this summer, try out a pair of ‘80s- and ‘90s-inspired sweat shorts. You’ll never want to take them off.

RELATED: 24 Biker Shorts to Try This Summer

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