When choosing athletic shorts, you want to look for a fit that’s snug around the waist but not too tight. This will help prevent chafing and keep you comfortable during workouts.
A good pair of workout shorts will also feature a variety of technical fabrics that offer stretch and flexibility. This will allow you to move freely and perform at your peak.
Length
If you want to look cool while playing basketball or running a marathon, you need to wear shorts that are appropriate for the activity. This means you need to know how they should fit and the best length for athletic shorts.
The right length is critical to keeping you cool and reducing the risk of chafing. In general, athletic shorts should be a little shorter than regular gym shorts.
Ideally, the shorts should fall a few inches above your kneecap. This is an easy rule to follow and is a good starting point for choosing the right pair.
You also need to take into account the weather you will be wearing your shorts in. This will determine the type of material that should be used for your shorts.
Athletic Shorts
For example, if you play basketball in the summer. You can choose athletic shorts with water-repellent technology to prevent sweating and keep you dry. You can also get a pair with UV protection to prevent skin damage from the sun’s rays.
Some types of shorts are made to be snug and supportive. This is ideal for runners and endurance athletes as it promotes muscle support and prevents chafing.
These shorts are often made with polyester, a nylon blend, or a combination of both. The polyester fibers allow them to stretch, wick moisture, and have advanced anti-abrasion properties.
Another fabric choice is spandex, which is a synthetic fiber that allows for stretch and support. Spandex is also durable and comfortable, so it is a great choice for a variety of sports.
You can also get athletic shorts that feature a V-Notch cutout on the side seam of the legs for additional flexibility. These shorts are popular with runners for their ability to allow the wearer a greater range of motion than with a tighter fabric.
In addition to the proper fit, athletic shorts should be lightweight for comfort. They should have minimal coverage and be easy to move in. So they’re perfect for running, weight training, and other exercises involving movement. Some shorts even come with a built-in liner for extra support and compression.
Waistband
The waistband is an important part of a garment, and its fit is important to the comfort and appearance of the overall look. The waistband can be made from a variety of materials, including elastic and fabric. It is usually attached to the garment with a pin or casing.
The fabric used for the waistband should be comfortable and stretchy yet firm enough to hold its shape. It should also be the correct width to support the weight of the garment.
To determine the correct size for the elastic, measure the width of the waistband where it will go on the garment and subtract 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) for negative ease. This measurement is critical for the proper fit and will ensure that you don’t have any gaps where the waistband slides down your body.
Another way to determine the elastic’s width is to measure the length of the band and add a seam allowance. You can make the elastic shorter or longer without losing its flexibility using a seam allowance.
Measure
If you’re using special or decorative elastic for the waistband, measure it with a measuring tape, or mark its starting point with a pin. This method works well for elastic that is at least 1 inch wide and comes in a variety of colors. Such as polka dots or animal prints.
Alternatively, you can use knit or woven elastic for the waistband. Knit elastic can be inserted into a waistband casing or simply pinned onto the garment. Woven elastic can be inserted into a casing if desired.
Once the elastic is in place, gather both ends of the elastic by about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) and sew them together. This will create a smooth transition from the waistband to the pants’ casing and keep the band from shifting as you move.
The waistband of athletic shorts should be fitted, not baggy or loose. If the shorts are too tight, try a larger size or find a wider cut.
A quick litmus test for whether the waistband is fitting is to pinch the excess fabric on the outside of your leg. The shorts are too baggy if there are more than 1.5 inches of slack.
Thigh and Leg Openings
The thigh and leg openings on shorts are key to how the garment fits. If these openings are too tight or too loose, the garment will be uncomfortable and not fit well. You also want to make sure that you have enough room for movement.
One way to determine if the openings on your athletic shorts are too big or too small is to use a tape measure to see how they fit. Typically, you can place the end of the tape on one side of the opening and pull it to the other. The measurement will vary depending on the style of shorts you are looking for.
Athletic Shorts Leg Opening
Generally speaking, you should aim to get a leg opening that is just a bit larger than your thigh. This will help prevent the shorts from riding up or creating a triangular silhouette.
A leg opening that is too large will cause your thigh to be surrounded by the shorts and could feel awkward when moving. Alternatively, you can choose a pair of shorts that have a thigh gap, which is when the fabric hugs your thigh and creates a more comfortable, streamlined look.
Another important factor to consider is how breathable the material is. This will help keep you cool during workouts and prevent overheating from sweating too much.
This is especially important if you’re working out in hot weather. Choosing a pair of shorts that are made from a moisture-wicking, breathable fabric will ensure that your body remains comfortable and dry throughout your workout.
You should also look for a non-slip material, which is used to keep the shorts from rolling up or sliding around during your workout. This can be achieved by adding a strip of elastic rubber or using a thin, breathable fabric like Nylex.
A final tip is to measure your thighs and waist before you buy any new athletic shorts. This will give you a better idea of the length that will fit best for your specific body type and style preferences.
Athletic Shorts Inseam
The inseam is a vital part of your pants fit. It helps you pick the right pair that flatters your body shape and doesn’t bunch or trail along the ground.
Whether you’re looking for athletic shorts to run, cycle, play soccer with your kids, or dressier pants for work, knowing your inseam is important. The wrong inseam length will make your pants look crooked and unflattering. So it’s best to measure your pants’ inseam before you buy them.
You can measure your inseam by laying your pants out flat and measuring from the crotch seam to the bottom hem. This is the easiest way to get an accurate inseam measurement for a pair of pants.
If you want to make sure you’re getting the right inseam length, check out online sizing charts and recommendations. These can help you determine what size fits your body best and make it easier to shop for new clothes.
Another easy way to find your inseam is to use a tape measure. To do this, put one end of the tape at the crotch seam and run it down the leg until you reach the hem. Alternatively, you can try to stand with your knees straight but not locked and measure from the top of your thigh to the floor.
Inseam Measurement
Once you have your inseam measurement, use a mirror to double-check that the number is correct. You can adjust the length or request hemming at the store if it isn’t.
Inseam length varies from person to person and also depends on the type of pants you’re purchasing. For example, shorts tend to have shorter inseams than long pants or jeans. The average inseam length for a pair of jeans is 27 inches.
When it comes to athletic pants. You’ll want to consider your height and preferences before deciding what inseam length is perfect for you. Some brands offer tailored hemming services, and if you’re in between sizes. This is the best way to ensure that your pants fit well without looking too tight or oversized.
