I’ve tried a lot of workout shorts over the years — Lululemon, Vuori, Nike, Under Armour, and Rhone. But the pair I keep reaching for, workout after workout, is from a brand most people haven’t heard of: Ten Thousand.
This Ten Thousand shorts review covers everything after 6+ months of hard use — lifting, running, hiking, and everything in between.
What Makes Ten Thousand Different?
Ten Thousand is a men’s performance brand that takes a less-is-more approach. Compare the current model range rather than assuming a fixed number of seasonal releases. Their tagline is literally “engineered for training.”
The brand was built by guys who were frustrated that most mens workout shorts fell apart, rode up, or couldn’t transition from the gym to the street. That frustration shows in the product.
The Shorts Lineup
The following are examples from Ten Thousand’s shorts range, rather than its complete current lineup:
Interval Short — Their flagship. A training short currently offered with or without a compression liner in 5″, 7″ and 9″ inseams. This is what I wear for most workouts. The fabric is impossibly light (feels like wearing nothing), dries in minutes, and the current product is marketed with Odorblock treatment. My wear impressions do not establish an odor-free guarantee for everyone.
Foundation Short — The versatile option. Slightly heavier fabric with a clean look that works at the gym or running errands. Has a liner option. This is what I grab when I don’t want to change after the gym.
Tactical Short — Built for rucking and outdoor training. More durable fabric, zippered hip pockets and optional on-liner phone storage, designed to handle rough surfaces.
Performance Testing
I’ve put my Interval Shorts through some serious abuse: 4x/week gym sessions (lifting and conditioning), weekend trail runs (dusty, sweaty, sometimes muddy), hot yoga classes (the real fabric test), and machine-washed 50+ times.
The fabric hasn’t pilled, the waistband hasn’t stretched, and the color hasn’t faded. The quick-dry claim is real — I’ve gone from a sweaty workout to coffee without feeling gross. That is my wear impression; it does not prove the treatment prevents odor for every wearer or replace washing when needed.
How They Compare to Lululemon
The obvious comparison is Lululemon’s Pace Breaker. Here’s the honest breakdown:
Ten Thousand wins on durability, antimicrobial performance, and value (especially with my code). Lululemon wins on color selection and brand recognition. The fabrics are comparable in feel, but Ten Thousand’s holds up better over time in my experience.
Prices depend on the model and liner. Current examples checked on October 13, 2026 do not establish a universal Ten Thousand price advantage. With the code ALEXMILLER15 for 15% off, the final price depends on current coupon eligibility and the selected variant.
Fit Notes
True to size. The elastic waistband with drawcord accommodates a range of waist sizes. I’m 5’11” 175 lbs and wear a Medium in the 7″ inseam — fits perfectly with about 2 inches above the knee.
The no-liner Interval shorts work great if you prefer your own compression shorts underneath. The current Interval product lists an integrated compression liner; comfort depends on fit.
What I’d Change
The color options are limited — mostly blacks, navys, and grays. If you want loud patterns or bright colors, look elsewhere. Also, the pockets are functional but small — fine for keys and a card, not great for a large phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ten Thousand shorts run true to size?
Yes. The elastic waistband has a drawcord, so it fits a range of waist sizes. I am 5 feet 11 and 175 pounds, and I wear a Medium in the 7 inch inseam.
Is there a Ten Thousand discount code?
Yes. Code ALEXMILLER15 takes 15% off sitewide at Ten Thousand.
Are Ten Thousand shorts better than Lululemon?
For training, they were in my testing. Ten Thousand wins on durability, odor control and value. Lululemon wins on color choice and brand recognition. Compare current prices for the same model category, inseam and liner; a fixed price advantage is not established.
Which Ten Thousand short should I buy first?
The Interval Short is my first suggestion. It currently comes lined or unlined in 5, 7 and 9 inch inseams; choose the version that suits you.
Verdict: Best Mens Workout Shorts?
For pure training performance, Ten Thousand makes the best mens workout shorts I’ve found. The combination of lightweight fabric, durability, and antimicrobial properties is unmatched at this price point. They’re not a fashion statement — they’re a tool for training.
Use code ALEXMILLER15 for 15% off at Ten Thousand.
Rating: 9/10
Related: How does Ten Thousand stack against the athleisure giants? See Vuori vs Lululemon.
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