The Top 2-in-1 Shorts for Men 2023
Polished exterior meets performance interior.
If you set out to design the perfect pair of shorts for an individual with an active lifestyle, 2-in-1 shorts would be the result.
The 2-in-1 short design pairs a polished outer short that you can wear throughout the day with a performance ready liner short for comfortable compression support.
In other words, you’re ready for whatever and without sacrificing style.
Incorporating a pair of 2-in-1 shorts into your wardrobe is a great way to simplify your transitions throughout the day to the track or gym by eliminating the need to pause, change, and reset between activities, errands, and more.
The convenient 2-in-1 design provides coverage, support, and mobility in a distraction-free fit.
And the compression liner shorts provide a breathable base layer that’s quick-drying, sweat-wicking, and extra comfortable.
Here, we’ve put together a list of the Top 2-in-1 Shorts for 2023. Check it out, grab a pair, and don’t let anything slow you down.
What Are the Benefits of 2-in-1 Shorts?
Just as the name implies, 2-in-1 shorts are essentially two pairs of shorts combined into one garment.
This design includes an outer short, typically a stretchy and lightweight fabric, and a compression inner short, which serves as a secure base layer.
While you could recreate this design on your own, layering athletic shorts over a pair of compression shorts, sometimes the result isn’t a perfect mix.
There’s often a little shifting or sliding around from the top layer if the fit and fabrics of the two shorts aren’t compatible.
The 2-in-1 design, on the other hand, helps everything stay securely in place and reduces any distractions, giving you the comfort and performance of compression shorts with a polished top layer that won’t ride up or shift around.
It’s no surprise that these shorts are continuing to grow in popularity, as they’re widely applicable across the athletic world and make for easy transitions.
2-in-1 shorts are great for running, training, and anytime you plan on being active (or simply want to be prepared for it).
Many 2-in-1 short designs also include compression pockets to help solve the dilemma of what to do with your valuable items—phone, keys, credit card, etc.—while you’re active.
Nobody likes the feel of things bouncing around in their pockets while trying to focus on the task at hand.
Kick up the intensity on your workout and those items will start banging all around like crazy.
So, if you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require any extra garments, superfluous fabric, or additional items to wear on your body, then opt for a pair of compression shorts with pockets, like those you can find in most 2-in-1 options.
The stretchy and snug compression fabric secures the pocketed item tightly and comfortably against your leg or waistband.
This way the item wont shift or bounce around, throwing off your concentration or causing you discomfort.
And the best part about a compression pocket is that you’re still able to move freely with the pocketed item.
The compression fabric snuggly fits the item against your body while its stretchy properties allow your body a full range of motion.
Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.
1. WOLACO Grand 2-in-1 Shorts
The WOLACO Grand 2-in-1 Shorts feature a high-stretch lightweight outer layer with quick-drying luxe fabric and a comfortable no ride-up compression base layer. These 2-in-1 shorts are anti-pilling, moisture-wicking, and sport a flat-laying drawcord.
Shop at Wolaco: WOLACO Grand 2-in-1 Shorts
WOLACO’s Grand 2-in-1 Shorts utilize a convenient 4-pocket design with 2 front hand pockets, a side hip pocket, and a sweat-proof compression phone pocket. These versatile 2-in-1 shorts can handle any activity and pack easy for travel.
2. WOLACO Warren 2-in-1 Shorts
The WOLACO Warren 2-in-1 Shorts feature a stretchy quick-drying outer layer with a comfortable lightweight compression base layer that’s great for extended wear. These 2-in-1 shorts have a 7-inch inseam outer layer and a 6-inch inseam base layer.
Shop at Wolaco: WOLACO Warren 2-in-1 Shorts
WOLACO’s Warren 2-in-1 Shorts utilize deep front hand pockets, a sweat-proof zippered phone pocket, and a stretchy drawcord that’s anchored to eliminate pull-through and tangling. These versatile 2-in-1 shorts are great for running, hiking, lounging, and even swimming.
3. Under Armour Iso-Chill Up The Pace 2-in-1 Shorts
The Under Armour Iso-Chill Run 2-in-1 Shorts feature built-in mesh compression shorts with Iso-Chill technology to disperse body heat and keep you cool and comfortable. These 2-in-1 shorts are sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and have mesh panels for added breathability.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Iso-Chill Run 2-in-1 Shorts
Under Armour’s Iso-Chill Run 2-in-1 Shorts have a lightweight stretch woven outer short with a 5-inch inseam and a cool to the touch liner short with a 9.5-inch inseam. These 2-in-1 shorts also sport a soft knit waistband and several pockets for storage.
4. Under Armour Launch 2-in-1 Shorts
The Under Armour Launch 2-in-1 Shorts utilize an extra light stretch-woven fabric that offers a full range of movement. These 2-in-1 shorts have 4-way stretch and mesh panels on the side for improved ventilation.
Shop at Under Armour: UA Launch 2-in-1 Shorts
Under Armour’s Launch 2-in-1 Shorts feature a lightweight outer short with a 7-inch inseam and a sweat-wicking, quick-drying compression liner with an 8-inch inseam. These 2-in-1 shorts have open hand pockets and an internal power mesh phone pocket.
5. Under Armour RUSH SmartForm 2-in-1 Shorts
The Under Armour RUSH SmartForm 2-in-1 Shorts feature RUSH infrared technology to reflect your body’s energy and SmartForm pattern technology that forms to your shape. These 2-in-1 shorts have a 4-inch inseam outer layer and 11-inch inseam liner.
Shop at Under Armour: UA RUSH SmartForm 2-in-1 Shorts
Under Armour’s RUSH SmartForm 2-in-1 Shorts utilize a lightweight stretch-woven top layer with laser perforations to improve breathability. These 2-in-1 shorts have a secure drop-in mesh pocket on the liner shorts and a drawcord elastic waistband.
6. Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Shorts
The Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Shorts feature a performance-driven design with lightweight Swift fabric and a comfortable mesh liner. These 2-in-1 shorts have a streamlined fit that comes in both 5-inch and 7-inch lengths.
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Shorts (5-inch)
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Shorts (7-inch)
Lululemon’s Pace Breaker Lined Shorts sport a sweat-wicking and quick-drying mesh liner with a supportive built-in pouch. These 2-in-1 shorts have four-way stretch for freedom of movement, liner pockets, and a side zippered pocket.
7. Lululemon Fast and Free Lined Shorts
The Lululemon Fast and Free Lined Ripstop Shorts are a lightweight option designed for running with quick-drying and sweat-wicking fabric, as well as flat-locked seams to reduce chafing. These 2-in-1 shorts have a relaxed and roomy fit through the glutes and thighs.
Shop at Lululemon: Lululemon Fast and Free Lined Ripstop Shorts
Lululemon’s Fast and Free Lined Ripstop Shorts have a perforated Swift fabric outer short and a signature Out of Mind compression liner with a 3D-shaped pouch for breathable support. These 2-in-1 shorts have a zippered pocket and a breathable Nulux fabric waistband.
8. Adidas Running Two-In-One Shorts
The Adidas Running Two-In-One Shorts feature a breathable compression inner layer for extra support and moisture-wicking AEROREADY to keep you dry. These 2-in-1 shorts have an easy-stride outer layer with a drawcord elastic waist and back zip pocket.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Running Two-In-One Shorts
Adidas’ Running Two-In-One Shorts utilize a secure compression phone pocket and reflective details for improved visibility in low light conditions.
9. Adidas Yoga Training 2-in-1 Shorts
The Adidas Yoga Training 2-in-1 Shorts feature two layers of stretchy comfortable fabric for complete freedom of movement. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize AEROREADY technology to absorb moisture and keep you dry.
Shop at Adidas: Adidas Yoga Training 2-in-1 Shorts
Adidas’ Yoga Training 2-in-1 Shorts have a comfortable outer layer with a stay-in-place compression inner layer to keep you covered. These 2-in-1 shorts sport front zip pockets and a drawcord elastic waistband.
10. Nike Unlimited 2-in-1 Shorts
The Nike Unlimited 2-in-1 Shorts feature a smooth and stretchy outer layer for freedom of movement and a snug compression base layer for support. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and comfortable.
Shop at Nike: Nike Unlimited 2-in-1 Shorts
Nike’s Unlimited 2-in-1 Shorts sport side pockets, a zippered back pocket, and a secure compression drop-in pocket. These versatile 2-in-1 shorts are great for any activity and have a stay-put waistband with an interior key loop.
11. Nike Flex Stride 2-in-1 Shorts
The Nike Flex Stride 2-in-1 Shorts feature a breathable design with enhanced ventilation to keep you cool and Dri-FIT technology to keep you dry and comfortable. These 2-in-1 shorts have a back zippered pocket, side pockets, and a drop-in compression pocket.
Shop at Nike: Nike Flex Stride 2-in-1 Shorts (5-Inch Length)
Shop at Nike: Nike Flex Stride 2-in-1 Shorts (7-Inch Length)
Nike’s Flex Stride 2-in-1 Shorts have a lightweight stretch woven outer layer and a soft and breathable compression knit liner layer. These 2-in-1 shorts utilize a narrow waistband that limits distractions and reflective side hems and Swoosh logo.
12. Nike Dri-FIT Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts
The Nike Dri-FIT Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts feature a built for speed design with a lightweight feel and a shallow rise that provides unrestricted movement. These 2-in-1 shorts are smooth to the touch and have extra breathability in the upper back.
Shop at Nike: Nike Dri-FIT Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts
Nike’s Dri-FIT Stride 2-in-1 Running Shorts have a lightweight outer short and a full-length liner short for extra coverage and support. These 2-in-1 shorts feature side pockets, a zippered back pocket, and an internal moisture barrier to keep gear dry.
13. Nike Yoga 2-in-1 Shorts
The Nike Yoga 2-in-1 Shorts feature an incredibly stretchy and comfortable Infinalon fabric that’s lightweight, soft, and durable. These 2-in-1 shorts provide soft and flexible coverage with hem vents for ultimate freedom to flow.
Shop at Nike: Nike Yoga 2-in-1 Shorts
Nike’s Yoga 2-in-1 Shorts feature a sweat-wicking outer short and a soft and gently compressive inner short that stretches with your movement. These 2-in-1 shorts have a wide elastic drawcord waistband and a hidden zip pocket on the right.
14. New Balance R.W.Tech 2-in-1 Shorts
The New Balance R.W.Tech 2-in-1 Shorts feature a built for mobility design with an athletic fit that’s just right for movement. These 2-in-1 shorts have moisture-wicking NB DRY technology to keep you cool and comfortable and a laser perforated back panel for breathability.
Shop at New Balance: NB R.W.Tech 2-in-1 Shorts
New Balance’s R.W.Tech 2-in-1 Shorts have a soft and lightweight stretch woven outer layer and a compression inner layer. These 2-in-1 shorts feature a mid-rise design that sits just below the waist, a mesh elastic waistband, and a secure compression pocket.
15. Reebok Running 2-in-1 Shorts
The Reebok Running 2-in-1 Shorts are designed to reduce distractions during your run with moisture-wicking Speedwick material to keep you cool and dry and a supportive liner short for extra coverage.
Shop at Reebok: Reebok Running 2-in-1 Shorts
Reebok’s Running 2-in-1 Shorts have a lightweight plain weave outer layer and a fitted compression base layer. These 2-in-1 shorts have a top-entry pocket on the liner short for secure storage and a drawcord elastic waistband.
How Are You Supposed to Wear 2-in-1 Shorts?
The 2-in-1 short design might seem a bit peculiar at first to the unfamiliar.
Because it’s essentially two pairs of shorts combined, an outer short and liner short, you might be wondering if you’re supposed to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts.
In short, the answer is no, there’s no need to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts. This is because the inner short, or liner short, is designed to be worn as a baselayer right against the skin.
In other words, you wear 2-in-1 shorts just like how you wear a pair of compression shorts.
Note, however, that if you prefer an additional garment under your compression shorts, this is okay too.
While you may lose some of the benefits that compression has to offer, it’s always important to go with what’s most comfortable for you.
Also, keep in mind that if you do opt to wear underwear with your 2-in-1 shorts be sure to choose a pair well-suited to fit under compression, so as not to cause irritation.
Look for an underwear choice that is form-fitting, breathable, and has a minimal or no-seam design.
Benefits of Compression in Hot Weather
When the temps and humidity rise, having the right gear becomes essential for athletes.
Whether you’re training, competing, or just out for some endorphin-boosting exercise, compression garments are the best available clothing choice for hot weather.
The unique fabric blend of compression dries quicker than any other fabric choice, which is helpful when you’re pouring out sweat.
This way there’s no trudging along in sweat-soaked garments that can hamper your range of motion and cause chafing.
Additionally, the breathability and sweat-wicking capabilities of compression will help you stay cool, comfortable, and dry.
Compression fabric is not only lightweight and breathable, but it also moves sweat away from the body to allow for proper body temperature regulation, which is especially important in warm conditions when overheating can occur.
Another beneficial element of compression wear that shouldn’t be overlooked is improved muscle oxygenation.
Whenever you’re moving, exercising, training, competing, or whatever it may be, the muscles in your body start working harder and demand an increase in oxygen.
Compression can assist your body in this process, as the compressive pressure is designed to increase the levels of oxygen your muscles receive through improved blood flow.
This improved muscle oxygenation helps athletes perform at a higher level for longer periods.
There’s also the added benefit that better muscle oxygenation can lead to faster muscle recovery.
For additional help on picking out a great pair of compression shorts, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.
