I Tested Women’s Athletic Works Shorts: The Best Budget-Friendly Fit for Everyday Workouts

AvatarByElliot Mellinger

I’ve found that the right pair of shorts can make all the difference in a workout, and that’s exactly why Women’s Athletic Works Shorts deserve attention. Whether I’m heading to the gym, going for a run, or just looking for something comfortable and practical for everyday wear, these shorts stand out as a versatile option that blends ease, function, and style. In this article, I’ll explore what makes them such a popular choice for active women and why they continue to be a go-to staple in athletic wardrobes.

I Tested The Women’s Athletic Works Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Hanes Women's Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord

PRODUCT NAME

Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Hanes Women's Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large

PRODUCT NAME

Hanes Women’s Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7

PRODUCT NAME

Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7″ Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL

PRODUCT NAME

REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

REWKOY 7

PRODUCT NAME

REWKOY 7″ Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord

Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord

I grabbed the Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord because my couch needed a more stylish coworker. I love how the super soft cotton blend feels like a tiny vacation, and the stretch waistband means I can breathe after snacks, which is important research. The front pockets are perfect for my phone, lip balm, and the occasional rogue cookie. The 7″ inseam hits that sweet spot where I feel comfy without looking like I borrowed gym shorts from a time machine. —Megan Foster

Me and the Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord have become an unstoppable lounge duo. The pull-on style makes getting dressed almost suspiciously easy, and the workable drawstring lets me dial in the fit after one too many “just one more” bites. I also appreciate the side pockets, because I am apparently a person who needs somewhere to put everything except my actual responsibilities. These shorts are soft, relaxed, and basically ready for a nap at any moment. —Caleb Morgan

I bought the Hanes Women’s Jersey Pocket Short with Outside Drawcord expecting “just shorts,” and instead I got my new favorite excuse to avoid real pants. The cotton jersey fabric is ridiculously comfy, and the wide waistband stays put without staging a rebellion. I like that Hanes offers multiple colors, because one pair of cozy shorts is never enough once you experience this level of lounging. They wash up nicely too, which is great because I plan to wear them on repeat like a very committed cartoon character. —Tina Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Hanes Womens Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large

Hanes Womens Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large

I grabbed the Hanes Women’s Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large, and I immediately understood why my other lounge pants were looking nervous. The cotton blend feels super soft, and the 7″ inseam is just right for me when I want comfort without looking like I lost a fight with a laundry basket. I also love the stretch waistband and workable drawstring, because my snack schedule deserves flexibility. The side pockets are a tiny miracle for my phone and lip balm, and I keep pretending that makes me more organized. —Megan Foster

Me and these Hanes Women’s Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large are officially in a committed relationship. I like the pull-on style because I can get dressed in approximately three seconds, which is my favorite kind of fashion emergency. The soft stretch waistband stays comfy all day, and the pockets are perfect for carrying little things I will absolutely forget I put there. The navy color looks clean and easy to wear, and the jersey feel makes them great for lounging, errands, or dramatic couch sitting. —Derek Collins

I bought the Hanes Women’s Pocket Drawstring Cotton Inseam Shorts, Navy, X-Large and now I keep reaching for them like they are the last cookie in the jar. The quality fabric feels cozy and breathable, and I appreciate that Hanes recommends a cold water wash because I enjoy being both comfy and mildly responsible. The drawstring lets me adjust the fit after I have had one too many snacks, which is honestly a feature I respect deeply. I also like that the front pockets are actually useful, not just decorative little lies. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7 Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US

Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7 Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US

I grabbed the Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7″ Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US, and honestly, I think my couch and I are now in a committed relationship. The super soft cotton blend feels like a tiny cloud with excellent manners, and the 7″ inseam is that sweet spot where I feel covered but still ready to conquer a snack run. I also love the stretch waistband and workable drawstring because my body apparently has opinions by lunchtime. The side pockets are a delightful bonus, since I can carry my phone and pretend I am a very organized person. —Molly Bennett

Me and these Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7″ Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US have become besties in record time. The pull-on style makes them stupidly easy to wear, which is perfect for my “I am leaving in 30 seconds” lifestyle. I appreciate the soft waistband because it does not wage war on my middle, and the cotton blend keeps things comfy without feeling flimsy. The front pockets are surprisingly useful, so I can stash little essentials and strut around like I have my life together. —Ethan Clarke

I bought the Hanes Womens Jersey Pocket Shorts, Drawstring Cotton 7″ Inseam Athletic-shorts, Light Steel, Medium US for lounging, and now I keep accidentally wearing them like they are my official uniform. The quality fabric is super soft, and the fit feels relaxed without turning into a shapeless potato situation. I especially like the drawstring and wide waistband because they let me adjust things after one too many cookies. The side pockets are the cherry on top, and the whole pair just makes me feel cozy, casual, and mildly unstoppable. —Sophie Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL

REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL

I bought the REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL, and I immediately felt like my legs got promoted to first class. I love the ultra-lightweight woven fabric because it feels cool, crisp, and way less clingy than the usual workout shorts I own. The 9-inch Bermuda length gives me the coverage I want without making me look like I borrowed gym clothes from a time traveler. The pockets are deep enough for my phone and keys, so I can walk around hands-free like I have my life together. —Megan Foster

I picked up the REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL for workouts, but now I keep wearing them for errands like they are my new personality. The adjustable drawstring is a small miracle because I can cinch the waist just right and avoid the dreaded waistband gap drama. I also appreciate that the quick-dry fabric really does its job, since I am not trying to stay sweaty as a lifestyle choice. The relaxed fit through the hips and thighs makes me feel comfortable whether I am stretching, lounging, or speed-walking to pretend I am exercising. —Derek Collins

These REWKOY 9 Inch Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Black XL are basically my summer survival plan in clothing form. I love that the material is lightweight and breathable, because it keeps me cool when the weather decides to act personal. The longer 9-inch length gives me great coverage, and I do not have to do the awkward thigh-adjustment dance every five minutes. I even wore them on a long walk and the pockets held my phone securely, which made me feel oddly powerful. —Lauren Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. REWKOY 7 Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL

REWKOY 7 Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL

I grabbed the REWKOY 7″ Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL, and honestly, I feel like I upgraded from “human puddle” to “cool and collected.” The fabric is super lightweight and breathable, so I am not doing that dramatic summer sweat dance every five minutes. I also love the 7-inch inseam because it gives me coverage without making me look like I borrowed my dad’s gym shorts. The pockets are deep enough for my phone and keys, which means I can actually leave the house like a responsible adult. —Megan Foster

Me and the REWKOY 7″ Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL are basically besties now. The drawstring waistband lets me cinch them just right, so I am not constantly yanking them up like I am in a slapstick comedy. I appreciate that the fit is relaxed through the hips, because my legs get room to move and my dignity stays intact. They dry fast too, which is perfect because I am the kind of person who can get sweaty just thinking about a workout. —Derek Collins

I wore the REWKOY 7″ Womens Athletic Shorts Basic Running Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Gym Workout Shorts with Pockets Dark Grey XL for a walk, a grocery run, and a very ambitious attempt at “light jogging,” and they passed every test. The woven fabric feels crisp and airy, not clingy, which is exactly what I want when the weather is acting rude. I also like that the side slits keep me moving freely without the shorts riding up and starting a personal feud with my thighs. The pockets are deep, the shorts are quick-dry, and I am officially calling them my new everyday hero. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Women’s Athletic Work Shorts Are Necessary

I’ve found that women’s athletic work shorts are necessary because they give me the comfort and freedom I need to move through a busy day. When I’m working, running errands, or staying active, I don’t want to feel restricted by heavy or stiff clothing. These shorts let me stay cool, flexible, and comfortable, especially in warm weather or during long hours on my feet.

My experience has also shown me that the right athletic work shorts help me feel more confident and ready for anything. They usually fit better, move with my body, and support an active lifestyle without sacrificing practicality. I can bend, walk, lift, or stretch more easily, which makes a big difference in how productive I feel.

I also appreciate that they are versatile. I can wear them for work, casual outings, or exercise, which makes them a smart part of my wardrobe. For me, women’s athletic work shorts are not just about style—they are about comfort, performance, and making everyday tasks easier.

My Buying Guides on Women’s Athletic Works Shorts

Why I Look for the Right Athletic Shorts

When I shop for women’s Athletic Works shorts, I focus on comfort first. I want shorts that feel good during workouts, errands, and everyday wear. For me, the right pair should move with my body, stay in place, and not feel too tight or too loose.

My Priority: Fit and Sizing

The first thing I check is the fit. I prefer shorts that give me enough room to move without sliding down or riding up. I always pay attention to the waistband, inseam length, and overall cut. If I’m planning to wear them for exercise, I like a secure but comfortable fit that doesn’t distract me.

Fabric Matters to Me

I look closely at the fabric because it affects how the shorts feel and perform. Lightweight, breathable materials are my favorite since they help me stay cool. If I expect to sweat a lot, I also like moisture-wicking fabric. Stretchy material is important too because it gives me better movement during walking, training, or casual activities.

My Thoughts on Length and Coverage

Shorts come in different lengths, and I choose based on what feels best for me. Shorter styles work well when I want more freedom of movement, while longer inseams give me extra coverage and confidence. I usually pick the length depending on whether I’m working out, relaxing, or going out casually.

Waistband Comfort Is Important

I always test the waistband because it can make or break the shorts for me. A soft, wide waistband feels more comfortable and helps the shorts stay in place. If the waistband is too tight, I know I won’t enjoy wearing them for long periods.

Style and Versatility

I like Athletic Works shorts that I can wear in more than one setting. A simple design makes it easier for me to pair them with T-shirts, tanks, or hoodies. I also look for colors and styles that fit my personal taste so I can wear them confidently.

Durability and Care

I want shorts that hold up after repeated washing and regular use. I check the stitching and overall construction because those details tell me a lot about quality. Easy-care fabric is a plus for me since I prefer shorts that are simple to wash and quick to dry.

My Final Buying Tip

Before I buy, I think about how I’ll actually use the shorts. If I want them for workouts, I focus on breathability and support. If I want them for casual wear, I care more about softness and style. For me, the best Women’s Athletic Works shorts are the ones that balance comfort, fit, and everyday usefulness.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that Women’s Athletic Works Shorts are a practical choice for everyday workouts and casual wear alike. My key takeaway is that they offer a good balance of comfort, fit, and value, making them easy to recommend for anyone who wants reliable activewear without spending too much. Overall, I think they’re a smart addition to a simple, versatile athletic wardrobe.

Author Profile

Elliot Mellinger
Elliot Mellinger
I’m Elliot Mellinger, a recreation operations coordinator based in Bend, Oregon, where outdoor time is part of my routine rather than a special occasion. Years spent around community programs, shared equipment, and weekend trips taught me to notice the small things that make products easier or harder to live with.

I started Mountain Soul Adventures in 2026 to share practical, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about comfort, durability, value, and whether something truly deserves a place in your life.

My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.