11 pairs of comfy shorts that will rival your favorite sweatpants — all under $25

Updated

Mon, June 16, 2025 at 8:27 PM UTC

This classic pull-on pair is an Amazon customer favorite. They have over 5,500 five-star reviews, and it's easy to see why. For starters, they're 100% cotton, so they're soft and breathable, yet they go the distance over the course of countless wearings and washings. They have a drawstring so you can adjust the fit as needed. And they have pockets, which are always nice to have. Oh yeah, and they're less than $15 and come in four colors: light gray (shown here), charcoal heather gray, navy and black.

"I've loved these for decades," said one loyal fan. "From spring through fall, they're my daily best friends... . They wash and dry amazingly well. No shrinkage, no pills and look like you just took them out of the brand new package. Colors never faded either... . Not baggy. Not too tight. Been using these for almost 30 years and they have never changed."

Gap makes incredibly comfy sweats, so it's no surprise you can find similar quality and styles at its outlet store, Gap Factory. These fleece shorts have an elastic waist, pockets and a relaxed fit through the hip and thighs. They come in black and pale gray, as well as six bright and brighter hues like hot pink and green.

"I resisted sweatpant shorts for a long time because I thought they'd be hot, but these are just right and so comfortable!" wrote one impressed reviewer. "I bought three pairs in different colors and may go back and get more!"

These sweatpant shorts are made with a cotton-spandex blend, so they're super stretchy. They're also a little thinner than your average pair of sweats, which could make them your "dog days of summer" favorite. Some shoppers say the material, which can give them a more versatile look. Get them in navy, gray, black, white or teal, or treat yourself to more than one pair. Bonus, reviewers say that the white is fully opaque.

"I just received these and they are a great pair of shorts," said a reviewer. "Material is very nice and not like sweatshirt material at all. These are the shorts I will be taking on vacation — they are that nice!"

If Adidas is one of your go-to brands for workout gear, give its loungewear a shot, too. These French terry shorts have a loose, yet flattering leg shape, a drawstring at the inside of the waistband and shoppers attest to how comfy they are. Wear them with a T-shirt or pair them with the matching Adidas sweatshirt to make a cute and comfy outfit.

"I love these! They are so soft and comfortable! I love changing into them when I come home from work! Wish I could wear them all day," shared a shopper.

"Very comfortable and nice length, not too short. They are quite roomy so no need to size up," added another.

These shorts are like a cross between your favorite joggers, leggings and sweatpants. The waistband is thick and supportive, the quick-dry fabric super stretchy (and even offers UPF 50+ protection) and the scalloped hems offer a little extra style. You can wear these to exercise, lounge, to the beach and beyond. They also come in a wide range of sizes and 15 colors.

"These shorts fit perfectly," said one shopper. "The inseam is 6 inches and the perfect length for a grandmother — not too short. I just got three pairs today, and I will be ordering more soon! Perfect for workouts, hiking and any other activities."

If you're not familiar with Aerie, it's a sub-brand of American Eagle Outfitters that specializes in loungewear, activewear and intimates for women. And its sweats are not to be overlooked! This pair of easy-going fleece shorts has a mid-rise elastic waist and a 7-inch inseam. Shoppers even admit to buying multiple pairs. 

"These are my go-to shorts when I want something comfy," said one. "Love the material — not too hot for summer either. The length is perfect (not too short). I liked them so much that I now have three colors."

If you like Bermuda shorts, but want a pair that's made with an ultra comfy fabric, these are the ones you need to try. Nearly 500 Macy's shoppers give them a perfect five-star rating and appreciate how soft they are. They come in regular, plus and petite sizes, as well as six colors. 

"I was very pleased with the quality of fabric! Feels so good. And for me, the length is perfect," said one shopper. 

"These are comfortable and fit perfectly. Not too tight on the thighs like other Bermuda shorts," added another.

This moisture-wicking style may become your everyday shorts this season. They have an elastic waistband with a drawstring, pockets, and a 9 3/8-inch inseam. However, they really stand out for their soft material. It's a cotton, polyester, spandex blend that's lightweight and breathable, but durable and flattering. They also come in 10 colors. 

"I was pleasantly surprised. They fit well! Very comfortable and have a soft feel to them," said one reviewer. "They weren't too short; they hit me midway between the thigh and knee. I plan on buying more!"

"Fit great and look great after washing and drying," confirmed another shopper. 

Z by Zella, a Nordstrom Rack brand, offers a plethora of lounge and workout styles. These shorts have a flowy silhouette with pleats in the front, pockets at the sides and an elastic waist. However, it's the fabric that really makes them stand out — the "whisper knit" is a rayon-spandex scuba fabric that's soft, but holds its shape.

"Tried these on in stores and loved them, although I found that a size smaller than my usual was actually more flattering," explained one reviewer. "They are baggy in the hips/legs and have a nice wide elastic waistband. Loved them so much I got a second pair and the [Whisper Knit] pants!

While these fleece shorts have an elastic waistband and side pockets, the brand calls them its 'trouser' shorts thanks to the small pleats at the front. The detailing adds a little more oomph than your traditional sweatshorts. They're also designed to sit high on the waist and feature a 5-inch inseam.

"I really love these! I bought them in four colors and recommended them to a few friends," said one shopper. "I like this elevated take on sweats. They are light, breathe well and feel like PJs."

CRZ Yoga is a popular brand on Amazon for athletic wear and loungewear. Its Butterluxe leggings are an editor-favorite, but these cotton sweat shorts are great for warmer weather. They have a drawstring and gathered elastic waistband for added flair, and the fabric is soft and sweat-wicking.

"These are the perfect lounge or workout shorts," said a buyer. "They are very soft and the material is nice and thick, so you get good quality for the price. I wore them a lot in the summer and indoors in the winter."