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So you’ve got your shoes, compression pants, and ankle braces. You’re almost fully kitted out. But you’re just missing one thing. Basketball shorts. Your outfit won’t look complete without it. Right?
You may think choosing your shorts is not that important, but really its importance is often understated. Your gear keeps you comfortable during the game and can also better your performance on the court. This means that basketball shorts are a must-have for every player, whether you’re just a casual player or a professional.
It’s not as easy as it seems to choose your shorts. There are so many options to choose from, and every brand makes its products differently. What’s more is that shorts are constantly evolving, so it’s hard to keep up with what is best. But we’ll make it easier for you! In this article, we’ll tell you what you need to know about shorts and give you some of our favorite options to choose from.
The Evolution of Basketball Shorts
In the early 1900s, the shorts players wore were not even really shorts as we know them to be today. They actually resembled the type of bottoms you see on football players now – padded bottoms coming down to the player’s knee.
Thereafter, in the 40s or so, the shorts were just that – short. They were also much more fitted (or tight) than they are these days. However, they did resemble the shorts we wear today more closely.
The style of shorts today is commonly credited to the famous player, Micheal Jordan, who decided on adding length to his shorts in the 80s. We know that it takes a big personality to push change forward, so the fact that this legend brought the change to attire forward is no surprise, really.
It wasn’t long after that when this style began to catch on. Soon almost every player was sporting longer, baggier shorts similar to the ones we see on the court today.
What To Look For In Basketball Shorts
You may be overwhelmed, now that we’ve mentioned it can be difficult to choose your shorts. But don’t worry! Below we will list some qualities that you should look for in the shorts that you choose for yourself.
Durable
This is possibly the most important characteristic to look for. You need to ensure that you won’t have to keep buying new shorts every month. If your shorts are not durable enough, they can turn out to be quite costly in the long run.
Basketball can be a rough sport – your shorts will take a hit and can get easily damaged. This means you need to have a look at the materials that are used to make the shorts.
Breathable
The last thing you want is for your basketball shorts to hold you back on the court. If you feel heavy, too sweaty and clammy, or even stuffy, you’ll be slowed down and as such your performance will be affected. This takes a toll on not only you but the team as a whole.
For this reason, you must look out for shorts that keep you cool and fresh. Lighter materials are a good option for this. Another thing to look out for is moisture control.
Design
You absolutely cannot were casual shorts during a game. You really need to make sure that you choose shorts that are particularly designed for playing basketball. These shorts will allow you to move better.
Comfort and Fit
Here, you must look for shorts that have a comfortable waistband. The material also needs to be the type that doesn’t stick to your skin when you sweat a bit. In addition, always buy the right size!
These factors will allow you to feel free and easy on the court. You won’t be distracted by discomfort, and so you’ll be at your best during the game.
5 Best Basketball Shorts To Choose From
Find our top five choices for shorts below:
1. Under Armour Men’s Raid
The brand is well-known and loved for its top-quality sportswear. This is why you can’t go wrong with choosing this pair of shorts.
This pair is made of polyester, which means the material is light, comfortable, and will not contribute to additional sweat. The bottoms are also specially designed with a 4-way stretch, to allow you freedom of movement.
What makes it even better is that it is odor resistant, and comes with UPF 30 plus, which keeps you safe from the sun if you are playing outdoors.
2. Nike Men’s Elite Basketball Shorts
This option is designed particularly to keep you dry and comfortable. The Dri-FIT technology by Nike ensures it.
The shorts fall just above the knee, making it light and easy to move in. In addition, the shorts come with lower-back mesh panels that increase ventilation.
3. TOPTIE2-Tone Basketball Shorts
Made from 100% polyester, these are comfortable and lightweight. This option also includes moisture-wicking mesh that increases ventilation. The waistband is also extra durable. In addition, this is one of the more affordable options to choose from.
4. Champion Men’s Long Mesh
With a great feel, 100% polyester composition, and a drawstring to better the fit, this option is great. It is also one of the most diverse if you’re looking for different color options, as it is available in 28 colors! For those who take the look into account, you might want to opt for this one.
5. Adidas Men’s Basketball Crazylight Shorts
As you can probably tell from the name, one of the main benefits of this option is that it is lightweight. It is also 100% polyester, comes with elastic closure, an 11-inch inseam, and a drawcord on the elastic waist. You can never go wrong with Adidas.
The Bottom Line
In the end, the choice is yours to make. Just remember to keep in mind that you should look for durability, breathability, design, and comfort. Without these characteristics, your basketball shorts may hold you back on the court.