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Writer's pictureCompression Athlete

The Best Men’s Compression Shorts with Pockets 2024

Securely store important items while you’re active.

Male athlete wearing compression shorts with pockets.

Whether you’re walking, running, working out, or active in any other way, if you’re looking to securely store important items while you exercise, a compression pocket is the way to go.


The snug and smooth fit of compression shorts fit like a second skin against your body and their pockets offer comfortable and secure storage for your phone, keys, and other personal items during activity.


You’ve likely already noticed how the pockets on looser-fitting garments shift and bounce around as your legs move.


Not only is this distracting but it can also be painful having those items repeatedly bang against your thighs.


Compression shorts offer a unique solution to this.


The stretchy fabric lays tight against your body while allowing a full range of motion, so your stored items stay in place and move with you, eliminating any bouncing or shifting around.


Compression pocket and zip pocket for secure storage.

Not only do you get this superior storage ability, but you’ll also enjoy the many benefits that compression shorts have to offer.


For example, the snug and smooth fit of compression that’s great for secure storage also reduces the possibility of chafing and provides comfort for extended wear.


Additionally, the compressive pressure supports your muscles as you exert energy and the moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool, dry, and comfortable while you sweat.


Here, we’ve put together a list of the best men’s compression shorts with pockets.


Grab a pair to secure your items and don’t let anything slow you down.



Note: Featured products are independently selected and reviewed by Compression Athlete. If you purchase through our links, we may earn commission.



1. WOLACO North Moore Shorts


The WOLACO North Moore Shorts feature ultra-luxe performance fabric with moderate compression for extended comfort. These compression shorts are moisture-wicking and sport two compression pockets with 360-degree waterproof protection.


Athlete wearing WOLACO North Moore Shorts.

Shop at WOLACO: WOLACO North Moore Shorts


WOLACO’s North Moore Shorts utilize durable anti-pilling fabric and a comfortable elastic waistband. These compression shorts have a chafe-free ergonomic fit with 1-inch hem cuffs for a no-ride-up design and are available in 6-inch and 9-inch inseam lengths.



2. WOLACO Distance Half Tights


The WOLACO Distance Half Tights feature premium double-layered fabric that’s extra comfortable, sweat-wicking, and chafe-reducing. These compression shorts have a signature high-stretch modesty layer in front and are 100% opaque and squat-proof.


Athlete wearing WOLACO Distance Half Tights.


WOLACO’s Distance Half Tights provide two sweat-proof side compression pockets and two high-stretch back pockets for convenient no-bounce storage. These compression shorts sport a 10-inch inseam length and a drawcord waistband with silicone stay-put grip.



3. Under Armour RUSH Qualifier ½ Tights


The Under Armour RUSH Qualifier ½ Tights feature RUSH infrared technology that reflects your body’s energy for increased endurance and recovery. These compression shorts sport extra lightweight HeatGear fabric that wicks sweat and dries fast.


Athlete wearing Under Armour RUSH Qualifier ½ Tights.

Shop at Under Armour: UA RUSH Qualifier ½ Tights

 

Under Armour’s RUSH Qualifier ½ Tights utilize a side drop-in pocket and an expandable center-back waistband pocket for no-bounce, water-resistant storage. These compression shorts have strategic mesh panels for breathability and a drawcord elastic waistband.



4. Under Armour HeatGear Pocket Long Shorts


The Under Armour HeatGear Pocket Long Shorts are the latest version of their original performance baselayer and are constructed with an ergonomic design for extra comfort, durability, and superior coverage.


Athlete wearing Under Armour HeatGear Pocket Long Shorts.

Shop at Under Armour: UA HeatGear Pocket Long Shorts


Under Armour’s HeatGear Pocket Long Shorts feature lightweight fabric and mesh paneling for extra ventilation. These compression shorts have a wider waistband for added support, a drop-in pocket for storage, and are a longstanding UA best seller.



5. 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts


The 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts are designed with Muscle Containment Stamping technology to reduce muscle movement, damage, and fatigue. These compression shorts feature flexible, lightweight, and quick-drying PWX fabric.


Athlete wearing 2XU Light Speed Compression Shorts.


2XU’s Light Speed Compression Shorts use flatlock seams to reduce chaffing and 360-degree stretch for extra comfort. These compression shorts have a large phone pocket and an adjustable drawstring waistband with multiple pockets for storage.



6. Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts


The Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts feature signature SenseKnit technology for targeted support, breathability, and unrestricted running freedom. These compression shorts sport a 10-inch inseam and a molded pouch for optimal space and support.


Athlete wearing Lululemon SenseKnit Running Shorts.

 

Lululemon’s SenseKnit Running Shorts have a flat waistband, secure drop-in side pockets, and easy access gel pockets. These compression shorts utilize engineered grippers at the hem to keep in place and reflective details for improved visibility.



7. LSKD Race Day Short Tights


The LSKD Race Day Short Tights feature a quick-drying performance fabric with a compressive feel that moves with your body. These compression shorts have a supportive and comfortable internal pouch that reduces chafing and an 8-inch inseam length.


Athlete wearing LSKD Race Day Short Tights.

 

LSKD’s Race Day Short Tights sport extra lightweight fabric, a stay-put compression waistband, and silicone-lined hem to anchor the shorts in place without any ride-up. These compression shorts have dual side phone pockets and a rear zip pocket.



8. LSKD Perform Short Tights


The LSKD Perform Short Tights feature signature Advantage technical fabric that’s built to perform with a sleek, stretchy, and durable fabric blend. These compression shorts sport dual side phone pockets that provide bounce-free storage.


Athlete wearing LSKD Perform Short Tights.


LSKD’s Perform Short Tights utilize a low-cut elastic waistband with an internal drawcord for a secure fit, a comfortable front pouch, and are available in classic black and white colors.



9. Saucony Fortify Half Tights


The Saucony Fortify Half Tights feature a buttery-soft performance fabric with comfortable 4-way stretch that supports your stride, stretch, and squat movements. These compression shorts have a drop-in hip pocket and back zippered pocket for secure storage.


Athlete wearing Saucony Fortify Half Tights.

Shop at Saucony: Saucony Fortify Half Tights

 

Saucony’s Fortify Half Tights utilize a an 8-inch inseam length design, a comfort knit elastic waistband with an internal drawcord for a custom fit, and reflective logos for improved visibility in low light conditions.



10. Brooks Source Short Tights


The Brooks Source Short Tights are designed for speed and performance with a sleek and streamlined fit. These compression shorts have a semi-compressive design that allows for a complete range of motion.


Athlete wearing Brooks Source Short Tights.


Brooks’ Source Short Tights feature easy and secure storage with two pockets, easy adjustability in the waistband, and great stretch and support for distraction-free running.



11. DSG Pocket Compression Shorts


The DSG Pocket Compression Shorts feature a soft comfort stretch material for a customized fit and full range of motion. These compression shorts utilize a flatlock seam construction for improved durability and extended comfort.


Athlete wearing DSG Pocket Compression Shorts.

Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: DSG Pocket Compression Shorts (7-Inch)

Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods: DSG Pocket Compression Shorts (10-Inch)


DSG’s Pocket Compression Shorts have a performance fit with sweat wicking technology that keeps you dry and comfortable. These compression shorts have a media pocket on the left leg for secure and convenient storage.



How to Keep Your Phone and Keys Secure When Running


Here’s a dilemma that every runner is faced with at least one time or another. What to do with your valuable items—phone, keys, credit card, etc.— while you’re out running.


Holding items in your hand is risky. Tucking them in your waistband or shoelaces isn’t a great or all-too-comfortable fix.


And nobody likes the feel of things bouncing around in their pockets while trying to focus on the task at hand.


Even just out for a walk, you might find the feel of your phone or keys sliding back and forth kind of irritating.


And kick up the intensity on your workout and those items will start banging all around like crazy.


Thankfully, there are a few different solutions that have popped up over the years to combat this problem.


Secure storage options for running.

For example, some people prefer to use a running arm band, like this running arm band from Lululemon, as a way to secure their phone to their body while running.


Another option is the running belt or fanny pack, like this stylish option from Nike.


And for those that are going for distance and require both storage and hydration along for the ride, a running vest, like this running vest from Under Armour, is a popular choice.


However, it’s worthwhile to note that each of these options adds an additional garment to your body.


And while they’re designed to minimize bulk and not interfere with your movements, many runners prefer the less is more approach.


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 a pair of compression shorts or tights with side drop-in pockets and waistband pockets is the best choice.


The side drop-in pockets on compression shorts and compression tights, like those in the picks listed above, are a great way to securely store your phone.


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.


Keys also store well in drop-in pockets; though, many compression shorts and tights also provide a zippered or fold-in waistband pocket that’s perfect for storing smaller objects.


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.



For more great running short options, check out our list of the Best Compression Shorts for Running.


And if you’re looking for additional help on picking out a great pair of compression shorts, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Compression Shorts.

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