Introduction: Overview of popular styles, brands and fits of mens basketball shorts
Basketball shorts are a staple in most guys’ wardrobes, whether you actually play basketball or just like the comfort and casual style. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to find the perfect pair of basketball shorts that check all the boxes – breathable material, the right length and fit, and of course a bargain price. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to score a slam dunk deal on high-quality mens basketball shorts.
What to Look for When Buying Basketball Shorts
When evaluating basketball shorts, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Durability – Since you’ll be moving around a lot, you’ll want fabric that is tough enough to handle activity without ripping. Look for shorts made of thicker polyester or nylon.
- Comfort – Breathable mesh material and a loose, relaxed fit will keep you cool. An elastic waistband with a drawstring provides a customized fit.
- Fit – Basketball shorts traditionally have a baggy, long fit but come in many lengths now from above the knee to past the knee. Test different styles to see what you prefer.
- Material – Lightweight polyester and nylon blends are common. Cotton absorbs sweat but can feel heavy. Spandex adds stretch.
Top Places to Buy Basketball Shorts on a Budget
You don’t have to pay full price to get your hands on quality basketball shorts. Here are some of the best spots to find discounted shorts:
- Department stores – Check the clearance racks at stores like Macy’s, JCPenney, and Kohl’s. You can often find previous seasons’ styles marked down up to 70% off.
- Outlet malls – Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, and more all have dedicated outlet stores where overstock and discontinued items are heavily discounted.
- Online retailers – Amazon, eBay, and Walmart.com all sell budget-friendly basketball shorts from lesser-known brands.
- Apparel company outlets – Shop outlets like Lululemon or Athleta for high-end athletic shorts at lower prices.
Features That Make Basketball Shorts Great
When you’re running and jumping on the court, having shorts designed specifically for basketball makes a difference. Here are some key features to look for:
- Stretch fabric – Shorts with some spandex will move with you better and won’t restrict your range of motion.
- Moisture wicking – Sweat-wicking material keeps you dryer by pulling moisture away from your skin.
- Mesh ventilation – Mesh panels allow maximum airflow so you don’t overheat.
- Side pockets – Pockets are super handy for holding your phone, wallet, and other small items.
Buying Basketball Shorts in Bulk/Multi-Packs
One effective way to save money on basketball shorts is to buy them in multi-packs. This allows you to stock up on shorts at a discounted per-unit price. When buying multipacks, consider:
- Cost savings – Buying 3-5 pairs of shorts together is cheaper per short than buying individually.
- Convenience – Multi-packs ship together so you don’t have to place multiple orders.
- Variety – Mix and match colors and/or lengths to suit different needs.
Look for multipack deals online at retailers like Amazon, department stores, or the manufacturers’ own websites. Just be sure to compare per-unit costs against single pairs to ensure it’s really a better value.
The Difference Between Authentic vs Replica Basketball Shorts
When shopping for branded basketball shorts from companies like Nike and Adidas, you’ll see both authentic and replica options:
- Authentic – Made by the brand, with higher-end materials and construction. Most expensive but highest quality.
- Replica – Made by third parties imitating the brand’s look. Affordable but potentially lower quality.
While replicas can offer big savings, they may use cheaper fabrics that wear out faster or inferior stitching. Authentic shorts leverage premium technology and materials that mirror what the pros wear. Consider how often you’ll wear the shorts and your budget to decide if genuine branded shorts are worth the investment.
Popular Name Brands Known for Quality Basketball Shorts
When it comes to basketball shorts, the top athletic brands lead the pack. Here are some favorites among players:
- Nike – The gold standard in basketball gear, Nike offers shorts with superior sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology.
- Adidas – Known forstreetwear style along with performance, Adidas shorts have a relaxed fit.
- Under Armour – UA’s signature compression material keeps shorts lightweight but supportive.
- Champion – Offering old-school basics, Champion shorts provide comfort at an affordable pricepoint.
While pricier, shorts from these brands typically outlast and outperform cheaper options. But you can often find sales and deals to make them more budget-friendly.
Finding Discounted and Clearance Basketball Shorts
Once basketball season ends and warmer weather arrives, retailers will slash prices on basketball apparel to make room for summer inventory. Here’s when and where to find the best clearance deals:
- End of season sales – Check for markdowns in spring as retailers clear out cold weather apparel.
- Overstock retailers – TJMaxx, Marshall’s, and Ross often have surplus name brand shorts at steep discounts.
- Online retailers – Keep an eye out for sales at Amazon, Walmart, Eastbay, and more around the new year when basketball gear goes on sale.
Pay extra attention to the clearance sections in stores and filtering for sales online. With some persistence, you can snag high-quality basketball shorts for 50% off or more if you shop at the right time.
Shopping for Basketball Shorts Online vs In Stores
When deciding where to buy your basketball shorts, both brick-and-mortar stores and online shopping have their advantages:
- In stores – Try on different fits and lengths. Immediately take them home. Get help from sales associates.
- Online – Wider selection of brands/styles. Easy price comparisons. More size availability. Convenient home delivery.
If you have access to lots of basketball apparel retailers nearby, shopping in-store may be best to dial in the perfect size and feel. But don’t neglect the wider variety and discounts available through online retailers.
What Length of Shorts to Choose
Basketball shorts come in a range of inseam lengths from very short to over the knee. Considerations for length include:
- Above the knee – Greater range of motion, best for performance. May show more skin.
- Long/baggy – Trendy streetwear look. More coverage. Can get hot.
Above-the-knee lengths around 5-8 inches are best for hardcore basketball play for maximum maneuverability. Longer 10+ inch inseams provide more coverage if desired. Try out different lengths to find your own perfect fit.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Basketball Shorts
Here are some savvy shopping tips to unlock the best bargains on basketball shorts:
- Check sale sections first – Scope out markdowns and clearance prices before paying full price.
- Sign up for brand/retailer newsletters – Get notified about upcoming sales and exclusive promo codes.
- Use coupons & cashback – Save extra through sites like RetailMeNot, Rakuten, Honey, and more.
- Shop off-season – Buy shorts in winter/spring when demand is lower.
- Buy previous seasons’ styles – Retailers discount older colorways and designs.
With the right timing and savvy use of promos and coupons, you can save big on top brands of basketball shorts without breaking the bank.
How to Care for Basketball Shorts
Investing in quality basketball shorts only pays off if you care for them properly. Follow these tips:
- Wash in cold water – Hot water can fade/shrink shorts. Use a gentle cycle.
- Air dry – Putting shorts in the dryer can wear them out prematurely.
- Spot treat stains – Don’t bleach shorts. Use stain remover instead.
- Avoid fabric softener – It can degrade sweat-wicking material over time.
Taking the extra time to wash shorts gently and lay flat to dry is worth preserving their fit and function for as long as possible.
Styling Basketball Shorts for Casual Wear
While designed for the court, basketball shorts transition seamlessly into comfortable athleisure looks:
- T-shirts – Pair with oversized graphic tees, muscle tanks, or sleeveless hoodies.
- Sneakers – Finish the outfit with sleek kicks like Air Force 1’s or retro high-tops.
- Hoodies – Throw on a hoodie for an effortless streetwear vibe.
With their laidback sporty style, basketball shorts complement urban casual outfits perfectly while keeping you cool and mobile.
Buying the Right Size Basketball Shorts
Finding the ideal fit is critical when shopping for basketball shorts. Make sure to:
- Consult size charts – Measure your waist and inseam against the brand’s sizing info.
- Read reviews – Check for comments on how the shorts fit from real customers.
- Size up – Basketball shorts often run smaller than casual shorts or pants.
- Consider length – Longer inseams may require sizing up for the right fit in the waist.
Taking the time to dial in the perfect size means your new shorts will be comfortable all-day whether you’re crossing up defenders or just kicking back.
Conclusion
With the wide range of styles, brands, and prices available, finding awesome basketball shorts for an unbeatable deal just takes some insider knowledge. Use this guide to shop smarter, get the features you need, and save money. With the right shorts, you’ll look great on the court or around town while staying comfortable from the first tip-off to the final buzzer.