Basketball shorts, from the court to the playground

What length of shorts to wear for basketball?

The length is a choice between freedom and comfort. Shorts that stop just above the knee don't hinder bending in defence or jumping for rebounds, and this is the most common length. Longer styles that cover the knee look stylish but can catch on knee braces. Shorter shorts, which come from running or indoor sports, are suitable for those who like to feel their legs free.

Waistband, material, pockets: important details

A wide elastic waistband, lined with a drawstring, keeps the shorts from slipping during sprints. Lightweight polyester dries quickly, and the typical mesh design of basketball shorts ventilates the thighs. Side slits provide a bit of ease for larger strides.

For playing, choose shorts without pockets or with flat pockets: a phone or keys in a pocket that bounces around can lead to injuries on contact. Zipped pockets are reserved for casual and running shorts.

Reversible, tights, three types of shorts

• The reversible short goes with the jersey of the same name: two colours, one piece, and the practice session can easily split into two teams in one move.
• The tights are worn under the shorts. Form-fitting, they support the thighs and prevent the shorts from chafing. The page categorises them with shorts as they are part of the same outfit.
• The lifestyle short, often made of mesh and featuring the colours of an NBA franchise or a club, is worn with sneakers, at the park or on holiday.

Other clothing pieces to pair with

Shorts are rarely chosen alone. Pair them with the basketball jersey from the same range or with one of the t-shirts and tank tops for training. Base layers and socks complete the playing outfit. For cold days, trousers, tracksuits, sweatshirts, and jackets take over. The page textile categories presents them all.

Six brands for basketball shorts

Here are the brands most commonly seen on the shorts worn by customers, from clubs to streetwear.

• Hummel offers team shorts in its Core range, with a version dedicated to basketball in the Core XK range.
• New Era produces oversized mesh shorts and models in the colours of the Lakers or Bulls, designed for the streets.
• Joma, a Spanish brand, makes long basketball shorts like the Nobel Long, and training shorts in children's sizes.
• adidas provides shorts for clubs like Paris Basketball, and Adizero tights to wear underneath.
• Project X Paris offers streetwear shorts with wide cuts, to be worn away from the courts.
• Superdry offers lifestyle shorts for rest days.

Basketball shorts on sale

To refresh your shorts at a lower cost, start with the clearance, where end-of-line items are listed, then check the current good deals. The Black Friday textile and sales also reduce prices during peak times. If a tournament is approaching, the 24-hour dispatch page only keeps items that are shipped quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Should I wear tights under my basketball shorts?

It's not mandatory, but many players do for support and to avoid chafing on the inner thighs. Choose them in the dominant colour of the shorts if playing in an official competition. They should be in your usual size, not a size smaller.

How to stop your shorts from slipping during the match?

Tighten the drawstring before stepping onto the court and choose a wide elastic waistband. Shorts that are too big will slip anyway: buy the size that fits snugly on your hips, even with the drawstring loosened.

Do reversible shorts perform as well as regular shorts?

Yes, they have the same cut, with two layers of fabric sewn back to back. They are slightly warmer, which can be felt in poorly ventilated gyms. In return, a single piece is sufficient for all matches.

Can basketball shorts be used for weightlifting or running?

For weightlifting, definitely. For long-distance running, shorter and lighter running shorts will be more comfortable, as the bulk of basketball shorts can rub against the legs with each stride.

At what temperature should you wash mesh shorts?

A low-temperature wash is sufficient, inside out and without fabric softener, to maintain the breathability of the mesh. Tie the drawstring in a loose knot to keep it from getting lost in the waistband during the wash cycle.