11 Comfy Pairs Of Sweat Shorts That You Can Actually Wear In Public

The ’70s called and they want their tie-dye back. But that’s too bad because we’re keeping it here in 2021. Give us tie-dye sweatshirts, tees, Crocs, and yes, now even shorts. This cotton jersey pair from Champion features a pretty hand-dyed watercolor print along with a super flattering dolphin leg that gives us all the retro vibes in the best way. The best part? Because of all the colors, you won’t even notice when your toddler inevitably spills some of their Capri Sun on your shorts—the stain will blend right in with the design. A.k.a. these are totally mom- and child-proof. Praise be.

The only thing we could love more than a comfortable pair of sweat shorts is a comfortable pair of sweat shorts with a fuzzy lining . That’s what you can get with these shorts from Free People, which are part of a matching set for that “maybe I’m a famous Instagram influencer, maybe I’m just a stylish mom” look. The army green hue will show off your summer tan while the drawstring waistband and longer inseam will keep you cozy and more importantly, fully covered while you’re playing with the little ones.

RIP to the golden days of high school, when staying out until midnight was cool and when your daily uniform consisted of cheer shorts and baby tees. While you may no longer be able to fit into said shorts (you have plenty of mom related things to thank for that), you can get the grown-up version on Amazon. These athletic sweat shorts come in packs of two for just $15 and you can pick any color combo, including classic gray, forest green, and hot pink. Over 1,000 reviewers rave that not only are they comfortable, but they’re incredibly flattering thanks to the loose fit and curved hemline (hello, longer-looking legs!).

Lou & Grey sweat shorts are like the elusive mid-day nap to a mom—everyone wants them but not everyone can have them. In this case, it’s because the cult-favorite shorts are selling out fast. But fortunately you can still find a few pairs online, like these in shocking coral. Perfect for summer, these drawstring shorts have front and back pockets and can easily slip on over your swimsuit when you’re lounging poolside with the kiddos. Bonus: They’re produced in a HERproject partner factory, which is part of Lou & Grey’s campaign to empower women around the world by providing education and resources.

Here’s a crazy thought: sweat shorts that you can actually sweat in. Imagine! But that’s exactly what you can do in these shorts. While a lot of popular sweats are made for lazy Sunday couch marathons, these ones could be worn for actual marathons thanks to their low-friction breathable material and their full-coverage fit (no riding up here!). The high waist also stays securely in place no matter how many jumping jacks or down dogs you do while the deep side pockets are big enough to store all of your most important belongings (read: your phone, keys, and post-workout snacks, of course).

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That motto applies to everything from the missionary position (sorry not sorry) to your go-to Starbs order (soy vanilla latte, always) to your sweat shorts (gray, gray, and more gray). The first two are on you—or rather your partner and your barista respectively—but the last one you can get on Amazon, thanks to these highly-rated shorts. They’re soft and stretchy and, even better, are a little bit longer than most of what you’ll find today so your lady parts will be sufficiently covered and you won’t feel awkward wearing them out in public around your friends’ kids.

One of the most serious struggles a woman faces is trying to find shorts that actually fit (a.k.a. they aren’t too tight on your thighs but also aren’t too big on your waist). Enter these top-rated sweat shorts from Amazon, which come in a rainbow of pretty pastel colors. The adjustable drawstring means no gaping waist while the relaxed-fit leg cuffs mean no dreaded thigh muffin-top. Even better? The breathable, lightweight fabric makes them the perfect pair to wear for almost all of your summertime activities, from heading to the beach to watching yet another episode of Scandal on the couch.

You’d live in sweatpants if you could. And you do from October to March—but there’s just something about wearing ankle-length fleece pants in 90-degree weather that just hits different (in a bad way). A.k.a. you need an equally comfortable alternative for summer. That’s where these sweat shorts from Hanes come in. With over 5,200 glowing reviews on Amazon, they’re like your favorite pair of sweatpants but in shorts form. Take it from this happy mama: “They are perfect—the material is soft to the touch, the waistband has just enough stretch for those “puffy” days, the waist tie is great for those “skinny” days, and the length is perfect. Not too long, not too short, just right.”

Lounging, running, or a relaxing picnic in the backyard with the kiddos — these shorts will be your go-to after you feel this fabric! The French Terry fabric in particular is made for summer weather — it’s lightweight without being see-through. And this coconut color is pretty cute too. “So comfortable, ” one reviewer said. “Love these shorts. They are made out of jogging pant material and have a retro sort of style. They are comfortable and look sporty.”

Black and grey are the classic sweat short colors — but isn’t summer all about color? Add in these heather red shorts to your lounge wardrobe. Lululemon is known for their great quality and comfort and these shorts fit the bill.

Pink high waist sweat shorts? Yes, please! The comfy sweat shorts look a tad more polished than most but they’re just as comfortable as your old perfect fit sweats. One Mama said, “I absolutely adore this shorts. Living in Atlanta with 2 toddlers that demand to be outside all day, I needed something light and comfy. These are it. Please make more colors. Thank you!!!”