The right soccer shorts can improve your performance by allowing free movement, keeping you dry, and preventing discomfort. To find the perfect pair, focus on three key factors:
- Fit: Measure your waist, hips, and inseam accurately. Shorts should sit comfortably above the hips and end 1–3 inches above the knee for optimal mobility.
- Fabric: Choose moisture-wicking materials like polyester or nylon to stay dry and avoid heavy, sweat-soaked shorts. Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture.
- Design Features: Look for elastic waistbands with drawstrings for a secure fit and flatlock seams to minimize chafing during play.
For teams, custom shorts can boost comfort and unity, with options like sublimated designs and bulk pricing. Whether you’re buying for yourself or your team, prioritize fit, material, and design to stay focused on the game.
How To Measure Shorts For Design & Fitting Purposes
How to Measure for the Right Size
How to Measure for Soccer Shorts: Complete Sizing Guide
Getting the right fit starts with accurate measurements. Use a flexible tailor’s measuring tape, and measure directly on bare skin or over thin undergarments for the most precise results.
Waist Circumference
To measure your waist, wrap the tape around the area where you prefer your waistband to sit. For modern athletic shorts, this is typically just above the hips rather than at your natural waist. Stand relaxed – don’t suck in your stomach – so the shorts will feel comfortable during movement. Keep the tape level and parallel to the floor throughout.
"With tape loose but level, measure the width at the height you prefer to wear your waistband." – Admiral Sports
Leave a small gap (about a finger’s width) between the tape and your body to avoid a tight fit. If you’re measuring an existing pair of shorts, lay them flat, secure them in place, and measure the waistband from one end to the other, then double that number. Always check your measurements against the brand’s size chart, as sizing can vary.
Next, measure the inseam to ensure the right balance of coverage and mobility.
Inseam Length
The inseam is the distance from the crotch seam (where the leg panels meet) to the bottom of the leg opening. Soccer shorts, for example, are usually designed to sit 1 to 3 inches above the knee. To find your ideal inseam, measure a pair of shorts you already own from the crotch seam to the hem.
Your height can also influence the best inseam length. Taller players might prefer longer inseams (9 or 11 inches), while shorter players may feel more comfortable with shorter ones (5 or 7 inches). Avoid shorts that go past your knees, as they can restrict movement and look awkward while playing.
Hip and Thigh Measurements
If your waist and hip measurements fall into different size categories, go with the size that matches your hip measurement since it reflects the widest part of your lower body. To measure your hips, stand with your feet together and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips, keeping it horizontal and snug but not tight.
For thigh measurements, locate the widest part of your thigh and wrap the tape around it. If you have a muscular build, try the "pinch test": if you can pinch 1–2 inches of fabric, the shorts likely provide enough room for comfortable movement. When measuring existing shorts, lay them flat and measure across the widest part (usually 1.5 to 2 inches below the waistband), then double that number to estimate the total hip measurement.
| Size | Waist (in) | Hip (in) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 24 – 26 | 34 – 35 |
| S | 27 – 29 | 36 – 38 |
| M | 30 – 32 | 39 – 41 |
| L | 33 – 35 | 42 – 44 |
| XL | 36 – 37 | 45 – 47 |
| 2XL | 38 – 40 | 48 – 50 |
| 3XL | 41 – 43 | 51 – 53 |
| 4XL | 44 – 46 | 54 – 56 |
General sizing guide for men’s athletic shorts.
Now that you’ve nailed the measurements, it’s time to think about materials that boost comfort and performance.
Selecting Materials for Comfort and Performance
The fabric in your soccer shorts plays a crucial role in how you feel during a 90-minute match. Polyester is a favorite among players for its lightweight feel and quick-drying properties. Many modern designs even use 100% recycled polyester fibers. Similarly, nylon offers excellent sweat-wicking capabilities and adds abrasion resistance, making it a smart choice for games on rough surfaces.
"The best fabrics for athletic shorts are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable materials like polyester, spandex, and nylon. These fabrics are designed to keep you comfortable and dry during workouts while offering flexibility and durability." – Jerry Lee, Apparel Manufacturing Consultant, Modaknits Apparel
Breathable and Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
Moisture-wicking fabrics are designed to draw sweat away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate quickly. This feature keeps you dry and prevents your shorts from feeling heavy or clinging to your body during intense play. Many brands incorporate their own moisture management technologies, such as Nike’s Dri-FIT and adidas’ AEROREADY, to enhance this effect.
"Moisture-wicking fabric has tiny spaces between their fibers that allows sweat/moisture to draw away from the body. It limits the build-up of bacteria, prevents skin-damage, and also keeps you dry." – Izma Karim, ApparelnBags
On the other hand, 100% cotton should be avoided. Cotton can absorb up to 7% of its weight in sweat, leaving your shorts damp, heavy, and uncomfortable. Synthetic fabrics, however, repel water and ensure better moisture control.
Lightweight and Stretchable Materials
For unrestricted movement, opt for shorts made from a blend of polyester or nylon with spandex (elastane). A popular combination is 90% polyester and 10% spandex, offering the stretch you need for sprinting, cutting, and kicking while maintaining durability. Additionally, shorts with mesh panels – typically placed along the sides or inner linings – promote airflow and help regulate body temperature during high-intensity matches.
Stretch, comfort, and durability are essential, but quick-drying properties also ensure your shorts stay functional throughout the game.
Durability and Quick-Drying Properties
Durability is another key factor, especially for players who train outdoors or in challenging conditions. Nylon stands out for its strength and mildew resistance, making it ideal for rough play and varying weather. Polypropylene, another strong synthetic option, is water-repellent and performs well in wet or cooler climates.
Synthetic fibers are naturally hydrophobic, meaning they dry much faster than natural materials like cotton.
| Fabric Type | Primary Benefit | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Moisture-wicking & Quick-drying | Standard match play and training |
| Nylon | High durability & Abrasion resistance | High-impact games and outdoor sports |
| Spandex | Extreme elasticity & Flexibility | Compression liners and form-fitting shorts |
| Mesh | Maximum ventilation & Airflow | Side panels and inner linings for cooling |
| Polypropylene | Water-repellent & Heat retention | Wet conditions or cooler weather play |
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Waistband and Design Features to Consider
A well-crafted waistband is essential for keeping your shorts in place during play. On the flip side, a poorly designed one can slip down during sprints or dig into your skin, causing unnecessary distractions. Along with getting the right measurements and materials, certain design elements can make a big difference in performance on the field.
Elastic Waistbands with Drawstrings
Once you’ve nailed the fit and chosen the right fabrics, it’s time to focus on features that keep you comfortable throughout the game. The best soccer shorts combine an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, offering a secure, personalized fit that moves with you. Elastic alone can sometimes lose tension during quick, intense movements.
"Look for shorts with an elastic waistband and a drawstring, which provides a secure fit that stays in place as you move." – Under Armour
Modern designs often include flat internal drawcords, which reduce bulk and prevent snags. Some brands even turn exposed or branded elastic waistbands into a stylish yet functional feature. When trying on shorts, test the waistband by doing high-knee drills or lunges to see if it stays put without digging into your skin.
Flatlock Seams and Chafe Prevention
Once the fit is sorted, the seams play a critical role in keeping you comfortable during play. Flatlock seams are a game-changer – they lie flat against your skin, eliminating the raised ridges of traditional stitching that can cause friction and irritation. These seams move with your body, reducing friction in areas prone to contact. Paired with moisture-wicking fabrics, flatlock stitching becomes even more effective at preventing chafing, as dry skin is far less prone to irritation than damp skin.
"Look for shorts with a comfortable waistband that is adjustable and stays in place during movement." – Healy Sportswear
For maximum comfort during long matches, keep an eye out for shorts labeled with "ergonomic flatlock seams" or "seamless inner legs", especially in compression-style designs. These features help minimize thigh chafing. However, even the best seams won’t save you if the fit is off – shorts that are too loose will bunch up, while overly tight ones can pinch and irritate your skin.
Custom Soccer Shorts for Team Uniforms
Fully Customizable Soccer Shorts from Wooter Apparel
The right fit can make all the difference for athletes, and custom soccer shorts take comfort and team spirit to the next level. Outfitting an entire team becomes seamless with Wooter Apparel’s custom shorts, which are crafted using full-sublimation technology. This process embeds your team’s colors, logos, and player names directly into the fabric, ensuring durability and flexibility. Made from 180gsm Interlock, 100% polyester, these shorts are designed to withstand the rigors of the game.
Every detail of the shorts can be personalized – logos, colors, patterns, player names, and numbers – without any extra charges. Wooter Apparel’s graphic design team collaborates with you to bring your vision to life. With sizes ranging from Men’s (MXS to M7XL), Women’s (WXS to W5XL), and Youth (Y2XS to YXL), there’s a perfect fit for every player. Standard delivery takes 3 to 4 weeks, but rush orders can be completed in just 2 to 3 weeks.
"Our custom shorts are made with high-quality materials and can feature any design you want. We have our own in-house graphic design department bringing your dream custom shorts to life!" – Wooter Apparel
Pricing becomes more budget-friendly as order sizes increase. For example, custom shorts start at $41.24 per pair for orders of 1–9 units, drop to $28.74 for 101–250 units, and are priced at $14.99 for orders of 1,001 or more. Full uniform sets, which include jerseys and shorts, range from $78.73 per set for smaller orders to $28.78 per set for bulk purchases. These options not only ensure comfort but also reinforce team unity on the field.
How Custom Fit Improves Team Performance and Comfort
Custom fits go beyond aesthetics – they directly impact performance. A cohesive, professional look boosts team confidence and fosters a sense of unity, which can translate to better results on the field. Well-fitted shorts enhance comfort and allow players to focus fully on their game.
"Most comfortable uniforms my players had." – Alex A., Verified Reviewer
Wooter Apparel’s soccer uniforms have earned a 5.0/5 star rating from 51 reviews, with teams frequently praising their comfort and quality. Many players appreciate the lightweight material, describing these as the most comfortable uniforms they’ve ever worn. However, some customers note that the sizing runs slightly larger compared to other brands, so reviewing the size guide before placing an order is a smart move.
Conclusion
Choosing the right soccer shorts comes down to three key factors: sizing, materials, and design. Proper measurements for the waist, inseam, and hips are essential to ensure you can move freely on the field.
Once you’ve nailed the fit, turn your attention to the fabric. Look for options made from 100% polyester or polyester/spandex blends. These materials are known for their moisture-wicking properties, breathability, and ability to dry quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable during intense matches or training sessions. Plus, they hold their shape even after multiple washes.
"The right pair of shorts can improve your range of motion, reduce distractions caused by discomfort, and keep you cool and dry during intense games or training sessions." – Coach Daniel, Amateur Footballer and Certified Personal Trainer
Don’t overlook the details. Features like elastic waistbands and flatlock seams make a big difference by preventing chafing and ensuring your shorts stay securely in place, even during 90 minutes of constant movement.
For teams, well-designed and properly fitted shorts can elevate performance and build a sense of unity. Custom soccer shorts from Wooter Apparel are a great option, offering personalized designs that are both durable and functional. Starting at $14.99 for bulk orders, they cater to all sizes, from Youth Y2XS to Men’s 7XL. The sublimation printing process ensures your team’s design remains vibrant and professional throughout the season, resisting fading or peeling.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or outfitting an entire squad, focusing on fit, fabric quality, and thoughtful design features will keep you comfortable and ready to perform at your best on the pitch.
FAQs
How can I measure my waist and inseam to find the right soccer shorts?
To make sure your soccer shorts fit well and let you move freely, getting accurate waist and inseam measurements is essential.
Measuring your waist: Stand straight and find the narrowest part of your torso – this is usually around your belly button. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around this area, keeping it snug but not too tight. Record the measurement in inches.
Measuring your inseam: Grab a pair of shorts that fit you well. Lay them flat and measure from the crotch seam (where the front and back panels meet) down to the bottom hem along the inner leg. If you’re measuring directly on your body, make sure the shorts are level and smooth out any wrinkles.
Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy, and then use these numbers to pick the right size from Wooter Apparel’s soccer shorts size chart. This way, you’ll get a secure and comfortable fit, ready for peak performance on the field.
Why isn’t cotton a good choice for soccer shorts?
Cotton isn’t the best choice for soccer shorts. It soaks up sweat, dries slowly, and leaves you feeling damp and uncomfortable during the game. On top of that, wet cotton loses its insulating properties, making it harder to stay warm in cooler weather.
Another downside? Cotton is prone to chafing, especially when you’re moving intensely on the field. It also fades and wears out faster with frequent washing. For a better experience, go for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon. These materials are lightweight, breathable, and designed to keep you dry and comfortable while you play.
What makes custom soccer shorts a great choice for your team?
Custom soccer shorts are all about giving your team that extra edge on the field. By tailoring each pair to fit perfectly, players can move freely and stay focused, without worrying about uncomfortable gear holding them back. Crafted from top-notch materials like moisture-wicking polyester blends or stretchy fabrics, these shorts help players stay dry, comfortable, and irritation-free – even during the most intense matches.
But it’s not just about performance. Custom shorts also let your team shine with a unique identity. Add your team colors, logos, player names, and numbers to create a cohesive, professional look that boosts both confidence and team spirit. With the right combination of fit, advanced materials, and personalized designs, custom soccer shorts ensure players feel great, look sharp, and are ready to give it their all on game day.