Choosing the right tennis shorts matters: they must balance coverage, freedom of movement, sweat management, and practical features like pockets. After extensive research, on-court testing, fabric analysis, and synthesis of expert and consumer feedback, we shortlisted and field-tested top options to recommend the best tennis shorts for different priorities.
Considerations
We tested and evaluated candidates using a multi-step process that combined real-world usage, technical checks, and consumer feedback:
- Fit & mobility: repeated on-court drills (sprints, lateral shuffles, volleys) and range-of-motion tests (deep lunges, high reaches). We prioritized no riding up, no chafing, and consistent coverage during play.
- Fabric & breathability: assessed material composition, stretch, opacity (squat/sprint test), moisture-wicking, and dry time after intensive play.
- Construction & features: examined waist construction, liner/inner short design, seam placement, and pocket functionality (zipper security, pocket depth for phones/balls).
- Durability & care: multiple wash cycles, seam stress tests, and colorfastness checks.
- Consumer & expert input: aggregated reviews from players, coaches, and athletic apparel experts to identify recurring strengths and issues.
Weighting: comfort and mobility (35%), fabric performance (25%), fit & coverage (20%), features (10%), durability & value (10%). The final four reflect different budgets and use-cases so players can pick what matters most.
Flowy Tennis Skort
Lightweight, flirty tennis skort with built-in shorts and practical side pockets. The crossover V-waist and 4-way stretch fabric deliver flattering fit, breathable performance, and easy movement—ideal for players who prefer a skirted look without sacrificing coverage or function.
Overview & analysis: This skort delivers excellent bang-for-buck. Made of 79% nylon / 21% spandex with 4-way stretch, it feels soft, breathes well, and dries quickly. The double-layer design (flowy outer skirt + fitted inner shorts) provides modesty and freedom—no chafe during quick splits or lunges. Pockets: side pockets fit a card or small phone comfortably, though larger phones are a tight fit. Performance: on-court it stays put thanks to the elastic V-waist; movement is unrestricted and the skirt gives a classic tennis silhouette. Trade-offs: fabric is lightweight so it can feel less substantial than premium skorts, and long-term colorfastness is average. For under $10, it’s a reliable entry-level option for casual players and beginners.
CRZ YOGA Tennis Skort
Tennis-specific skort built with ultra-soft, quick-dry fabric, a mesh liner, and a zip pocket. Designed for players who want a polished look, secure storage for essentials, and materials optimized for on-court durability and comfort.
Overview & analysis: Designed for tennis, this skort uses an ultra-soft, weightless quick-dry fabric and includes a built-in mesh liner to reduce friction. The wide smocked elastic waistband provides a secure, comfortable fit and the zippered pocket offers safe on-court storage for phones or keys. Fit & play: short inseam and skirt-front/shorts-back construction maintain coverage while enabling full lateral and vertical movement. Technical notes: fabric resists the ‘swish’ noise and remains surprisingly opaque in lighter colors. Trade-offs: slightly higher price than budget skorts but the construction and tennis-oriented details justify it for regular players seeking a reliable, performance-first piece.
5-Pack Active Shorts
High-waist athletic shorts sold in multi-packs for steady rotation. Lightweight 95/5 polyester-spandex fabric, wide elastic waistband, and zipper pocket combine practicality with strong value—great for frequent players or club teams.
Overview & analysis: These shorts use a 95% polyester / 5% spandex blend that keeps players cool and moves with the body. The wide elastic high waist stays put during sprints and serves a light tummy-control function. The standout here is the multi-pack format—getting multiple shorts at a single price point is ideal for players who train often and need frequent laundering. Pockets: secure zippered pocket for phone or small items. Performance & durability: material is quick-drying and holds up to repeated washes, though the fabric weight is mid-range (not as plush as premium options). Trade-offs: color/fabric consistency can vary between batches, but the overall value is hard to beat if you want quantity plus decent performance.
High-Waist Zipper Shorts
Double-layer high-waist shorts with secure dual-zipper pockets and quick-dry fabric. Balanced performance, coverage, and storage make these an excellent all-rounder for tennis players who need function and comfort at a midrange price.
Overview & analysis: These shorts strike a strong balance between technical performance and everyday practicality. The double-layer construction (outer split layer + inner short) offers breathability and secure coverage; the 95% polyester / 5% spandex fabric is lightweight and quick-drying. Pockets & fit: two hidden zippered pockets are deep enough for a modern phone and keep valuables safe during play—a big practical win. The high-waist band provides a flattering, supportive fit without digging in. On-court performance: excellent mobility for lateral movements and sprints, no ride-up, and reliable opacity. Trade-offs: not a skirt aesthetic—if you prefer a skort, choose the premium CRZ YOGA. Overall, these are the most versatile shorts tested and excel for players who want reliable performance, storage, and comfort.
Quick Comparison
- High-Waist Zipper Shorts (Editors Choice) — Balanced performer: double-layer design, dual zip pockets, quick-dry fabric. Best overall for players who want storage and dependable on-court performance. (Price: $25.49)
- CRZ YOGA Tennis Skort (Premium Choice) — Tennis-focused construction: mesh liner, zip pocket, lightweight ‘feathery’ fabric and tennis-optimized cut. Best for regular competitors seeking a polished, sport-specific option. (Price: $28.00)
- 5-Pack Active Shorts (Best Value for Money) — Multi-pack convenience, solid fabric blend, and zipper storage. Best for heavy trainers, team members, or anyone who wants several reliable pairs at once. (Price: $49.99 for the set)
- Flowy Tennis Skort (Best Budget Pick) — Affordable skort with built-in shorts and pockets. Great for casual players and those on a tight budget. (Price: $9.98)
Which is best overall? For most players we recommend the High-Waist Zipper Shorts (Editors Choice) because they combine coverage, mobility, durable quick-dry fabric, and secure storage at a fair price. Alternatives: choose the CRZ YOGA skort for a more traditional tennis look and premium feel; pick the multi-pack for maximum value; pick the budget skort for occasional play or beginners.
Final Recommendation
This review is based on focused on-court testing, material checks, and aggregated user and expert feedback. If you want a single, dependable pair that covers most needs—training, drills, and match play—go with the High-Waist Zipper Shorts (Editors Choice). If you favor a skirted silhouette with tennis-specific details, choose the CRZ YOGA Tennis Skort. For heavy use and laundering, the multi-pack active shorts deliver the best value. And if budget is the primary constraint, the Flowly Tennis Skort is a surprisingly capable choice.
Buying tips:
- If you carry a modern phone on court, prioritize zippered pockets and test pocket fit before intense play.
- For frequent washed garments, check fabric composition—polyester blends dry quickly and usually keep shape better.
- If you compete, favor options with a secure waistband and built-in liner to avoid mid-match adjustments.
We stand behind these recommendations based on direct testing and market research. If you tell me your typical play style (recreational vs. competitive), preferred look (shorts vs. skort), and what you carry on-court, I can suggest the single best pick for your needs.