10 Things to Look for in Basketball Shorts
Selecting the right pair of basketball shorts is important. You need basketball shorts that look and feel good. If you like the way you look in your shorts, and you're comfortable, you’ll be in a position to play your best basketball. Let’s dive into the evolution of basketball shorts and 10 qualities to consider when you’re shopping for shorts.
The History of Basketball Shorts
Around the turn of the century basketball uniforms looked like football attire. Players wore pants that stopped just above their ankles with short sleeve jerseys. The longer pants and jerseys were considered “appropriate” attire then.
Fashion trends and tastes always evolve. In the 1920s and 1930s, teams started to focus more on their appearance. Medium-length shorts became popular. Those shorts typically had an inseam of between 9 and 11 inches and they were more comfortable and had fewer restrictions than long shorts or pants.
In the 1940s, shorts went short. Inseams as short as 3 inches weren’t uncommon. The short shorts reflected a change in technology and a desire to improve performance and appearance. The new look created more freedom of movement for players. Players tucked their shirts into their shorts, creating a more streamlined, professional look.
That trend lasted until the 1990s when the University of Michigan, playing with a team that would later be known as the Fab Five, popularized the baggy, oversized look for shorts. Sometimes, players wore shorts that hung down to the middle of the knees. Shirts weren’t always tucked in. The oversized look became popular.
The oversized look, while still around, isn’t as prevalent. Today, most players wear shorts that are in the midlength range with the emphasis on comfort and appearance. There isn’t just one “right” style. Players have more freedom to choose the shorts they like best.
Getting the Right Pair of Basketball Shorts
Your basketball shorts should energize you. When you play basketball, whether it’s at practice or at a game, you’re performing. Often it’s a performance in front of a crowd, whether it be a gym full of fans watching you in a game or at a practice in front of your coaches and teammates. How you carry yourself, how you look, and how you feel are all areas that can affect your performance. It’s a good idea to create your own personal sense of style by following some basic guidelines. Below are 10 things to look for when you’re shopping for shorts.
Fit: Your shorts should allow for a full range of motion. You shouldn’t feel inhibited. Your shorts should be lightweight and flexible with plenty of room for ventilation.
Durability: Your shorts should be able to withstand the physical play that’s common in basketball. Players sometimes must dive for basketballs and keep their leverage against other players while jostling for rebounds. Poorly constructed shorts will wear out quickly.
Sweat Wicking: Almost every good pair of basketball shorts has material that absorbs moisture and sweat so you don’t get that uncomfortable, weighed-down feel when you’re running on the court.
Fabric: Mesh fabric made of polyester, spandex, or nylon is a good choice because it’s breathable and lightweight. You definitely want to avoid material that could cause chafing. You’ll want loose-fitting shorts that will allow you to move freely.
Drawcord: There’s nothing more irritating than a draw cord—the string inside your shorts that wraps around your waist and acts as a belt—that doesn't fit properly. The drawcord should be able to be loosened and tightened to fit the contours of your waist. Some shorts come with internal drawcords that naturally expand to fit your waist.
Style: While getting the right material is important, appearance is also important. What do your shorts look like in the mirror on you? Comfort and visuals both matter. It’s hard to be happy in a pair of shorts that don’t look good on you even if they’re comfortable. Color is determined by your team for game shorts, but you can get creative with practice shorts.
Length: Basketball shorts typically have a 7- to 11-inch inseam. An 11-inch inseam falls at or slightly below your knee level, depending on your height. Taller players will likely wear shorts with an 11-inch inseam. Some shorter players might prefer 7- to 9-inch inseams, which don’t cover your knees. Golden State’s Steph Curry wears shorts in the 7- to 9-inch inseam range. Less material means less restriction of movement.
Pockets: Pockets or no pockets? It’s a personal preference. If you’re playing a casual pickup game with your buddies at the local gym, you might want pockets to carry some of your personal items, like a cell phone and wallet. Of course, you’d have to clear your pockets before playing. If you want to streamline your feel as much as possible, skip the pockets. Just make sure you have a place to store your valuables.
Compression Shorts: Compression shorts are a preference that many players have opted for in recent years. They are shorts worn underneath your basketball shorts that help support your quads, butt, and hips. Compression shorts also help eliminate chafing.
Liner: Some shorts have a built-in liner for additional support. The liner is essentially another layer of underwear that helps prevent the shorts from rubbing against your skin and helps absorb sweat. Some players feel that liner can inhibit their movement. Others like the extra layer of support.
Basketball players should have three to five pairs of practice shorts if they’re practicing five days a week. The rotation will extend the life of your shorts. One or two pairs of game day shorts are enough for a high school or college season. In professional basketball, since the season is 82 games long, players need multiple pairs of shorts for practices and games.
Caring for Your Basketball Shorts
Getting your shorts properly washed and dried is an important part of making sure your shorts last. Below is a guide to taking care of shorts.
Hang Your Shorts: Don’t throw your shorts into the hamper after playing. Instead, hang them up to air dry to reduce the odor.
Invert Your Shorts: Turn your shorts inside out before you put them in the washing machine. This will protect the outside of the shorts, which might have logos. It also gives your shorts a better washing.
Washing: Use cold water in a gentle cycle to help maintain the integrity of the shorts and to prevent shrinkage.
Detergent: Select a mild sports detergent that won’t affect the material in your shorts.
Air Dry: Skip the dryer and hang your shorts in a cool place to get dry. This is the best way to make sure your shorts don’t get damaged.
Putting on a pair of basketball shorts that you personally picked should be inspiring and motivating when you hit the floor, so take some time to figure out what you like best.