For pull days or pool days, hybrid shorts are perfect for those with an active lifestyle, who need clothing that can keep up, no matter where your workout takes you.
Have you ever finished a tough gym workout and headed straight to the sauna and ice baths for recovery, only to find that you’ve forgotten your swim shorts? Or struggle to find shorts that fit right: being comfortable for lifting, but versatile enough to pack with you for vacations? Well, forget soggy gym shorts that won’t dry for hours after, hybrid shorts are here to change the game.
Quick-drying, water-repellent, and designed for movement, they transition effortlessly from land to water, giving you the freedom to train hard, take a dip, and stay comfortable all day long. With a secure fit, lightweight feel, and a sleeker, more minimal design than a typical pair of swim shorts, they’re designed to give you complete wearer freedom for whatever workout, swim, or recovery session.
So if you’re tired of packing a change of clothes, or settling for shorts that don’t do it all - it’s about time you upgrade. Let’s dive into why hybrid shorts are a wardrobe essential.
What Are Hybrid Shorts?
Hybrid shorts are designed to transition seamlessly from land to water, offering the flexibility of gym shorts with the quick-drying function of swimwear. They’re the ultimate combination of performance, style and versatility. They are designed to be lightweight, quick-drying and offer freedom of movement for a truly hybrid approach to outdoor activities.
Aesthetically, hybrid shorts might look like a regular pair of workout shorts but they’ve actually been designed for multiple activities and purposes, utilising a combination of water-repellant and resistant materials that are stretchy and sweat-wicking so you can push yourself with your lifts and your lengths.
Often referred to as land-to-water shorts, hybrid shorts are also practical to wear on vacation as they offer versatility while reducing the packing load. In terms of wearability, the mid-thigh length fit of hybrid shorts can be more appealing and stylish than knee-length board shorts, offering a modern look that fits right in at the gym, beach or casual outings.
Key Features Of Hybrid Shorts
Quick-drying
No one wants to sit around in soggy shorts after a swim, so choosing shorts with quick-drying fabrics (like polyester blends) ensures you stay comfortable and dry faster. Not only does this prevent chafing and discomfort, but it also makes transitioning between activities seamless, whether it's heading to lunch after the beach or jumping into another workout. Plus, moisture-wicking properties help keep you feeling fresh, even in the summer heat.
Adjustable Drawcord Waistband
Whether you’re switching from lifting weights to cooling off in the pool, the last thing you want is shorts that slip, sag, or need constant adjustment. That’s where a stay-put waistband makes all the difference. Designed with an adjustable drawcord, hybrid shorts allow you to tighten or loosen the waistband to find your perfect fit, no matter the activity. This customizable comfort means you can stay focused on your performance, not on pulling your shorts up, and feel comfortable all day long transitioning from one activity to another.
Pockets
Pockets are like handbags for guys, so a pair of hybrid shorts is immediately elevated when they feature pockets to store your essentials during land activities. Not waterproof (we don’t recommend swimming with your phone in the pocket), but still handy, zip pockets are also great to look for to keep items that can get wet like locker keys, and side pockets are ideal to keep your belongings when you’re out of water and all dried off.
Water-Repellent
Hybrid shorts are designed to handle water, sweat and everything in between thanks to their water-repellent or water-resistance fabrics. They won’t become clingy when wet, instead hybrid shots are built to wick away moisture allowing them to dry quickly and stay lightweight. Handy for any water-based activity, or simply a sweaty workout, hybrid shorts are ready for whatever next. No soggy fabric, no post-swim discomfort, just clothes that are made to adapt.
Benefits Of Hybrid Shorts
Why choose between style and function when you can have both? Hybrid shorts are the ultimate all-terrain essential, effortlessly taking you from morning dips to afternoon adventures in style. Here's why you should own a pair.
Multi-Purpose Wear
Hybrid shorts eliminate the need for multiple pairs of shorts; you can wear them for workouts or whatever your day throws at you. This is convenient for those who lead an active lifestyle and don’t want to waste time changing outfits throughout the day. Plus, their styling design means you can confidently wear them in various places, be that the gym, the waves or a hiking trail.
Minimal Packing
Hybrid shorts are a game changer for travellers, saving space in your luggage while offering maximum functionality. Instead of packing multiple pairs of shorts for different activities, one pair of hybrid shorts can do it all. Their ability to dry quickly means you can wash them overnight and have them ready to go the next morning. This makes them an essential item for last-minute packers, backpackers or anyone who likes packing light without sacrificing style or practicality.
Stylish Yet Functional
You wouldn’t necessarily describe swim shorts or walking shorts as stylish, but hybrid shorts combine sleek, modern designs with performance-focused features for a fashion-forward yet functional fit. Unlike traditional swim trunks, which often have a looser, bulkier fit, hybrid shorts offer a more tailored silhouette that can be styled casually or sporty depending on where you’re heading.
Hybrid Shorts For Men
If you’re looking for the best men’s hybrid shorts, we’ve got the ‘fit for you. Blending the sleek style of the popular Arrival Shorts with moisture-wicking fabrics, secure pockets, and quick-drying capabilities for maximum performance from land to water.
Land To Water 6" Shorts
Cut down your packing time with our hybrid Land to Water Shorts, the 2-in-1 shorts designed to be as comfortable in the water as they are out of it. Pool at 11, lunch at 12? You’re sorted with these easy dry hybrid swim shorts that come with built-in liner shorts, and eyelets to help drain the water from your pockets. Getting too hot on the walk to the beach? You can use the towel loop on the back of your shorts to carry your t-shirt or towel. The shorts feature a zip pocket to the back and two side pockets, which are handy for items you can take in water like keys and cards, but also for convenience when you’re out of the water.
Looking For Hybrid Shorts For The Gym?
If your workouts demand versatility, hybrid shorts will be your perfect training partner. They’re suitable for all types of conditioning, so if you’re training for a marathon or a Hyrox, you can count on them. Hybrid shorts are weightless, quick-drying and designed with simplicity in mind to keep your workouts from any distractions.
The Hybrid Shorts are built to transition seamlessly from the rig to the treadmill, with a super lightweight feel, high-stretch fabric so you can move freely and a comfortable 6” inseam length suitable for all activities.
If zip pockets and a longer-length style of shorts are your thing, the Apex 7” Hybrid Shorts are your match.
FAQ
What does hybrid mean in clothing?
Hybrid clothing refers to clothing that is designed for multiple functions, such as transitioning between different activities seamlessly without the need to change outfits. For example, hybrid shorts combine the breathability and stretch needed for gym workouts with quick-drying water-repellent properties, making them ideal for land and water activities. The hallmark of hybrid clothing is comfort, versatility and functionality - clothing that ensures you’re always prepared and able to adapt to the day's activities with ease.
Can hybrid shorts be worn for swimming?
Yes! Don’t be fooled by their stylish appearance. Hybrid shorts are designed to be water-friendly, with quick-drying materials that make them perfect for swimming while maintaining the look and comfort of everyday shorts. They’re also great for relaxing in a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, or fun water activities. Don’t hesitate to pack a pair for your next vacation.
Do you wear underwear with hybrid shorts?
Many hybrid shorts come with built-in liners, eliminating the need for underwear. This is mostly preferred for swimming, but if you’re hiking or doing another outdoor activity in your hybrid shorts, you’ll want to wear underwear for comfort. If you’re jumping from sand to sea, consider wearing moisture-wicking, seamless underwear as a good option for all-day comfort.
Can Women Wear Hybrid Shorts?
Absolutely! While traditionally marketed for men, hybrid shorts offer great benefits for women as well. Women’s hybrid shorts often feature a slightly shorter inseam and a more tapered fit, and for heading out for a summer hike, SUP session, or a post-gym swim, they provide an all-in-one solution.
For casual dips or spa lounging, many women choose to wear gym shorts as bikini shorts to make them feel more comfortable in the sauna for example, or just for that extra support and coverage.
Traveling somewhere soon? Take a look at our comfy and stylish airport outfit ideas to get you to your destination in style.
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