Custom Athletic Shorts for Men: Mesh, Training, and Signature Styles Compared

Shorts get overlooked in a lot of first-round mens shop builds, which is a mistake. For gyms, training groups, and rec leagues, shorts often outsell tees once a shop has been live for a few months, especially through the warm season. The catalog carries three distinct styles built for different uses. Here is what each one is for, what it costs, and how to price it.

Three Mens Short Styles Compared

Style	Brand	Best for	VIP base
Athletic 7 inch mesh shorts (no pockets)	Sport-Tek	Basketball, rec league, hot-weather training	$26.88
Performance training shorts	Bear Grips	Gym, functional training, everyday wear	$44.88
Signature athletic shorts	Bear Grips	Premium gym line, flagship product	$49.88

Is Mesh or Performance Training Better for a Gym Shop?

Mesh 7 inch shorts are the lightest, most breathable option and the lowest entry price, which makes them the pick for a first-round shop or for rec leagues where players move fast and sweat heavily. Performance training shorts and signature athletic shorts run heavier and more structured, built for a gym that wants a flagship product with a higher retail ceiling. Most shops that carry both find mesh shorts sell more units at a lower price, while training and signature shorts sell fewer units at a meaningfully higher margin per pair.

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Sizing and Fit Notes

• Mesh 7 inch shorts run a relaxed athletic cut, true to size for most builds.
• Performance training shorts run slightly more fitted through the thigh, built for squats and functional movement.
• Signature athletic shorts run a mid-length, structured cut. Buyers between sizes should size up for comfort under load.

Design Placement That Holds Up

• Side leg (left or right). The most durable placement on shorts. Small logo or wordmark reads well at 3 to 4 inches.
• Waistband print. Works for a short repeated wordmark or a small logo, visible when the shirt rides up.
• Avoid large front-panel prints on mesh shorts. The stretch and airflow mesh distorts large graphics over time.

Pricing and Margin Math on Shorts

A mesh short at $28 retail on a $26.88 VIP base still returns a thin but workable $1.12, so most shops price mesh shorts closer to $32 to $35 for a healthier $5 to $8 margin. Performance training shorts at $55 retail on a $44.88 base clear about $10.12 per pair. Signature athletic shorts at $62 retail on a $49.88 base clear about $12.12 per pair, the strongest single-item margin of the three.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest custom short for men in the catalog?

The Sport-Tek athletic 7 inch mesh short at $26.88 VIP base. It is also the lightest and most breathable option.

Do the shorts have pockets?

The mesh 7 inch shorts are listed as no-pockets. Check the current product page for the training and signature styles, since pocket configuration can vary by color and size run.

Whats the best short for a rec league team?

Mesh 7 inch shorts, for the lower price point and the breathability that suits fast-paced play.

Can I print on both the front and the side leg?

Yes. Front, side leg, and waistband can all be used on the same pair with no extra setup fee.