Football shorts

Match, training or travel shorts

The match shorts, like the Nike Dri-FIT Park or Strike, the adidas Squadra or the Macron Tempel, usually come without pockets to avoid snagging during tackles and are available in team colours to match shirts from the same range. The training shorts often feature zipped pockets, which are handy for keys and phones, and have a more durable mesh for repeated sessions.

The travel and warm-up shorts from clubs, like those from PSG, and the training shorts from Manchester United or national teams feature the same colours as the professional teams for fans who play. They can be worn both at the stadium and at the five with friends.

Elastic waistband, built-in brief and colour rules

A wide elastic waistband, lined with an internal drawstring, keeps the shorts in place during sprints and tackles. Some models include a built-in brief in mesh, which eliminates the need for underwear and prevents chafing. The length varies between models: shorter shorts free up the thighs, while longer ones provide more coverage and accommodate better with under shorts underneath.

On this point, Law 4 of the Laws of the game is clear: the under shorts or tights worn under the shorts must be the same main colour as the shorts or their hem, and identical for all players in the same team. This is a detail to consider when choosing the colours of a club's shorts.

Women's, children's and goalkeeper cuts

The women's shorts, like the Puma Team Liga or TeamGoal, the Erima Verona, the Mizuno Team Trad Soukyu or the adidas Entrada, are cut closer to the body, with a waistband suited for the hips and often a shorter length. Children's shorts, like the Joma Glasgow, the Kappa Vareso or Nike Academy, are chosen based on stature, with the drawstring accommodating a slightly large waist.

The goalkeeper shorts, like the Reusch Contest Advance or the children’s goalkeeper shorts from FC Barcelona, feature padding at the hips to cushion dives. Law 4 also allows the goalkeeper to wear tracksuit bottoms if preferred.

Sizes, washing and the rest of the teamwear

A football short generally fits true to size: it should sit on the waist without being tight and allow free movement of the thighs when running. For a growing child, going one size up and adjusting with the drawstring will last two years without looking too large. The washing should be done inside out at thirty degrees, without fabric softener, and air dried, away from any source of heat: printed numbers do not stand up well to tumble drying or direct ironing.

Shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, tracksuits, socks, and accessories can be found on the teamwear page.

New arrivals and good deals

The new arrivals showcase the latest models, the promotions offer previous collections at reduced prices, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The good deals, clearance, sales, and Black Friday have their football page.

Frequently asked questions

What is Dri-FIT technology?

It's the name given by Nike to its polyester fabrics designed to wick sweat away to the outside, where it evaporates faster. This keeps the shorts lightweight and prevents them from sticking to the thighs, even after an hour of play.

Does a football short need a number?

The laws of the game do not require it, but many championships and clubs do, usually on the front of one leg. It is applied using thermal transfer, in a small size, in a colour that strongly contrasts with that of the shorts.

Are there football shorts in larger sizes?

Teamwear ranges often go up to XXL, and sometimes beyond, depending on the brands, with cuts that maintain ease around the thighs. Compare your waist measurement with the brand's size guide, as the elastic waistband offers a few centimetres of flexibility.

Football shorts or running shorts: what's the difference?

Football shorts are longer, made from more durable mesh for contact, and without marked side vents. Running shorts, which are shorter and split, often lined with a brief, favour lightweight and freedom of movement over long distances.

What colour of shorts should a club choose?

A colour that contrasts with the shirt makes teams easily identifiable, and white or black pairs well with most shades. Having a second set of shorts helps in case of colour clashes with the opponent, just like with shirts.