Custom Shorts Manufacturing: From Running Shorts to Cargo Shorts and Swim Trunks

<p>This is one of those topics where most online articles get the basics right but miss the nuances that matter on the production floor. I've been making custom shorts manufacturing: from running shorts to cargo shorts and swim trunks since 2008. Here's what I'd tell a friend if they were starting a brand tomorrow.</p># Custom Shorts Manufacturing Guide

Custom shorts cover an enormous range — from 3" running shorts to 22" cargo shorts, from compression spandex to heavy cotton canvas. This guide walks through the main categories and their manufacturing requirements.

Short Style Categories

Athletic/Running Shorts

Fabric: 100% polyester or nylon-spandex, 100-140 GSM

Length: 3" to 7" inseam

**Features:**

Best for: Running, gym, training

Training Shorts

Fabric: Polyester or polyester-spandex blend, 150-180 GSM

Length: 7" to 11" inseam

**Features:**

Best for: General gym, CrossFit, team sports

Compression Shorts/Bike Shorts

Fabric: Nylon-spandex 80/20, 200-260 GSM

Length: 3" to 11" inseam

**Features:**

Best for: Cycling, running, fashion (bike shorts trend), recovery

Cargo Shorts

Fabric: Heavy cotton canvas, cotton-poly twill, or ripstop, 280-380 GSM

Length: Typically 11" to 18" inseam

**Features:**

Best for: Streetwear, outdoor, workwear

Board Shorts/Swim Trunks

Fabric: Nylon or polyester, 130-160 GSM, quick-dry

Length: 17" to 22" inseam

**Features:**

Best for: Surf, swim, beach

Denim Shorts

Fabric: 100% cotton or cotton-poly denim, 280-340 GSM

**Features:**

Best for: Casual fashion, streetwear

Waistband and Closure Options

Elastic + Drawstring: Most comfortable, easiest to wear. Standard for athletic shorts.

Button + Zip Fly: More formal. Required for cargo and casual shorts.

Hook-and-Loop + Drawstring: Used in MMA shorts and boardshorts.

All-Elastic: Used in athletic shorts without drawstring.

Pocket Options

Customization

Sublimation: All-over designs on polyester/nylon. Ideal for boardshorts, athletic shorts.

Screen Printing: Logo, text on non-stretch panels.

Embroidery: Logo on waistband area, hip area.

Woven Label: Inside waistband brand label.

Pricing

| Type | MOQ 50 | MOQ 500 |

|------|--------|--------|

| Running Shorts | $10-16 | $7-12 |

| Training Shorts | $12-18 | $8-14 |

| Cargo Shorts | $18-28 | $12-20 |

| Board Shorts | $16-24 | $10-18 |

| Compression Shorts | $18-28 | $12-20 |

Contact Mughal Apparel for custom shorts manufacturing. All styles available from MOQ 50 pieces.