Custom Shorts Manufacturer | Running, Cargo, Boardshorts |

<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:**

Built-in compression liner (optional)

Side vents or splits

Flat front waistband with drawstring

Zip or welted pocket (optional)

Moisture-wicking treatment

Best for: Running, gym, training

Training Shorts

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

Length: 7" to 11" inseam

**Features:**

Elastic waistband with drawstring

One or two side pockets

Loose to regular fit

No liner required

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:**

High waistband

Flatlock seams throughout

Anti-ride silicOne hem

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:**

Multiple cargo pockets with flap closures

Button or zip fly

Belt loops

Heavy-duty hardware

Best for: Streetwear, outdoor, workwear

Board Shorts/Swim Trunks

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

Length: 17" to 22" inseam

**Features:**

No zipper (tie cord closure)

Quick-dry fabric

Mesh lining

Sublimation printing for bold designs

Best for: Surf, swim, beach

Denim Shorts

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

**Features:**

Traditional denim construction

Metal rivets at stress points

Copper button

Classic or distressed finishing

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

Side seam pockets: Clean look, functional

Inseam pockets: Hidden, minimal

Welt pockets: Smart, structured look

Cargo pockets: Utility, streetwear

Zip pockets: Security for valuables

No pockets: Competition/racing shorts

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for custom shorts manufacturing?

Mughal Apparel produces custom shorts from a 50-piece MOQ per style and colour — among the lowest minimums in Pakistan, where most factories require 500+. This makes small test batches and startup runs viable.

How long does custom shorts production take?

Expect 10–12 business days for a pre-production sample and 12–20 days for bulk after approval. We ship DDP door-to-door to the USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and the UAE with export documents prepared in-house.

Can custom shorts be produced as private label or OEM?

Yes — Mughal Apparel is an OEM/private-label manufacturer. We produce custom shorts to your tech-pack specifications with your woven labels, hangtags and packaging, decorated via embroidery, screen print, dye-sublimation or DTG.

Why source custom shorts from Pakistan?

Pakistan-origin apparel enters the EU at 0% import duty under GSP+ (≈12% landed-cost advantage), avoids the US Section 301 surcharge, and benefits from domestic cotton/leather and Sialkot's specialist cluster.

What certifications back the manufacturing?

Production runs through 4-stage AQL 2.5 inspection in a WRAP, BSCI, Sedex SMETA, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and ISO 9001:2015 certified facility in Sialkot, Pakistan.