
We Tried Mott & Bow’s Tech Shorts—Here’s How They Compare to Lululemon and Vuori
Most men’s shorts fall into one of two frustrating extremes: either they look like they belong in a gym locker room, or they feel like your dad’s decade-old cargo pair—baggy, bulky, and anything but flattering. Too sporty, too sloppy, or just plain uncomfortable. What’s missing? A short that actually looks sharp, feels premium, and moves with you, without riding up, sagging, or making you feel underdressed.
That’s the gap Mott & Bow’s Tech Shorts aim to fill. And to put them to the test, we lined them up against two big names in the category: Lululemon and Vuori. Each brand takes a different swing at the modern “tech short,” blending flexibility, breathability, and minimalist styling—but only one delivers the kind of refined, versatile design that works across your entire day.
We wore all three through travel days, coffee runs, long walks, last-minute plans, and everything in between. Our checklist? Comfort, function, polish, and a flattering fit. Spoiler: Mott & Bow didn’t just hold their own—they raised the bar. Ahead, we break down how each brand stacks up in fit, fabric, versatility, and overall value—so you can find the pair that actually gets it right.

Why Tech Shorts Are a Thing Now
Modern men’s wardrobes have evolved far beyond the era of oversized cargos and stiff chino shorts, now prioritizing versatile pieces that look sharp while keeping pace with a busy day. Enter tech shorts: a category defined not by fleeting trends or overt performance gimmicks, but by intelligent design tailored to modern living. Crafted from stretchy, breathable fabrics, they offer exceptional mobility and comfort without sacrificing style. Thoughtful tailoring and minimalist aesthetics make them suitable for everything from a workout to a casual urban outing, while features like adjustable waistbands, strategic pockets, and durable stitching elevate their practicality.
We tested three leading tech-shorts brands, judging them on comfort, performance, versatility, and style—to pinpoint which delivers the perfect blend of movement-ready design and everyday appeal.
01.
First Look & Fit
Right out of the box, the differences in fit and silhouette between these Tech shorts are noticeable—and surprisingly telling.
Mott & Bow immediately stands out with a sleek, tailored look. These aren’t your average shorts—they’re cut with purpose. The minimalist design, structured fit, and polished feel make them ideal for guys who want to look elegant without sacrificing comfort. Pair them with a polo or tee, and you’ve got shorts that work for both a walk around town and a casual dinner.
Lululemon leans into its sporty origins with a relaxed, slightly roomier cut. They still have enough structure for everyday use but feel more laid-back than Mott & Bow—think workout-ready meets casual streetwear.
Vuori goes all-in on comfort with a soft, easygoing design that channels a beachy, relaxed vibe. Their shorts are loose and lifestyle-focused, great for chilling or casual outings—but they might feel too informal for anyone looking for a cleaner, more refined appearance.
Bottom line: if fit is your top priority—and you’re aiming for something that looks good and feels amazing—Mott & Bow Tech Shorts hit that sweet spot between structure and ease. They’re the kind of shorts that won’t just blend in with your wardrobe—they’ll elevate it.
02.
Performance & Fabric Feel
When it comes to men’s tech shorts, style is only half the equation. Fabric and performance make all the difference—especially when you’re on the move all day. Here’s where each brand starts to carve out its territory.
Mott & Bow strikes a great balance in fabric and how they wear. The material is smooth, breathable, and retains its shape well, so the shorts look presentable and feel comfortable all day. They don’t cling or bag out—built‑in stretch makes the fit feel easy and relaxed. The slim silhouette—with a hidden elastic waistband—moves with you naturally, and practical touches like flexible pocket lining ensure they’re useful, not just stylish. They’re a pair you can rely on for day‑to‑day wear or even a casual round of golf.
Lululemon stays true to its performance roots with tech shorts designed for active use. The fabric is lightweight, stretchy, and breathable, making them suitable for workouts and runs. However, they can feel overly technical for everyday wear and may not transition seamlessly into casual settings.
Vuori focuses on comfort with ultra-soft fabrics that feel more like lounge shorts than training gear. They’re great for light activities but may not offer the durability or versatility needed for more intense workouts. Some users have reported issues with quality and fit inconsistencies over time.
If you want shorts that balance comfort and style, Mott & Bow delivers. They hold up well, move easily, and look put-together without feeling overdone.
03.
Style & Day-to-Day Wear
No matter how functional shorts are, if they don’t look good, you probably won’t wear them much. Modern tech shorts should fit smoothly into your everyday life with ease and style.
Mott & Bow offers a clean and versatile style that works well with polos, tees, or button-downs. Their minimalist design makes them a reliable choice if you want shorts that feel comfortable but still look put-together. They balance casual comfort with a neat appearance better than the others.
Lululemon sticks to its athletic roots with shorts that feel sporty and light. They’re great for active days or running errands but tend to look more like workout gear, so they might not fit every casual occasion.
Vuori focuses heavily on comfort, with a soft and relaxed fit that’s great for downtime or low-key activities. Their style is very casual and laid-back, which might not suit situations where you want a more structured look.
If you want one pair that can handle most situations and still look good, Mott & Bow stands out as the most flexible and reliable option. They show that tech shorts can be both practical and easy to wear beyond just workouts.
The Verdict: The Best Tech Shorts for Men
If you want a pair of shorts that can keep up with your day while looking well put-together, Mott & Bow’s Tech Shorts are a solid choice. Lululemon focuses on athletic performance, and Vuori offers soft comfort, but Mott & Bow balances a clean fit with practical style and versatility.
These shorts don’t look like workout gear or casual lounge wear—that’s the point. They show what modern shorts can be: functional, comfortable, and suitable for a range of activities.
If you’re thinking about updating your basics, Mott & Bow’s Tech Shorts are worth considering for everyday wear.