Foundation vs Interval vs Session Shorts | Best Ten Thousand Core Shorts

Currently, Ten Thousand makes five pairs of performance-focused shorts. They have three pairs of “core” shorts which consist of the Foundation Short, Interval Short, and Session. Then, they have two pairs of “Pro” shorts which include the Set Short and Tactical Short.

This comparison article is going to dive into the Ten Thousand shorts and compare the Foundation, Interval, and Session to one another. I’m going to run through a variety of questions I get asked about these models and which workout short is best for what type of activity.

Hopefully, if you’re on the market looking to buy your first pair of Ten Thousand shorts or your next pair, then this article will lead to educated buying decisions based on the context of your performance-focused needs.

• Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Barbell Training
• Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Recreational Training
• Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Agility/Plyometrics Training
• Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Cardio
• Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Day-to-Day Wear

Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Barbell Training

Of the “core” Ten Thousand shorts, I’ve built a hierarchy that lists the Foundation, Interval, and Session shorts in an order that I think best represents how they perform with barbell training.

1. Foundation Short
2. Interval Short
3. Session Short

The Foundation Short earns my top barbell training spot due to its durability and heavier construction. This model has a 2-way stretch that accommodates deep hip flexion during squats and provides a decent amount of support as its material is slightly heavier (Shell weight of 168 GSM).

The Interval Short is also a good option for barbell training. I’ll wear this pair of shorts fairly religiously as well and I never notice any immediate breakdown issues with the shell. This model boasts a 4-way stretch and has a lighter shell (Shell weight of 133 GSM).

The Session Short is not a go-to for barbell training for me. This model is designed for running and other cardiovascular activities so its lightweight build is not really conducive for long-term durability with heavy barbell training.

Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Recreational Training

When talking about recreational training, I’m referencing training styles that add regular levels of variety. This could include a workout with a barbell, dumbbells, plyometrics, and agility all in one training session.

1. Interval Short
2. Foundation Short
3. Session Short

For versatile recreational training, it’s hard to fault the Interval Short. This model’s stretch and leg gusset are awesome for accommodating deep hip flexion, multi-directional movement, and ballistic exercises. In addition, the drawstring is inside the short which is awesome for security and the shell is lighter so it never really gets hung up on the legs when training.

The Foundation Short is another solid option for recreational training, but do not, it is heavier in nature. Plus, it has a board-short-like drawstring setup which can come undone at times when there’s anterior friction on the body. A good example of this is the shorts coming untied when doing high-rep burpee sets.

Similar to barbell training, you can certainly wear the Session Short for recreational training, but it’s not a go-to option for me. I think the Interval and Foundation are far more superior in a resistance training environment compared to the Session Short.

Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Plyometrics and Agility Training

This category is designed to discuss full plyometrics and agility training sessions. For casual and recreational training in these realms, I would suggest looking at my recreational picks for making a selection.

1. Interval Short
2. Session Short
3. Foundation Short

Once again, the Interval Short is earning my top spot as the best short for full plyometrics and agility sessions. These shorts construction characteristics feed perfectly into assisting this style of training and if you’re outside, the ventilation system is solid in this model. I would suggest opting for the liner version if you grab a pair of Interval Shorts for this training.

The Session Short is also a viable option for this style of training. This model is by far the lightest pair of shorts up here, so if you want breathability and shorts with a super lightweight construction, then opting for the Session Shorts is a great idea.

Conversely, the Foundation Shorts with their heavier shell and 2-way stretch build are my third pick in this category. If I have the option between the three, I’m taking the Foundation Shorts last for this category.

Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Running and Cardio Training

When it comes to running and long-duration activity, shorts need to accommodate the niche asks of the task at hand. Otherwise, you’ll end up with an uncomfortable pair of shorts that can cause chafing.

1. Session Short
2. Interval Short
3. Foundation Short

If you’re a cardio-focused athlete, then it’s hard to fault the Session Short’s construction. This model’s 122 GSM weight shell and perforated waistband are perfect for creating a lightweight and breathable short even in the hottest climates. Plus, the shell on this model features a 4-way stretch and has a leg gusset for supporting various ranges of motion. There’s a singular zip pocket for storing your valuables.

For anyone that likes longer running sessions here and there, but also wants a pair of shorts to lift in, then the move is going to the Interval Shorts. This model is light enough to accommodate cardio-focused workouts and durable enough to resist friction and abrasion in gym settings fairly well.

My last pick for cardio-focused training is the Foundation Short. By now, you’re likely noticing the trend that heavier shorts are not exactly ideal for long-duration training. Hence, why the Foundation Short is my third pick here.

Best Ten Thousand Shorts for Day-to-Day Wear

If you want a pair of shorts for rocking on a daily casual basis, then I’ve included a list below that I think matches this ask best.

1. Foundation Short
2. Interval Short
3. Session Short

For day-to-day wear, I really like the Foundation Short. Of these three shorts, the Foundation Short looks the most like a regular pair of shorts and doesn’t look incredibly “gym-focused”. In addition, the pockets are deep so you can easily store your belongings and this model can be rocked without a liner and remain comfortable without riding up.

Another good option is the Interval Short. This model will certainly more like a pair of gym shorts, so that’s something to keep in mind. However, if you opt for the non-liner version, then it’s hard to fault how comfortable this short is. Plus, this model also has deeper pockets for carrying your keys, wallet, phone, etc.

The Session Short is my last pick here due to it only having one pocket. While this short is comfortable, it’s not exactly the most functional for day-to-day casual wear.

Wrapping Up

All three of the Ten Thousand “Core” training shorts have their own list of pros and cons. It’s more so deciding on a model that best represents how you train on a weekly basis.

If you like to train heavy with a barbell, then the Foundation Short is solid, and for the more versatile lifters, go with the Interval Short, and for my cardio friends, the Session Short is worth taking a look at.