Buying Ultimate Frisbee shorts can be harder than catching a disc in a crosswind. Most stores shelve them under running, training, soccer, or general athletic wear rather than under “Ultimate Frisbee.” You also need to balance lightweight fabric, freedom of movement, pockets, and a waistband that will not quit before halftime. Prices can range from bargain-bin bargains to premium gear that really makes a statement. The good news is that Albany has plenty of places where you can shop around and avoid getting caught short.
*Note: Ultimate-specific shorts are not always stocked locally, so the prices below are estimated average prices for comparable athletic shorts. Inventory and prices can change, so check online or call ahead before making a dash for the store.*
- **DICK’S Sporting Goods — Crossgates Mall**
- **DICK’S Sporting Goods — Colonie Center area**
- **Target — Albany**
- **Target — Colonie**
- **Walmart Supercenter — Albany**
- **Walmart Supercenter — Latham**
- **Fleet Feet Albany-area store**
- **Play It Again Sports — Latham**
- **Kohl’s — Colonie**
- **Macy’s — Crossgates Mall**
[Visit DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/) for running, soccer, and training shorts that can handle a full day of cutting and sprinting. Expect an average price of about **$30 per pair**. With brands such as Nike, adidas, and DSG, this store is a solid place to make a long-range purchase without throwing your budget out of bounds.
The second DICK’S location gives Albany-area shoppers another shot at finding lightweight shorts with drawstrings, stretch fabric, and zippered pockets. The average price is approximately **$30**. The selection may overlap with the Crossgates store, but having two locations means you can pivot instead of letting your shopping plans turnover.
[Browse Target](https://www.target.com/) for affordable athletic shorts from lines such as All in Motion and Champion. The average price is around **$18**, making this a good place to start if you want to test your style before committing to premium gear. Target can be a real bargain catch, especially during seasonal clothing sales.
The Colonie Target is another convenient stop for basic running and gym shorts that work well for casual Ultimate games. Plan on paying an average of **$18** per pair. Check the clearance racks, because a lucky find there could leave your wallet feeling decidedly less defensive.
[Shop Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/) for budget-friendly athletic shorts from brands such as Athletic Works and Russell. The typical average is about **$15**, although selection and quality can vary by season. This is a good place to make a low-cost bid for game-day comfort without sending your finances into a tailspin.
The Latham location may offer another assortment of running, basketball, and training shorts in the **$15 average-price** range. Look for breathable polyester, a secure drawstring, and enough room for lunging after the disc. It is a wallet-friendly option that proves you do not need to spend big to stay in the game.
[Visit Fleet Feet Albany](https://www.fleetfeet.com/s/albany) for performance-oriented running shorts and advice on gear suited to repeated sprinting. The average price is roughly **$45**, with premium options sometimes costing more. The staff can help you find a pair that will not leave you feeling short on support during a long tournament.
[Check Play It Again Sports](https://www.playitagainsports.com/locations/latham-ny) for new and gently used athletic apparel, including shorts that may work well for Ultimate. The average price is about **$12**, though used inventory changes constantly. Since every visit is a bit of a grab bag, you might just score a secondhand assist from the clothing rack.
[Browse Kohl’s](https://www.kohls.com/) for athletic shorts from brands such as Tek Gear, adidas, and Nike, especially during sales or coupon events. The average regular price is about **$22**, with discounts often lowering the final cost. Kohl’s is a good place to shop if you want your savings to make a clean cut through the checkout total.
[Visit Macy’s](https://www.macys.com/) for branded performance shorts from Nike, adidas, and other athletic labels. Expect an average price of around **$28**, although sales can change the score quickly. This option is useful when you want a sharper-looking pair that can transition from the field to post-game plans without missing a beat.
Before you buy, look for a **5- to 7-inch inseam, moisture-wicking fabric, a comfortable liner or supportive underwear, and secure pockets**. Try a few lunges or high steps in the fitting room if allowed, because the best pair should move with you rather than throw a flag on your freedom of movement. With the right shorts, you will be ready to catch the next opportunity—and hopefully the next disc.