Shorts are a great way to enjoy the heat of summer while looking stylish, without having to die in your warm, itchy, smelly jeans.
The Best Shorts can easily be dressed up or down, depending on occasion – they’re the perfect staple to a summer wardrobe.
Quick Summary: Best Men’s Summer Shorts
Short on time (get it?) – Here are our 3 top picks for men’s shorts:
These premium luxury chino shorts from European brand ISTO will turn heads wherever you go this summer.
Available in a variety of colors and cuts - these shorts from Bonobos is our favorite for the summer season.
Amazon's Essentials line of clothing continues to impress with these great slim fit chino shorts.
Stylish Summer Shorts For Men
Shorts come in different materials and cuts – but normally cotton, and sometimes linen. Shorts, as the name suggests, should be short – so anything below knee is no go! Aim for around the knee cap, and depending on your height and your leg muscles, maybe even higher.
Shorts come in a huge variety of colors, patterns and prints. For basics, no one can go wrong with a pair of chino shorts, especially in brown and navy, classic colors.
Choose shorts made of the finest natural material such as linen, cotton, and chambray to allow your skin to breathe. Excessive pockets that come with varieties such as cargo-shorts are a no go, instead choose something that is minimal yet practical.
This list of the 9 best shorts for men will guarantee that you walk with confidence and relaxation this summer season.
1.) Volcom Men’s Frickin Modern Stretch Chino Short
Chino shorts were designed by the British military to be durable but also pleasant to wear. This particular brand is made from sturdy, mid-weight cotton blend and is garment-dyed for sophisticated character. Combine this short with a button down shirt or your favorite T-shirt for the ultimate smart and casual look.
2.) Uniqlo Dry Easy Shorts
The Uniqlo dry easy shorts are an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay cool, dry, casual, and classy. This short is made with breathable material that wicks perspiration, so you can enjoy the warm weather without getting uncomfortable. It has two deep, double lined pockets and quality nickel hardware. Combine with a button down linen shirt for a look that is both relaxed and hip.
3.) Bonobos Stretch Washed Chino Shorts
For those looking for a higher end option, Bonobos has always been a great option. These shorts are made from ultra-soft and durable pima cotton. Wear these shorts with a polo shirt and look both fresh and relaxed when your out on the town this summer.
4.) J.Crew 7″ tech short
Tech shorts? Yes, they’re exactly what you think they are – comfortable and stylish additions to your ol’ faithful basics.
For all the active guys who just can’t stand to be in the same place, these shorts are perfect for you.
With a sturdy zipper closure and made with recycled high quality materials, you’ll surely be able to catch-up with all the outdoor activities that you may have in mind – we’re talking biking, going out for hikes or just some regular walks.
It even has a trim fit and added extra elasticity, which makes even the busiest of vacation plans more bearable.
No pressure, but we’re definitely betting that this may be your favorite weekend shorts.
5.) Amazon Essentials Men’s Slim-Fit Short
This 100% cotton mid-length, slim-fit chino from Amazon totally gets it! It’s definitely set to become one of the most sensible purchases that you could ever have. It’s very versatile, fresh and affordable, too! You don’t have to spend much to look good, you know.
It features a mid-length (9 inches) inseam which makes the whole look more put-together. It has a zip fly with button closure, off-seam side pockets and rear button pockets for all of your daily essentials. Really cool, huh? The best part is that it comes in a variety of shades to choose from, the navy blue one as our top pick.
6.) Levi’s Men’s 511 Slim Cut-Off Short
Reminiscent of the cut-up shorts that our dads used to wear (which they had to have altered from old Levi’s), these slim-fit shorts are definitely a revamped version of the former, with a sleeker silhouette that would surely look good on any body type.
Made with 100% cotton, this lightweight, stretchy and snug piece will escalate any outfit that you may already have.
Pair them off with your favorite sneaks and shirt, and you’ve got yourself a winning ensemble. You didn’t even try that hard!
7.) Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Shorts
This combination of 73% cotton, 24% nylon and 3% spandex makes it one of the stretchiest and edgiest pieces available.
High-performance for your benefit, the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Flat Front Shorts are here to stay. It has a quick drying stretch fabric with UPF 30 properties, and features a performance comfort flex waistband which stays with you even with a bit of the holiday weight.
It totally moves and bends with you! Because of its straight fit, it becomes a versatile part of your everyday essentials, and can easily be paired-off with most tops (dressy or casual).
Also, let’s focus a bit on its functionality – five pockets (2 front modified slash pockets, 1 front coin pocket and 2 back welt pockets) easily give you all the space that you’ll need. Definitely a keeper!
8.) Straight Denim Shorts
It wouldn’t be right to not include a pair of jean shorts, or “jorts” to this list. The once experimental short has seen a rise in popularity in recent years. These shorts from H&M are made with a drawstring waist and stretch denim for ultimate comfort. Wear jean shorts with a simple t-shirt and trainers for casual situations, or put on a cotton button down shirt and loafers for a smart-and-casual look.
9.) H&M Knee-Length Shorts
For the athletically inclined, you cannot go wrong with H&M Knee Length Shorts. Along with all of the flair of the classic Chino style short, this particular variety has an elastic waistband and a gusseted groin region. The stretch-ability of these comfy shorts allows for a long stroll through the city and a hike through the woods on the same day.
As you can see, there are plenty of stylistic and practical choices to be made when you select your shorts this summer.
Chino shorts, athletic shorts, and jean shorts are all fashionable and comfortable.
Water resistance, stretch-ability, color, pockets, and fabric are all features to think think about when picking out your shorts this summer. Also, keep in mind what type of shirt and shoes you will be wearing in order to fashion the best possible outfit.
The second most important thing about shorts, after fit, is shoes. Yes, summer shoes.
You don’t want to run around looking like a clown because you decided to wear military boots or wingtips.
Depending on your preference, your budget and your location, there are so many models to choose from!
A safe bet is a pair of clean sneakers – like pictured above. White ones go with everything, but get dirty easily. A pair of leather sneakers can really do the trick, and can be found relatively cheap!
Boat shoes are also very popular, but are a quite controversial topic to some people, as some people consider it a specific style.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands, materials, and colors.