9 Best Shorts for Men: Top Picks for Summer, Beach, Running, and Lounge Comfort

Summer’s just around the corner, and it’s time to swap out those heavy jeans for something more comfortable. Whether you’re hitting the beach, going for a hike, or just lounging at home, the right pair of shorts can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, finding the perfect pair can be a challenge.

1. Best Overall Shorts for Men

When it comes to finding the best overall shorts for men, you’ll want a pair that combines style, comfort, and versatility. Whether you’re heading to the beach or running errands, the perfect shorts can make all the difference.

Features to Consider

1. Material: Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. These materials keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather.
2. Fit: Choose shorts that fit well around the waist and provide enough room in the thighs without being too baggy. A tailored fit offers a sleek, modern look.
3. Length: Opt for a length that suits your style and activity. Shorts that end just above the knee are versatile and flattering for most body types.
4. Pockets: Functional pockets are essential. Ensure there are enough pockets for your daily essentials like keys, wallet, and phone.
5. Design: Go for classic colors and patterns to ensure your shorts are versatile. Neutral tones like khaki, navy, and black pair well with various tops.

1. Patagonia: Known for their durability and eco-friendly fabrics, Patagonia offers stylish and functional shorts perfect for outdoor activities.
2. Bonobos: Praised for their tailored fit and premium materials, Bonobos shorts are great for casual and semi-formal occasions.
3. Lululemon: A top choice for activewear, Lululemon shorts are made with high-performance materials ideal for workouts and casual wear.
4. J.Crew: Renowned for their classic and timeless designs, J.Crew shorts offer a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
5. Nike: Known for their sports-centric designs, Nike shorts provide comfort and style for everyday wear and athletic activities.

2. Best Athletic Shorts

You need reliable, comfortable athletic shorts for intense workouts and sports. The best options combine performance, durability, and style.

Ideal for Sports and Workouts

Choose shorts with moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry. Look for a flexible waistband for comfort during movement. Shorts with built-in liners provide added support and reduce chafing. Knee-length options offer enough coverage without restricting mobility. Prioritize those with practical features like zippered pockets to keep your essentials secure. Opt for lightweight, breathable materials to enhance your overall performance.

1. Nike: Known for their Dri-FIT technology, Nike shorts quickly wick away sweat, keeping you cool and dry.
2. Adidas: With Climalite fabric, Adidas shorts offer excellent moisture management and comfort.
3. Under Armour: These shorts feature HeatGear technology, providing ultimate comfort by regulating body temperature.
4. Reebok: Reebok offers durable shorts ideal for high-intensity workouts and cross-training sessions.
5. Lululemon: Lululemon’s shorts are designed for serious athletes, offering a perfect balance of comfort, support, and style.

Invest in high-quality athletic shorts to enhance your sports performance and comfort.

3. Best Denim Shorts

Denim shorts are a classic wardrobe staple, blending casual comfort with rugged style. Here are some key choices for your collection.

Stylish and Durable Choices

1. Levi’s 511 Slim Cutoffs
   Levi’s, a name synonymous with quality denim, offers the 511 Slim Cutoffs. These shorts feature a slim fit that stays close to your body without being too tight. Made from premium fabric, they ensure lasting durability and resist wear and tear.
2. Wrangler Authentics Classic 5-Pocket Denim Shorts
   Wrangler delivers timeless style with their Authentics Classic 5-Pocket Denim Shorts. Known for their sturdy construction and practical design, these shorts offer roomy pockets and a comfortable fit. Ideal for everyday wear, they’re made from durable denim that withstands frequent use.
3. Lee Men’s Regular Fit Jean Shorts
   Lee offers a comfortable yet stylish solution with their Regular Fit Jean Shorts. Combining a classic fit with durable denim, these shorts provide flexibility and breathability. Their traditional design and resilience make them a reliable choice for any casual outing.

1. Abercrombie & Fitch Denim Shorts
   Abercrombie & Fitch brings contemporary fashion to the forefront with their Denim Shorts. Featuring a modern cut and distressed detailing, these shorts add a trendy edge to your look. They’re crafted for comfort and longevity, blending softness with sturdy denim.
2. ALLSAINTS Lennox Denim Shorts
   ALLSAINTS offers the Lennox Denim Shorts for a sleek, urban vibe. With a slim fit and subtle washes, these shorts exude sophistication. Made from high-quality materials, they promise both style and lasting wear, perfect for a polished casual ensemble.
3. American Eagle Denim Shorts
   American Eagle is known for their casual yet fashionable clothing, and their Denim Shorts are no exception. These shorts feature a relaxed fit that ensures comfort without sacrificing style. Made from resilient denim, they offer versatility and ease for various occasions.

By selecting from these top choices, you can enjoy both style and durability in your denim shorts, ensuring you’re always ready for any casual event.

4. Best Cargo Shorts

Cargo shorts are a perfect blend of practicality and style for any casual outing. Whether you’re hiking or running errands, these shorts provide ample storage and durable wear.

Functional and Fashionable

Cargo shorts offer a multitude of pockets to keep your essentials handy. Features like reinforced stitching ensure they last through all your adventures. Opt for designs with a modern fit to keep your look contemporary. Lightweight, breathable fabrics enhance comfort, especially during warmer months.

Leading Cargo Shorts Brands

Carhartt
Renowned for its rugged durability, Carhartt’s cargo shorts withstand tough conditions while providing a comfortable fit.

Dockers
Famed for stylish, versatile shorts, Dockers integrates timeless designs with functional features.

Columbia
Using advanced materials and technology, Columbia’s cargo shorts focus on outdoor performance without compromising style.

Levi’s
Known for quality and durability, Levi’s delivers cargo shorts that combine comfort, function, and a classic look.

Patagonia
Patagonia emphasizes sustainability, producing eco-friendly cargo shorts with high durability and practical features.

These brands offer reliable options to suit any need, ensuring you stay stylish and prepared for any activity.

5. Best Chino Shorts

Chino shorts are a staple every man needs in his wardrobe. They combine style and comfort in a way that makes them ideal for various occasions.

Versatile for Casual and Semi-Formal Wear

Chino shorts are incredibly versatile. You can easily pair them with a t-shirt for a casual look or with a button-down shirt for a more polished appearance. Their structured design and fabric make them perfect for weekend outings, casual Fridays, or even summer parties. Opt for neutral colors like khaki, navy, or gray to maximize their mix-and-match potential.

1. Bonobos Stretch Washed Chino Shorts – These offer a great combination of stretch and comfort, available in multiple colors.
2. J.Crew Mercantile Chino Shorts – Known for their durability and classic fit, these are a great everyday choice.
3. Uniqlo Men’s Kando Shorts – Lightweight and sleek, these are perfect for warmer days.
4. Gap Modern Khaki Shorts – These feature a modern fit and are perfect for a versatile wardrobe.
5. Dockers Perfect Short – True to its name, this pair offers excellent fit and comfort.

Whether you dress them up or down, chino shorts are a reliable choice for any occasion.

6. Best Board Shorts

Board shorts are essential for beach enthusiasts. They’re known for their durability, quick-drying material, and comfort.

Perfect for the Beach

Board shorts excel in beach settings. Their lightweight fabric keeps you comfortable, while the quick-drying material ensures you’re not weighed down by water. Most have longer cuts that protect from sun and sand. Look for features like secure pockets and adjustable waistbands for added convenience.

1. O’Neill: Known for their innovative Hyperfreak fabric, offering max stretch and quick drying.
2. Quiksilver: Offers a range of styles with DryFlight water-repellent hydrophobic coating.
3. Billabong: Features Recycler Series, made from recycled materials, eco-friendly and durable.
4. Hurley: Renowned for Phantom technology, providing flexible, lightweight shorts.
5. RVCA: Combines artistic designs with high-performance fabrics for unique yet functional shorts.

Choose these brands to ensure style and comfort on the beach.

7. Best Running Shorts

Finding the best running shorts can make a huge difference in your performance and comfort during runs. Here are important aspects to consider, along with some top picks to get you started.

Designed for Comfort and Performance

Focus on Fit and Fabric. Running shorts should be lightweight and made from moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry. Look for a snug fit that doesn’t restrict your movement, coupled with a breathable design.

Consider Built-In Liners. Many running shorts come with built-in liners that provide additional support and reduce chafing. This can enhance your overall comfort during long runs.

Prioritize Pockets. Opt for shorts with secure pockets for essentials like keys or energy gels. Zippered pockets help keep your items safe and minimize distractions.

1. Nike Flex Stride: These shorts offer a flexible fabric that moves with you, an inner brief for added support, and multiple pockets for storage.
2. Adidas Own The Run: With a focus on moisture management, these shorts feature AEROREADY technology to keep you dry and comfortable.
3. Under Armour Launch: Lightweight and quick-drying, these shorts have built-in mesh panels for enhanced ventilation and comfort.
4. New Balance Accelerate: Known for their lightweight design and comfort, these shorts have a built-in brief and storage options, ideal for runners at any level.
5. Brooks Sherpa: With a blend of polyester and spandex, these shorts provide a perfect balance of stretch and durability. The chafe-free liner adds another layer of comfort.

8. Best Bermuda Shorts

Ideal for Summer Days

Bermuda shorts are perfect for those hot summer days when you need something a bit longer but still airy. Crafted from lightweight fabrics, they offer excellent breathability, ensuring you stay cool even in high temperatures. Whether you’re strolling on the boardwalk or running errands, Bermuda shorts provide the right blend of coverage and comfort.

1. Tommy Bahama Linen Blend – Known for their high-quality fabric, Tommy Bahama’s Bermuda shorts made of linen blend offer supreme comfort and a relaxed fit. Perfect for beach outings or casual gatherings.
2. J.Crew 9″ Stretch Bermudas – These shorts offer a tailored fit with added stretch, making them comfortable for all-day wear. The variety of colors also gives you plenty of options to match your style.
3. Ralph Lauren Classic Fit – Known for their timeless style, Ralph Lauren’s Bermuda shorts are ideal for dressier casual events. They come in classic colors and feature a comfortable fit.
4. Dockers Perfect Short – Offering a blend of cotton and elastane, these Bermuda shorts are great for everyday wear. They provide just the right amount of stretch for added mobility.
5. Columbia Silver Ridge – Designed for the active man, these shorts come with moisture-wicking properties and sun protection. They are perfect for outdoor adventures and hiking.
6. Bonobos Lightweight Bermuda – These shorts are tailored to perfection with a lightweight fabric that ensures you stay cool. The sleek design makes them suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
7. Old Navy Ultimate Tech – Affordable and stylish, these Bermuda shorts feature high-tech fabric that provides excellent breathability and comfort. Ideal for active summer days.
8. Lands’ End Comfort Waist – Featuring an adjustable waistband, these shorts are perfect for those who prioritize comfort. The durable material is great for everyday wear.

9. Best Lounge Shorts

Ultimate Relaxation and Comfort

Finding the perfect lounge shorts ensures you stay comfortable at home or on laid-back days. Look for options with soft fabrics like cotton, jersey, or a cotton-blend for ultimate relaxation. Features like elastic waistbands, drawstrings, and relaxed fits enhance comfort. Consider shorts with pockets to keep essentials close.

Leading Lounge Shorts Brands

Several brands excel in providing high-quality lounge shorts:

1. Lululemon: Known for their buttery-soft fabrics and athletic-inspired design. Their shorts offer both comfort and style.
2. Hanes: Offers classic cotton shorts that are durable and budget-friendly. They’re a staple in many wardrobes.
3. Tommy John: Specializes in luxurious loungewear with premium fabrics. Their shorts are perfect for those who prioritize comfort.
4. Champion: Blends style and practicality. Their lounge shorts often come with a relaxed fit and moisture-wicking technology.
5. Uniqlo: Known for minimalistic and functional designs. Their shorts provide comfort with a touch of modern style.

These brands ensure you get the best blend of comfort and durability in your lounge shorts, making them perfect for any relaxed setting.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pair of shorts can elevate your summer wardrobe, offering both style and comfort for various activities. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going for a run, or lounging at home, there’s a perfect pair of shorts out there for you. From versatile chino shorts to durable board shorts and comfortable lounge shorts, the options are endless.

Investing in high-quality brands ensures you get the best in terms of fabric, fit, and functionality. So go ahead and refresh your wardrobe with these top picks, and you’ll be ready to tackle any summer adventure in style.