RS Recommends: Beat the Heat With These Short Shorts
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Shorts have a clear goal: keep our legs cool and comfortable. The best short shorts for men might do that better than the longer shorts we’re used to buying.
By most standards, short shorts are anything with an inseam measuring five inches or less. This usually places the hem around mid-thigh, providing maximum mobility and plenty of airiness. As any runner knows, short shorts are the best choice for prolonged exercise where extra fabric coverage is superfluous.
But the best short shorts aren’t just for exercise. Men have been grabbing thigh-high shorts as a fashion statement since the Sixties, showing some skin and upgrading off-duty relaxation in the process. Today, as wardrobes get more casual, men are breaking out short shorts of all flavors for relaxation and style, as well as exercise.
The Best Short Shorts for Men
Whether you’re stocking up for an end-of-summer vacation or looking to upgrade your stay-at-home clothing, we’ve got you covered (or, rather, uncovered). Below are some of the best short shorts for men, including picks for working out to stylish, street-ready short shorts.
1. Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short
Lululemon is making some of the best athletic gear for men right now, but pieces like these Pace Breaker shorts are just as good for lounging on hot days as they are for workouts or yoga. Made of a super lightweight polyester-elastane blend fabric, the shorts boast four-way stretch and moisture-wicking powers that are especially helpful for sweaty errand running.
Buy Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short $68
2. UO 5” Corduroy Volley Short
Thanks to Seventies nostalgia and skater fashion, corduroy has made a comeback recently. But you don’t have to give it up when the temperatures rise, as proven by these Volley shorts from Urban Outfitters. With a wide fit, the shorts deliver added breathability to make up for the fabric’s thickness. They look great too, showcasing a throwback look that pairs well with dad sneakers and a baggy tee.
Buy UO 5” Corduroy Volley Short $55
3. Sporty & Rich Big Apple Short
Sporty & Rich specializes in preppy, retro-inspired pieces with an athletic edge. These Big Apple shorts are a good example of the brand’s vibe. Made of lightweight cotton, they’re technically “running shorts,” but we would rather wear them for leisure (say, to a fancy picnic in the park).
Buy Sporty & Rich Big Apple Short $95
4. Vuori Banks Short
Think of these Vuori Banks shorts as a Swiss Army knife of summer clothing. They’re ready for workouts, swims, and relaxing — all in one day — and they look good doing all three. This versatility is largely thanks to a light, four-way stretch fabric that dries quickly, wicks sweat, and even fends off odor. They’ve also got waist pockets and a zip pocket at the hip to secure small items while you move.
5. Outdoor Voices High Stride 5-Inch Short
These High Stride shorts from Outdoor Voices are exactly what we want on a hot day. They’re made of a stretchy, ultra-lightweight recycled polyester for handling sweat — be it from working out or sitting in the car. With a five-inch inseam, they’re definitely short, but a built-in liner keeps things secure while moving around. Plus, the short shorts feature a hidden pocket for your smartphone. Throw them on with a light T-shirt while lounging at home, heading to yoga or going on a run.
Buy Outdoor Voices High Stride Short $68
6. Ten Thousand Session Short
If you plan on working out in your short shorts, these Ten Thousand Sessions are probably your best bet. Boasting a minimalist design and optional five-inch inseam, the shorts are made to stay out of the way while exercising. Throughout the parred-down shorts are vents and perforation that further upgrade the breathable, lightweight feel. Thanks to Ten Thousand’s clever pocket system, the shorts can securely carry your phone, keys and wallet — even while running. Add an optional anti-odor, anti-chafe boxer liner and you’ve got shorts that can handle almost anything. Multiple colors available.
Buy Ten Thousand Session Short $54+
7. J. Crew 5-Inch Stretch Chino Short
Great non-athletic-looking short shorts can be difficult to come by, which is why we love these chino shorts from J. Crew. Although they’re styled like classic chino shorts, they feature a stretch fabric to compete with activewear. That means you can comfortably walk the streets on a hot day, navigate airports or even play a few sets of tennis before hitting a restaurant. Pair them with a tee and sneakers during the day or an oxford shirt and loafers on summer evenings.
Buy J. Crew Stretch Chino Short $69.50
8. Patagonia Baggies 5-Inch Short
Patagonia Baggies have monopolized shorts, appearing on streets, trails and beaches (and the legs of celebrities like Kanye West). Once you try on a pair of the water-resistant nylon shorts, it’s easy to understand why they’ve become so popular. They’re very comfortable — especially with a five-inch inseam — and ridiculously durable thanks to the nylon material.
With extra-deep pockets, you’ve got enough room to stash your water bottle, phone, keys and wallet. Since they’re water-resistant, the shorts are also ready for an impromptu swim at any time. Wear them with sandals and no top while lounging by the pool, or go streetstyle with expensive sneakers and a logo T-shirt.
Buy Patagonia Baggies Short $38.50+
9. Tracksmith Twilight Short
Running brand Tracksmith has caught out attention recently with its blend of modern utility and vintage style. These Twilight Shorts, one of our favorites from the New England brand, are engineered with modern fabrics that can handle a marathon, but they’re stylish enough to wear around town. The shell is made of an ultra-lightweight polyester-elastane fabric and a built-in liner is made of Polygiene. Take them on morning runs and then keep them on for the rest of the day while doing chores and binging TV shows.
Buy Tracksmith Twilight Short $58
10. Nike Dri-FIT Flex Stride
If you’re hitting the trails (or just looking for some technical, outdoor-style shorts) grab a pair of these Nike Dri-FIT Flex Strides. They’re designed for wilderness activity with targeted perforation and plenty of storage for snacks, essentials and even an extra layer. You also get Nike’s famous sweat-wicking technology, Dri-FIT, as well as 20% spandex in the fabric for mobility and lightweight comfort.