The Best Shorts for Men for Casual Wear and Active Pursuits
As summer inches closer, balmy days and sun-soaked afternoons are here to stay. With the warmer weather, it’s time for men everywhere to ditch their cozy sweatpants and pull out their breezy shorts instead. Shorts have long been a staple in every man’s wardrobe. They offer the perfect blend of functionality, breathability, and effortlessness.
With a plethora of options out there, you can choose from classic chino shorts and athletic performance wear to laidback board shorts or sleek tailored designs. No matter your style, there’s a pair of shorts that can suit every taste, activity, and occasion. To help you make your decision this summer, we’ve reviewed the top-rated shorts for men of 2024. All of these options are ideal for modern gentlemen, so keep reading to explore your options.
Comparing the Top-Rated Shorts for Men of 2024
Volcom Shorts for Men
- Comfortable and breathable material
- Simple, fashion-forward design
- Available in multiple sizes
- Limited stretchability around the waist
The Volcom Shorts for Men are designed for the modern, active man who wants both quality and aesthetic appeal in his everyday wardrobe. Crafted from a premium blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex, these chino shorts are the perfect balance of breathability, durability, and flexibility. The stretch-knit construction ensures a comfortable fit, allowing for ease of movement and long-lasting wear.
In turn, these shorts are ideal for various activities, from a casual day at the beach to a leisurely walk around town. You can trust these shorts to stay in place throughout the day. The unique asymmetrical back yoke adds a touch of style and personality to these chino shorts, setting them apart from the ordinary. Thanks to its premium material, durable stitching, and amazing fit, these shorts for men are the top choice on our list.
KUYIGO Shorts for Men
- Lightweight and breathable material
- Zippered pocket for added security
- Machine-washable and comfortable
- Sizing might be an issue
Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a jog, or enjoying a laidback day at home, the KUYIGO Shorts for Men can meet your needs. Made from a high-quality blend of cotton and polyester, these shorts are soft and breathable. Plus, they ensure all-day comfort. The drawstring closure makes for a customized and secure fit.
That way, you won’t have to worry about your shorts falling throughout the day. They won’t slip during intense workouts or become loose when you’re on the go. Thanks to its two zippered pockets and one deep back pocket, these shorts provide ample space. You can store essentials without the risk of your phone, wallet, or keys falling out. When it comes to maintenance, these shorts are machine-washable, ensuring that they remain fresh and clean with minimal effort.
Lee Shorts for Men
- Premium material for maximum durability
- Relaxed fit with wide-leg opening
- Strategically placed pockets for easy access
- Length might be an issue for some
Upgrade your summer wardrobe with Lee Shorts for Men. These extreme-motion flat shorts are crafted with an optimal blend of cotton and spandex. That way, they ensure the perfect balance of breathability and flexibility, making them suitable for any occasion. The straight fit offers a modern and flattering silhouette. Plus, the flex waistband promises maximum comfort in all situations.
The front slant pockets are designed to make accessing your essentials easy. Meanwhile, the two back welt pockets provide a secure and stylish storage solution for your phone and wallet. With a zipper fly and button closure, these shorts are easy to put on and take off. That way, you will always feel secure and comfortable. These shorts hit at the knee, offering a tailored yet casual look. This style pairs well with a variety of shirts and footwear options.
Nautica Shorts for Men
- Lightweight and stretchable fabric
- Classic, flat-front design with reliable zipper
- Deep pockets for ample storage
- May wrinkle easily
Whether you’re hitting the golf course, attending a casual outdoor event, or enjoying a day in the sun, the Nautica Shorts for Men will keep you cool and comfortable all day long. Crafted with a high-quality blend of cotton and elastane, these chino deck shorts are exceptionally breathable. The stretchability of these shorts means you won’t feel overly warm even on the hottest days.
With the flat-fit design, these shorts sit just below the waist. They have a wide leg opening that ensures ease of movement, making them perfect for both casual and active occasions. These chino shorts are equipped with a reliable zipper closure to ensure a snug fit without any hassle. Additionally, these shorts have deep pockets for ample storage. Try pairing them with a crisp white shirt for a polished look. You can also dress them down with a casual tee for laid-back vibes.
Carhartt Shorts for Men
- Comfortable and flexible fit
- Smooth-moving zipper closure
- Machine-washable and comfortable material
- Limited color variety
Experience the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and style with these Carhartt Shorts for Men. Made with premium ripstop cotton, these shorts are built to withstand the test of time. They can resist tears and rips, even in the most demanding of situations. With rugged flex technology, these shorts can give you greater freedom of movement, making them perfect for work, play, or leisure.
Featuring FastDry technology, these shorts wick away moisture and sweat. From there, they can keep you dry and fresh in the summer heat. These shorts also have a convenient zipper closure. As a result, they are easy to slip on and off. Plus, they feature six strategically placed pockets, allowing you to store your belongings with ease. Available in five versatile colors, you can effortlessly style these shorts with your favorite tees, polos, and button-ups.
Buying Guide: Shorts for Men
Whether you’re dressing up for a casual Friday or gearing up for an outdoor adventure, a good pair of shorts is essential for every man’s wardrobe. But with so many styles, materials, and brands to choose from, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide. Let us help you navigate the world of men’s shorts and find the perfect pair for your needs.
Features to Consider When Selecting Men’s Shorts
Fabric
The foundation of any great pair of shorts is the fabric. Shorts should be breathable, durable, and comfortable. Common fabrics that embody these qualities include cotton, linen, polyester, and nylon. Cotton is a popular choice thanks to its softness and breathability. On the other hand, linen provides a lightweight and airy feel. Polyester and nylon offer moisture-wicking properties, making them perfect for athletic tasks or outdoor activities. Regardless of which material you go with, make sure your shorts have a smooth and wrinkle-resistant finish. It should have double-stitched flat seams to prevent chafing and irritation as well.
Fit
A well-fitting pair of shorts is crucial for the sake of comfort and style. Slim-fit shorts are ideal if you want a more tailored look. On the other hand, regular or relaxed-fit shorts provide a casual, comfortable vibe. Consider your body type and personal preference when deciding on which fit is right for you. Also, pay attention to the opening of the legs. It should be wide enough to allow for easy movement without being too baggy.
Length
The length of your shorts can either make or break your entire look. As a general rule, your shorts should hit either at or just above the knee. This is how you can create a timeless and versatile style. However, shorter lengths that reach mid-thigh are trendy. They can also be an excellent choice for athletic styles or beachwear. Longer lengths reach just below the knee. They contribute to a streetwear-inspired aesthetic. Either way, ultimately, the length should complement your proportions and meet your comfort preferences.
Pockets
Pockets can be both functional and stylish. Classic shorts usually have two front pockets as well as one or two back pockets. They typically provide ample space for storing essentials, like your phone, wallet, and keys. Cargo shorts feature additional pockets on the sides. These add a rugged and utilitarian look to any outfit. If you’re going for a minimalist or tailored style, opt for shorts with fewer pockets instead.
Waistband
The waistband you choose will play a significant role in the overall comfort and fit of your shorts. Elastic waistbands offer flexibility, making them perfect for athletic or lounging purposes. Button or hook-and-eye closures provide a more polished appearance. Alternatively, drawstrings allow for easy adjustments. If opting for an adjustable band, make sure it isn’t too tight when you fasten it. Otherwise, you might end up experiencing an unpleasant, uncomfortable feeling whenever you wear shorts all day long.
Style
Shorts for men are available in various styles, including cargo shorts, denim shorts, and chino shorts. Cargo shorts are great for outdoor activities, while denim shorts offer a laidback, casual vibe. Chino shorts are perfect for dressing up or down, depending on the occasion. Consider your lifestyle and wardrobe needs when choosing the right style.
Color
Shorts offer a fantastic opportunity to experiment with color. Classic colors, like navy, khaki, and gray, are wardrobe staples. On the other hand, bolder hues such as red, green, or patterned options add a pop of personality. When selecting a color, consider the other pieces in your wardrobe to ensure a cohesive look.
People Also Asked
A: The appropriate length for men's shorts varies based on several factors. These may include personal style, body type, and occasion. However, a general rule of thumb is that the inseam length should fall just above the knee or mid-thigh. That way, your shorts will still be comfortable while leaving you with room for mobility.
A: To choose the right size for your shorts, measure your waist and hips. Do this using a flexible measuring tape. Compare these measurements to the size chart provided by the brand or retailer. Then, purchase shorts accordingly.
A: Cargo shorts are still in style, particularly for those who prefer a rugged or utilitarian look. However, cargo shorts have garnered some controversy in recent years. Some fashion experts consider them to be outdated. However, if you enjoy wearing cargo shorts, opt for a slim-fit pair that has minimal pockets. That way, you can experience a modern take on the classic style.
A: Always follow the care instructions on the label of the shorts. Generally speaking, it's best to wash your shorts in cold water. Then, hang them up to dry so that you can actively prevent them from shrinking. This will lower the odds that the colors will fade as well. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents. Last but not least, iron your shorts on a low setting only as needed.
A: Whether or not you can wear shorts to the office will depend on your workplace's dress code. In more casual or creative environments, shorts might be acceptable, especially during the summer months. However, in more formal settings, it's best to stick to long trousers or chinos.