The Hottest Men’s Shorts We’re Wearing This Summer

John Lonsdale, Oscar Hartzog and Kyle Lamar Rice
·8 min read

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Taking cues from two-time voted Most Stylish Musician Tyler, the Creator, it’s important to secure the basics: a t-shirt layered underneath a jacket or sweater, slip-on shoes, and the piece-de-resistance shorts.

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But just because they are the building blocks for a splashier fit doesn’t mean you should settle for anything less than the best. Finding quality shorts can be a process, and with so many styles currently in vogue — from chino shorts for dressier occasions to cargo shorts for streetwear looks to hybrid shorts for hikes and beach vacations — the ideal shorts collection should be several pairs deep.

In other words, building out a collection is no easy task. To simplify things, we’ve rounded up some of the best men’s shorts online. From brands you love, like Nike and Levi’s, to some you probably never heard of but are a great addition to the wardrobe.

The Hottest Men’s Shorts Right Now

1. Carhartt Organic Cotton Canvas Carpenter Shorts, $118

Editor’s Pick

When it comes to versatility, there is nothing better than a look that can shift between daytime and evening wear. For men, during hot temperatures when pants aren’t an option, this comes in the form of black shorts. Something longer that sits around the knee or below can easily pass off as upscale when paired with a blazer and loafers. We recommend these Carhartt Carpenter shorts in black for a casual daytime look that can easily transition to a night out. Or, if you’re looking for something more dressed, the longer length and pleated front on these Y-3 Lose-Fit shorts ($330 $215) are a great must-have. Buy Carhartt Organic Cotton Canvas Carpenter Shorts, $118 at Nordstrom

2. Lululemon Commission Shorts, $88

Most Versatile

Despite their crisp, pulled-together look, these Commission shorts from Lululemon are ready for action. The fabric is quick-drying and boasts four-way stretch, but it also hangs nicely (more like slacks than shorts) thanks to added Lycra. This performance focus means you can rock these shorts to yoga class or to the gym, but we think they really shine on busy days in the summer heat. Pair them with a casual button-up and simple sneakers for a versatile weekend look. Or, punch it up with these Rhude Red Print shorts ($430 $314). They’re more casual than the Commissions, but with a crisp white button-up you can easily go from the field to a nice lunch date. Buy Lululemon Commission Shorts, $88 at Lululemon

3. Youth Black Paneled Shorts, $250 $163

Dressy Edit

For something dressy, it really comes down to material and color. Opt for something black to start, which is always great for upscale. Next, shoot for light wool, which will show less creasing and wrinkles as you move and remain crisp throughout the day. We recommend going with something from the brand Youth, like these Black Paneled shorts. Their longer inseam differentiates them from casual shorts, and the paneling adds enough intrigue to keep them looking stylish. Or, check out these Comme des Garçons Four Pocket Shorts ($415) which feature a slightly shorter inseam that ends slightly above the knee and a more structured silhouette. Buy Youth Black Paneled Shorts, $250 $163 at Ssense

4. Banana Republic Core Temp Short, $60

Chinos

Good, classic chino shorts are still a go-to piece of any summer wardrobe. We’re big fans of these Core Temp chino shorts from Banana Republic. They’re a well-made, no-frills take on the warm weather staple, and they come in a wide range of colors to match your style. Also chack out these Madewell 7-Inch CoolMax Chinos ($70) from Nordstrom that come pre-worn for some vintage light fading and texture. Buy Banana Republic Core Temp Short, $60 at Banana Republic

5. Levi’s 405 Standard Denim 10″ Shorts, $50

Jorts

Levi’s historically has some of the best denim. From workerwear to a casual everyday jeans, their selections are endless. That’s why for jorts, the only recommendation we have comes from a selection of Levi’s. The 405 Standards are a classic fit that come in a variety of colorways. We also love the 469 Loose Jean 12.5″ shorts for something larger or oversized. Incorporate these into an upscale look by pairing it with a button-down. Or take notes from our very own Delisa Shannon and rock something edgy with a pair of high-knee boots and a leather jacket. Buy Levi’s 405 Standard Denim 10″ Shorts, $50 at Levi’s

6. AAPA by BAPE Khaki Cargo Shorts, $145 $64

Cargos

If you’re going to lean into the cargo shorts look, then lean all the way in. Cropped above the knee and covered in pockets is a bit dorky, especially when paired with dad sneakers and tall white socks, but we love this trope. Nothing says cooler than going full Steve Urkel and doing it with confidence. For something a bit more chill, try these True Religion Grey Cargos ($129) from Nordstrom. They look similar to the pair A$AP Rocky wore on date night with Rihanna and feature some added details that elevate their styling. Buy AAPA Khaki Moonface Patch Cargo Shorts, $145 $64 at Ssense

7. Pleasures Twitch Waffle Sweat Shorts, $72

Relaxed Edit

There’s nothing better than strolling through life in comfort, and these Twitch Waffle Sweat shorts from Pleasures will get you there. Their soft baggy material and drawstring waist are great for rolling out of bed into your morning yoga routine. Or slip them on for a quick run to the grocery store. We also really love these Global Cotton Sweat Shorts ($160) from brand the Icecream for something more graphic and fun. Buy Pleasures Twitch Waffle Sweat Shorts, $72 at Nordstrom

8. Nike Dri-FIT Challenger Athletic Shorts, $40

Athletic

Stretchy, sweat-wicking, and fitted with pockets, these Nike Challenger Athletic shorts will keep you dry and flexible during your most intense workouts. The fabric will you from in the gym to distance runs in these all-activity shorts. Or, for a pop of color, check out these Nike Green Dri-Fit Shorts ($105) from Ssense. Same sweat wicking material to keep you dry, and stretch in the fabric will give you room to move. Buy Nike Dri-FIT Challenger Athletic Shorts, $40 at Nordstrom

9. Madewell Sun Faded Chino Shorts, $75

Vintage

For something with a little bit of wear and sun bleached texture, opt for the Madewell Sun Faded Chino shorts. Featured in two untraditional colors and made from breathable cotten for long days outside. We also like these Les Tien Grey Yacht shorts ($165) from Ssense that feature a raw hem and faded coloring. Buy Madewell Sun Faded Chino Shorts, $75 at Nordstrom

10. Buck Mason Deck Shorts, $98

Casual Edit

We’ve worn Buck Mason’s cotton-and-nylon Deck shorts more than probably any other men’s shorts over the last few years. There’s nothing flashy about them, but they have a casual vintage vibe that looks like something a Sixties movie star might have worn on vacation. Buck Mason offers them in multiple colors, and we’re consistently surprised by how a pair of stylish shorts could feel this comfortable to wear. We also really love these Yellow Drawstring Shorts ($70) from Essentials at Ssesne for a pop of color. Buy Buck Mason Deck Shorts, $98 at Buck Mason

Men’s Shorts Buying Guide

Here are a few things to consider when shopping for the best men’s shorts online. First, decide when and where you’re going to wear them. That’ll help you decide on the most important features to keep in mind while you’re shopping, like fit, fabric, and style.

Fit: How your shorts fit is a personal decision. Do you want something that feels loose and adds mobility, or do you want a slimmer pair? We included a range of silhouettes in this guide, but you’ll want to decide between a shorter fit (around a five-inch inseam) or a long fit (anything over a 7-inch inseam).

Fabric: We prefer more breathable shorts for summer, and you’ll find a mix of styles above, ranging from shorts made with blends of cotton, nylon, and other materials.

Style: From swim trunks disguised as casual shorts to slim-fit chinos, there are endless styles to choose from. This guide includes all of the above to help you find the right shorts for your style. In short, all of our picks are versatile enough that you can wear them for years to come for almost any activity.

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