20 Pairs of Shorts to Keep You Cool All Summer Long

Whether it's because of an upcoming vacation or the changing of the seasons, it's officially time—maybe even past time—to get ready for the dog days of summer. And confounding as it may be, some men still categorically refuse to wear shorts.

But shorts, my friends, are good. Not just good, but great! The right pair of shorts will take virtually any summer outfit and render it [pause for dramatic effect] actually comfortable. Forget about sweating through your favorite tee-and-camp-collar-shirt combo. Abandon all anxiety about overheating while simply popping down the corner for a (cold brew) coffee. Just wear some damn shorts. Let your calves breathe, and maybe even let your thighs get in on the action while you're at it. Because right now, we're in a golden age of shorts. Styles ranging from the leg-baring 5-inch inseam to longer, more voluminous options that borrow from basketball shorts and fashion shorts alike are all on the table (proverbially speaking; literally speaking, they should be on your legs).

So get some of the best shorts. Ease up and cool off and enjoy the warm weather without encasing your legs in unnecessary swaths of fabric. Throw a tank top on with some workout-friendly shorts for a day at the park. Pair your trusty Patagonia Baggies with a breezy button-down at the beach. Try some cargo shorts that look genuinely cool, thanks to slimmer silhouettes and smart, technical detailing. Swap your sweatpants for sweat shorts or just throw on some classic chino shorts with a tee and call it a day. However you want to play it, though, start with this list.

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