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28 Best Shorts For Men | As Tested By Our Editors [2023]

Owning the best men's shorts starts here.

Looking for the best men’s shorts to see you through summer in style? You’ve come to the right place.

A pair of cool shorts for men is an absolute necessity. Although we’ll admit there can be such a thing as a ‘right’ pair and a ‘wrong’ pair, we wouldn’t be seen stepping foot outside in a pair of outlandishly branded pair of sweat shorts for example. A well-fitting pair of chino shorts for men, however, is an entirely different ball game.

Men’s shorts can be broken down into several categories, and we’ve got you covered on all bases to guarantee that you find the best pair for you.

If you’re looking for a new pair of swimmers or board shorts, or you need to update your gym shorts or running shorts, you’ll find a whole list of brands on their respective pages.

But if warm weather is giving you a reason to get a new pair of everyday shorts for men, that can accompany you from daytime strolling to nighttime boozing, look no further as we’ve curated a list of the brands offering some of the best examples around.

Just like any well-made suit or dress shirt, shorts for men also have their own grading system for looking sharp, albeit a bit more casual. The main criteria are simple: fit, material, length, and patterns. Nail these and you’ll have one of the coolest-looking summer outfits.

Ideal Short Length

Below knee, above the knee, and short shorts. These are the three main length categories of shorts for men these days (unless you’re into reggae you shouldn’t be rocking three-quarter shorts, and you can leave basketball shorts to Adam Sandler). For the best men’s shorts look, choose lengths according to the rest of your outfit. Tees and singlets go with shorter shorts whilst below-knee and above-knee shorts pair well with casual dress shirts and polos.

How Men’s Shorts Should Fit?

Would you wear a pair of shoes that don’t fit? The same answer applies to men’s shorts. Whilst casual trends champion the idea that if a pair of men’s shorts are baggy and comfortable then they’re perfect, there’s more to it than that.

For styling purposes, a baggy pair of cargo shorts from 2003 just won’t cut it. What you need is decent tapering along the leg length which makes the wearer appear taller. There are rules though, and that’s not to go too tight, otherwise, you’re in hot pants territory. The best-fitting shorts for men don’t show the contour of your frank and beans to the public.

The fit around your waist should also be comfortable but firm, although not tight. If you can wedge your index finger between the waistband and your waist, you’ve found a perfect pair.

Top Men’s Shorts Materials

Cotton, polyester, denim… men’s shorts come in a plethora of material variations so choosing the right one is essential depending on the occasion. Cotton and organic cotton is usually the go-to item for more smart-casual looks whilst polyester covers the athleisure segment, and denim is perfect for a casual/street style look. There are also linen shorts these days and these are perfect for warm weather, you know those days when the mercury really starts to soar.

The rules are simple for prints and patterns – make sure there’s a contrast between your top and bottom. Whether that be through colour blocking or contrasting patterns, that’s entirely up to you. Just be wary of vertical lines as it can accentuate unflattering body lines if you don’t have the physique of Thor.

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