I Found the Best Casual Shorts for Men—These Are the Only Ones Worth Buying
Photo Credit: Cole Mellone,Ro Ricci,carla-chiliquinga
There comes a point when wearing cargo shorts from 2011 just… stops being acceptable. And yet, finding a decent pair of shorts still feels weirdly complicated. Too long and you look like you’re 14 again. Too short and you’re suddenly “that guy” at brunch.
This guide fixes that.
Whether you’re heading to a barbecue, the airport, or just trying to not overheat while looking like an adult—these are the best shorts for men right now.
Quick Picks
The Heavyweight Champion: Buck Mason 6" Deck Short
The "Never-Shrink" Essential: Lululemon ABC Classic-Fit Short 7"
The Best Value Pack: Amazon Essentials Cargo Weekend Short
The Luxury Upgrade: Everlane The Pull-On Performance Chino Short
The Best Athletic Fit: Vuori Kore Short Unlined 7"
Best Casual Shorts on Amazon: Amazon Essentials Cargo Weekend Short
Best for Short Men: Abercrombie Linen-Blend Pull-On Short 6"
1. Performance Chino Shorts
Everlane
The Pull-On Performance Chino Short
$78
Looks like a chino, moves like a performance short. Great for guys who want sharp with stretch.
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2. Linen Blend Shorts
Abercrombie
Linen-Blend Pull-On Short
$65
Not too slim, not too baggy. The 6” inseam keeps it modern without going full thigh-baring.
3. Classic Fit Shorts
Lululemon
ABC Classic-Fit Short 7"
$98
Sleek enough for dinner, comfortable enough for a flight. Performance fabric that doesn’t scream gym.
4. Water Repellent Shorts
Buck Mason
6" Deck Short
$98
Trail short with structure. You can hike in these or just flex your outdoor aesthetic at Whole Foods.
5. Unlined Shorts
Vuori
Kore Short Unlined 7"
$68
Lined, breathable, and acceptable to wear in public—yes, even outside the gym.
6. Slim Linen-Cotton Short
Banana Republic
7" Linen Pull-On Short
$90.00
Perfect for sweaty city summers. Tailored enough for brunch, breezy enough for the heat.
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7. Resort Shorts
Majestic International
Saltwater Woven Lounge Shorts
$50.00
Polished but feels like lounge shorts. Feels like cheating, but it’s not.
8. J.Crew Tech Short
J.Crew
Tech Short
$89.50
Technical without looking techy. Pockets for days. Good travel move.
9. Fleece Shorts
Nike
Solo Swoosh
$50
Streetwear-approved without looking like a hype drop. Clean, minimal branding.
10. Classic Nylon Short
adidas
Adicolor Classics Recycled Nylon Sprinter Shorts
$45.00
Lightweight, elevated, and quietly confident.
11. Baggy Shorts
Elwood
Big Baggy Denim Shorts
$85.00
Wide fit that’s surprisingly wearable. Big summer energy without feeling sloppy.
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12. Linen Drawstring Shorts
Quince
100% European Linen Drawstring Beach Shorts - 7"
$44
Linen blend that doesn’t wrinkle like paper. Pull-on waistband, elevated look
13. Weekend Cargo Shorts
Amazon
Cargo Weekend Short
$24.99
Weekend fit nailed. Great drape, good structure, built for repeat wear.
14. Baggy Beach Shorts
Patagonia Baggies 5” Short
$75
Water-repellent, rugged, and still looks good with a plain tee. Summer MVP.
15. Bonobos Stretch Washed Chino Short – $89
Bonobos
Nomad Drawstring Cotton & Linen Shorts
$89.00
Soft, clean, and made for guys who need one short that can do it all.
What Makes a Good Pair of Shorts in 2026?
Inseam sweet spot: 5” to 7” depending on height
Fit: Tailored but not tight. No balloon legs. No oversized gym vibes.
Fabric: Cotton blends, linen, tech fabric. Anything that breathes.
Pockets: Subtle is good. Giant Velcro side pockets? Not invited.
