The best shorts this summer are the ones you want to wear
Words by
Cory Ohlendorf
Photography by
Courtesy
Published
May 13, 2024
Note
Items featured in this story are independently selected by the editorial team. Purchasing via our links may earn Valet. a portion of the sale, which helps fund our editorial mission.
First the bad news: We've got a few months of sweltering heat and humidity ahead of us. But the good news? You likely have a vacation planned, and even if you don't, you can still pull on a pair of shorts to survive the dog days of summer in style and comfort. Now, I know that some men still flat out refuse to wear shorts. And I get it.
For far too long, our options were relegated to bad pairs that made men look juvenile or were simply unflattering. But it's safe to say that we're currently living in the golden age of shorts. There are no hard and fast rules of what's in style or not. You want to show off the quads you've been building at the gym? Then slip on some seriously short-shorts. There are plenty of five-inch inseams on the market today. Looking for something a bit more modest, but no less breezy and relaxed? You could go with a boxy knee-length style, complete with pleats for a relaxed, continental vibe that looks particularly nice with a pair of well-worn loafers. Maybe you want some easygoing gorp-y nylon shorts that can also take some splashing around the pool. The point is, there are no wrong ways to wear shorts in 2024. To help you make a decision, we've pulled together our top 20 pairs to sport this summer.
Advertisem*nt
The Best Shorts
for Men
in 2024
Vintage washed short,
$130 by Alex Mill
Chino Shorts
A classic choice that is adaptable and comfortable. Go for a shorter inseam for a more retro look, or size up and go longer for a relaxed, modern look that pairs nicely with lightweight, long-sleeve shirts.
365 short,
$78 by Flint and Tinder
Chino short,
$39.90 by UNIQLO
Granite mountain short,
$95 by Filson
Advertisem*nt
Baggies short,
$65 by Patagonia
Nylon Shorts
Want to add some advanced tech vibes and water resistance to your look? Throw on some nylon shorts that pair nicely with sneakers or sandals.
Pleated Shorts
An old-school look that wouldn't have been considered a few summers ago. But some roomy pleated shorts add some relaxed sophistication to your warm weather look.
Advertisem*nt
Embroidered mesh short,
$50 / $37.50 by Abercrombie & Fitch
Wild Card Shorts
Shorts, by definition, are more casual than pants and thus, allow for a little more fun. You want at least one pair that's a little unexpected. Maybe it's some cut-offs or cords, maybe it's embroidered details.
Advertisem*nt
Linen easy short,
$70 / $53 by Everlane
Drawstring Shorts
The quintessential pair of shorts. Lightweight and comfortable, they's so easy they don't require buttons or zippers. Just slide them on and tie your waistband.
Seersucker short,
$88 by Flint and Tinder
Tech dock short,
$69.50 / $29.50 by J.Crew
Jacquard short,
$165 by Corridor
A Note on
Proportions
While there aren’t hard and fast rules when it comes to the length of your shorts, you can use the inseam to your advantage. If you’re under 5’ 9” or have thicker legs, shorter shorts will make you look longer and leaner. The longer the hems (those hitting closer to the knee), the more your shorts should be less fitted and more relaxed.
Want More Style?
Sign up for The Obtainer newsletter. Three times a week you'll get insider intel on what to buy, trusted recommendations and reviews, along with the best deals worth your time and money.
