What are the Best Men’s Shorts Styles to Wear Right Now?
Start with boardshorts. Men’s boardshorts are your beach-to-street MVPs: quick-dry fabric that doesn’t cling, secure drawcord waists that actually stay put, and prints that turn a swim into a moment. Grab a solid for clean lines or a bold pattern when you want the good vibes loud. They’re built for ocean, pool, and everything in between, so you can dive, dry, and head straight to lunch.
Denim shorts are the everyday heroes. Men’s denim shorts bring that worn-in feel from day one—soft, durable, and ready for whatever. Go relaxed or baggy for extra room, or keep it classic with a straight fit that sits just above the knee. Raw hems if you like a little edge, clean hems if you’re after a sharper finish. A touch of stretch means you can move, sit, skate, and chill without the pinch. They dress up, they dress down, they never try too hard.
Fleece shorts are for comfort with intent. Men’s fleece shorts come soft on the inside, smooth on the outside, so you can lounge without looking lazy. Elastic waists, adjustable drawcords, and deep pockets make them couch-to-coffee proof. Heavy on comfort, light on effort—the perfect match for tees, crews, and hoodies when you want easy done right.
Chino shorts are your clean-cut staple. Think breathable cotton twill with a bit of give, a tidy waistband, and a straight leg that pairs with everything. Neutral colours keep it classic; seasonal tones keep it fresh. Wear them when you need to look pulled together without going full formal. They’re the “meet the parents” of Men’s Shorts—in the best way.
Cargo shorts are back and better. Roomy pockets, sturdy fabric, and a relaxed fit that’s actually flattering. They bring utility without the bulk, with modern cuts that sit right and don’t weigh you down. Perfect for days you want hands-free everything.
Training and sport shorts round out the lineup. Lightweight, breathable, and made to move, they handle gym sessions and weekend runs with ease. Some styles bring moisture-wicking fabrics or mesh panels to keep things cool, plus zip pockets to lock down your keys and card. Throw them on for workouts or any day you’re chasing that comfy-athletic vibe.
Length matters, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. If you like more leg, go 5–7 inches. For a classic hit, 7–9 inches is the sweet spot. Want extra coverage or a baggier silhouette? A longer inseam has you sorted. The only rule: pick what feels good and fits your day.
How to Style Men’s Shorts for Everyday Looks?
Keep it simple, keep it you. Denim shorts and a relaxed tee is a go-to combo that never misses. Add crew socks and clean sneakers for an easy uniform, then swap the tee for an open shirt over a tank when you want to level up. A cap or beanie pulls it together without trying.
Chino shorts make smart casual effortless. Pair them with a linen-blend shirt or a crisp tee and an overshirt, half-tuck if you’re into it, and finish with sneakers or loafers depending on the plan. Neutral shorts let your top do the talking; coloured shorts flip the script and make the fit.
For beach days, boardshorts do double duty. Wear them with a tank and slides on the sand, then throw on a button-up and low-profile sneakers to take it off-duty. Quick-dry fabric means you’re not sitting around in damp gear, and a secure waist means no slip-ups in the surf.
Fleece shorts are your laidback flex. Match with a hoodie or crew for a low-key set that looks considered, not lazy. Keep the palette tonal for an elevated take, or mix in a graphic tee when you want to play. High socks and trainers keep it sport-luxe; slides keep it chill.
Cargo shorts bring the utility look without the fuss. Balance the volume with a fitted tee or tank, or lean into the relaxed vibe with an oversized shirt. Keep accessories simple—think watch, sunglasses, crossbody bag—so the pockets do the heavy lifting without visual overload.
Fit hacks help you nail it. True-to-size gets a clean finish. Size up for that slouchy, skater look. Roll the hem on denim if you want it shorter without a trip to the tailor. Drawcord waists let you shift between tucked and untucked tops without losing comfort. And don’t sleep on socks: ankle socks keep it minimal; crews add a street edge, especially with high-tops.
How to Transition Your Shorts Style Between Seasons?
Layering is the move. When temps dip, keep the shorts and change the top half. A fleece short with a heavyweight hoodie or a crew and bomber jacket hits warm and balanced. Denim shorts pair clean with a knit and a denim jacket or varsity jacket for texture on texture. Chino shorts love an overshirt or shacket—buttoned or open over a tee—so you’re set for cool mornings and mild afternoons.
Think fabrics. Fleece and heavier twills hold warmth and give you that snug feel without going to full-length pants. Boardshorts can still work off-season when you layer up top and run a thicker sock and sneaker combo—the quick-dry factor comes in clutch on rainy days. When it warms back up, swap back to lighter cotton and linen blends to keep air moving.
Footwear flips the script fast. In cooler weather, switch to leather sneakers or high-tops and pull on cushy crew socks. When the sun shows up, rotate to canvas sneakers, slides, or sandals. If you’re commuting or dealing with drizzle, a lightweight shell over your hoodie and a water-friendly short will keep you dry and moving.
Play with colour and texture as the seasons change. Earth tones, charcoals, and deep greens feel right when it’s cooler; pastels, brights, and washed neutrals pop when the days get longer. A textured tee, ribbed knit, or brushed fleece adds depth up top so your shorts can stay simple.
If you’re training year-round, keep sport shorts in the mix with a base layer up top or under a hoodie. Breathable fabrics keep you cool when the workout heats up; a windbreaker keeps you ready when the weather turns. It’s all about balance—warm where you need it, breathable where it counts.
Bottom line: Men’s Shorts are a year-round staple, not a one-season fling. From boardshorts to denim, fleece to chinos, you’ve got options for every plan and every forecast. Pick the pair that fits your day, throw on what feels good, and get on with it. That’s the Cotton On way—easy, real, ready to live in.
