Shaq and Kobe Scooby-Shaggy. Wine and Cheese Three of the best duos you’ll ever come across. Yet while I’d love to discuss NBA legends, cartoons, and how I spend my Friday nights, I’m actually here to talk about another perfect pairing: shorts and summer. More specifically, I’m talking about the best casual men’s shorts.
Casual shorts will be your best friend in the warm weather and beyond. These shorts are more breathable than jeans and khakis. They also come in an array of styles that can easily be incorporated into your daily outfits.
Continue reading to see my list of the best options. You’ll find a selection of seriously stylish shorts for every budget and occasion.
What you need to know
This list was created after I went through dozens and dozens and reviews to prepare you for the summer months. The transition from winter to summer is a time when men need to switch up their wardrobe. Casual shorts are the perfect option for this. As temperatures rise, the comfort and style of your lower-half attire become paramount—with jeans and other types of trousers or pants taking a back seat.
So, whether you’re planning beach getaways, backyard barbecues, or just looking for a new everyday option, choosing the right pair of casual shorts can make all the difference. Let me show you a variety of designs that are not to be missed, including
Why it’s great: They are as classic as they can be
How to wear them Where should I begin? These can be worn anywhere and with anything. With an Oxford shirt and loafers you can make it more formal or go super casual with a crewneck tee, canvas sneakers and a crewneck tee. Don’t forget a belt if you’re tucking in your top.
There are some flaws in the design, but these are not major problems. I find these types of shorts are quite prone to creasing, especially if you’re spending a lot of time sitting down. But I say embrace them and you’ll be just fine.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: 28-36 | Colors Available: 3 | Fit: Slim & Regular
Why it’s great: It’s not just the affordable price tag that impresses me, these shorts are a super versatile addition to your everyday rotation—looking just as good at backyard parties as they do for stuffy days in the office. They’re woven in a cotton fabric for maximum softness, while there’s a drawstring waistband (like you’d find on swim shorts) to ensure a comfortable fit. If you’re looking for something to keep your wallet close by, the side pockets are the perfect place.
How to wear them There’s a reason these are one of the best casual shorts for men. They’ll look the part with a wide range of staples, from button-down shirts to striped tees and lightweight sweaters.
A few flaws are not enough to stop you: They come with a mock fly, so bear this in mind when you’re running to the bathroom after sinking a few Jack Daniel’s and coke.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: XS-XXXL | Colors Available: 3 | Fit: You can also read about our Regular
Why it’s great: KUON’s casual shorts have proven to be luxurious too. Made from a lightweight cotton twill fabric, the brand’s pleated pair will give relaxed ensembles a polished edge that’ll ensure you’re suitably dressed for parties, park days, and everything in-between.
How to wear them Wear yours with a baggy shirt and chunky sneakers to keep with the theme. A loose knitted jumper and high-top shoes are also a great choice.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. This loose fit can swallow small frames and accentuate skinny legs. These look very high-fashion.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: M-XL | Colors Available: 2 | Fit: Loose
Why it’s great: Apart from the generous number of pockets on offer, it’s the timeless appeal of these cargo shorts that I love the most. They’ll be your go-to for many seasons to come—taking you from early spring right through the summer and beyond. My favorite is the khaki colourway, but they’re available in a wide range of other colors too.
How to wear them You’re spoilt for outfit options. On particular warm days, they’ll look great with a ribbed tank top and box-fresh sneakers. A band tee paired with high-tops or a oversized tee will give you maximum style.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. If you’re a fan of short shorts, you may not like the mid-length of these cargos. They fall at the knee, but may appear longer if you’re on the small side.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: 28-44 | Colors Available: 15 | Fit: You can also read about our Regular
Why it’s great: I’ve been turning to Isto for my basics for a while now and the label’s organic cotton shorts have never let me down. Versatile and effortlessly stylish, they’re slightly cropped to show off the perfect amount of thigh, while the zip fly is ideal for days drinking with the boys.
How to wear them Stay classic with a crisp cotton shirt and canvas sneakers. Or, go smart with an Oxford shirt with loafers.
There are flaws, but they’re not fatal. As I mentioned, they’re designed for a more cropped fit. If you’re looking for something closer to the knee, you’ll probably want to try another pair.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: 28-38 | Colors Available: 5 | Fit: You can also read about our Regular
Why it’s great: This pair of cargo shorts is not complicated at all. The shorts have one large pocket instead of two, plus the usual side pockets as well as a zippered one on the back. The stretchy cotton fabric is ideal for busy days in the city, however they’ll work equally as well on vacation.
How to wear them I think they look great with a T-shirt in a slim fit and smart sneakers. But, you can also wear them with a wide range of wardrobe staples—from shirts to sweaters and loafers or sandals.
Flaws are not deal-breakers They’re cut slimmer than your average pair of cargo shorts, giving them a much more modern feel. Be cautious if your thighs are bulging.
Material: 96% Cotton, 4% Elastane | Sizes Available: S-XXL | Colors Available: 2 | Fit: Slim
Why it’s great: As soft as they are stylish, you’ll want to wear them everywhere you go. The organic cotton ensures maximum comfort, and the drawstring allows you to adjust them if necessary. The Neutrale branding is subtle, but visible enough to show who you’re repping.
How to wear them Wear them to the gym, if you want. But I think they look great outside the weight room. Wear a loose-fitting long-sleeved t-shirt with sneakers of your choice (socks optional).
Fails but not dealbreakers For sweat shorts they’re not exactly cheap, but I’m confident you’ll get more than enough wear out of them to justify the price tag.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: XS-XL | Colors Available: 2 | Fit: You can also read about our Regular
Why it’s great: They are an excellent alternative to jeans worn in colder weather. They’re equally as versatile yet allow your legs to breathe and feel the warm sun against your skin. Did I mention they’re also seriously cool? There are many ways to look at it.
How to wear them Style limitations are minimal. Wear these to festivals, weekends brunches, or fun days at the park. I like them best with a ribbed shirt, flannel, and sneakers. Add a cap as an added touch.
Flaws are not fatal flaws They have a fairly loose fit and sit just above the knee if you’re average height. For smaller guys, you’ll find they fall a touch lower—something to consider if you’re worried about making your legs look shorter.
Material: 100% Cotton| Sizes Available: 29-42 | Colors Available: 3 | Fit: Loose
Buying Considerations for Men’s Casual Shorts
Fit
The best casual shorts are those that fit well and feel comfortable. It’s important to have a slim, flattering silhouette at the waist that doesn’t feel too tight or loose. Leg openings should be flexible and fall at or near your knee.
Material
Select shorts that are made of lightweight, breathable materials, like cotton, linen or blends with moisture-wicking properties. These fabrics are cool and comfortable for the summer. Also, look at the durability of the material to ensure that your shorts can be worn multiple times.
Style
You should consider how the shorts you choose will complement your entire wardrobe. Neutral shades like olive, khaki and navy are versatile colors that can be paired with many tops. Consider the length (chinos, cargos, etc.). that aligns with your personal style and the occasions you’ll wear them for. By selecting versatile shorts, you’ll be able to maximize their utility in your wardrobe.
Why You Should Be Trusted
As a fashion writer and long time leg bearer, you don’t have to tell me twice to wear shorts. As soon as the temperature hits double figures I’m all about getting the legs out. But it’s not just my love for knee-grazing lower-half options that qualifies me to be talking about the best casual shorts for men. I’ve also done some heavy research (including poring over customer reviews) to make sure I only share the crème de la crème.
Final Verdict
To secure the perfect pair of casual shorts for men, you’ll need to find a careful balance of style, comfort, and functionality. Good news is, there’s plenty of options available—allowing you to confidently step into the warm seasons, knowing you’re fully prepared below the waist.
If you’re struggling to pick a favorite from this list, my suggestion would be to give
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Summer is the perfect time to choose lightweight and breathable cotton or linen shorts, in classic styles including chino or cargo shorts. Neutral colors such as khaki or navy are easy to combine with different tops. For added comfort, you should consider shorts that have a relaxed-fit and an elasticized or drawstring waist.
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The best casual men’s shorts should be slim or relaxed fitting, allowing for comfort and movement without being excessively baggy. The shorts should fit comfortably around your waist and the leg openings must be large enough to provide ease of movement, particularly when you are sitting or walking. You should be able slide two fingers comfortably between the waistband of your pants and your skin.
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