How to Choose Your Men's Shorts: The Best Men's Shorts for Spring & Summer
With spring in full force and summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start transitioning to your warm-weather wardrobe! Your everyday jeans and heavy-duty trousers will no longer occupy the prime spot in your closet, as you’ll need to make room for your shorts! Your go-to bottoms throughout the sunny season, shorts will serve you well from late spring to the hot midsummer, and (here’s hoping) even into September. With styles ranging from casual denim to lightweight sports models, shorts offer comfort and versatility for any occasion, whether it's a relaxing stroll around town or a trip to the beach! Ideal for all your adventures, you’ll want to make sure you have a few good pairs close to hand this season. So, if your shorts selection needs a bit of a refresh, why not read on as we guide you through the must-have models for every man?
What kind of shorts are in style for guys? Denim shorts in black, grey and blue are perfect for everyday wear!
In terms of smart-casual shorts for day-to-day wear, whether that be for your holidays or when out and about at home, nothing beats a pair of classic denim shorts! Easy to match, they go with almost everything in your wardrobe, making them a real style staple in the warmer months. Coming in a range of colours, your choice of shade ultimately depends on your own personal style. That being said, if you're stepping out to spend the day directly in the sun or you're jetting off somewhere warm, we suggest opting for lighter wash denim, such as pale blue or light grey. These shades will better reflect sunlight, keeping you cool! For a timeless look, you can match these with a polo shirt and your favourite pair of sandals! For fancier occasions though or if you're headed somewhere a little upmarket, why not go for a black or dark blue pair? These tones look great worn alongside a half zip jumper, especially for evening affairs when a cooler breeze sets in. Not all about style, you’ll also want to make sure you’re comfortable, which is why we suggest choosing a pair in stretchy denim! You can even opt for a model with an elasticated waistband if comfort is your top priority.
Wondering what shorts are the best to wear in the summer heat? Casual cargo shorts are a safe choice
On days when the sun shines even stronger, your trusty denim shorts may start to feel a little too heavy on your skin. In this case, it's best to reach for a pair of cargo shorts instead. Often made from microfibre, they are super-lightweight, allowing air to circulate which in turn keeps you cool and dry, even in the most intense heat. Ideal for your adventures, cargo shorts also come with a plethora of pockets, making them not only comfortable but also incredibly practical for travel. With ample space to stash essentials including your keys and wallet, these shorts keep your belongings secure and easily accessible, allowing you to navigate your adventures with ease. Why not opt for a classic beige or navy pair and wear them alongside a basic cotton t-shirt for a laid-back and comfortable look? Like most shorts, these match well with all types of shoes. Thanks to their easy-care, easy-wear nature, as well as their utility style and dessert-trekker aesthetic, combat shorts deserve a spot in any explorer’s wardrobe!
What about a smart pair of shorts? Chino shorts made from stretchy cotton twill provide a classy look, especially in beige!
When the sun goes down and it's time to head out for dinner, we recommend switching out your casual shorts for a slightly smarter alternative: chino shorts. Providing sleek style, they will elevate all your summer outfits. Made from lightweight cotton twill, not only do they look good, they remain a comfortable clothing option too. Mixed with a touch of elastane, stretchy twill allows you to move around freely, and the addition of a partially elasticated waistband further eliminates any feeling of compression. Just make sure to choose a design that features belt loops, as a split leather belt against your short’s top-quality twill fabric will add a real classy touch to your evening outfit. Pick out a pair of beige chinos for a traditional look and add a short sleeve shirt, alongside a pair of moccasins, for a relaxed yet sophisticated ensemble. This effortless combination strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual!
Cropped 3/4 length trousers are great for cooler days
Okay, we’re cheating a little here, but three-quarter length trousers are not too far removed from our favourite pick of shorts. If the weather takes a turn, cropped trousers – a compromise between shorts and trousers – are great to have on hand. These versatile bottoms provide a bit more coverage than your typical shorts, while still keeping you cooler than your full-length jeans and trousers. Coming in a range of styles, including denim and cargo designs, you’ll find a pair of cropped trousers for every occasion. Match them with a lightweight windbreaker for added protection on windy and rainy days and finish the outfit with a pair of hook-and-loop moccasins or trainers. When the weather can’t quite make up its mind, these are an excellent alternative to shorts, continuing to provide that effortlessly chic and casual summer-season look!
For your sports sessions, opt for lightweight shorts made from soft jersey or microfibre
Not only confined to spring and summer, sports shorts are an essential all year round, especially for any budding athlete! Jersey shorts, known for their soft and flowy fabric, allow for unrestricted movement, making them ideal for workouts. Trust us, their lightweight and comfortable material will be appreciated during your training sessions! Alternatively, you could opt for a pair of shorts made from microfibre instead. Better for more intense workouts, including running and cycling, this durable fabric is super-absorbent. Its quick-drying properties ensure you stay comfortable throughout your workout, while the smooth texture minimises friction. Worn with a sporty tee and a trusty pair of trainers, you’re all set for your fitness endeavours, whether you’re hitting the gym or heading out for a run! But don’t be fooled, even when you’re not feeling too pumped, these types of shorts double up perfectly as relaxed gear to kick about in at home or in the garden…
You'll want to buy some light and comfy swim shorts for your holidays!
For lazy days by the pool or splashing in the sea, you're going to need a couple of pairs of swim shorts among your collection! When it comes to picking out the right swim trunks for you, it's important to choose a model with an adjustable drawstring so that they stay secure around your waist while you're in the water. You should also look out for trunks with inner mesh fabric, as this will provide a protective barrier between your skin and the water. In terms of the design, we recommend opting for a plain blue pair for a timeless look, or selecting a brighter, patterned pair to add a splash of colour to your summer style! Slip on some sliders for easy beach and poolside lounging, and you're all set for a relaxing day by the water! If you’re less of a lounger and more of a serious swimmer, however, you may wish to leave your trunks at home and opt for a pair of swim briefs instead. Their minimal fabric and close fit will help increase your performance in the pool, making your experience all the more enjoyable.
Refresh your collection today!
So, now that we've run you through the basics with our buying guide, you know all the options available to you when it comes to investing in shorts. Even if you ensure you own just one pair of each of the different designs we’ve walked you through, you can keep your closet up to date and ready for all occasions! Be it a casual pair for your daily adventures or swim shorts for hitting the pool, having a range of shorts that you can wear on rotation during the warmer months ahead will be a wardrobe gamechanger!