As a man, finding a good pair of shorts is a staple in the summer wardrobe. These days there are a variety of options to choose from, but without proper guidance you can easily find yourself cosplaying your uncle at a summer BBQ. Can you imagine?! The accidental “twinsies” moment at a family function? Followed by the blaring sound of iPhone cameras and the roaring laughter of little cousins? Of course I can’t allow this to happen; the second hand embarrassment would be out of this world! So I present to you the 11 Best Men’s Shorts For Summer 2023 that you don’t already own — and neither does your uncle.
Men’s Beach Ready Shorts For Summer
The Trunk Short
When it comes to finding a good pair of shorts length is super important. Make sure you find a pair that complement your body proportions well. If you’re shorter you probably don’t want to reach for the Bermuda shorts, but a pair of trunk shorts could do the trick. Trunk shorts tend to be shorter and give the illusion of longer legs.
The Venice Trunk short from Daniel Patrick fulfill all your short short needs and also come in a variety of colors. They’re also waterproof for the adventurous ones who likes to take a dip in the pool and grab drinks right after. The price of these shorts is a little steep, but for the quality I personally feel the price is justified and they can definitely act as an elevated staple in your summer wardrobe.
Price: $220 Highlight Feature: Waterproof Who’s it for: The Adventurous Soul
The Swim Short
Of course we couldn’t create a list of men’s shorts for summer without including the classic swim trunk. Personally, I find no issue sporting my trunks on land as well as sea but, too each their own…
I’ll admit, this short selection was a bit harder to make. Simply because Venroy has so many FANTASTIC options! But when in doubt you can’t go wrong with these Contrast Panel Swim Shorts. The Lilac and Sand combo makes for an amazing color way and will suit just about any skin tone.
Price: $120 Highlight Feature: Sick Print Who’s it for: The Beach Goer
Men’s Athletic Shorts For Summer
The Basketball Short
Basketball shorts are a tried and true staple of many men’s wardrobes but they don’t necessarily have a reputation of being very fashionable. However, these basketball shorts from Bristol Studio are definitely an exception.
The perfect men’s summer short is always going to be breathable, lucky for you these shorts are made of an eyelet mesh material. The triple hem detail is definitely a-typical and if you’re worried about your phone just slipping out of your pocket, don’t! These hypebeast heaven sent beauties feature zipper pockets to keep all your goodies safe. I’d say you’re welcome but, thank Bristol Studios.
Price: $118 Highlight Feature: Gradient Triple Hem Who’s it for: The Hypebeast
The Tennis Short
Whether you’re hitting the court with friends or lounging at the country club, a quality pair of Tennis shorts is a Men’s Summer Wardrobe Essential.
These shorts from Palmes not only look the part but serve their purpose well with pockets deep enough to fit up to 5 tennis balls. However, if you’re not a tennis player and looking to cop these shorts just to flex your clean all white fit at Whole Foods, I won’t judge. Just steer clear of the pizza slices…
Price: $135 Highlight Feature: Deep Pockets Who’s it for: The Player
The Running Short
Running, a staple in the lives of many that does require specific attire. And why not look good while doing so?! These seafoam running shorts are pining for your love and affection, and for a sale price of just $35… I think you might answer.
As we all know, when it comes to menswear Jerry Lorenzo does many things well. And I’m sure athletic wear is no exception. While I have not had the opportunity of trying these men’s shorts out for myself… for a retail price of $70 I think they’re worth the try. And in the event they turn out to not be your be your favorite pair of running shorts at least your quads will look good.
Retail Price: $70 Sale Price: $35 Highlight Feature: 80’s Inspired Silhouette Who’s it for: The Track Star
Men’s Lounge Shorts For Summer
The Sweat Short
Now with these hoochie daddies it was love at first sight. I’m a sucker for collegiate inspired pieces and these shorts took me back to a time that I could only dream to have been a part of, the 90s.
These mint beauties happen to be a part of the Champion UO Exclusive collection and fall to a whopping length of 3”. So if catching the warm summer breeze is a necessity for you… these bad boys should do the trick.
Price: $60 Highlight Feature: Collegiate Core Who’s it for: Mr. Nostalgic
The Terry Short
For my guys that like to vacay, this one’s for you. Made of high quality toweling material these shorts are perfect for summer. If you’re a swim briefs type of guy these shorts pair perfectly on top after a swim, and are even great for just lounging around on a lazy Sunday.
The khaki green color of these shorts strikes a perfect balance of elegant yet simple. But if you’re looking for a pair with a bit more pizazz the brand offers a variety of colors and prints to meet the needs of even the most particular of men — me included.
Price: $120 Highlight Feature: Terry Cloth Material Who’s it for: The Traveler
Men’s Everyday Shorts For Summer
The Cord Short
Corduroy has long been associated with winter clothing but for Summer 2023 I’m shamelessly endorsing this material. Combined with the carpenter style these shorts are not only trendy but a perfect men’s short for summer.
For all my guys that appreciate a good crop top, this is your time to shine. These corduroy shorts feature an 8” inseam which will perfectly balance out your cropped & sleeveless tees.
Price: $155 Highlight Feature: Corduroy Material Who’s it for: The Utilitarian
The Dock Short
Now if you consider yourself to be a more classic casual type of guy I have the perfect men’s summer shorts for you. I present to you the Dock Short! These shorts have been a staple in my summer wardrobe for years and they just don’t seem to ever get old.
The J. Crew Dock Short pairs great with a long sleeve button down for a preppy casual look. I bought mine in the classic khaki color way but these shorts like many of the others come in a variety of colors. And priced right at $70 I definitely suggest adding a few of these shorts into your wardrobe.
Price: $69.95 Highlight Feature: Drawstring Waist Who’s it for: The Classic Prep
Men’s Rebel Shorts For Summer
The Denim Bermuda Short
The time has come.. we’ve made it to the all so controversial Bermuda Short. If these men’s shorts don’t give you flashbacks of the oh so painful image of your uncle doing the cha-cha slide with a piece of BBQ chicken in his hand then you’re probably triggered by the screams of spectators saying “FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!! Please stop wearing Denim Shorts!!” But I am here to tell you my friend, none of that matters.
I myself have even suffered an internal debate as to whether denim shorts should be retired from my wardrobe, but I’ve come to a conclusion. Simply DGAF. Denim shorts are definitely not for the faint at heart and they do require a bit of confidence to wear them. But I’ll say this, find a pair of shorts that complement your leg length well and you’re fine. Wear what you like and f*ck everyone else.
Price: $175 Highlight Feature: Retro Fit Who’s it for: Sir No F*cks Given
The Velour Short
I know what you’re thinking… Velour men’s shorts for summer?!! And to answer your question, yes! Velour for Summer! Now of course, if you’re living in place like Texas maybe this isn’t the best option for you. But for cities with a slightly cooler climate these could be a both tempting and viable option.
Tracksuits have always held a special place in my heart and velour doesn’t follow far behind. Early 2000s trends still seem to have some of us in a chokehold, and while I may or may not be one of those people that doesn’t take away from the buttery goodness that is the Damarindo Velour Short. The color of these shorts complements sun-kissed skin beautifully and with the option of buying a matching jacket… I’m sold.
Price: $88 Highlight Feature: Buttery Smooth Who’s it for: The Gold Chain Wearer
