25 Best Summer Shorts for Women 2025

Looking for real linen on a budget? Quince’s 100% European flax shorts come in at just $29.90 and earned a 7/10 in our review for value. They’re breathable and lightweight with two front and two back pockets, and the fabric softens with wear—perfect for heat waves and travel. Downsides we noticed: linen wrinkles easily, the white can read slightly sheer in bright light, and the fit can run small, so consider nude underwear and sizing up; a great everyday alternative to pricier linen picks.

Banana Republic’s Soho High-Rise Linen Short keeps things cool with 100% linen that breathes on sweltering days. The 12-inch high rise and relaxed, wide leg create a flattering line, and the 4-inch inseam with functional pockets makes them easy for everyday wear. In our testing, the unlined linen did wrinkle quickly and, in lighter colors, can read slightly sheer; plus there’s no stretch if you prefer elastic waists. Scoring 6.5/10, it’s not our top pick but a chic, well-priced ($39.99) summer staple.

Looking for linen that reads polished? Theory’s Pull-On Short uses the brand’s Good Linen blend (62% linen, 36% viscose, 2% elastane) for breathable structure with subtle give, plus a high rise, about a 6-inch inseam, and real pockets. During our review, they elevated simple tanks and blouses nicely, and the $49.97 Saks OFF 5TH price is compelling. Just note the dry-clean care and higher pricing elsewhere. At 7/10, it’s a smart warm-weather upgrade when you want more polish than beachy linen.

Maeve’s Colette Shorts in the linen edition are cute and breathable, landing a 6.5/10 in our testing for style and warm‑weather comfort. The high-rise waist flatters, the 2.5-inch upper-thigh inseam feels summery, and front-and-back patch pockets don’t add bulk. Thanks to viscose and elastane, there’s a hint of stretch, but the linen blend still wrinkles easily and may need steaming. Sizing can vary between fabric editions, so we recommend checking measurements—or consider our top-rated Aritzia pair if you prefer a longer 5-inch inseam.

Our top-rated choice, Aritzia’s The Effortless Linen Short, earned a perfect 10/10 during our review for its breathable 100% Italian Precision Linen and universally flattering high rise. The longer 5-inch inseam and clean slash pockets make it easy to dress up or down while staying cool. We did see typical linen wrinkling and some sizing inconsistency; lighter colors can read slightly sheer. If you want a polished summer short with real versatility at a reasonable price, this is the pair we’d recommend first.

Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Short hits the sweet spot for everyday denim with a curve-enhancing high waist and comfy 99% cotton, 1% elastane blend. The 3-inch inseam and true pockets make them easy to style, and that tiny bit of stretch feels good from day one—especially compared with rigid options like Agolde. During our review, we noted the raw stepped hems can fray more over time, and recent durability has been inconsistent. Still, at 8/10 and $49.99, it’s a great-value staple.

Fans of true vintage denim will appreciate the Agolde Parker Long’s high-rise fit and 100% cotton that softens the more you wear it. The 4.5-inch inseam and classic pockets give a timeless, slightly longer cut that reads intentionally relaxed. During our review, the rigid, no-stretch fabric felt stiff at first and some testers noted puckering at the crotch; it can also bag out, so consider sizing down. With a 6.5/10 score and $148 tag, it’s best for rigid-denim purists.

Good American’s Good 90s Shorts hit that relaxed, retro sweet spot, earning an 8/10 from our team for their on-trend silhouette and organic rigid denim. The mid rise and 3.5-inch inseam feel versatile for tees or blazers, and sturdy 100% organic cotton holds its shape. In our testing, they run large and the non‑stretch fabric can feel stiff at first, so many shoppers size down and break them in. Also, this White001 listing is final sale—if you’re unsure on fit, Levi’s 501 (8.5/10) offers more wash options and returns.

A classic for a reason, Levi’s 501 Original shorts earned an 8.5/10 in our review for durable, 100% cotton denim and a flattering high rise. The 2.5-inch inseam is very short, but the structured cut gives that timeless, nipped waist and authentic rigid feel. We found the fit can run small or tight in the thighs, and there’s zero stretch until they break in. If you want a touch more length or a looser mid‑rise vibe, Good American’s Good 90s (8/10) is a strong alternative.

Scoring a 9.5/10, the Align High-Rise Short is one of our top-rated picks for biker-style comfort. Lululemon’s buttery Nulu fabric (81% nylon, 19% Lycra) feels weightless, and the 6-inch inseam plus high rise give flattering, stay-put coverage for yoga, walks, or lounging. In our testing, sizing ran a bit inconsistent compared with older Aligns—many will prefer to size up—and there are no pockets. At $39, though, the everyday comfort and stretch make these hard to beat.

If you want a soft everyday short, Athleta’s Intuition delivers with a high rise, 5-inch inseam, and a smooth, no-front-seam design. The cotton-rich blend with stretch feels breathable and comfy for errands, light workouts, and travel in our testing. Just note there’s no compression, they can soak through during intense sweat sessions, and there are no integrated pockets. It earns a 7/10—solid for casual wear at $35.40, but not the performance pick for HIIT or long runs.

For race-day speed and sweltering runs, the Adidas Adizero Split Short earned 7.5/10 with our testers. It’s featherlight with perforated fabric, side slits, and a supportive inner brief, and the 2-inch inseam keeps things ultra-cool and unrestrictive; a small stash pocket covers the bare essentials. We did encounter some inconsistent sizing and occasionally tight waist/liner, so consider trying two sizes or removing the brief if needed. Compared with Lululemon’s 4-inch Hotty Hot (8/10), this is the minimal-coverage specialist for PR attempts and scorching summer miles.

For couch-to-errand comfort, the On Club Short delivers a soft-touch feel from its organic-cotton blend and a mid rise with a 5-inch inseam. Two side pockets make everyday carry easy, and we found them great for travel days and lounging. That said, the longer inseam may feel too modest for those who prefer very short cuts, there’s no stretch, and they’re slower to dry after heat or sweat. With a 6/10 score at $70, comfort is high but versatility is middling.

For runs and sweaty circuits, Lululemon’s Hotty Hot High-Rise 4-inch short scored a solid 8/10 in our testing. The lightweight Swift fabric breathes and dries fast, the built-in liner adds coverage, and the discreet zip pocket securely holds a key or card. Sizing can be inconsistent between colors, and on some bodies the 'high rise' wears more mid-rise, with the liner fit prompting some to size up or down. Compared with the Athleta Trekkie, this is a strong workout pick with a sportier feel.

Serious runners will appreciate Tracksmith’s Berlin shorts, which earned a 9/10 in our review for breathable performance and smart details. The lightweight pin‑dot polyester mesh and supportive brief liner stay cool on hot miles, and a mid‑rise with internal drawcord secures the 2.5-inch cut. We did notice the pocket openings are small—larger phones won’t fit—and some testers experienced crotch bunching depending on body shape. Pricey for mesh shorts, yes, but if ventilation is your priority, these outperformed most options on this list.

If you want a comfy, high-waisted short for errands and light training, Gymshark’s Lifting Crossover scored 6/10 for comfort and price. The 100% cotton feels soft with a bit of stretch, the 5-inch inseam is modest, and pockets add utility. During our review, the oversized cut ran baggy and raw-edge hems looked unfinished and prone to fraying. Wash cold to minimize shrinkage; if you prefer a tailored look, size down or try a more polished pick from this list.

Nike’s wallet-friendly Dri‑FIT Tempo shorts scored 7/10 in our testing, delivering sweat-wicking performance at a great price. The lightweight 100% polyester fabric dries fast, the curved 3-inch inseam allows easy stride, and the brief liner with a drop‑in pocket handles a key or card. We did find the fit runs large and some recent batches feel thinner than older versions, and not all variants include zip pockets. If you need more storage or a premium feel, Tracksmith’s 9/10 Berlin beats it, but for everyday runs these are a reliable staple.

Refined yet breezy, the Reformation Mason Short delivers true summer polish in 100% linen. In our testing, the high 11 5/8-inch rise cinched the waist beautifully, and the 3.5-inch inseam plus side pockets made them practical for city strolls or resort dinners. Just note the non-stretch linen wrinkles easily and may need frequent steaming, and at $128 it’s a splurge. Scoring 7.5/10, it’s a premium pick versus budget linen options like Quince, best for those prioritizing tailoring and breathability.

Polished and breathable, Everlane’s Way-High Drape Short in 100% European Flax™ linen scored 7.5/10 with our testers. The way-high rise defines the waist, the 5.5-inch inseam offers more coverage than many linen picks, and the pockets add everyday utility. As with most linen, expect wrinkling, and the non-stretch construction can feel snug if you’re between sizes. Compared with Reformation’s linen short, this Everlane pair feels more structured and modest in length—great if you want a tailored look without overheating.

Abercrombie’s High Rise Loose Short balances a waist-defining top block with a roomier leg for comfort, earning 6.5/10 in our review. The 6-inch inseam is a versatile length you can roll or wear down, and the cotton–lyocell blend feels softer and lighter than rigid denim. We did notice inconsistent sizing across washes and some stretch-out with wear, and petites may find the unfolded length a touch long. If you want easy, everyday denim, this is a good pick—just mind the fit.

For water, weekends, and everything messy, Patagonia’s 5-inch Baggies scored 7.5/10 in our testing for rugged, quick‑dry performance. The 100% recycled nylon faille with PFC‑free DWR sheds splashes, while the mid‑rise cut, deep pockets, and easy 5-inch inseam make them lake‑to‑errand staples. There’s essentially no stretch, and we noticed the elastic waistband can rub during long wear. If you need true run shorts, Tracksmith’s 9/10 Berlin breathes better; for paddle days and travel, Baggies remain a terrific value.

Built tough, the Carhartt WIP Pierce Short leans into durability with midweight 100% cotton and utilitarian patch and pouch pockets. Our experience shows the white/wax color picks up dirt easily, and with no stretch the fabric starts stiff until you break it in. The mid rise is versatile, but the lack of standout summer features and unspecified inseam limit appeal. At 4.5/10, this is our lowest-rated pick in the batch—worth it only if you prioritize hard-wearing workwear vibes at $59.

If you want a do-it-all adventure short, the Athleta Trekkie North earned a stellar 9.5/10 in our review. The recycled-nylon blend is abrasion-resistant, quick-drying, and stretchy, and the high-rise Powervita waistband stays put through hikes, travel days, and humid workouts. We found the 3.5-inch inseam and pockets practical without bulk, especially at the $34 resale price. Watch for batch differences—some pairs run thinner and sizing can vary—so check return policies, but overall this is one of our top-rated summer performers.

Headed from trail to water? The North Face Class V Pathfinder uses lightweight, quick-drying ripstop with FlashDry-XD and a non-PFC DWR to shed splashes, and the low-rise waist plus 5-inch inseam keep coverage practical. We liked the secure zip back pocket and hand pockets, plus the built-in belt—but in our testing, that webbing waist has no stretch and can feel tight. Sizing runs small, so consider going up. At 6.5/10 and $48.73, it’s a utilitarian pick over plush comfort.

When temps climb, J.Crew’s Seaside Cargo Short (Size 14) gave us breezy comfort thanks to its drapey 55% linen/45% TENCEL lyocell blend. The high-rise cut, 4-inch inseam, and oversized patch pockets deliver a relaxed cargo vibe with real storage, and it’s machine washable—rare for linen. In our testing, the fabric wrinkled after sitting and, with no stretch, the fit can feel restrictive on curvier frames. Still, for $39.99 and a solid 7.5/10 rating, it’s a great value if you’re okay with pressing and ordering online-only without an in-store try-on.

On a budget and need inclusive sizing? Old Navy’s pull-on linen-blend short goes up to 4X and delivers breezy comfort with a high rise, 3.5-inch inseam, pockets, and an elastic waist. In our testing, the 55% linen/45% rayon fabric felt cool for beach days and travel, though it can feel a bit scratchy at first. Lighter colors like white may read slightly sheer and linen blends can shift fit after washes. At 7.5/10 and $14.99, it’s a standout value pick.

Uniqlo’s Stretch Easy Shorts are a hassle-free casual option, earning 6/10 for comfort and value in our testing. The soft 98% cotton, 2% spandex twill moves with you, and the mid-rise elastic waistband with drawstring makes fit adjustments simple; the 8-inch inseam and pockets are great for everyday wear. That said, we’ve seen color bleeding after washing and some inconsistent sizing, so wash darks separately and consider trying two sizes. Versus performance picks like the Athleta Trekkie, these are best for laid-back days.

Best reserved for pool days, Frankies Bikinis’ Laurel Short scored just 4.5/10 in our testing for limited versatility relative to the price. The soft terry (79% cotton, 15% polyester, 6% spandex) and smocked, stretchy waistband feel cozy over a swimsuit. However, the low‑rise, micro cut offers minimal coverage, there are no pockets, and some retailers mark it final sale. If you want everyday wearability, look to longer mid‑rise options like Patagonia Baggies (7.5/10) or our 10/10 Aritzia pick instead.