The Best Shorts for Summer 2025: A Guide to Every Style

The Relaxed Denim Short is an inexpensive, easygoing option at $24.99 that gave mixed results in our review, scoring 6/10 for comfort but showing some durability concerns. We found the 99% cotton with a touch of spandex makes them comfortable and slightly stretchy, and the relaxed fit offers roomy movement for weekend wear, while the classic five-pocket styling is handy. During our testing some pairs ran overly baggy and a few users reported early tears in high-stress areas, so consider sizing and expected longevity before you buy.

Levi’s 505 Shorts are a reliable, budget-friendly denim option that scored 7/10 in our testing for classic construction and breathable cotton comfort. During our review we liked the traditional five-pocket look and how well they sit on the waist with a belt, but our experience shows sizing can be inconsistent across batches and the zipper hardware felt ordinary to some users. If you want dependable Levi’s styling at an affordable price, these deliver—just be prepared to check fit and hardware quality.

If you want a rugged denim short with real heft, the GEORGE 64 SHORT’s 12oz denim delivers durability and a classic look for $65, earning a 6.5/10 in our review. We found the construction solid for weekend work and casual wear, but our experience shows the 20-inch outseam sits well below the knee and won’t appeal to fans of shorter summer cuts. Wear these if you prioritize longevity and a vintage-inspired silhouette, but expect a longer, more substantial fit.

Parker Denim Shorts by Buffalo David Bitton are an affordable standout at about $32 and earned an impressive 8.5/10 in our testing for combining stretch, comfort and value. We found the super-stretch denim moves with you—great for city strolls or relaxed weekends—and the slim, knee-length cut looks modern without being fussy. During our review some customers noted the sizing runs larger than expected, so consider sizing down for a trimmer silhouette if you prefer a closer fit.

Surfside Linen Shorts are a breezy, beach-ready option that scored 7/10 in our review for delivering true lightweight comfort in 100% linen. We found the relaxed fit and easy pull-on waistband with drawstring are perfect for hot days and lazy afternoons, and the slant side pockets plus a back slip pocket add practical storage. That said, our testing shows linen wrinkles quickly and the limited colorways and potential waistband stretch over time may limit long-term appeal for anyone seeking low-maintenance pieces.

The Pleated Trouser Short is a dressier take on warm-weather wear that performed adequately with a 6.5/10 thanks to a breathable stretch linen blend that we found comfortable in heat. During our review the tailored fit and pleated styling made it ideal for slightly more formal summer events, but the 9-inch inseam pushes these toward a knee-length look that won’t suit fans of shorter cuts. If you want breathable coverage and a polished silhouette, these deliver—just expect less versatility by the pool.

Bo Linen Drawstring Shorts are our top linen pick, earning a 9/10 in our testing for their sustainably sourced French linen and relaxed, breathable comfort. In our experience the drawstring and elastic waist make for an easy, casual fit and the pair of side pockets plus back patch pocket cover everyday needs, though some users reported the fit runs large and color choices are limited. During our review the premium fabric justified the $85 price for anyone who prioritizes sustainability and real summertime airflow.

If you want a luxe linen short for summer dressing, the Norwich Lino is worth considering despite its 7/10 score and $333 price tag. In our testing the Italian-woven linen felt exceptionally light and breathable and the tailored fit with adjustable side fasteners gave a really polished silhouette that works well for smart-casual occasions. We found the multiple slanted side pockets and welted back pockets genuinely useful, but our experience shows the dry-clean-only care and premium cost lower its everyday practicality.

The Linen-Blend Easy Shorts are a budget-friendly pick at $19.99 that gave mixed results in our review, scoring 6/10 for breathability but limited versatility. We found the lightweight fabric and high waistband with belt loops ideal for hot, humid days and easy styling, but the material is quite sheer so undergarment choices matter. During our review the button and clasp closure offered little give, so accurate sizing is important—think of these as an inexpensive summer option rather than a wardrobe workhorse.

Patagonia’s Baggies Shorts scored 6.5/10 in our review as a versatile, quick-drying short that works for swimming, hiking, and casual wear thanks to lightweight synthetic fabric and deep pockets. We found the fabric sheds water well and the storage is generous, but our experience shows the lack of stretch and wide leg openings can limit mobility for active pursuits and occasionally feel exposed during big steps. If you want all-purpose outdoor shorts that dry fast, these are solid—just not the best for high-agility activities.

For an affordable, do-it-all short that handles water and land, the Union Amphibian Cargo Short (about $59) is a solid pick and earned a 7.5/10 in our review. We found the lightweight, quick-drying synthetic fabric comfortable during beach days and river runs, and the cargo pockets add real storage for hikes or travel. During our review the regular, slightly loose fit and subtle sheen of the material didn’t suit everyone, but for multisport use this pair favors function over fashion.

Patagonia’s Baggies Shorts (M’s) are a go-to hybrid swim-and-casual short that scored 6.5/10 in our testing for versatility and storage. We found the quick-drying synthetic fabric and deep pockets perfect for days that move between water and trails, and the above-knee length keeps them feeling light. During our review the elastic waistband sometimes lacked support when pockets were full and the mesh liner proved uncomfortable for some users, while the fabric’s lack of stretch can restrict movement during intense activity.

On the course, Nike Dri-FIT Golf Shorts (7/10) are a smart athletic pick — stretchy synthetic fabric with Dri‑FIT kept sweat away and allowed unrestricted movement in our testing. We found the tacky waistband a practical touch that helps keep your shirt tucked, and the knee-length cut gives coverage without feeling bulky. During our review the shallow side and back pockets felt risky for loose tees or small valuables, and some wearers may find the regular fit too loose; limited color options also reduce outfit flexibility.

If you want an easygoing, breathable short for warm-weather errands or low-key workouts, the Nike Club Flow Shorts (7.5/10) deliver with a lightweight woven fabric that feels smooth and a mesh lining that kept things airy in our testing. We found the elastic waistband with an outer drawcord lets you dial the fit, but some wearers said the band felt stiff. In our testing the above‑knee relaxed cut and side/back pockets make them an easy grab for errands, though the looser shape and limited colors may not suit everyone.

The Salinger Chino Short is a polished, wardrobe-safe pick that earned a respectable 7.5/10 in our testing thanks to its high-quality cotton and classic straight fit. In our experience it works well for casual office days or weekend brunches, and the multiple pockets are genuinely useful for carrying essentials. During our review we did notice the sizing runs smaller than expected and the color can fade after repeated washes, while the zipper and button placement felt a bit awkward for some wearers.

Pleated Tab Short blends a modern oversized-but-tailored silhouette with classic details, and in our testing it scored a solid 7.5/10 for versatility and styling potential. We found the high waist and pleats make these easy to dress up for summer dinners or wear casually with tees, and the relaxed fit gives comfortable movement while retaining shape. During our review the biggest hurdle was the $178 price tag, which may be a drawback for shoppers seeking a more budget-friendly chino.

Bonobos Chino Short 2.0 scored 8/10 in our testing for delivering a supremely comfortable, modern take on the classic chino thanks to moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant fabric. We found the extra stretch keeps you looking crisp all day and the side zip pocket is a clever addition for securing cards or keys, but our experience shows the 2.0 fits more generously so many shoppers will want to size down. If you’re after performance-minded chinos with a casual vibe, these are a smart pick.

The Classic Chino Short from J.Crew is an easy summer staple—soft, lightweight cotton and functional front slash pockets give it broad appeal, reflected in its dependable 7/10 score. In our testing the faux-welt back pockets and knee-length cut read classic and versatile for brunches or office-casual days, but we found sizing runs small so measuring is a must. Our experience shows the fabric can thin and pill after multiple washes, so treat these as a seasonal favorite rather than a forever pair.

Asket’s Dark Navy Shorts scored a strong 8/10 for their clean tailoring and 100% organic cotton—these feel refined and breathable for warm weather despite a $140 price. In our testing the mid-rise waist, straight-cut leg and availability in two lengths (with a 2-inch difference) made them versatile for both city and casual settings. We found the fabric comfortable and classic, but our experience shows the higher price, limited colors and careful wash instructions may be a drawback for shoppers seeking low-maintenance options.

The 365 Chino Short blends classic chino styling with performance stretch, earning a 7/10 for its versatility and comfort at $68. In our testing the added stretch made these comfortable for all-day wear while keeping a tailored look that works for errands or travel. We found some inconsistency in sizing and length between pairs, and our experience shows the fabric wrinkles and can fade over time, so expect to possibly alter the fit and treat laundering with care to maintain appearance.

If your priority is movement and secure storage for workouts, the Performance Shorts 7" in Navy Blue (7.5/10) are a strong budget-friendly option at $40. In our testing the premium nylon/spandex blend felt buttery soft and offered excellent flexibility, and we found the zipper pockets very handy for keeping keys or cards safe during runs. During our review the 7-inch inseam may feel short for some—great for training or sprints, less ideal if you prefer longer coverage.

The Wanderer Short is a premium chino that earned an 8/10 in our testing for its buttery, ultra-light 7.4 oz Brighton Sueded Sateen blend and noticeable stretch. We found the slim, above‑knee cut reads sharp for city or vacation looks and the side and back pockets are integrated without adding bulk. In our testing the main caveat was sizing inconsistencies across colorways, so our experience shows you should try before you buy or double-check return options despite its higher price.

The Solid Pine Swim Trunk is our go-to for eco-conscious beach days, earning an impressive 8.5/10 for combining 100% recycled quick-dry nylon with ultra-fine four-way stretch mesh lining that we found very comfortable in the water. Our experience shows the reinforced deep side pockets and snap-back pocket keep valuables secure during active swims, though the 5.5-inch inseam is shorter than some prefer for casual wear and color options are fairly limited. Overall it’s a sustainable, performance-forward trunk that balances function and fit.