Comfortable as shorts are – and should be – that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be chosen as thoughtfully as everything else in your wardrobe. There’s a right way and a wrong way to go about wearing shorts this summer. First, you need to find the right style and price for your budget (we did the leg work for you here). Next, find the right length (we’ve got you covered there, too). Most men’s shorts are cut to three common lengths, by inseam: 5 inches, for showing off some thigh; 7 inches, the length suitable for most guys; and shorts with a 9-inch inseam, or the taller fellas among us. We dive into each below. And finally, allow yourself to have a little fun with color and pattern this summer. The best men’s shorts for summer clear each of these bars quite handily. These are our favorite pairs to shop, buy and wear all season long (or what’s left of it).
