6 Essential Types of Shorts for Men + How to Style Them

Most guys already own shorts, but not all of them own the right ones. The difference comes down to knowing which type works for which moment, and building a rotation that covers everything from weekend errands to elevated casual without overthinking it.

Here's what you need to know to build a rotation that actually works. At Mizzen+Main, we build men's shorts so you can move through your day without friction.

Essential Types of Shorts for Guys

These six types of shorts for men form the foundation of any solid shorts rotation, each designed for different moments in your week.

#1 Chino Shorts

Flat-front construction and cotton fabric make chinos the most adaptable option in your closet. They work equally well with a polo, a tee, or a casual button-down, depending on where the day takes you.

What makes them better: The best chino shorts feature stretch and moisture-wicking properties built into the fabric. You get that classic chino silhouette with significantly better movement and all-day breathability.

How to style them: Dress them up with loafers or keep things relaxed with clean sneakers.

#2 Athletic Shorts

When weighing for activewear, these essentials typically rely on polyester or nylon construction with an elastic or drawstring waist for better performance. Many include a built-in liner for extra support during movement and activity.

Where they belong: They work in specific places: the gym, the trail, or running errands that involve actual running. They're not dinner attire and shouldn't pretend to be.

#3 Performance Shorts

Here's where things get interesting. Understanding in clothing makes it easy to see why performance shorts are essential. They look like traditional chinos but feature this cooling technology, stretch fabric, and wrinkle resistance built directly into the construction.

The versatility advantage: Think of them as the bridge between casual and dressed-up. They're ideal for men who want one pair to cover a casual office, weekend errands, or travel days without missing a beat. The durability holds up to real life.

#4 Dark blue shorts

Dark blue shorts offer a rugged, laid-back option that works best in cleaner cuts. Stick with dark or medium colors over light colored varieties for a more intentional look.

Styling and limitations: Pair them with a graphic tee and sneakers for weekend activities. 

#5 Linen Shorts

Made from soft and breathable linen fabric, these shorts have a relaxed fit that screams vacation. They're the natural choice for resort settings, beach days, and anywhere the temperature climbs.

The trade-off: Linen wrinkles easily. If that bothers you, look for linen-blend or performance alternatives that maintain breathability without looking like you slept in your clothes during transit.

#6 Hybrid Shorts

Hybrid shorts have quickly become a staple, more than the sum of their parts(opens in new window), as style editors put it. These quick-drying swim shorts work both in water and on land, making them essential . Most feature a mesh liner and a tailored enough silhouette to transition from the pool to lunch without looking like obvious swimwear.

What to look for: Look for minimal branding and cleaner lines. That way, they read as regular shorts rather than swim trunks you forgot to change out of.

Best Shorts for Guys by Use Case

Matching the right type to the right moment eliminates guesswork from getting dressed each morning.

Best for Everyday Wear

Navy or khaki chinos function as the ultimate casual shorts, covering the widest range of situations with zero effort. They pair with a tee and sneakers on Saturday, then work just as well with a polo and loafers on Monday.

For specific outfit ideas, check out our guide to outfits with khaki shorts for men.

Best for hot weather

Just as you would choose the , linen or lightweight performance shorts keep airflow high when temperatures climb. Breathable fabrics have an edge here because they resist wrinkles and dry faster than pure linen while still feeling effortlessly stylish.

Best for active days

Athletic shorts with stretch and moisture-wicking properties handle movement without restriction. Look for a secure waistband and a length that stays put during activity rather than riding up mid-stride.

Best for elevated casual

Tailored chino or bermuda shorts with a polo and loafers set the right tone for dressy summer events, especially when you master wearing a . Boat shoes work for a preppy coastal aesthetic.

How to Choose the Right Shorts

The best shorts are the ones you forget you're wearing once you put them on. Here's what separates the winners from the ones that stay in the drawer.

Fit matters more than you think

Shorts should sit at your natural waist without relying on a belt to stay up. The leg opening should follow your thigh without clinging or ballooning outward.

Match fit to your build: Consider your body type when selecting fit. Understanding helps clarify why slimmer cuts flatter leaner builds, while a straighter, regular fit works better for athletic frames. The perfect fit makes everything else easier.

Length depends on your build

When determining , the general rule is simple: aim for 1-3 inches above the knee. A 7-inch inseam works for most guys and hits that sweet spot between too short and too long. Style editors widely consider it the most universally flattering(opens in new window) 2-length for the majority of builds.

Adjust for your height:

• Shorter guys: Often look better in a 5-inch inseam
• Average height: A 7-inch inseam works for most builds
• Taller guys: Can comfortably pull off 9 inches

Avoid knee-length or longer styles that visually shorten your legs.

Fabric and color drive versatility

Different materials serve different purposes:

• Cotton twill: Structured and classic, ideal for chino shorts
• Linen: Maximum breathability, best for hot weather
• Performance blends: Stretch and wrinkle resistance for travel
• Nylon: Quick-drying construction built for water

Build your color foundation: For colors, stick to navy, khaki, olive, and charcoal as your foundation. Solid neutral tones give you more outfit combinations per pair than busy patterns or bold colors ever will. Build from there once the basics are covered.

Upgrade Your Warm Weather Style With Better Shorts

Building a summer-ready rotation doesn't require a closet overhaul. Start with a great pair of chino shorts in a neutral color. Add a performance pair for unpredictable days when you need stretch, breathability, and wrinkle resistance in one garment. Round it out with a casual option for genuine downtime.

When your men's shorts handle everything you throw at them, you spend less time deciding what to wear and more time on what actually matters. That's the philosophy behind everything Mizzen+Main builds: functional design that supports how you live.

Sources:

1. GQ. The Best Hybrid Shorts Are More Than the Sum of Their Parts. https://www.gq.com/story/best-hybrid-shorts-for-men(opens in new window)
2. Men's Health. How Long Should Your Shorts Be? Style Editors Settle the Great Debate. https://www.menshealth.com/style/a65543001/how-long-should-your-shorts-be/(opens in new window)