The summer sun lures you outside and longer days make you lose track of time. You need a pair of shorts built for chilling outdoors through it all.
There are plenty of chino shorts out there for your more structured occasions—don’t wear mesh shorts to dinner or the bar under any circumstances—but more comfortable shorts are more acceptable than ever, and better looking than you remember.
Stock up on a few of these to ensure you always have a clean pair. Match them with a crisp white or black tee and some classic white sneakers, and let your shorts do the talking this summer.
Nike DNA Double Mesh Shorts
Vintage style basketball shorts have never been more in. Nike’s version is comfortable, durable, and easier to wash than luxury pairs. These are perfect for both on and off the court action. Buy
Lululemon Namaste At The Beach Shorts
These are the perfect gym-to-beach-to-couch shorts. They’re designed to be quick-drying and good-looking enough to be a swimsuit that doubles as a pair of comfy shorts. Plus, they boast the same quality you’ve come to expect from Lululemon. Buy
adidas 3-Stripes Shorts
The three-stripe sweatpant has become an iconic sportswear staple. Surprisingly, the short version hasn’t received as much love—but it should. The shorts are made from the same soft fabric, feature the same iconic striping, and fit looser than their slimmer, full-length sibling. Buy
Eric Emanuel Authentic Short
This is the most luxurious pair of shorts on the list. The EE Authentic Short is one of the most high-end, gym-ready pairs of shorts on the market. Each is special; each design is uniquely inspired by a famous predecessor. Buy
Everlane Swim Short
Everlane is great at making simple, stylish staples. Their Swim Short is no exception. They fit just above the knee and feel both light and breathable. Buy
Howler Brothers Cornerstone Corduroy Shorts
Corduroy shorts? Comfortable? Yes. They’re structured, soft, and surprisingly survivable on even the warmest days. Howler Brothers did a great job at making a short that both looks somewhat formal and feels ultra-casual. Buy
Publish Brand Kael Shorts
Want a pair of shorts flashy enough to pass for those of a famous boxer? These shorts from Publish Brand are patterned, plush, and perfectly-acceptable for a warm day’s work. Let these shorts be the coolest thing you wear this summer. Buy
Team Cozy Bateman Shorts
With a name like Team Cozy, the products have to be damn comfortable, right? Yes. And, it’s no gimmick. There’s no, “Yeah, they’re pretty cozy,” here. It’s much more like: “Holy sh*t these are comfortable.” Buy
Katin Patio Short
Katin is one of America’s most legendary surf brands. These patio shorts are as high-quality as their swim ones, and they look beach-ready despite being built for the boardwalk. Available in a handful of colors, we recommend stocking up on these staples while they’re still available. Buy
Lazy Oaf Skeleton Shorts
These Lazy Oaf shorts are perfect for lounging around or grabbing a quick bite. But don’t move too quickly or no one will see your kick-ass pattern. Buy
