Show off your thigh muscles with super short pants for summer
The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches and reviews the best gear, services, and essentials for life. AskMen may receive compensation if you click a link in this article and purchase a product or service.
Men’s shorts have been around for years, and sportswear first entered mainstream fashion in the 70s and 80s, an era of liberation when men’s shorts became the norm. The men had rejected the traditional clothing worn by their fathers. Long shorts were considered “stifling” and men began to embrace their bodies and be proud of their hard-earned leg muscles. We hadn’t yet reached the era of cargo shorts, and back then jean shorts were reserved for Daisy Dukes. This freed up my thighs, and for good reason.
First, above-the-knee shorts allow for a greater range of motion, whether you’re dancing, running, squatting, lunging, or just walking around. And the greater the range of motion, the greater the comfort.
Related: The best men’s sandals for summer
Secondly, shorts obviously expose more of your body and can release more heat. It provides more surface area for airflow, giving you the most airflow when you need it most. With what’s expected to be one of the hottest summers on record, you’ll want to stay as cool as possible.
Finally, it looks better too. There’s no need for your shorts to drag on the ground, feel heavy, or get baggy against the wind and groan behind you. Shorts were made for summer to show off your body instead of hiding it under layers of fabric. Leave it until winter.
We’ve put together a long list of stylish shorts under 6 inches so you can show off a little thigh this summer. From chino shorts to swim trunks, we’ve got stylish picks for every summer event. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen. There’s nothing worse than a sunburn between your legs.
best mens shorts
Chubbies original stretch shorts
You can’t talk about shorts without mentioning Chubbies, who have long been advocates for thigh liberation. Made with 3% spandex, these shorts can withstand high kicks, splits, and even the lowest level of club kicks. Comfortable and suitable for almost any occasion. You won’t want to take it off.
$59.50 at Chubbies.com
Amazon Essentials 5″ Chino Shorts


Amazon’s branded shorts are a great surprise for just $25. These shorts have a slightly dressed-up look and have just the right amount of stretch to keep you comfortable without being too relaxed. Available in a wide range of colors and several camo patterns, you can’t go wrong.
From $23 on Amazon.com
Ralph Lauren Cormac 5 inch pleated shorts


Ralph Lauren may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the perfect hiking shorts, but these shorts are different. Made from recycled nylon that reduces landfill waste and reduces environmental impact through the use of virgin raw materials, they’ll leave your trails a little cleaner when you’re wearing them. Of course, in true Ralph Lauren fashion (literally), swap out your sweaty t-shirt for a proper polo shirt that will wear out and still look great.
$168 at RalphLauren.com
J.Crew Factory 5 Inch Flex Khaki Shorts


If you’re looking to up your summer style while staying classic, this J. Crew Factory is the perfect choice. Available in ELEVEN colors from neutral to bright, these shorts are a great value for their well-made construction and fashionable look. Just put it on to take your summer outfit to the next level.
$29.50 at JCrew.com
Dandy Del Mar Marseille Short


If the name Dandy Del Mar doesn’t sound familiar, it’s time to clarify. This is an affordable brand for America’s new leisure demographic. With a relaxed fit and fabrics like organic cotton, terry cloth, corduroy, silk, and, of course, linen, the Southern California-based brand’s fresh styles feature prints you’ll want to wear all day, every day. and a silhouette.
$89 at DandyDelMar.com
Bonobos 5 inch anywhere shorts


The best thing about these shorts? They look dressy, yet have a luxurious lounge feel. A hybrid of chinos and relaxed lounge shorts, this pair has an elasticated waistband and internal drawstring for an easy fit around your waist. It also comes with a microcord for an even sharper look.
$89 at Bonobos.com
A&F 5 inch all day short


Abercrombie & Fitch Resort Shorts are a hybrid short that does it all. Available in a variety of stylish colors and prints, they look sophisticated and swimmable too. Made with 4-way stretch, quick-drying fabric and an ultra-soft mesh lining on the inside, these shorts can be worn literally anywhere.
$60 at Ambercrombie.com
Flint and Tinder 5″ 365 Short


Imagine your most comfortable pair of khakis, cut them into a short-short size that’s breathable, and you’ll see what Flint & Tinder accomplished with the 365 shorts. The stretchy fabric and four-pocket design (two on the sides, two on the back) make it as practical as it is comfortable.
$78 at Huckberry.com
Nice Laundry 4″ Pocket Lounge Shorts, Bandana


Nice Laundry Lounge Shorts have been around for a while, but the latest edition comes in a fashionable 4-inch length and bandana-inspired print, perfect for lounging around the Beverly Hills Hotel. Available in a variety of lengths and styles, this style of hand pocket is meant to be comfortable, cozy, and convenient.
$58 at NiceLaundry.com
Patagonia baggy 5 inch shorts


Using 100% recycled nylon and Fair Trade mills, Patagonia created our wildly popular shorts, the Patagonia Baggy Shorts. There was a good reason for that. These shorts are quick-drying and water-repellent, making them perfect for hiking, swimming, running errands in the heat, and more.
$65 at Patagonia.com
Outdoor Voice High Stride 5 Inch Short


Looking for premium workout shorts? Outdoor Voices creates quality gear that you’ll actually want to sweat in. Made from 100% recycled polyester, these lightweight training shorts feature a built-in liner and hidden phone pocket for functional movement during any workout.
$68 at OutdoorVoices.com
lululemon fast & free 3 inch short


Who doesn’t want to be fast and free? From a brand we know and love, these 3-inch shorter shorts bring the Lululemon quality we’re accustomed to while still allowing your thighs to move and breathe. Moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and a comfortable waistband, these shorts are perfect for short walks or marathons.
$78 at lululemon.com
Tracksmith Falmouth 5 inch shorts


Trascksmith has always defined how form meets function, and these shorts are no exception. With a 5-inch inseam, zip fly, front button fastening and hand pockets, these shorts are designed to look great anywhere. Featuring an antimicrobial polygiene brief liner, hidden side-seam zip pockets for your phone, keys, and credit cards, and 11% spandex, these athletic shorts are designed to perform anywhere.
$185 at Tracksmith.com
new balance accelerated 3 inch split short


Are you ready to run? Or are you ready to tan your thighs? Either way, these New Balance Accelerate split shorts will keep your legs looking great whether you’re on the go or sitting on a lounge chair . Split vents increase freedom of movement so you can take every stride effortlessly and help cool down even when you’re not moving. These shorts are perfect for hot weather activities.
$27 at TheRunnersShop.com
Orlebar Brown 6 Inch Bulldog Swim Shorts


Summer is the season when swimming trunks can easily double as shorts. Orlebar Brown creates a little something for everyone in its department. Instead of basic basketball shorts, opt for quick-dry recycled polyester shorts made with fabric designed in France and made in Portugal.
$345 at OrlebarBrown.com
Le Club Mamanatiti 4.5 inch swim trunks


Perfect for summer, tropical prints never go out of style. The length of these Le Club trunks varies depending on size, ranging from 4.5 inches to 5 inches. These trunks are made from quick-drying 100% recycled polyester, making them perfect for water-related activities. The fun print and short length of these shorts will turn heads at the pool.
$25 at LeClub.com
You may also dig: