This article is part of Spring Fashion Month, where we’re breaking down your must-have fashion pieces for the next few months. From denim jackets to comfy sandals, we’re asking editors, influencers and experts about the go-to pieces they wear through spring and beyond.
Every March or April, the great closet swap begins. You put away your sweaters in favor of T-shirts. You swap your boots to make room for your favorite sandals. Then there’s those thick, long pants that simply won’t do, and it’s time to bring out the shorts for those extra balmy days. But the thing about men’s shorts is that quite a few just aren’t great. They’re too long or too short, or made with such cheap material that they only last one season.
That’s why we asked our editors what their favorite men’s shorts are to wear come spring and summer. This is what they had to say.
I absolutely love a pair of jorts in the spring. They get too hot in the summer, but they’re the perfect style for walking around the park or sitting at a picnic while the weather starts to warm up. I’ve had this classic pair from Levi’s for over a year and love their timeless look. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
This LA-based company doesn’t skimp out on the quality. These shorts have a few inseam lengths to choose from. The quality is unmatched in my opinion and they are great for any workout. The waist doesn’t bundle and I have a lot of pockets that I need. — Roy Lee, operations and strategy lead
These are technically trunks, but they’re stylish enough that you can wear them even when you’re not at the beach or pool. I love the shorter length and the fact that the quick-drying material is crafted from recycled polyester, which is made from 100% post-consumer waste like plastic water bottles. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
I love Chubbies shorts so much, they're the only brand I wear. The elastic waistbands and stretchable materials make every pair incredibly comfortable, and as a relatively short man, I really appreciate the short inseam options (as short as 4 inches). My favorites are their Original Stretch casual shorts, compression-lined Athlounger sport shorts and soft Schwort sweat shorts. As an added bonus, there's also usually an offer for a free gift like a Chubbies T-shirt or hat with minimum purchase. — Dan Hollister, senior SEO analyst
I adore the look of these corduroy shorts from Madewell. And with a 5 1/2-inch inseam, they’re nice and short so you can let your legs breathe in hotter weather. The fit is a little big for me, so if you tend to be in-between sizes for pants, I’d recommend sizing down. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
This Aussie brand has some great quality shorts for a good price. Fits right above the knee but easy to roll up if desired. — Roy Lee, operations and strategy lead
Okay, you got me. I love corduroy shorts. This pair from Black Diamond has a thicker make than the ones from Madewell, so they’re better for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing, but will feel a bit hotter in the summer. Plus, these have an drawstring waistband so you can tie them tight around your waist, unlike the Madewell shorts. If you’re not a fan of corduroy — first off, you’re wrong — these shorts also come in stretch twill options. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
These have been my go-to shorts for a few years now. They're super comfortable, have ample pocket space and are just above-the-knee enough to let me show off some of my leg tattoo. I have them in a few different colors — there are currently 10 available — but I especially love this salmon pair that adds some colorful contrast to my endless wardrobe of black band T-shirts. — Mike Andronico, senior tech writer
These shorts take the long-time favorite Prana Zion Stretch shorts and add on swim trunk capability for a short you can wear literally anywhere. I love the look and feel of these and will probably be living in them from now until September. Plus, they’re made from Prana’s new ReZion fabric, which is created with recycled nylon. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
My go-to corduroy shorts inspired by the 1980s. Good stretch and awesome fit. — Roy Lee, operations and strategy lead
This new pair of shorts from Prana is a reimagination of the brand's classic, with just a few tweaks. You get the same amazing material that’s moisture-wicking and packed with UPF 50+ protection, but the E-Waist opts for a scrunchier waistband and a more casual look. — Kai Burkhardt, editor
I’ve had these swim shorts for over 6 years. They’ve been through multiple washings and look brand-new. The fit is right, and the quality is excellent for the price. They’re available in a variety of sizes and feature side pockets, a back pocket and small netted pocket on the inside. The inside pocket is where I keep a few dollars for ice cream. — Mark Amadio, product design manager
These shorts come in a few different inseam lengths and a variety of colors. The spandex waist makes it easy to slip on. They run a little on the thinner side in terms of fabric so I enjoy wearing these on those hot days. — Roy Lee, operations and strategy lead
These H&M shorts are what I wear when I'm lounging around, but they're also nice enough to leave the house with. Their drawstring elastic waistband makes them easy to casually throw on, and the thick cotton material is more flexible than my usual chinos. My only gripe is that there's no real back pocket, so I only wear these out when I'm traveling light. — Mike Andronico, senior tech writer
Similar to Meripex, but better-quality fabric in my opinion. A lot of different styles and I find these I can dress up a bit for a nice Sunday brunch. — Roy Lee, operations and strategy lead