These shorts have a shopping editor’s stamp of approval.
Shorts are a summer staple and a warm-weather pleasure, but they can be a complicated proposition. They evoke memories of our youth ... but you don't want a pair that'll have you looking like a teenager. Conversely: You want to sport a grown-up vibe ... but not look like you're AWOL from a nursing home. Trust us to steer you toward some options that combine stylishness with, um, realism.
Among my favorites are lengthy, comfy denim shorts from Lands' End for the ladies and Columbia's water shorts for the guy who wants to get in a few adventures this summer — but there are lots more to choose from. Ready to check 'em out? Here are my favorite shorts picks for men and women who want comfort and style this summer.
If you want flattering shorts with a snug fit, you can't go wrong with a pair of twill shorts from Spanx. They're specially designed to keep things contained without being uncomfortable. They can make just about any figure sleek, thanks to the 360-degree smoothing panel that targets the tummy, waist and backside (hence the name "Supersmooth"). They're slightly shorter than some of the other picks with a 7-inch inseam, but Spanx is pretty confident in the confidence boost you'll get with these. Prefer denim? Try out the Everywhere Jean Short — also on sale.
"The perfect fit," shared a shocked shopper. "Never in my life have I had a pair of shorts that gave both a structured look and stretch at the same time. So comfortable and easy to dress down or dress up!"
Breathable and flattering, these high-waisted shorts have you covered. With an elastic waistband paired with a drawstring, they let you choose how comfortable you want to be. They fall just to the knee, so you get that summer breeze without showing off too much skin. We particularly like the button details that run down the side.
"My favorite shorts this year!" gushed a happy fan. "Decided to order these shorts and see how they fit. I love the color, love the design with buttons and the nice fabric. It really is hard to order clothes that fit, but these are so nice! So impressed I am that I ordered a black pair, which are on their way. I recommend."
These are some of the most popular shorts among Yahoo readers — and for good reason. You can't go wrong with Hanes, but on top of that, they're stretchy with an elastic waist and drawstring closure. They also have the right amount of length, stretch and looseness — which is why these "unicorn shorts" have 41,000 five-star ratings.
"These shorts are just right for my 67-year-old body — not too short," a thrilled shopper shared. "They are loose enough to be comfortable and more appropriate than bike shorts for women over 50, or anyone who doesn’t like compression shorts."
Everyone should have a pair of linen shorts in their closet. These have a comfy elastic waist with a relaxed fit, so they won't constrict those thighs (hallelujah!) and the 9 1/2-inch inseam gives you the right amount of coverage. They also have a front zip with a button closure and pockets in the front and back.
"Nice shorts to wear with a pair of sandals," wrote one fan. "You can dress them up or down."
These are my go-to chino shorts from late spring through early fall. They come in eight colors, have a more put-together look than the Baggies, and the slight stretch makes them comfortable to wear, even after I gorge myself at a summer barbecue.
Of all of the shorts on this list, these are what I wear the most often come summer — and the ones I own the most pairs of. They have a mesh liner (though I know some folks who cut the liner out, I prefer to keep mine in) and are as at home on the beach or in the pool as they are out and about grocery shopping or running. The only downside for me is the absolutely huge front pockets, which are almost too deep to be useful.
Made from 100% textured nylon poplin, these loose and comfy shorts are quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant and come equipped with UPF protection. They're ready for any adventure you have planned.
"These shorts are great for fishing, and they dry faster than any other pair of shorts I have ever worn," shared a delighted outdoorsman. "The construction is rugged and durable, but ultra lightweight as well. The shorts have a liner that was a bit abrasive, so I wear bikini underwear with these as I do not want chafing down there. Ample pocket room and highly stain resistant. These are great shorts for fishing or hiking with the chance of getting wet!"
Linen is the perfect material for summer. It's light, breathable and ultra-absorbent, meaning it will wick away and evaporate sweat quickly, leaving you cool and dry.
Breathable and flattering, these high-waisted shorts have you covered. With an elastic waistband paired with a drawstring, they let you choose how comfortable you want to be. They fall just to the knee, so you get that summer breeze without showing off too much skin. We particularly like the button details that run down the side.
"My favorite shorts this year!" gushed a happy fan. "Decided to order these shorts and see how they fit. I love the color, love the design with buttons and the nice fabric. It really is hard to order clothes that fit, but these are so nice! So impressed ... that I ordered a black pair, which are on their way. I recommend."
These are some of the most popular shorts among Yahoo readers — and for good reason. You can't go wrong with Hanes, but on top of that, they're stretchy with an elastic waist and drawstring closure. They also have the right amount of length, stretch and looseness — which is why these "unicorn shorts" have 41,000 five-star ratings.
"These shorts are just right for my 67-year-old body — not too short," a thrilled shopper shared. "They are loose enough to be comfortable and more appropriate than bike shorts for women over 50, or anyone who doesn’t like compression shorts."
If you want a snug fit, you can't go wrong with a pair of twill shorts from Spanx. They're specially designed to keep things contained without being uncomfortable. They can make just about any figure sleek, thanks to the 360-degree smoothing panel that targets the tummy, waist and backside (hence the name "Supersmooth"). They're slightly shorter than some of the other picks with a 7-inch inseam, but Spanx is pretty confident in the confidence boost you'll get with these.
"The perfect fit," shared a shocked shopper. "Never in my life have I had a pair of shorts that gave both a structured look and stretch at the same time. So comfortable and easy to dress down or dress up!"
Made from 100% textured nylon poplin, these loose and comfy shorts are quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant and come equipped with UPF protection. They're ready for any adventure you have planned.
"These shorts are great for fishing, and they dry faster than any other pair of shorts I have ever worn," shared a delighted outdoorsman. "The construction is rugged and durable, but ultra-lightweight as well. The shorts have a liner that was a bit abrasive, so I wear bikini underwear with these as I do not want chafing down there. Ample pocket room and highly stain-resistant. These are great shorts for fishing or hiking with the chance of getting wet!"
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
