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The Best Shorts for Men for Summer 2022, Tested

by Carry HQ, July 26, 2022

When it comes to apparel, there are a plethora of options for every single item you can think of, and even the ones you can’t imagine! There is every colorway, and every different fit, and “new styles!” rarely appear to be new. However, shorts are a staple for anyone, and here we’ve got a collection that includes some of the best. Whether you’re out jumping around being active, going to dinner with your family, or somewhere in between, here are the best shorts for men in 2022.

Best Active Shorts for Men

Tracksmith Run Cannonball Run Shorts

Price: US$88

Carryology Credential: Quick-drying, versatile for swimming and running

The summer heat is beating down and you’re working hard on the trails or tarmac. Suddenly an inviting stream or lake presents itself, perfect for taking a mid-run dip. And you dive right on in because you’re wearing Tracksmith’s Run Cannonball Run Shorts. What’s so clever about these shorts? Their dual running/swimming functionality. Traditional running shorts aren’t designed for swimming, while swimming shorts usually aren’t comfortable for extended runs. But the RCR Shorts are made with an Italian swim fabric that’s quick-drying, wicks moisture, and offers four-way stretch. Having featured in Olympic speed suits, the material adapts to both running and swimming, keeping the chafe at bay and making them a solid summer wardrobe staple for active pursuits wherever the day takes you.

Tracksmith Falmouth Shorts

Price: US$128

Carryology Credential: Technical running shorts with urban-friendly styling

Who said running shorts can’t be stylish? Certainly not Tracksmith. Their Falmouth Shorts combine running practicality and understated style in one. Available in a choice of a 6″ or 7″ inseam, the shorts are made with a four-way stretch nylon blend that’s lightweight, moisture-wicking, and water-repellent. The shorts feature an elasticated waist, a zip fly, an antimicrobial Polygiene liner, two hand pockets, and a concealed zip pocket. All in a tailored silhouette that doesn’t hinder your running but also strides easily into more laid-back, about-town wear. These are great for the one bag travel crowd, these shorts will step up whenever needed.

prAna Hybridizer Short

Price: US$45 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Adventure-ready design for land and water

When adventure calls, you need to be ready to follow. And prAna’s Hybridizer Short has you covered, whether that’s on land or water. This versatile short uses a quick-drying, moisture-wicking bluesign® approved fabric with four-way stretch and UPF 50+ protection. The short also offers a choice of front and back pockets, an interior waistband drawstring, and a choice of 8″ or 10″ inseam sizes. Lightweight and exceptionally breathable, these have been a favourite of mine on the trail. If you’re looking for a longer short that’s equally at home in the water or on dry land, the Hybridizer Short is an adventure-savvy pick.

Western Rise Movement Short

Price: US$68

Carryology Credential: An adaptable all-rounder with technical performance

Western Rise have their deft blend of technical performance and style down to a fine art. And the Movement Short is an excellent example of their commitment to practical, thoughtful design. The short features an ultralight 100% polyester fabric from Toray in Japan. Designed to merge comfort and performance, the fabric is water and stain-resistant, moisture-wicking, and provides two-way stretch. Plus the smooth dense face helps the fabric to resist snags and maintain its shape. The Movement short covers so many bases, and I’ve lived in these shorts over the past year, and they come with me everywhere we travel. The Movement Short has zippered pockets and a 7″ inseam and is a versatile active all-rounder whether you’re heading for a hike or hitting the waves.

Free Fly Lined Breeze Short

Price: US$78

Carryology Credential: Excellent comfort and laid-back style

Love living in shorts when summer rolls around? The Free Fly Lined Breeze Short is the kind of short you never want to take off. All thanks to its lightweight build with a breathable stretch shell and a super-soft bamboo boxer brief liner. The short has a 7″ inseam (also available in 6″ and 8″), along with an elastic drawstring waistband and a zippered back pocket for securing small valuables. Plus with UPF 50+ protection these are some of the best shorts for summer activities. A Free Fly staple, these are made for days between the beach and the bar. Not to mention they come in a wide choice of colorways too, so you’re all set to embrace the summer in comfy, casual style.

Outerknown Apex Trunks

Price: US$145

Carryology Credential: Sustainably-made surf shorts designed for peak performance on the waves

It’s safe to say 11 times world surf champ and Outerknown founder Kelly Slater knows a thing or two about getting active in the water. So when he puts his mind to developing surf shorts, good things are coming. The Apex Trunks offer a host of useful performance features including four-way stretch, welded seams, and a smooth interior fly to combat chafing. They also feature a double-bonded butt seam for increased durability, a bonded zippered back pocket (which the shorts pack into), and laser-cut detailing at the side seam and back pocket to aid drainage and ventilation. They are seriously high tech shorts that look as good as they feel. Add in a commitment to sustainable construction with fair working conditions and recycled polyester and catching those waves will feel even better.

Best Hybrid Shorts for Men

Faherty All Day Shorts

Price: US$98

Carryology Credential: Wear them on land or in water; good choice of colorways and style options

Want shorts you can wear pretty much anywhere, from water sports and trails to coffee shops and BBQs?The Faherty All day Shorts are more than happy to oblige. These shorts come in belt loop, no belt loop, and exterior drawstring options, along with a choice of inseam sizes to suit personal preferences. The four-way stretch fabric is made with 75% recycled polyester, 17% cotton, and 8% Spandex, and provides moisture-wicking, water-repellent, and quick-drying properties. Great for a day at the beach or meeting up with friends in town, these shorts include an interior drawstring waistband and really are comfortable enough for all-day wear. You could comfortably go from lunch to the waves without a costume change!

LIVSN Flex Canvas Shorts

Price: US$79

Carryology Credential: Flexible for outdoor and urban wear; sustainably made

The LIVSN Flex Canvas Shorts are equally at home in the city and outdoors thanks to a tough, flexible, and tailored design. Constructed with sustainably made 8 oz EcoFlex Canvas, the shorts integrate a range of useful features for comfort and freedom of movement, including articulated knees, a gusseted crotch, and a contoured waistband. Since getting active can be tough on your gear, LIVSN have also concentrated on durability with reinforced pockets and double needle stitching. Add in thoughtful details such as reflective taping under the hem for added visibility in low-light conditions and a host of handy pockets to store small essentials, and you’re good to go wherever the day or night takes you.

DUER Weightless Shorts

Price: US$79

Carryology Credential: Super lightweight comfort for warm-weather excursions

These heat-beating shorts are ideal for sweltering summers thanks to an ultralight build featuring DUER’s Weightless Poplin fabric. The pant version of these won our “Best in Show” award at Outdoor Retailer this summer, and the shorts are equally as impressive. Not only does the fabric keep the bulky weight at bay but you also benefit from moisture-wicking, soft comfort, breathability, and stretch. Plus additional features such as a hidden gusset, elastic waistband, and pockets for your essentials give these shorts functional comfort for everything from bike rides to lunch at your local cafe. Perfect for cracking on with warm-weather fun.

Relwen Air-Stretch Windshort

Price: US$118 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Adaptable athletic cut with breathable comfort

Looking for a touch of laid-back luxury in your day-to-day excursions? Kick back and relax in Relwen’s Air-Stretch Windshort. Or don’t, if a more active day is in order. These versatile shorts offer a relaxed athletic fit that adapts to a range of pursuits, with 6% Spandex for welcome flexibility. Breathable and semi-water resistant, the shorts also include a comfy elastic waistband with a drawcord, a zippered back pocket for securing valuables, and stitch-through construction on the front hand pockets for a clean silhouette. The soft mesh lining is also sewn together with the shell, ensuring everything stays just as it should whether you’re getting after the action or propping your feet up with a refreshing brew.

Buck Mason Deck Short

Price: $85

Carryology Credential: Smart-casual urban style with lived-in comfort

The comfort of your favorite well-worn tee, with the functionality to set sail towards the horizon, embrace a beach BBQ, or tackle errands around town? Buck Mason’s Deck Short does it all. Available in 6″ and 8″ inseam options, the short features a quick-drying cotton/poly blend with four-way stretch for easy movement. The design also offers an adjustable drawcord at the waist with a smart snap and zip closure. And because comfort is king, the short is garment washed and lightly sueded, creating a soft and enticing feel you’ll reach for time and again.

Western Rise Boundless Short

Price: $88

Carryology Credential: All-in-one design for lounging by the pool and lunch in the city

Western Rise is all about getting more out of the gear you own. And their Boundless Short lives up to its name as a highly versatile design that won’t restrict where you go and what you do. All thanks to useful inbuilt features such as four-way mechanical stretch, a DWR finish for water and stain resistance, and zippered pockets for your small EDC or travel items. Quick-drying and breathable, the Boundless Short will stride onto the trails, leap into the pool, and be ready to hit the city streets for lunch afterward.

prAna Alameda Short

Price: US$69

Carryology Credential: Travel-friendly style and functionality for laid-back or active use

Drinks and a show on a warm summer evening? Embracing an unexpected hike on your travels? prAna’s Alameda Short goes “Sure, I can do that.” The stylish cut comes in 7″ and 9″ inseams and can be dressed up or down, making it a great travel-friendly option for your packing list. Made with bluesign® approved materials, the ReZion recycled nylon blend wicks moisture, offers four-way stretch, and provides UPF 50+ protection too. And if you dig pockets, you’ve got a solid selection here to keep your essentials close at hand.

Relwen Drawstring Paddle Hybrid Short

Price: US$102 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Durable lightweight shorts made for life on the go!

Relwen hail from the midwest and all of their products are modern twists on heritage classics that’ll last you a lifetime. The Paddle Hybrid is inspired by standard issue military shorts and is made from a lightweight shell fabric that is a cotton and nylon blend–a good mix of comfort and strength. A rear patch pocket (with snap) and two slash pockets on the front keep all of your essentials close at hand. The 7″ inseam is great for being active, and the contoured waistband prevents chafing. These are a stylish pair of high-performance shorts.

Wellen Hybrid Cruiser Short

Price: US$47 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Stylish swimmers that look like a bespoke chino.

Huckberry’s in-house brand Wellen have a wonderful collection of wardrobe staples, and one of our favorites is the Hybrid Cruiser short. Available in 7.5″ or 9″ inseams, this short is one of the most stylish on the list for your fashion-forward folks! Enhanced with a Bluesign® Approved quick-dry stretch polyester/spandex mix, secret pockets, and a key loop, you can spend all day in these whatever is on the schedule. Available in a great array of subtle shades, you’ll be wanting to pick up multiple pairs!

Best Casual Shorts for Men

Faherty Whitewater Sweatshort

Price: US$98

Carryology Credential: Sweatpant comfort meets warm weather style

Sweatpants can get a little toasty during summer. But Faherty have a nifty alternative on hand with their Whitewater Sweatshort. Pairing ultimate lounging comfort with laid-back styling, these shorts feel soft and breathable, with an effortless pull-on design and elasticized drawstring waistband. The shorts have front patch pockets, a back welt pocket, and a 7.5″ inseam. And the jacquard fabric keeps things interesting yet understated, making these a great go-to piece for sipping drinks by the pool, nipping around town, or dressing things up with a shirt for semi-casual dining. These are some of the most comfortable shorts I’ve worn, I’m always excited to pull them on! If you want to complete the set, this magnificent fabric is also available as a hoody!

Faherty Stretch Terry Short

Price: US$128

Carryology Credential: Easy to dress up or down, with a quality look and feel

Pair them with a tee. Pair them with a long-sleeved shirt. Hit the hiking trails. Check out a summer concert. Check out the local offerings at the farmers’ market. Faherty’s Stretch Terry Short does an awesome job of combining versatile wear with everyday comfort. Soft to the touch with a relaxed fit and straight leg, the Stretch Terry Short is easy to dress up or down and features a fly zipper and buttoned rear welt pockets. Whether you’re reaching for it on the daily or packing it in your travel bag, this functional piece will become a go-to wardrobe staple.

Flint and Tinder Dobby Chore Short

Price: US$48 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Heritage inspiration for hard-working, modern-day wear

Fancy a savvy blend of functionality and French flair in your shorts? Look no further than the Dobby Chore Short. Flint and Tinder took inspiration from traditional 1940s French workwear to create this durable and casual-chic piece. Made with textured dobby fabric (a blend of cotton, linen, and polyurethane), these shorts offer a considered blend of visual interest and toughness. Ideal for handling day-to-day wear or stepping things up with a button-down shirt for more smart-casual styling. Add in the button fly with adjustable drawcord and a choice of pockets for small essentials and you’re ready to roll from picnics on the beach to weekend drinks in the city with ease.

Flint and Tinder 365 Cotton Linen Short

Price: $62 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Lightweight and breathable construction for beating the heat

Rising temperatures call for lightweight, breathable fabrics to keep you cool on the go. So Flint and Tinder created their 365 Cotton Linen Short with a highly breathable blend of 70% cotton and 30% linen. The textured fabric feels cool and comfy and is great for embracing warm weather without overheating. The casual chino styling allows this piece to easily adapt on the fly, whether it’s a day out in the park, a BBQ with friends, or simply keeping the heat at bay about town. Available in 7″ and 9″ inseam options, you also get dual hand and back pockets, a YKK zipper fly, and chambray binding on the interior seams for added comfort.

Free Fly Stretch Canvas Short

Price: $74

Carryology Credential: Classic summer style meets everyday flexibility

Fuss-free flexibility and comfort that gets on with the job at hand? No problem for the Free Fly Stretch Canvas Short. This trusty summertime piece has a 7″ inseam and an elastic waistband with a drawcord for an adjustable fit. The inbuilt stretch and UPF 50+ protection make it a dependable choice for handling a variety of day-to-day activities during the summer, while dual hand and back pockets keep those smaller items within reach throughout the day. If you’re after a cool, comfy, and versatile piece that’s equally up for lazy weekends or more active pursuits, this is a solid option.

Buck Mason Carry-On 6.5 Inch Short

Price: $85

Carryology Credential: Classy comfort with enduring, timeless style

Available in a range of understated colorways, the Buck Mason Carry-On 6.5 Inch Short keeps things casual yet classy with a quality feel and stylish silhouette. The short has a 6.5″ inseam and tapered leg design and is crafted with a 5.5 oz. stretch cotton twill for comfort. A garment wash makes the short even softer and more comfortable to wear, while a choice of hand and back pockets along with a coin pocket provides ready storage for smaller items.

Taylor Stitch Apres

Price: $48 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: Lightweight, breezy, and beach-ready.

Huckberry have a habit of picking the good ones for their exclusives and The Après Shorts are no different. Designed for life’s quieter moments, the Après are made from garment-washed hemp, giving you a robust yet lightweight material for end-of-day chill. The garment wash means these are ready to go out of the packet, and the high tensile strength of hemp means they’re ready for a season of adventure. Two button pockets on the rear are enough for your EDC when you pop to the store and the drawstring waist gives you a little extra support for when you dash around. Taylor Stitch yet again blend fashion and function, particularly in this great Huckberry colorway.

Relwen Surfmesh Sprint Short

Price: $118 on Sale!

Carryology Credential: The ultimate sweatshort

Similarly to their previous entries on this list, the Relwen Surfmesh short is the sweatshort, but elevated. The jersey outer reminds you of your dad’s favorite sweatpants, but with a more breathable fabric (thanks to the moisture-wicking mesh lining) and a more refined style. Stretchy, with a thick ribbed waistband, the Surfmesh short will become a year-round favorite. The heathered fabric will blend with any style, and you’ll be dying to get into these at the end of a long day!