Shorts Types
Shorts now span casual, tailored, technical and swim categories, and each reads differently. This hub sets out the main shorts types you will meet across our range -- grouped by how smart or how sporty they are -- so you can shop by name rather than guesswork.
Casual and smart
Chino Shorts
The cotton-twill short that bridges smart and casual -- the most versatile pair most men own.
What defines it
Chino shorts are cut from mid-weight cotton twill with a clean, flat finish and a tailored waistband. They dress up with a polo and down with a tee.
Who it suits
Chino shorts suit almost every summer occasion short of formal wear, and sit at a smart just-above-the-knee length.
Tailored Shorts
A structured, pressed short cut from finer cloth for a sharp, smart-casual line.
What defines it
Tailored shorts use a crisper fabric, a proper waistband and often a clean flat front. They read the smartest of any short.
When to choose it
Reach for tailored shorts for smart summer events, garden parties and holidays where a sweat short would look too casual.
Cargo Shorts
A utility short defined by large bellows pockets on the thigh -- practical and back in fashion.
What defines it
Cargo shorts add flapped or zipped patch pockets to the leg. Modern versions are cut slimmer and cleaner than the baggy originals.
Who it suits
Cargos suit a casual, streetwear-leaning wardrobe and pair well with a plain tee and trainers.
Denim Shorts
A rugged cotton short cut from denim, offering a hard-wearing casual look.
What defines it
Denim shorts use the same indigo-dyed cotton twill as jeans, often with a turn-up hem or a raw-cut edge for a relaxed feel.
Styling
Denim shorts anchor a laid-back summer look with a tee and trainers, and take fading and wear as character.
Technical and athletic
Sweat Shorts
A soft jersey or loopback short built for comfort-first casual and lounge wear.
What defines it
Sweat shorts are cut from french terry or brushed jersey with an elasticated drawstring waist. They are the athleisure staple.
Who it suits
Sweat shorts suit relaxed, active wardrobes and pair with a matching sweat top for a co-ord look.
Running Shorts
A lightweight technical short designed for running, often with a built-in liner.
What defines it
Running shorts use quick-dry woven or knit fabric, a short inseam and frequently an inner mesh or compression liner for support.
Who it suits
Runners and gym-goers. Browse performance ranges such as On Running (/collections/on-running) and Saucony (/collections/saucony).
Training Shorts
A versatile gym short with stretch and ventilation for mixed training.
What defines it
Training shorts sit slightly longer than running shorts, use four-way stretch fabric and add zip pockets for the gym floor.
Why choose it
Training shorts handle weights, classes and cardio in one, making them the all-round athletic short.
Hiking Shorts
A durable outdoor short with water repellency and practical pockets for the trail.
What defines it
Hiking shorts use tough, quick-dry woven fabric, often ripstop, with a DWR finish and secure cargo or zip pockets.
Who it suits
Walkers and outdoor users. Berghaus (/collections/berghaus-mens) builds shorts around durable, weather-ready fabrics.
Summer and swim
Swim Shorts
A quick-dry short designed for the water, with a mesh liner and drainage.
What defines it
Swim shorts use lightweight recycled polyester or nylon that dries fast, an inner mesh brief and an elasticated drawstring waist.
Who it suits
Holiday and poolside wear. Browse swim shorts such as BOSS Bodywear (/collections/mens-boss-swim-shorts-swimwear).
Linen Shorts
A breathable natural-fibre short built for the hottest days.
What defines it
Linen shorts use woven flax that is highly breathable and lightweight, with a relaxed drape and a naturally textured finish.
Styling
Linen shorts are the holiday short -- cool, elegant and easy, worn with a linen shirt or plain tee.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most versatile type of shorts?
Chino shorts. Cut from cotton twill at a smart just-above-the-knee length, they dress up with a polo and down with a tee, covering almost every summer occasion.
What is the difference between running and training shorts?
Running shorts are lighter with a shorter inseam and often a built-in liner for support; training shorts sit slightly longer with four-way stretch and pockets for mixed gym work.
Are cargo shorts still fashionable?
Yes. Modern cargo shorts are cut slimmer and cleaner than the baggy originals, and the utility pocket detailing has returned as a strong casual look.