Shorts Buying Guide
Choosing shorts comes down to a few clear decisions: fabric, length, fit and occasion. This hub works through the common comparisons so you can pick the right pair with confidence, whether for the office summer, the gym or a holiday.
Fabric and type choices
Chino vs Cargo Shorts
The smart-casual staple against the utility short with thigh pockets.
The difference
Chino shorts are clean and smart with side pockets; cargo shorts add functional thigh pockets and read more casual and rugged.
How to choose
Choose chino shorts for smart-casual versatility and cargo shorts when you want practicality and a streetwear feel.
Cotton vs Linen Shorts
Structured, hard-wearing cotton against cool, breathable linen.
The difference
Cotton twill is structured, durable and holds shape; linen is lighter, more breathable and drapes softly but creases.
How to choose
Choose cotton for everyday smart-casual wear and linen for the hottest days and holidays where coolness comes first.
Stretch vs Traditional Shorts
Comfort-focused stretch cotton against pure, structured cloth.
The difference
Stretch shorts add elastane for movement and comfort; traditional pure-cotton shorts give a crisper, more structured look.
How to choose
Choose stretch for slim fits and active days, and traditional cloth when you want the cleanest tailored line.
Swim vs Hybrid Shorts
Dedicated swim shorts against hybrids you can swim and walk in.
The difference
Swim shorts prioritise fast drying and a mesh liner; hybrid shorts add smarter styling and pockets so they work on land too.
How to choose
Choose swim shorts for pool and beach focus, and hybrids for a holiday short that goes from sea to bar.
Fit and length choices
Running vs Training Shorts
Light, short running cuts against longer, stretchier training shorts.
The difference
Running shorts are lighter with a shorter inseam and a liner; training shorts sit longer with four-way stretch and pockets.
How to choose
Choose running shorts for road and track, and training shorts for the gym, classes and mixed sessions.
Choosing Inseam Length
Matching inseam to your height, build and the look you want.
The rule of thumb
5 to 7 inch inseams read sporty and hot-weather; 7 to 9 inches is a versatile casual length; 9 inches and over sits at the knee.
How to choose
Shorter suits sport and warm days; longer suits smart-casual and taller frames. Check our size guides (/pages/size-guides).
Choosing Short Fit
Picking slim, regular, relaxed or athletic for your build.
The rule of thumb
Slim suits leaner builds and smart shorts; regular suits most; relaxed suits comfort and streetwear; athletic suits muscular legs.
How to choose
Match the fit to your build and the occasion -- a slim chino short for smart wear, a relaxed sweat short for lounging.
Occasion choices
Best Summer Shorts
The most comfortable, breathable options for hot days at home.
What to look for
For summer, prioritise breathable natural fabrics -- linen and lightweight cotton -- at a comfortable mid length.
Top picks
Linen and cotton chino shorts are the summer staples, cool enough for heat and smart enough for most days.
Best Holiday and Travel Shorts
Versatile, quick-drying shorts that pack small and do everything.
What to look for
For travel, choose quick-dry, crease-resistant fabric and a versatile length that works day and evening.
Top picks
Hybrid and lightweight chino shorts pack small, resist creasing and cover beach, sightseeing and dinner.
Smart Casual Shorts Guide
How to wear shorts smartly without looking underdressed.
What to look for
For smart-casual, choose a tailored or chino short at knee length in a clean fabric and neutral colour.
How to style
Pair with a polo or linen shirt and loafers or clean trainers to keep shorts looking considered rather than sloppy.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best shorts for hot weather?
Linen and lightweight cotton chino shorts. Both are breathable natural fabrics that keep you cool, with linen best for the hottest days and cotton a touch smarter and more structured.
What is the best short length for smart casual?
Knee length or just above, in a tailored or chino short cut from clean fabric. Shorter athletic lengths read too sporty for smart-casual settings.
What shorts are best for travel?
Quick-dry, crease-resistant hybrid or lightweight chino shorts. They pack small, resist wrinkling and are versatile enough to cover the beach, sightseeing and dinner.