The sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and that means only one thing: it's shorts season. But the search for the right pair of men's shorts can often feel like a daunting task. One pair is perfect for a game of tennis, another is ideal for relaxing on the couch, and yet another becomes your go-to for a summer day in the city.
The selection is vast, and the differences can be subtle. That's why we've created this guide. Here, you'll find practical tips and concrete recommendations to help you find a style that fits your needs—without the marketing fluff.
Before we dive into the products, here are a few key considerations to make your choice easier.
The material largely determines both comfort and function. For men's athletic shorts, synthetic fabrics like polyester are popular. They are typically lightweight, wick away sweat, and dry quickly. Mesh is a specific weaving technique that provides extra breathable shorts, ideal for intense workouts.
Are you looking for lounge shorts for moments of relaxation? A soft cotton blend is often an excellent choice. This material feels soft against the skin and offers all-day comfort for daily wear.
Fit is personal, but it's also functional. A looser fit offers maximum freedom of movement, which is useful for sports like basketball or fitness. A more tailored style, such as men's tennis shorts, is designed to not get in your way during rapid movements.
Also, pay attention to practical details. Deep pockets are essential for a tennis player to store balls. An elastic waistband with a drawstring ensures the shorts stay securely in place, no matter what you're doing.
Consider where you'll be wearing the shorts most often. Casual shorts in a neutral color, like black shorts, are versatile and easy to style for everyday activities. A pair of white shorts has a classic, athletic look that works well on the tennis court and beyond. The style determines whether your shorts are suited for the gym, a café, or simply lounging at home.
Based on functionality, material, and purpose, we've curated a list of popular choices for you.
Why it stands out The Lee Lounge Short is designed with one goal in mind: relaxation. The focus is entirely on comfort, without any distracting details. It's the ideal lounge short for those days when you just want to unwind.
Pros
Who is it for? For the man seeking comfortable shorts for home, the weekend, or a warm, lazy day. A reliable choice for pure relaxation.
Why it stands out These men's tennis shorts from K-Swiss are specifically engineered for the court. The material choice and details are all focused on performance. The blend of 94% polyester and 6% elastane ensures a lightweight and flexible fit.
Pros
white shorts for training and competition.Who is it for? Ideal for both recreational and competitive tennis players who need functional shorts that combine comfort and performance.
Why it stands out These mesh shorts are a prime example of versatile men's athletic shorts. The wide, loose fit and breathable mesh material make them suitable for various sports, from basketball to a workout at the gym.
Pros
black shorts with stripes provide a classic, sporty aesthetic.Who is it for? For men looking for functional and breathable shorts for various sports activities or for a casual, athletic look in their daily life.
Is the pair of men's shorts you have in mind not listed here? Everyone has different preferences when it comes to style, fit, and color. Fortunately, many more options are available.
Browse our full collection on the Men's Shorts category page and discover more styles.
The main difference lies in the material and fit. Lounge shorts are usually made from soft, comfortable materials like cotton and have a relaxed fit designed for unwinding. Men's athletic shorts are made from functional, moisture-wicking materials like polyester or are designed as mesh shorts, with a fit engineered for freedom of movement during exercise.
Always consult the size chart for the specific product, as sizing can vary between brands. In addition to the waist measurement, pay attention to the fit (e.g., 'loose fit' or 'slim fit'). The inseam length determines how long the shorts are, which is a matter of personal preference.
Absolutely. Thanks to their lightweight, stretchy fabric and breathable properties, men's tennis shorts are often very suitable for other activities like fitness, running, or padel. The deep pockets are specific to tennis, but they won't get in the way during other sports.