WHAT’S THE BEST SHORTS LENGTH FOR GUYS?
TL;DR: 6” to 9” is usually the sweet spot for most men of average height.
Read on to learn the perfect short length for you specifically and why it looks best on you.
Now that we’ve officially kicked winter to the curb, it’s time to start thinking about shorts.
But, how short should men’s shorts be?
Is there a “perfect” inseam length for men’s shorts?
The long (and short) of it is that choosing the right pair has a lot to do with style and comfort, sure, but also body proportions, and it can quickly turn into a Goldilocks thing: this pair is too short. This pair is too long…
So, let’s dive into a simple guide for choosing the right pair of shorts, taking into consideration:
The Best Inseam Length Based on Your Height
How Your Shorts Should Fit
How to Style Your Shorts for Spring and Summer
Best Shorts Length for Guys: Inseam Lengths
Your bottoms are available in specific lengths.
This is what we call the “inseam.” On pants/trousers/jeans, an inseam is literally a measurement of the length of the inside seam that runs from the crotch to your ankle.
But shorts come in specific lengths, too. And that inseam represents the length from your crotch to the bottom of the leg.
The most common inseams for shorts are 5”, 7”, 9” and 11”, and you’ll find a few in between.
If your existing pairs don’t have the length indicated on the tag, you can measure it pretty easily by:
Laying the shorts out on a flat surface
Measuring from the crotch to the bottom of the leg
And while some suggest shorter inseams for a more modern look and a longer inseam for a more traditional look, the general guidance is that your “perfect” inseam length is going to be relative to your height.
Best Shorts Length for Guys: Choosing the Right Inseam Based on Height
You may have noticed times when you’ve put on a pair of shorts, looked in the mirror and thought, “Eh, something isn’t right” or “My legs look weird.”
That’s probably because something isn’t right. And your legs probably do look weird. But there’s a reason why that’s happening.
It’s because your shorts are either too long or too short.
Style Tip: Your shorts should be at least one inch above the knee, but not more than three.
Here’s a simple shorts inseam length guide for determining which pair is going to look best on you, based on your height:
If you’re under 5’9”
Aim for an inseam of 5” to 7” in order to avoid a scenario where you look like you’re wearing your dad’s shorts because they’re too big, long, or loose. When you wear a pair of shorts that are 9” or longer, they’re going to make your legs (and you) look shorter.
The goal is always to lengthen and elongate the body, giving the illusion of height even where there is none.
If you’re of average height - 5’9” to 6’0”
Shorts that are either 7” or 9” in length are going to balance out your proportions the best. If you think about it, wearing a pair of shorts that are 5” will risk making your legs look comically long while sporting a pair that’s 11” will risk making your legs look comically short.
If you’re a taller guy - over 6’
Avoid wearing shorts that are 5” or even shorter because at this point, you’re getting into shorty short territory and risk the possibility of showing things that shouldn’t be shown in public.
And much like shorter guys end up looking like they’re wearing their dad’s shorts when the inseam is too long, tall guys risk looking like they’re wearing their son’s shorts when they are too short.
Ideally, your best inseam is either 8” to 11” to keep your proportions in check.
how shorts should fit you: Choosing the Right Inseam Based on Body Type
Remember that your body type is also going to play a part when it comes to finding the perfect fit for your shorts.
They shouldn’t be too loose. And they shouldn’t be too tight.
A “perfect” fit always conforms to the leg without squeezing it. You should be able to grab an inch or two of fabric, not a handful.
And if you see the pockets flaring out like elephant ears, tension lines criss crossing over the thigh area, or if the fly starts to pull, these are all strong indicators that your shorts are too tight.
Luckily, a lot of brands, like Bonobos, not only give you the ability to choose your waist size and inseam length, but also offer slim fit, standard or classic fit, and athletic fit.
Style Tip: Fit has to do with the width of the shorts through the leg area.
Slim is the most narrow of fits (and suitable for most guys)
Standard or Classic is a tad wider
Athletic is the widest fit (best for those with muscular glutes and thighs)
And to maximize comfort, look for shorts that have a hint of stretch, indicated on the fabric tag by the words “spandex” or “elastane.”
How to style shorts:
Now that you’ve determined what your best shorts length is, let’s run through a few ways to style them.
How to Style Men’s Shorts: Everyday Casual Outfit
Never underestimate how sharp a pair of chino or cargo shorts can look with a sleek pair of low top sneakers and a fitted cotton t-shirt. It’s super casual, sure, but also looks pulled together.
This is a great option for the weekend or a low key day at home.
How to Style Men’s Shorts: Smart Casual Outfit
Looking casual is still the goal, but we want to add a hint of polish to kick it up a notch.
You can do this by styling your shorts with a polo or a button down shirt, including a long sleeve version. When you go that route, simply cuff and roll the sleeves to give it a relaxed vibe. Perfect for spring and summer.
You can always add a “third piece” by way of a lightweight jacket or even a blazer.
As for shoes, a sleek sneaker also works here, but so would a sandal or loafer.
How to Style Men’s Shorts: Athleisure Outfit
Whether you’re hitting the gym or just want to look like you are, you can add sharpness and polish to something as casual as athletic shorts by adding a fitted t-shirt.
If you’re engaging in a physical activity, go for a performance t-shirt, which offers moisture wicking and stretch.
If you’re lounging or meeting up with friends, you can’t go wrong with a structured, 100% cotton t-shirt.
Add a sleek pair of sneakers in a neutral color and you’re all set.
Taking your style to the next level…
So there you have it. How to find the best shorts length to complement your height, body proportions and style.
We hope you found this guide full of useful information so that you can begin adding the perfect pairs of shorts to your spring and summer wardrobe.
Speaking of which, if you feel like your closet (and you) could use a refresh but you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help!
You can click here to schedule a free, 20-minute Style Strategy consultation call with us, where we can talk through some of the most frustrating things you’re experiencing when it comes to your current style and wardrobe and what you can do to fix them. We’ll give you a plan of action to get yourself looking incredible, and show you ways to do it in record time. Fill out the form, and schedule your call here.
Cheers!
Kate
