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Let those gams breathe a little.
Summer is in full swing, and despite the scorching heat and humidity having us all looking a little hot and bothered, it’s possible to both stay cool and look smart when you’ve got the right gear.
Sure, in this weather we’d all like to picture ourselves lounging around any cooling body of water 24/7 in nothing but swim trunks, but unfortunately the reality of day-to-day life—like pesky jobs and social gatherings that require being more appropriately clothed—simply won’t allow for it.
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The great news is that you already love your trustworthy chinos for their durability and versatility, but even these go-to pants have their limitations in the heat. So, what’s the next best thing? Chino shorts, obviously.
The best chino shorts provide all the comfort and style of their longer counterparts—they’re crafted from the same sturdy cotton twill fabric, after all—without smothering your legs in the warmer months. And, we’ve rounded up the best of them in almost every length.
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We can’t talk chinos without mentioning one of America’s most famous purveyors of the menswear staple. Featuring the brand’s Stretch on Demand, this pair pretty much translates into being your already much-loved J.Crew chinos but in shorts form.
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These Bonobos shorts will make it into your suitcase each and every time you pack for a summer getaway. Their casual fit makes them easy to slip on and off on beach days while they still look effortlessly chic come time for drinks at sundown.
Leave it to Todd Snyder to soup up chino shorts by adding lovely pleats. The folded fabric style is having a moment in menswear and we’re here for it. With a 9-inch inseam, these chino shorts will look just as wonderful at a wedding as they will strolling on the sidewalks.
For anywhere, all-the-time chino shorts look to L.L. Bean’s khaki offering in a relaxed fit. Durable and comfy as heck, this pair is easy to care for thanks to the company’s innovative fabric treatment, which means you’ll get to wear them over and over without any hassle.
If you’re searching for timeless chino shorts, a pair by Alex Mill is a safe—and stylish—bet. This one in a vintage khaki color is the short version of the brand’s beloved flat front chinos that feature adjustable waist tabs.
Read More: Best Khakis for Men
If you’re still struggling to transition from sweat shorts to… well, anything else, then Lululemon’s take on chino shorts will do the trick. Boasting the athletic apparel company’s ABC Technology that lessens tension in the crotch area, you’ll have more room to roam than ever.
Read More: Best Sweat Shorts for Men
Known for reinventing men’s basics, it should come as no surprise to see that Mack Weldon has designed chino shorts that are as functional as they are fashionable. These bottoms in a summery Sconset red are also water and stain resistant.
Pulling off white pants is no easy feat, so if you’re going to take the risk with white chino shorts (and we encourage you to do so), you can’t go wrong with a pair by a brand that best exemplifies luxe living. Better yet, up the style ante by matching them with your smartest loafers.
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Like many staples in your wardrobe, opting for chino shorts in black will give you endless outfit choices. Do yourself one better by grabbing a moisture-wicking piece with an elastic waist by go-to essentials brand Everlane.
You might recall a time when army green shorts were significantly associated with some of the worst dad fashion in recent memory. But, how about that color on these sleekly designed chino shorts—can’t argue with something that looks this good, right?