In the dog days of summer, regular ol’ shorts aren’t enough to beat the heat. The best men’s linen shorts, though, are enough and then some, cooling your gams and helping you look cool in the process. (Come June, that’s half the battle, right?) If it was up to us, you’d drape your entire body in the unbeatable nubby fabric, and though we’re not suggesting you go out and replace all your underwear with linen briefs just yet, the best linen shorts for men ensure you won’t have to.
Much as we’d like to take credit for the idea, linen’s heat-beating prowess isn’t exactly a novel proposition. Researchers have unearthed linen scraps that date back 38,000 years, making it one of the oldest materials in existence. Considering its prehistoric origins, we wouldn’t blame you for picturing shorts that share a whole lot of aesthetic similarities with a potato sack. In 2024, though, that’s no longer the case. From preppy chino-adjacent options to freaky designer options to ultra-breezy options ready for vacation and an Aperol spritz, the linen shorts market has never been more crowded—or more thrilling.
As our ancestors knew all too well, staying cool is great, but looking cool is even better—and the best linen shorts boast a historic track record of doing just that.
The Best Men’s Linen Shorts, According to GQ
Best Overall Linen Shorts: J. Crew 7.5” Pleated Linen Shorts
We’ve spent a lot of time highlighting why this new era of J.Crew is well worth seeking out, and these pleated linen shorts are a perfect distillation of why. They straddle the line between retro and modern, Ivy style and Italian sprezzatura. They’ve got a roomy leg and a longer inseam of 7.5” which leans into the bigger shorts we’re feeling these days. Plus, they’re made with pure, uncut 100% linen. Embrace the wrinkles, savor the breeze. And all of this for under $100? Giving them any spot other than our favorite overall linen shorts would be wrong.
Best Vacation-Ready Linen Shorts: Todd Snyder 5” Linen Beachcomber Shorts
Holidays are meant for relaxing, not worrying, and rather than packing eight different pants for every possible situation, it’s a whole lot less stressful to bring a pair of shorts that can do as much as possible. Todd Snyder’s all linen Beachcomber shorts are the platonic ideal of a vacation short. The elastic waist let’s you know they’re made for bumming out on a beach, the belt loops let you dress them up should you need to fit in at a nice restaurant, and the luxe Italian linen has more structure than other linens meaning they’ll actually wrinkle less. Rarely has a garment embodied the beach to bar lifestyle as well as this one does.
Best Budget Linen Shorts: Gap 8” Linen-Cotton Shorts
As opulent as linen may seem (thanks, quiet luxury), there are plenty of options that won’t break the bank. Gap’s cotton-linen blend 8” shorts are cozy, comfy, and still plenty breezy to ensure your legs aren’t totally overheated during those warm days. They even come in a few different hues so it’s easy to stock up on a bunch all at once. Priced well under a night out, they’re a worthwhile option to have in your dresser to return to all summer long.
Best Linen Cargo Shorts: Vilebrequin Straight-Leg Linen Drawstring Cargo Shorts
Vilebrequin is known for their excellent swim shorts, but that their surf is just as good as their turf. These cargo linen shorts have four generous pockets to hold all your essentials for a day out on the beach or a luxurious sunny stroll around town. So feel free to stock them up with all the things you’ll need for a day out, whether it’s extra sunscreen, earbuds, sunglasses, or more. They’re also so light that you could even layer them over a pair of swim shorts before peeling them off on the beach.
Best Dressy Linen Shorts: Lardini Straight-Leg Pleated Linen Shorts
It takes a special kind of alchemy to make linen shorts that look effortlessly chic. So give it up to the wizards at Lardini for crafting these perfectly dressy shorts. Sure, the idea of a dress short feels a little counterintuitive but just imagine pairing these minimalist-looking shorts alongside a breezy linen oxford layered over a tank and tell us that’s not a great look for the summer. The pleats provide some great character, while the wider cut of the legs gives nice volume to a look. Pair these with loafers or espadrilles to lock in the Club Med sensibility.
Best Everyday Linen Shorts: Alex Crane Bo Shorts
Just because gym shorts are technically “casual shorts” doesn’t mean you should wear them as part of your day-to-day fits. Now, linen shorts are inherently casual, but if you don’t need your shorts to pass muster at a fancy establishment, Alex Crane’s Bo shorts are the perfect everyday linen shorts. These drawstring-waist joints are a no-frills option that does away with any extraneous details like pleats, extra pockets. They’re made of 100% French linen which has an incredible drape and lightness. They hit right at the mid-thigh and are relaxed without veering into Y2k baggy territory, so they’re right at home with a tee or a button-up in equal measure. Oh, and they come in just about every shade imaginable, which means you can find something that works with your personal style.
More Linen Shorts We Love
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