Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.

Best Overall Linen Shorts
Alex Crane Bo Shorts

Alex Crane could definitely charge more for its shorts—considering the high quality of its sustainably-grown French linen—but we aren’t complaining about the under $100 price tag. In fact, we might just stock up on a few pairs since it comes in so many colors.
Sizes | XS–3XL |
Colors | 22 |
Composition | 110% European linen |
Best Formal Linen Shorts
Orlebar Brown Norwich Linen

This might be the most sophisticated pair of linen shorts we’ve ever discovered. The closely-tailored fit makes for a sleek look, perfect with an easy button-up and some Sabahs.
Sizes | 28–40 |
Colors | 4 |
Composition | 100% linen |
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Best 5″ Linen Shorts
Todd Snyder Linen Beachcomber Short

Go from the beach club out to dinner with Todd Snyder’s shorts. The brand also makes stellar espadrilles that pair perfectly with this pair.
Sizes | XS–2XL |
Colors | 8 |
Composition | 100% linen |
Most Versatile Linen Shorts
Everlane Linen Easy Shorts

Summer won’t be complete without these. The drawstring waistband is all about comfort, but the effortless design is all about style. They’re called the “easy” shorts for a reason.
Sizes | XS–2XL |
Colors | 6 |
Composition | 100% European Flax linen |
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Best Affordable Linen Shorts
Quince Drawstring Beach Shorts

For only 40 bucks, Quince has pure linen shorts that you don’t want to miss. These are made even better by a comfortable elastic waistband.
Sizes | S–2XL |
Colors | 5 |
Composition | 100% European linen |
Best Neutral Linen Shorts
Bonobos Coastal Linen Short

This garment-dyed linen comes in four neutral hues that—we would be willing to bet—go swimmingly with about every shirt in your closet. They also come in a pant version, if you can’t get enough.
Sizes | 28–40 |
Colors | 4 |
Composition | 62% linen, 36% cotton, 2% spandex |
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Best Italian Linen Shorts
Luca Faloni Bermuda Shorts

Luca Faloni is putting an elegant twist on the traditional Bermuda short. From the luxe Italian linen to the four-pocket design, this style blends function with fashion.
Sizes | 28–40 |
Colors | 10 |
Composition | 100% Italian linen |
Best Machine-Washable Linen Shorts
Faherty Essential Linen Shorts

Faherty is our one-stop shop for a head-to-toe summer wardrobe. Case in point: these tonal striped shorts, with an elastic waistband for enhanced comfort.
Sizes | XS–2XL |
Colors | 5 |
Composition | 100% linen |
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Best Cotton-Linen Shorts
Vince Cotton-Linen Cargo Shorts

While less linen in the composition than others, Vince uses a blend of cotton and linen to create a durable style for everyday wear. From the market to the sports bar, these guys will take you anywhere—and with room to spare in the side pockets, too.
Sizes | 28–38 |
Colors | 2 |
Composition | 85% cotton, 15% linen |
Best Black Linen Shorts
Rag & Bone Haydon Linen Shorts

Not all linen shorts are lighter hued. Some, like this Rag & Bone pair, come in a dark wash that still retain all of linen’s lightweight qualities.
Sizes | 28–38 |
Colors | 3 |
Composition | 100% linen |
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Best Cargo Linen Shorts
Vilebrequin Linen Bermuda Shorts Cargo Pockets

Another cargo style, this time from Vilebrequin. Coming in an array of electric (and neutral) shades, you can get the pair that feel the most like you. They allegedly embody “the spirit of Saint Tropez,” and for some reason, we don’t disagree.
Sizes | S–6XL |
Colors | 10 |
Composition | 100% linen |
Best Pleated Linen Shorts
Percival Pleated Linen Shorts

The pleated design elevates this otherwise simple pair of shorts, making them easy to dress up or down. Pair with a casual T-shirt or a classy camp-collar shirt.
Sizes | 28–38 |
Colors | 6 |
Composition | 100% linen |
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Best Linen Shorts for the Beach
Onia Air Drawstring Shorts

These shorts are just screaming, “Take me to the beach and leave me there for the next five hours.” Maybe it’s the light blue shade or the slim drawstring waist that resembles that of a bathing suit, but we will not object.
Sizes | S–2XL |
Colors | 2 |
Composition | 52% linen, 48% Lyocell |
Best Straight-Leg Linen Shorts
Loro Piana Straight-Leg Linen Shorts

If you want to get designer with it, you can always trust Loro Piano to deliver a style that’s incredibly high end. Made in Italy, you can trust the careful craftsmanship that went into making this pair.
Sizes | S–3XL |
Colors | 4 |
Composition | 100% linen |
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Best Designer Shorts
Brunello Cucinelli Pleated Linen Drawstring Bermuda Shorts

Our friends at Brunello Cucinelli also pulled up with a style made at the hands of skilled Italian tailors. A pleated design with a Bermuda cut makes for a practical and posh pair.
Sizes | IT 44–60 |
Colors | 4 |
Composition | 100% linen |
How We Chose

Here at Esquire, we’re menswear experts, which means our standards are pretty high.
Through a long process of personal testing, combing the internet, and scouring through endless reviews, we finally came up with the list you see before you. And come on, have we ever steered you wrong?
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