The Best Shorts We’ve Actually Tested (2026)
Our pick: Lululemon Swim Trunks (10/10). Top pick for swim trunks—casual-looking, fast-drying, and built to last multiple seasons. Typically $78. We bought and tested 8 shorts to pick it.
Below: the full ranking by our honest rating — real prices, what we’d buy, and what we’d skip.
| # | Shorts | Rating | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lululemon Swim Trunks | 10/10 | $78 | Top pick for swim trunks—casual-looking, fast-drying, and built to last multiple seasons. | Check price → |
| 2 | Go Shorty | 9/10 | $88 | The go-to chino short for active men—three distinct fabric builds let you dial in comfort for any occasion. | Check price → |
| 3 | Faherty All Day Shorts | 9/10 | — | The ultimate 'do-anything' hybrid short that looks like a chino but performs like a swim trunk—these live up to the hype. | Check price → |
| 4 | Public Rec All Day Every Day Shorts | 9/10 | $68 | Versatile everyday shorts with killer zippered pockets that justify the $68 price—best for casual wear, not the gym. | Check price → |
| 5 | Myles Everyday Short | 8.5/10 | $68 | Our top pick for a do-everything short that works for workouts, errands, and casual wear after four years of testing. | Check price → |
| 6 | Myles Weekend Sweat Short | 8.5/10 | — | At $68 they're pricey, but the 5-year guarantee, comfort, and minimal branding make them worth it. | Check price → |
| 7 | Olivers Capital Short | 8.5/10 | — | Beats lululemon on stretch, water resistance, and durability; highly recommended. | Check price → |
| 8 | Olivers All Over Short | 5/10 | $75 | Solid performer undone by an unnecessary front-leg logo—we recommend Myles instead. | Read review |
1. Lululemon Swim Trunks
Top pick for swim trunks—casual-looking, fast-drying, and built to last multiple seasons.
What we liked: Looks like casual shorts, not just swimwear; Fast-drying; Built to last multiple seasons without fading or losing shape.
2. Go Shorty
The go-to chino short for active men—three distinct fabric builds let you dial in comfort for any occasion.
What we liked: ABC gusset technology eliminates discomfort and boosts durability; Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking Warpstreme fabric; Multiple fabric options (Warpstreme, WovenAir, Golf).
What we’d skip: Expensive compared to alternatives; Sizing runs small.
3. Faherty All Day Shorts
The ultimate 'do-anything' hybrid short that looks like a chino but performs like a swim trunk—these live up to the hype.
What we liked: Extremely comfortable and stretchy; Dries exceptionally fast; Hybrid design that looks tailored but swims.
What we’d skip: Pattern colors look more like swim trunks than chino shorts; Requires careful care (no fabric softeners, cold wash only).