The Best Shorts We’ve Actually Tested (2026)
Our pick: Lululemon Swim Trunks (10/10). Great swim shorts that look like normal shorts and actually hold up to frequent use. 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 | Great swim shorts that look like normal shorts and actually hold up to frequent use. | Check price → |
| 2 | Go Shorty | 9/10 | $88 | We tested it. Real value and performance that justifies the investment. | Check price → |
| 3 | Faherty All Day Shorts | 9/10 | — | The ultimate do-anything hybrid that looks like tailored chinos but performs like swim trunks—they live up to the hype. | Check price → |
| 4 | Myles Everyday Short | 8.5/10 | $68 | The most versatile short available—perfect for workouts, casual style, and everything in between. | Check price → |
| 5 | Myles Weekend Sweat Short | 8.5/10 | — | Premium sweat shorts worth the $68 price—comfortable, well-made, and backed by Myles' 5-year quality guarantee. | Check price → |
| 6 | Olivers Capital Short | 8.5/10 | — | Olivers Capital Shorts are the best hybrid short: athletic comfort with casual khaki style. | Read review |
| 7 | Public Rec All Day Every Day Shorts | 8/10 | $68 | Amazing everyday shorts with game-changing pockets and a durable waistband that keeps you comfortable all day. | Check price → |
| 8 | Olivers All Over Short | 7.5/10 | $75 | Solid premium shorts with excellent moisture-wicking, though the newly added logo undermines their minimalist appeal. | Read review |
1. Lululemon Swim Trunks
Great swim shorts that look like normal shorts and actually hold up to frequent use.
What we liked: Look like smart casual shorts, not typical beach trunks; Water-repellent, abrasion-resistant with chlorine-resistant Xtra Life Lycra; Built-in liner and elasticated waistband for comfort.
What we’d skip: Price point ($78) may be prohibitive for some; Not recommended for office or formal wear.
2. Go Shorty
We tested it. Real value and performance that justifies the investment.
What we liked: Comfortable ABC Technology with gusset for extra room and support; Lightweight, breathable Warpstreme fabric with moisture-wicking; Multiple pockets including secure zippered pocket.
What we’d skip: Premium pricing compared to competitor options; Sizing runs small and inconsistent.
3. Faherty All Day Shorts
The ultimate do-anything hybrid that looks like tailored chinos but performs like swim trunks—they live up to the hype.
What we liked: Stretchy and incredibly comfortable; Dries suspiciously fast; Hybrid design: chino styling with swim-trunk performance.
What we’d skip: Some colors (especially patterns) read more as swim trunks than chinos—stick to Ice Grey, Coastal Blue, or Khaki for the chino look; Care requires attention: cold wash only, no fabric softeners, low-temp drying to maintain water-repellent finish.