How to Choose the Right Size & Inseam for Men's Shorts

Buying shorts online comes with one recurring frustration: sizing. Brands label things differently, waist numbers don't always match, and "inseam" sounds more technical than it really is. This guide breaks down how to get the right fit the first time, so your next pair arrives ready to wear.

Understanding waist sizing

Men's shorts are usually sold in one of two systems:

• Numeric waist (e.g. 30, 32, 34): This is your waist measurement in inches. Many of our styles, such as the Men's Cotton Utility Cargo Shorts, use this system across a wide 29–40 range.
• Letter sizing (S, M, L, XL and up): Easier to grab quickly, but less precise. Styles like the Men's Cotton Elastic Waist Fashion Shorts run from M up to 3XL.

To measure your waist, wrap a soft tape around where you actually wear your shorts — not where a belt sits highest. Keep one finger of room for comfort. If you're between sizes, an elastic-waist style is the safer bet, since it accommodates a little movement either way.

What "inseam" actually means

The inseam is the distance from the crotch seam to the hem, measured along the inside of the leg. It determines how long the shorts are and where they land on your leg:

• Shorter inseam (5–7"): Lands well above the knee. Sporty and cooler in hot weather.
• Mid inseam (8–9"): Lands just above or at the knee. The most versatile, flattering on most builds.
• Longer inseam (10"+): Lands at or below the knee. A relaxed, more covered look common on cargo and workwear styles.

Most of our cargo and outdoor styles — like the Casual Loose Outdoor Multi-Pocket Shorts — sit in the relaxed, knee-length range, which suits their utility-focused design.

Matching length to your height and build

As a general rule, shorter men often look more balanced in a mid inseam that doesn't overwhelm the leg, while taller men can carry a longer inseam comfortably. If you prefer room through the hips and thighs, look for styles described as loose or relaxed, such as the Casual Loose Sport Highly Elastic Shorts, which also stretches to move with you.

Sizing up for layering or comfort

If you plan to wear shorts over base layers, or simply prefer a roomier feel, sizing up one step is reasonable — especially in fixed-waist (non-elastic) styles. For larger sizes, the Men's Plus Size Camo Cargo Shorts extend all the way to 7XL.

Quick checklist before you buy

• Measure your actual waist with a tape, don't guess from another brand's label.
• Check whether the style uses numeric or letter sizing.
• Decide your preferred inseam: above-knee, at-knee, or below-knee.
• If between sizes, favour an elastic waist or size up.
• Always check the size guide on the individual product page — cuts vary by style.

Ready to find your pair?

Browse the full Men's Cargo & Outdoor Shorts collection, or see our roundup of the best cargo shorts for outdoor and everyday wear. Wondering about fabric? Read quick-dry vs cotton shorts next.