Shorts were once considered just a casual wear item for summers, but over time, different types of shorts have evolved to suit a variety of occasions. Since the 1980s, shorts have transitioned beyond just warm-weather essentials and are now worn for workouts, athletic activities, and even business casual settings.
In this blog, we will discuss 24 different types of shorts, their unique features, and the best occasions to style them. From sporty and performance-driven designs for workout and sports to everyday wear options, find the right types of shorts for men and various types of shorts for women to match your activity or occasion requirements.
24 Types of Shorts with Names
Below is the list of the most popular types of shorts for men and types of shorts for women that are a must-have in your wardrobe!
Athletic shorts are essential for anyone with an active lifestyle. These shorts types are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or spandex, providing comfort and flexibility during workouts and sports. Athletic shorts are designed with a stylish, sporty look that allows for easy movement. They are available in different designs, from classic styles to more fitted options to suit different preferences.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Workouts, running, sports, and outdoor activities
Styling Tip: Pair athletic shorts with an athletic tank top or athletic t-shirt for workouts or other athletic activities. Add sneakers or running shoes to complete the look.
Top Selling Athletic shorts:
Compression shorts are a helps improve performance during workouts. These types of shorts are made from stretchy, supportive fabrics like spandex or nylon, offering a snug fit that helps reduce muscle fatigue during workouts and sports.
The tight fit promotes better blood circulation and can speed up recovery after intense physical activity.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Sports, workouts, running, and recovery
Styling Tip: Pair compression shorts with compression tank top for an athletic look.
Top Selling Compression shorts:
Mesh shorts are made from breathable, lightweight fabric like polyester mesh or nylon mesh. They are perfect for sports, workouts, or casual wear as they help you stay cool and comfortable.
These type of shorts are designed with an open weave, offering excellent ventilation to keep you fresh, even during intense activities.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Sports, workouts, running, and casual wear
Styling Tip: Mesh shorts pair perfectly with t-shirts and tank tops for workouts. Complete the look with sneakers or running shoes. For a more street-inspired style, add a hoodie or a jacket to finish the outfit.
Top Selling Mesh shorts:
Soccer shorts are designed for comfort and performance on the field. These kinds of shorts allow for full mobility and keep the wearer cool during intense games or practice. They offer a relaxed, athletic fit, with an elastic waistband for a secure, adjustable fit.
The athletic design of soccer shorts focus on freedom of movement, making them perfect for running, kicking, and swift shifts in movement. Soccer shorts come in various lengths, from traditional knee-length to shorter options.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Soccer games, and training sessions
Styling Tip: Pair soccer shorts with a fitted soccer jersey for trendy look on and off the field. Complete the outfit with soccer cleats or running shoes.
Top Selling Soccer shorts:
Work shorts for men offers both comfort and practicality during tough, physical tasks. These types of shorts for men are made from durable, high-quality fabrics like cotton canvas or polyester blends. They are built to handle the demands of construction, manual labor, and other physically demanding work environments. Work shorts often feature sturdy stitching, multiple pockets for tools or personal items, and a relaxed fit to allow for ease of movement. They come in various styles, from classic work shorts to more modern fits, allowing you to find the perfect match for your preferences.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Construction, manual labor, industrial tasks, and outdoor work.
Styling Tip: Pair work shorts with a durable work shirts or a simple business casual polo for a practical, comfortable look. Complete the outfit with work boots for added durability.
Top Selling Work Shorts:
Basketball shorts are designed for comfort, flexibility, and performance on the court. These types of men’s shorts  are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or nylon which help players move freely and comfortably during fast-paced games. Basketball shorts feature an elastic waistband for a secure, adjustable fit and a loose, relaxed design for ease of movement. Many basketball shorts also have side pockets for convenience and come in various lengths, from knee-length to mid-thigh, to suit personal preference.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Basketball games, practice sessions, and casual wear
Styling Tip: Pair basketball shorts with a fitted basketball jersey or a simple t-shirts for an athletic look. Complete the outfit with basketball shoes or sneakers.
Top Selling Basketball shorts:
Track shorts are a versatile option for both men and women, and are a must-have for sports and fitness enthusiasts. Made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester, these types of shorts provide excellent ventilation and allow for full freedom of movement during intense workouts or outdoor activities. Track shorts typically feature an elastic waistband for a secure fit and are available in various lengths to suit personal preferences.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Running, training, casual wear, and sportswear
Styling Tip: Pair track shorts with a simple t-shirts or sporty sweatshirt for a relaxed, active look.
Top Selling Track shorts:
Tactical shorts are ideal for outdoor activities and rugged environments. These types of men’s shorts are made from durable materials like nylon or polyester, offering flexibility and resilience in tough conditions.
Tactical shorts often feature multiple pockets, including deep ones for carrying tools, gadgets, or other essentials.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Outdoor adventures, tactical training, and casual wear
Styling Tip: Pair tactical shorts with a tactical polo shirt for a rugged look. Add boots or sneakers for extra durability and comfort.
Top Selling Tactical shorts:
Big & tall shorts for men are specifically designed to provide comfort and style for individuals requiring extended lengths. These types of shorts often feature adjustable waistbands, generous cuts, and premium fabrics to assure a comfortable fit. Â They are available in various materials, making them suitable for both summer and winter wear. Additionally, many styles incorporate moisture-wicking fabrics and expandable waistbands to enhance comfort during physical activities.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Casual wear, and outdoor activities
Styling Tip: Pair big & tall shorts with a simple t-shirt or polo shirt for casual wear.
Top Selling Big & tall shorts:
Camo shorts are a great option for adding a rugged and versatile element to anyone’s wardrobe. These types of shorts are made from durable materials like cotton blends, making them ideal for outdoor activities or casual wear. They offer comfort and strength, perfect for daily use and active lifestyles.
Camo shorts come in different fits, assuring comfort for everyone. With added pockets, they offer convenience for carrying small essentials on the go.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Outdoor activities, casual wear, and street-inspired style
Styling Tip: Camo shorts are perfect for outdoor activities. Pair them with a simple hoodie  for a comfortable, relaxed look. Finish the outfit with sneakers, offering both style and practicality for all your adventures.
Top Selling Camo shorts:
Cargo shorts for men are a practical and versatile option for casual wear and outdoor activities. These types of men’s shorts feature multiple large pockets, perfect for carrying essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys.
Originally designed for military or work use, cargo shorts have evolved into a popular choice for everyday fashion.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Casual wear, and outdoor activities like hiking, and camping
Styling Tip: Pair cargo shorts with a simple t-shirt or casual button-down shirt for a smart-casual look.
Top Selling Cargo shorts:
Boxer shorts are a must-have in men’s wardrobe. These types of men’s shorts offer a relaxed fit, making them perfect for everyday wear and lounging. Made from soft, breathable fabrics, boxer shorts provide comfort and look stylish.
Boxer shorts come in various designs, from classic solid colors to fun patterns, allowing you to choose the style that suits your personality and comfort preferences.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Loungewear, or as casual wear
Styling Tip: Wear boxer shorts with a plain t-shirts. For added comfort, pair them with slip-on shoes or sandals for a relaxing vibe.
Top Selling Boxer shorts:
Skorts  is a type of shorts with a fabric panel in the front that looks like a skirt. These types of shorts for women are designed to offer mobility, making them ideal for active days or casual outings.
Skorts are available in various fabrics, from lightweight cotton to polyester blends materials; and in a variety of colors and patterns as well.
Suitable for: Women
Best to style for: Outdoor activities, casual outings, and sports
Styling Tip: Pair skorts with a simple polo shirts or a sporty top for a sporty look.
Top Selling Skorts:
Pocket shorts are a practical and convenient option for casual wear or outdoor activities. These types of shorts are designed with extra pockets, making them ideal for carrying small essentials like your phone, wallet, or keys.
Made from lightweight materials like cotton or polyester, they provide comfort, and are an excellent option for everyday wear.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Casual outings, or outdoor activities
Styling Tip: Pair pocket shorts with a simple t-shirts and tank tops for an easygoing look.
Top Selling Pocket shorts:
Board shorts are the perfect blend of style and comfort for beach days or water activities. These types of shorts are made from lightweight, quick-drying materials like polyester or nylon, making them great for surfing, swimming, or other water activities. Board shorts typically feature a longer length, and a waistband with a drawstring to keep them in place. Known for their vibrant designs and durability, they’re a must-have for anyone looking to stay comfortable and stylish during the summer.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Beach outings, swimming, surfing, and water games
Styling Tip: Pair board shorts with a simple tank tops or a rash guard for water activities.
Top Selling Board shorts:
Jersey shorts are a comfortable and versatile option for casual wear and light activities. These shorts types are made from soft, breathable fabric like cotton or polyester blends, assuring comfort during workouts, or lounging.
Jersey shorts feature an elastic waistband for a secure fit and come in various colors and lengths, making them perfect for a relaxed and comfortable look during any activity.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Casual wear, workouts, and lounging
Styling Tip: Pair jersey shorts with a jersey for a sporty look. During winter, layer them with a sweatshirt or hoodie for added warmth, and complete the outfit with sneakers or slides for comfort.
Top Selling Jersey shorts:
Flag football shorts are designed for comfort, flexibility, and performance on the field. These types of shorts are made with lightweight, breathable materials like polyester and spandex, allowing players to move easily during the game.
Moreover, flag football shorts also feature an elastic waistband or adjustable drawstring for a secure fit.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Flag football games, practice, and active game sessions
Styling Tip: Pair flag football shorts with a breathable t-shirts and tank tops for a lightweight, comfortable look. For added support and performance, complete the outfit with sneakers or cleats. On cooler days, layer with a football jersey, lightweight jacket or hoodie for extra warmth and style.
Top Selling Flag football shorts:
Volleyball shorts are a key part of volleyball uniforms for women. They provide benefits like comfort, flexibility, moisture-wicking, and protection, while also offering a stylish, athletic look that aligns with tradition and sponsorships.
These types of shorts for women are made from stretchy, breathable fabrics like polyester and spandex, providing a snug, flexible fit that allows for full range of motion during games and practice.
Suitable for: Women
Best to style for: Volleyball games, practice sessions, and other indoor or outdoor games
Styling Tip: Pair volleyball shorts with a varsity t-shirts, or volleyball jersey for a athletic look. Wear supportive sneakers for comfort and performance.
Top Selling Volleyball shorts:
Tennis shorts are a versatile garment designed specifically for playing tennis. These types of shorts are made from materials like polyester, spandex, or nylon, they are lightweight and flexible, offering ease of movement during intense matches.
Many tennis shorts also feature pockets for storing tennis balls, making them a practical option to wear on the court.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Tennis matches, practice sessions, or other outdoor sports activities
Styling Tip: Pair tennis shorts with a performance tennis t-shirt for a tennis game. Add supportive tennis shoes for comfort and traction on the court.
Top Selling Tennis shorts:
Lacrosse shorts offer comfort and mobility during fast-paced games. These types of shorts are made from lightweight and durable materials like polyester or nylon to ensure breathability and flexibility, allowing for quick movements on the field.
They also feature an elastic waistband that offers a snug fit, assuring they stay in place during intense play.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Lacrosse games, practice sessions, and other sports activities
Styling Tip: Pair lacrosse shorts with lacrosse jersey or with varsity t-shirts. Add lacrosse cleats or comfortable sneakers to farther enhance your performance.
Top Selling Lacrosse shorts:
Custom rugby shorts are designed specifically for playing rugby, and are built to withstand the toughness of the game.
These types of shorts for men are made from durable, flexible materials like polyester or nylon, assuring freedom of movement during intense rugby matches.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Rugby matches, practice sessions, and team events
Styling Tip: Pair custom rugby shorts  with a rugby team jersey or other performance t-shirts for an sporty look. Add sport-specific cleats for better grip and performance on the field.
Top Selling Custom rugby shorts:
Biker shorts for women are made from soft, stretchy materials like spandex or polyester, offering a snug fit that moves with your body.
These types of shorts are ideal for cycling, running, or workouts, they provide flexibility and breathability. Biker shorts are a versatile choice for both athletic activities and casual outings.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Cycling, workouts, and athletic wear
Styling Tip: Pair biker shorts  with a fitted tank tops or sports bra for a sporty look. Add a casual jacket or oversized t-shirt for a relaxed style. Finish the outfit with sneakers or slides.
Top Selling Biker shorts:
Business casual shorts are ideal to wear for casual office environments or relaxed meetings. These types of shorts for men are typically made from lightweight materials like cotton or polyester.
The perfect fit and clean lines assure they look neat, while the breathable fabric keeps you comfortable throughout the wear.
Suitable for: Men
Best to style for: Work wear, or casual events
Styling Tip: Pair business casual shorts with business casual polos for a casual workday outfit look. You can also layer with a lightweight blazer for a more formal touch.
Top Selling Business casual shorts:
Lounge shorts are a comfortable and relaxed option to style for casual days at home or weekend outings.
These types of shorts are made from soft, breathable fabric, providing maximum comfort throughout the wear.
Suitable for: Both men and women
Best to style for: Casual wear
Styling Tip: Pair lounge shorts with a t-shirt or tank top for a relaxed look.
Top Selling lounge Shorts:
