I don’t think it’s too much to ask your shorts to do everything. The best hybrid shorts don’t either. You can lounge in them, swim in them, or even dress them up for a casual dinner. Hybrid shorts means you can do it all—and look damn good while doing it. You know I would never steer you wrong.

Men’s hybrid shorts are making waves because of their versatility. Athleisure is all the rage these days, and at their core, hybrid shorts are activewear with major crossover appeal. They’re made of comfortable and durable fabrics like cotton and linen but are structured and tailored enough for streetwear.

From accessible brands to designer labels, everyone seems to be offering their version of hybrid shorts. This also proves they’re fashion-worthy. So you don’t have to swim through bogged-down searches on the internet, I’ve hand-selected the best hybrid shorts for every occasion.

Let’s take a look at the 10 best hybrid shorts for men below.

Key Takeaways 

From price point to fit and style, the spot for best hybrid shorts went to Mack Weldon Ace Sweatshorts. They’re wildly comfortable yet have modern updated tailoring for easy, everyday appeal. For the best hybrid swim shorts with durability and fashion vibes, look no further than Isto Corduroy Shorts.

I love linen for summer. It’s deliciously lightweight, breathable, and simply elevates any look that you’re going for. The way Wax London has designed their LinenKurt shorts makes them perfect for everyday wear.

Boasting a relaxed fit, drawstring waist, and a length that hits just above the knee, these hybrid shorts are all about total comfort done in a relaxed minimalist fashion. Trust me, you’ll live in these.

Choose from two easy neutrals, navy, and khaki, and you’ll discover how well they pair with everything in your wardrobe.

Material: 100% Linen | Inseam: 5in | Sizes: 28-38 | Colors: 2

Corduroy is such an unexpected swim trunk fabrication, but it’s fantastic for a hybrid short. Mixing textures always makes an outfit interesting and this baby corduroy short has style built right in. Ideal for an “autumn run, spring party, or summer beach” the best hybrid swim shorts can truly take you anywhere.

They come in a small variety of attractive neutrals, including a soft baby blue, and are intentionally oversized for a relaxed fit. This also ups their fashion appeal.

If Isto is a new brand to you, it’s time to get familiar. I love that they outline total transparency on their website, from materials sourcing, cost, and production. They only use factories with the highest standards and are OEKO-TEX certified as proof against the use of harmful substances.

Material: 100% Organic Cotton 14 Wale Corduroy | Inseam: Not Specified | Sizes: S-2XL | Colors: 4

Men choose jorts because denim has lots of strength and durability, but they’re not exactly hybrid-worthy. Enter ripstop cotton. The word ripstop refers to the way the fabric is woven. And let me tell you, this one is strong.

These ripstop shorts are ideal for any kind of summer wear because they’re made tough yet attractive. Whether you’re hiking, hitting the beach, or whizzing around the city, these shorts will hold up and guarantee you’ll look good all the while.

Choose from a nice neutral dark green or khaki that pairs with almost anything.

Material: 100% Organic Cotton | Inseam: Not Specified | Sizes: XS-2XL | Colors: 2

Athleisure is still very in. Never before have sweat shorts been deemed appropriate for fashion moments, but I can assure you, the day has come. And with enough structure for social gatherings, this hybrid short suits all of your needs.

Lightweight, breathable, yet soft and yummy, you’ll never want to take these off. The pockets are nice and deep, and the elastic drawstring waistband is comfortable on the waist and hips. Because they hit above the knee at 7 inches, they’re great for working out. Time to do those squats.

Ideal for running, golf, and the beach, here is a casual short you can’t do without. And because they’re wildly affordable, you can pick up a few at once. Choose from 17 different colors.

Material: 80% Cotton, 20% Polyester | Inseam: 7in | Sizes: S-2XL | Colors: 17

What makes the best hybrid shorts so appealing is crossover. Made with four-way stretch fabric, a comfy elastic waist, and a chic button closure, these shorts are ideal for both work and play.

Designed by college students and inspired by the short shorts of the 80s, Meripex shorts were intended to do it all. The short length and stretch make them great for mobility, but the button closure makes them feel a little more pulled together.

Rock them with casual sneakers and sandals or dress them up with boat shoes or casual loafers.

Material: 100% Cotton Spandex | Inseam: 5.5in | Sizes: S-4XL | Colors: 16

The washed-out short was designed with movement in mind. They’re similar to cargo shorts in that they’re durable, but these are much more lightweight. And because they’re soft to the touch, they’re also great for hanging around the house.

But it’s mobility that makes them great for the outdoors. A partial elastic waist and gusset provide freedom of movement. Wear them rock-climbing or on your morning run.

At either 8 or 10 inches, they’re also on the longer side—more coverage can be nice for protection when you’re out in the elements.

A wide variety of color options might not be necessary, but it is a nice plus. Choose from a whopping 35 colors or buy a couple for switching it up.

Material: 100% Cotton | Inseam: 8 / 10in | Sizes: 35 Options | Colors: 35

Lounge shorts are great, but they often leave you looking like a schlub. Well, not with these hybrid shorts from Nautica. They’re cozy and thick but have just enough structure and trendy details for daily fashion wear.

Because they’re an active fit, they’re great for the gym, too. The elastic drawstring waist can be tightened and loosened according to your activity.

They’re not exactly breaking ground in terms of color, but the neutrals are soft and easy to pair with a variety of tops. And the bright cherry red is fun.

Hot tip: They run small, so size up.

Material: 70% Cotton, 30% Polyester | Inseam: 9in | Sizes: XS-3XL | Colors: 6

Todd Snyder is a no-brainer when it comes to crisp and clean men’s luxury wear. Though they’re technically a swim short, the Riviera is designed to be chic and versatile. It looks just as great with a t-shirt and loafers as it does with nothing else at all.

They come in several fun prints, including an attractive green and white stripe that screams summer. Available in navy and seersucker, too.

The 5-inch shorts are flattering, modern, and come with adjustable side tabs for the perfect fit around the waist. The short 5-inch length is great for swimming, running, or taking a dive in beach volleyball. But if a little longer is your style, snag the 7” Riviera.

Material: 100% Polyester | Inseam: 5in | Sizes: 28-38 | Colors: 6

It can be tricky to dress up shorts because no matter how formal they are, they’ll never be pants. But again, linen is the way to go if you want to elevate your style.

It’s also your best bet for hot, hot weather. It stays cool and crisp and dries easily, which is great if you sweat. The Lino from Banana Republic comes in a luxe linen fabrication that’s perfect for an island wedding or summer event. With a 9-inch inseam, they’re just the right length for formal occasions.

But they look great dressed down, too. Feel free to pair them with your favorite tee. But if you need to go more dapper, add a linen blazer and slide a clean leather belt through the loops.

Material: 100% Flax Linen | Inseam: 9inch | Sizes: 28-42 | Colors: 5

If you crave a short for every occasion, look no further than Mack Weldon. They make some of the best hybrid shorts for a number of reasons. As a modern update to their old sweat shorts, they’ve undergone a major upgrade with streamlined tailoring. This makes them ideal for both lounging and hitting the streets.

These are my husband’s go-to hybrid shorts. He wears them while watching tv or playing video games, grabbing coffee, and even on casual summertime dates (aka, I approve). His favorite feature is the thick waistband with just the right amount of stretch for comfort.

Made of micro-brushed terry, they also feel nice to the touch. Soft, yet structured. Deep inside pockets and a stealth zip thigh pocket mean you’ll always feel secure. And for a great price point, they just might be the perfect men’s hybrid shorts.

Material: 95% Cotton, 5% Stretch | Inseam: 8in | Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 12

What To Look For In The Best Hybrid Shorts

Material

Ideally, the best hybrid shorts are made of cotton and preferably have some element of stretch, like polyester. This makes them light, breathable, durable, and great for movement. Linen is also ideal for hybrid shorts as it’s lightweight and quick-drying, plus they can also be dressed up.

Inseam

Expect inseams anywhere from 5-9 inches. 5-inch inseams fall into the short short category, but they’re trendy, modern, and perfect for a wide range of moments. Longer lengths provide more coverage for casual dudes. Regardless of your preferred inseam, hybrid shorts should hit above the knee.

Fit

There is a sweet spot for the best hybrid shorts. If they’re too tight your movement is restricted, but if they’re too baggy they’ll read sloppy and you can’t really leave the house. Look for words like relaxed, active, or classic fit for just the right amount of structure.

Final Verdict 

Mack Weldon’s Ace Sweatshorts are an ideal place to start because they’re durable, comfortable, and attractive. Hybrid shorts should be cozy for the house yet tailored enough for casual wear, and provide enough ease of movement for a variety of active occasions. These do all of that.