8 top-rated summer shorts for men

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The UK has been hit by the long-anticipated heatwave, which means just one thing - it's time to dig out your summer wardrobe.

While some may need to give their closet an overhaul this time of year, others may need to upgrade a few looks, or treat themselves to the basic summer essentials.

We believe the best place to start is with a pair of shorts.

For men, shorts become a wardrobe staple when the warm weather hits - after all, who wants to be trapped in heavy jeans when the mercury soars?

Whether you're looking for a casual pair to lounge around the house, or run errands, a pair to wear everyday, a classic denim design, or more formal tailored pair, there really is a vast range to choose from, and it can be overwhelming.

While some may be in need of a denim pair, a lightweight linen design can be favourable, especially when it's baking hot - and if you're feeling more formal, a tailored look can work well.

Some may prefer elasticated waist, skinny or slim fit, others may look for shorter, sporty designs that fall above the knee.

Luckily, we've found a selection of shorts to suit everyone's style preferences this summer.

Shop our 8 top picks for men

11" Twill Cargo Shorts with GapFlex | £24.47 (Was £34.95) from GAP

GAP's Twill Cargo Shorts are selling fast, and it's no surprise as they have been designed for customer's comfort.

They are made from cotton, which is soft and breathable fabric for the summer, while the GAPFlex stretch provides a "worn-in" feel. They fall to the knee, have a low waist, as well as front slant pockets and side cargo pockets too. They come in four colours, and are on sale.

Chino Shorts | £29 from John Lewis & Partners

Looking for a smarter short to wear this summer? John Lewis' Chino Shorts are it.

This cotton design is part of John Lewis' Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). The design itself ticks all the boxes, as they are a comfortable regular fit, have side seam pockets, as well as reverse pockets, and belt loops for those who want to accessorise their look. Plus they come in navy, khaki, stone and terracotta colours.

Cotton Chino Shorts | £29 from John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis' Cotton Chino Shorts have garnered glowing reviews from shoppers, with one saying: "I've lost count of how many pairs of these great shorts I have bought."

We can't blame them either. The Cotton Chino Shorts are made from 100% cotton, are a regular fit and fall just to the top of the knee. They feature pocket detail, as well as belt loops, and make for the versatile shorts we all need.

12" Vintage Shorts | £20.97 (Was £29.95) from GAP

GAP's Vintage Shorts are another hugely popular purchase, with almost 300 reviews. One read: "Everything about these are amazing, the vintage wash feel, comfortable relaxed fit, perfect length."

The 12" Vintage Shorts are mid rise, and smartly styled for comfort. They come in four colours; navy, sand, khaki, and sage green, and range in sizes 28 to 42 waist.

Men’s Cotton Cargo Short | £10.73 to £15.58 from Amazon

The Men’s Cotton Cargo Shorts are ideal for those wanting a more relaxed look because of the loose style of the cargo short.

This design is made of 100% cotton, have button-front fastening, as well as side pockets and large cargo pockets on the side. They are available in 11 different colours and prints, as well as sizes 28 to 60 waist.

Explorer Shorts | £27 from Cotton Traders

Shoppers have provided positive feedback on Cotton Traders' Explorer Shorts. One gushed: "Bought two pairs for hubby and son respectively. Different sizes, but both fitted perfectly."

This design is water, oil and stain resistant, which is why we put them in high esteem. They are made from a polyester and cotton blend, have multiple pockets along the length of the short, as well as the waist. Plus it has an adjustable waistband for your extra comfort.

Organic Cotton Elasticated Chino Short | £15 from Marks and Spencer

A more casual pair of shorts for those lounging around days is an essential, which is why we rate M&S' Organic Cotton Elasticated Chino Short .

They are a laid back style, made from organic cotton, but they have a slight added stretch for extra comfort. As well as the stretchy fabric, they also boast an elasticated waist and drawstring fastening. This design comes in six colours, and are super affordable at just £15.

Stretch Chino Shorts | £15 from Marks and Spencer

Shoppers have hailed M&S' Stretch Chino Shorts as an "excellent" pair of shorts, versatile, with other shoppers commenting on how reasonably priced they are, so much so they are re-buying in other colours.

Out of our selection this design is perhaps the shortest short. They are made from an elastane and cotton blend, which provides comfort but also added stretch. The chino shorts are smart and versatile design, have been sustainably sourced, and come in short and regular sizes ranging 28 to 44 waist.

Watch: How to organise your wardrobe