Bamboo shorts for men in summer

Short answer: Shorts in bamboo viscose are light and dry quickly, and they chafe less on the inner thigh than dense synthetic fabrics. They are mostly worn at home, in the garden and on quiet summer days.

For home and garden

Soft shorts with an elastic waist are what you put on for a warm day at home. They are easy to move in when you work in the garden, cook or relax on the terrace. The fabric moves moisture away from the skin, so they do not feel clammy. See bamboo shorts for men.

Chafing

Chafing on the inner thigh is the most common reason shorts stay in the drawer. It happens when skin rubs against skin on warm days. A layer underneath with slightly longer legs solves the problem, because the fabric sits between the thighs. See bamboo underwear for men.

Pockets

Side pockets with firm seams mean the shorts also work for a trip out of the house with phone and keys. Pockets in thin fabric can pull the shorts out of shape if they are heavily loaded, though. Put the heaviest items in a bag if you are walking far.

The length

A length just above the knee is the most useful, because it works both at home and out. Shorter styles are airier but are mostly worn at home and in the garden. Longer styles give more coverage when you sit and protect the thighs a little from the sun.

For the night

Many wear the same shorts as nightwear during warm spells, because they are light and do not restrict. Choose a style with a soft waistband that does not press when you lie on your side. Keeping one pair for nights helps it stay in better shape. See bamboo nightwear for men.

Size

Choose shorts by waist measurement rather than your usual trouser size, as the elastic should sit without squeezing. Measure over the hips and compare with the product measurements. If you are between two sizes, the larger one is usually more comfortable. See the size guide.

Colour

Dark colours hide sweat marks and garden stains better than light ones. Grey or navy works both at home and out and goes with most T-shirts. Light colours feel cool in the sun but show dirt faster, so they are best kept for home.

Washing

Wash the shorts at 40 degrees and let them air dry. That keeps the elastic in the waist working longest and stops the fabric from shrinking. Turn them inside out so the surface does not pill, and empty the pockets first. See the washing guide.

How many pairs

If the shorts are worn at home, in the garden and at night, a single pair wears out quickly. Two or three pairs mean you always have a clean pair ready, and each lasts longer because it is worn in turn. They dry quickly, so washing is rarely a problem.

When summer ends

Shorts in soft fabric can carry on as loungewear well into autumn when the living room is warm. Many also wear them as nightwear all year. Store them folded in a drawer over winter so the elastic is not stretched by hanging.

Frequently asked questions

Can jersey shorts be worn outside?

Yes, if the fabric is dense enough and the cut clean. Choose a length just above the knee and a calm colour, and they look tidy for a trip into town.

What prevents chafing?

A layer underneath with longer legs, such as boxer shorts with legs. The fabric sits between the thighs so skin does not rub against skin as you walk.