Overview

Shorts are garments that extend from the waist to some point on the thigh, ending well above the ankle. They are a shortened form of trousers or pants and are worn by people of all genders. Depending on context, the term may include outerwear and certain kinds of underwear. In different varieties they serve practical, athletic, or fashion purposes.

Characteristics and common types

Shorts are defined mainly by length, cut and intended use. Length is typically described by inseam and can range from very short styles to knee-length versions. Common types include:

  • Bermuda/Chino shorts: tailored, usually knee- to mid-thigh length, worn for casual or semi-casual settings.
  • Athletic shorts: lightweight, often with moisture-wicking fabrics for running, basketball, or gym use.
  • Swim trunks and boardshorts: designed for water, quick-drying materials and lining choices vary.
  • Cargo and utility shorts: rugged fabrics with additional pockets for work or outdoor activities.
  • Denim and cutoff shorts: fashion-oriented, made from jeans or altered trousers.

History and development

Shorts evolved from longer leg coverings as climates, leisure activities, and social norms changed. Versions of shortened trousers were adopted for children and for military use in warmer regions before becoming widespread in sports and casual wear. Over the 20th century shorts moved from strictly informal or specialized clothing into everyday wardrobes in many countries.

Uses, etiquette and cultural notes

Shorts are popular for comfort in warm weather, for athletic performance, and as a fashion item. Social conventions vary: some workplaces and institutions permit shorts, others require longer trousers. Schools often maintain dress codes about acceptable lengths. In many cultures shorts are associated with leisure; in others they remain primarily a sporting garment.

Materials, care and fit

Fabric choices include cotton, denim, synthetic blends, and technical textiles designed for breathability and quick drying. Fit details—waistband type, fly, pockets, and hem finishes—affect comfort and function. Care instructions follow the fabric: machine wash for most cottons and synthetics, gentler handling for specialty materials and trims.

Distinctions and notable facts

The word and the garment have different connotations in varieties of English; historically people contrasted shortened styles with full-length British English terms or with American English usage of equivalent words. Practical distinctions also matter: shorts for water use differ from those for hiking, and underwear styles called "shorts" are distinct from outerwear. For anatomical description, they cover the upper legs rather than the lower leg or ankle, which is the essential difference from full-length trousers.