Not long ago, golf shorts were pretty simple: long, baggy, sometimes pleated and often cut to length somewhere around your shins. Thankfully, times have changed, and if anything, shorter shorts are back in style, as are slimmer fits. Today’s golfers can choose from modern athletic models, lightweight performance fabrics, pull-ons, and variety of inseam lengths.
Let’s start with the 10-inch inseam shorts for guys who still think Tiger Woods circa 2002 is the gold standard. Then, there’s the versatile 9-inch inseam has become the safe middle ground for most golfers. Last, there are the increasingly popular 7-inch styles, which say, “Yes, I work out occasionally and I’m not afraid to let my quads catch some rays.”
No matter your preferred inseam length, the best golf shorts today are built for comfort, stretch, breathability, and versatility.
These are some of the best shorts you can buy:
TravisMathew Wanderlust Short
The TravisMathew Wanderlust Short 7-Inch (you can get longer ones if you want) combines athletic comfort with everyday versatility thanks to lightweight micro-ripstop fabric and four-way stretch construction. Designed for golfers who prefer a shorter, more modern fit, these shorts still look polished enough for travel, work, or casual weekends. Tack on subtle details like rubber-coated buttons and welt back pockets and you have an easy all-day option.
1 thing we really like: The 7-inch inseam gives these a modern athletic look without crossing into “Did you forget to wear pants?” territory.
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adidas Ultimate365 Golf Shorts
Ideal for taller golfers an/or people who don’t want to jump on the short shorts trend, the adidas Ultimate365 Golf Shorts have a 10-inch inseam for golfers who prefer a more traditional fit without sacrificing modern performance. Lightweight, breathable fabric with four-way stretch allows for unrestricted movement, while moisture-wicking technology helps keep you comfortable during hot rounds. A stretch waistband with silicone gripper tape keeps shirts neatly tucked in.
1 thing we really like: That 10-inch inseam is longer than most, but they don’t look or feel excessively baggy. That’s what we want.
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Chubbies Everyday Performance Golf Shorts
The Chubbies Everyday Performance Golf Shorts are built to handle far more than just a round of golf. Made from lightweight stretch fabric with water and wrinkle resistance, as well as antimicrobial properties, these shorts are designed for everything from travel days to range sessions to casual weekends. The elastic waistband and multiple zippered storage pockets add extra comfort and practicality without sacrificing a clean, modern look. We’re liking the middle-of-the-road 8-inch models shown here, but you can go extra short with 6-inch inseams if you dare.
1 thing we really like: The hidden zipper pockets are genuinely useful, especially for keeping your phone or wallet secure.
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Johnnie-O Fusion Knit Performance Pull-On Golf Shorts
These 9-inch shorts are designed for golfers who want maximum comfort without looking too casual on the course. The knit four-way stretch fabric and elastic waistband provide an easy, flexible fit, while details like the faux button closure and welt back pockets maintain a clean chino-style appearance. With lightweight construction and subtle performance features throughout, these shorts transition seamlessly from golf to everyday wear.
1 thing we really like: These shorts pull on and feel like athletic shorts while looking like crisp chinos you’d wear at a member-guest. What’s not to like about that?
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Under Armour UA Drive Men’s Golf Shorts
These are the right shorts if you want something that’s neither too long or too short. With an 8-inch inseam, these are designed with a lightweight stretch-woven fabric and four-way mobility help these shorts move naturally through every swing. The UA Storm technology adds water resistance without sacrificing breathability and a clean flat-front design, stretch waistband, and practical pocket setup make them equally solid for golf or everyday wear.
1 thing we really like: An approachable length for every body type, and a nice amount of flex for all-day comfort.
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Vuori Aim Short
The Vuori Aim Short blends classic styling with modern performance fabric to create one of the most versatile golf shorts you’ll find anywhere. Lightweight stretch material provides all-day comfort and easy mobility during the swing, while the tailored fit keeps the look polished enough for dinner, travel, or casual office wear (on Fridays, of course). Front slash pockets and a magnetic back pocket closure add practical touches without disrupting the slim look.
1 thing we really like: We counted seven different colors to choose from, making these a must-have in any outfit rotation.
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Nike Dri-FIT Men’s Good Golf Shorts
The Nike Dri-FIT Good golf shorts are designed for golfers who prefer a shorter, more athletic fit. Lightweight woven fabric and Nike’s moisture-wicking Dri-FIT technology help keep you cool and comfortable during warm-weather rounds, while the elastic waistband and interior silicone grip provide a secure, flexible fit throughout the swing. They’re a great a warm-weather short without looking flimsy.
1 thing we really like: The 7-inch inseam gives these a sporty, modern feel without looking like you teeing it up in running shorts. (Don’t ever do that.)
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