This season’s best denim shorts for men have undergone a dramatic transformation, moving far beyond the restrictive, mid-thigh cuts of the past. Today’s most trendy style is the “Jort,” a baggy, over-the-knee cut. Whether you’re looking for the durability of a double-knee utility short or the soft drape of luxury Italian denim, the right pair of jean shorts serves as the foundation for the modern summer wardrobe.
The Best Denim Shorts & Jorts for Men (2026)
WHAT TO LOOK FOR: When hunting for your next pair of jorts, focus on the inseam and leg opening. For 2026, a wider leg opening creates a more fashion-forward drape that mimics trousers rather than gym gear.
Look for heavyweight, rigid denim if you want a vintage aesthetic, or washed cotton for immediate comfort. Details like raw hems, double-knee panels, and unique washes, ranging from acid-grey to sun-faded blue, are what separate a basic staple from a true fashion statement.
The Luxury Icon: Bottega Veneta Gray Denim Shorts
For the minimalist who demands sophistication, the Bottega Veneta gray washed denim short is the ultimate luxury move. The clean lines and moody, muted palette offer a refined alternative to classic blue denim. These shorts are designed to hold their shape, making them a perfect match for tonal outfits; style them with a charcoal raglan tee and chunky, zip-front leather boots to anchor the voluminous silhouette.
The Streetwear Standard: Ksubi Operator Shorts
The Ksubi Operator short is the definitive blueprint for luxury jorts, blending industrial texture with a rock ‘n’ roll edge. Featuring prominent double-knee paneling and a signature raw, thrashed hem, these shorts provide the rugged attitude that streetwear enthusiasts crave. The powder grey wash offers a modern aesthetic that captures the skater-luxe trend of the season.
The Fashion Visionary: Acne Studios Blue Faded Denim Shorts
Acne Studios remains the undisputed king of the contemporary silhouette, and these blue faded shorts are a masterclass in artful distressing. Featuring a sun-bleached wash and paint-splatter details, they evoke the aesthetic of a rare find in a Tokyo thrift store. The wide leg and heavy-duty denim provide a look that pairs effortlessly with a white tank or an oversized leather loafer.
The Vintage Essential: Levi’s 478 Baggy Shorts
As the architect of the modern denim movement, Levi’s captures pure 90s nostalgia with the 478 Baggy Short. This silhouette is the most recognizable “jort” in the lineup, featuring a light, vintage-inspired wash and a roomy fit that clears the knee with ease. It’s a classic staple that works best when leaning into the dadcore aesthetic.
The Heritage Innovator: Carhartt WIP Blue OG Aden
The “Double Knee” is the most significant denim trend of the year, and Carhartt WIP applies its rugged workwear DNA to the OG Aden short with spectacular results. Made cotton denim, these shorts feature a baggy, over-the-knee cut that feels forward-thinking. To balance the heavy-duty construction, pair them with a lightweight, unbuttoned linen shirt for a high-low summer look.
The Edgy Statement: Purple Brand P059 Kamari Short
For the man who prefers his fashion with a bit of bite, the Purple Brand P059 Kamari short offers aggressive distressing. These shorts are defined by their frayed hems and unique resin-coated washes, giving them an industrial, rock-inspired energy that sets them apart from standard high-street options.
The Americana Classic: Gap Baggy Denim Shorts
Gap has successfully reclaimed its position as a heritage powerhouse with its baggy denim shorts, offering a quintessential 90s washout. Unlike the more rigid luxury options, these shorts feature a softer, broken-in handle that provides a relaxed drape from the first wear. They are the perfect entry point for those looking to experiment with the oversized trend without a massive investment.
The Minimalist: UNIQLO Baggy Denim Shorts
UNIQLO excels at providing the blank canvas of the denim world, and their baggy shorts are evidence of their clean, functional LifeWear philosophy. These shorts focus purely on silhouette and uniform color, making them the most versatile pair in any wardrobe. Because they are so understated, they act as the perfect foundation for more complex layers, such as a technical anorak or a must-have chore coat, to play with modern proportions.
