Shop Boys Shorts by Style
Casual play shorts: Everyday summer shorts in comfortable fabrics - cotton jersey, lightweight denim, or casual knits. Perfect for play, hanging out, and general wear.
Athletic shorts: Performance shorts for sports and PE - moisture-wicking fabrics, mesh lining, and secure pockets. Essential for basketball, soccer, running, and gym class.
Basketball shorts: Longer athletic shorts with relaxed fit - classic sports style boys love. Works for basketball and general athletic wear.
Cargo shorts: Casual shorts with multiple pockets - practical for boys who carry things everywhere. Very popular style.
Swim trunks: Quick-dry shorts for pool, beach, and water play - often with mesh lining and drawstring waists.
Jean shorts: Denim shorts for durability - casual, tough, and work for various activities.
Why Boys Need Multiple Pairs of Shorts
Summer means wearing shorts daily. Daily rotation needs: 5-7 pairs of casual shorts for summer ensure always having clean options. Boys get shorts dirty constantly - grass stains, dirt, food, popsicle drips. Activity-specific shorts: Athletic shorts for sports can't double as casual shorts - need both. Swim trunks for water activities. Quick wear-out: Summer means constant wear - shorts get worn nearly every day for months. Having multiples distributes wear. Growth factor: Boys often hit growth spurts during summer - having shorts in slightly different sizes helps. Laundry reality: Summer activities mean more frequent washing. Multiple pairs ensure always having clean, dry options. The favorite problem: Most boys have 1-2 favorite pairs they want to wear constantly. Making several in that style solves the "it's in the wash" problem.
Perfect Beginner Projects
Shorts are excellent beginner projects - easier than full-length pants. Why shorts are beginner-friendly: Quick to sew (often 1-2 hours per pair), use less fabric than pants (perfect for practicing), simple construction with elastic waistbands, forgiving fit for active play, and boys don't care about small imperfections. Start with: Basic knit shorts with elastic waist - simplest construction, very quick. Athletic shorts in moisture-wicking fabric - straightforward and useful. Then progress to casual shorts with pockets - adds pocket construction skills. Quick results: The speed of making shorts provides instant gratification. Make 2-3 pairs in an afternoon. Perfect for building confidence before tackling full-length pants. Our beginner patterns include shorts options designed for new sewists.
Best Fabrics for Boys Shorts
For casual play shorts: Cotton jersey (soft, comfortable, breathable), lightweight denim (durable and classic), cotton-spandex blends (stretch and comfort), or rib knit (good structure and recovery). For athletic shorts: Performance knits with moisture-wicking properties, quick-dry athletic fabrics with four-way stretch, mesh for ventilation, or nylon blends for durability and fast drying. For swim trunks: Quick-dry nylon or polyester, water-resistant fabrics, or swimwear-specific fabrics that resist chlorine and saltwater. For cargo shorts: Medium-weight cotton, twill, or lightweight canvas - durable enough to support pocket weight. For jean shorts: Lightweight denim perfect for summer - not too heavy but still durable. Summer priorities: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep boys comfortable in heat. Quick-dry fabrics work well for active boys who sweat or play in water. Darker colors and prints hide stains better than light colors - navy, black, gray, olive, camo prints.
Length Matters: Finding the Right Inseam
Shorts length is surprisingly important to boys. Above-knee length (5-7" inseam): Classic athletic shorts length - best for sports, running, basketball. Provides maximum mobility. Popular with active boys. At-knee length (8-10" inseam): Casual shorts length - works for everyday wear and general play. More modest coverage. Below-knee length (11-13" inseam): Longer shorts or "Bermuda" length - some boys prefer this coverage. Works for casual wear and certain sports. Personal preference: Boys have strong opinions about shorts length. Some refuse to wear short-shorts, others won't wear longer styles. Ask his preference before cutting! Activity considerations: Athletic activities often require shorter lengths for movement. Casual wear allows more length flexibility. Growth accommodation: Unlike pants, shorter inseams don't grow much - shorts length stays relatively consistent. Make current comfortable length.
Waistbands That Work
Elastic casing: Traditional and reliable - comfortable for all-day wear and easy for boys to manage independently. Drawstring additions: Essential for many boys - allows adjustment for comfort and keeps shorts from falling during active play. Athletic shorts almost always have drawstrings. Rib knit waistbands: Very comfortable alternative - stretchy, doesn't roll, looks athletic. Popular on sporty shorts. Proper fit: Elastic should keep shorts up during running, jumping, and playing without being tight or uncomfortable. Test by having him move actively. Elastic width: Use 3/4" to 1" wide elastic - wider is more comfortable and doesn't roll or twist. Adjustability: Growing boys benefit from adjustable waists. Drawstrings provide this flexibility throughout summer growth.
Essential Pockets
Boys need functional pockets in shorts. Side seam pockets: Hidden in side seams - essential for casual shorts. Make them deep enough for hands and small items. Back pockets: On casual shorts and jean shorts - boys expect real back pockets. Make them functional. Cargo pockets: Large side-leg pockets perfect for boys who carry everything - rocks, toys, snacks, phones. Very popular style. Zippered pockets: Secure pockets for athletic shorts - keep phones, keys, money safe during activity. Essential for sports. Mesh pockets: Interior or exterior mesh pockets on athletic shorts provide ventilation while being functional. Pocket depth: Make pockets actually deep and usable. Shallow decorative pockets frustrate boys who want to use them. Reinforcement: Bartack pocket corners on all shorts - constant use stresses these areas.
Athletic Shorts for Sports
Sports and PE require specific shorts. Performance fabrics: Moisture-wicking materials keep boys dry and comfortable during activity. Quick-dry fabrics don't stay soggy with sweat. Mesh lining: Built-in mesh underwear lining provides support and comfort. Boys can wear athletic shorts without additional underwear. Length for athletics: Above-knee length provides best mobility for running, jumping, and sports movements. Secure pockets: Zippered or button-closure pockets keep items secure during activity - phones don't fall out while running. Drawstring waists: Essential for sports - allows boys to adjust fit for security during play. Team colors: Make athletic shorts in team colors for practices and games. Multiple pairs needed: Active boys in sports need 3-5 pairs of athletic shorts for weekly practice and game schedules.
Swim Trunks and Water Shorts
Summer includes water activities. Quick-dry fabrics: Essential for swim trunks - nylon or polyester that dries quickly after swimming. Boys stay comfortable transitioning from pool to other activities. Mesh lining: Interior mesh lining provides support and prevents see-through issues when wet. Water-resistant vs waterproof: Water-resistant fabrics work better than fully waterproof - allows some breathability while repelling water. Pockets on swim trunks: Include pockets but consider drainage - small holes in pocket bottoms allow water to drain. Elastic and drawstring: Both needed for swim trunks - elastic for security, drawstring for adjustment. Length options: Shorter trunks for serious swimming, longer board-short style for casual water play and beach. Multiple uses: Many boys wear swim trunks as regular summer shorts - quick-dry fabric works for multiple activities.
Durability for Summer Wear
Summer shorts get heavy wear. Reinforced seams: Double-stitch crotch seams (highest stress point). Use strong thread throughout. Finish all seams to prevent fraying. Quality fabrics: Better fabrics last through summer wear and constant washing. Anti-pill fabrics maintain appearance. Colorfast fabrics don't fade in sun and chlorine. Pocket reinforcement: Bartack all pocket corners and openings. Boys stress pockets constantly. Cargo pockets need extra reinforcement to support weight. Hem durability: Make sturdy hems that survive rough play. Consider double-fold hems for strength. Elastic quality: Use good elastic that maintains stretch through many washings. Cheap elastic loses elasticity quickly. Realistic expectations: Shorts worn daily all summer show wear - this is normal. Quality construction extends life significantly.
Sizing for Growing Boys
Waist flexibility: Elastic or drawstring waists accommodate some waist growth. Make waist slightly generous - drawstrings allow adjustment. Length stays consistent: Unlike pants, shorts inseams don't grow much. Make comfortable current length rather than adding length. Loose fit works: Shorts typically have relaxed fit with room to move. Slightly oversized works fine and allows for some growth. Summer growth spurts: Many boys grow during summer. Having shorts in slightly different sizes helps. Quick to remake: Shorts use less fabric and sew faster than pants. If he outgrows them, making new shorts is relatively quick and inexpensive. Test fit: Have him move actively in shorts - run, jump, sit, play. Proper fit allows full range of motion without restriction.
Summer Wardrobe Planning
Casual everyday shorts (5-7 pairs): Main summer wardrobe - comfortable shorts for play, errands, hanging out. Mix of styles and colors. Athletic shorts (3-5 pairs): For sports, PE, and active play. Need multiples for weekly sports schedules. Swim trunks (2-3 pairs): For pool, beach, water park. Having backups ensures dry option after swimming. Nice shorts (1-2 pairs): Slightly dressier for events, restaurants, or when casual shorts aren't appropriate. Variety in length: Mix of shorter athletic styles and longer casual styles provides options. Color variety: Darker colors for everyday, lighter colors for special occasions. Prints and patterns add interest. Making strategy: Sew several pairs before summer starts. Make more as needed based on wear and growth.
Why Sew Boys Shorts Instead of Buying
Store-bought shorts create frustrations every summer. Quality shorts are expensive ($15-35+ per pair) for clothes that wear out quickly with daily summer wear. Nothing fits right - wrong length for his preference, uncomfortable waists, or poor quality that doesn't last. Finding the exact inseam length he wants is nearly impossible. When you sew boys' shorts, you get exactly the length he prefers, comfortable elastic or drawstring waists that stay up during play, quality fabrics that survive summer activities, functional deep pockets, appropriate fabrics for different activities (athletic, casual, swim), and durable construction that lasts the summer. Cost savings are significant - handmade shorts cost $5-12 per pair in materials compared to $15-35+ store-bought. Make complete summer shorts wardrobe (casual, athletic, swim) for less than buying 3-4 store pairs. Plus handmade shorts often last better with quality fabrics and reinforcement. For tall boys, short boys, or those with specific length preferences, sewing provides exactly what works.
Tips for Sewing Boys Shorts
Take accurate measurements - waist, hips, and preferred inseam length. Ask his opinion on length before cutting. Use quality elastic that maintains stretch through summer washing. Add functional pockets - boys use them constantly. Double-stitch crotch seams on all shorts. Choose appropriate fabrics for intended use - athletic knits for sports, durable cotton for casual wear. Test fit during construction - have him move, sit, run. Make elastic waistbands comfortably snug but not tight. Consider drawstrings for adjustability. Bartack all pocket corners for durability. Use darker colors that hide summer stains. Make shorts slightly loose for comfort and movement. Use strong thread and proper stretch stitches on knit fabrics. Make multiple pairs at once - efficient use of time. Press seams for professional appearance. For detailed shorts construction tutorials, visit our sewing blog for comprehensive guidance.
Common Questions
How long does it take to sew boys shorts?
Simple elastic-waist shorts take 1-2 hours. Athletic shorts with mesh lining take 2-3 hours. Cargo shorts with multiple pockets take 2-3 hours. Much faster than full-length pants.
Are shorts good beginner projects?
Yes! Shorts are perfect beginner projects - quick, use less fabric than pants, forgiving fit, and provide fast results for confidence building.
What's the best length for boys shorts?
Depends on activity and personal preference. Above-knee (5-7") for athletics, at-knee (8-10") for casual wear. Ask his preference - boys have strong opinions about shorts length!
How much fabric do I need?
Most boys shorts need 3/4 to 1 yard depending on size and style. Very economical - perfect for using fabric remnants or making multiple pairs from larger cuts.
Can I use regular cotton for athletic shorts?
Athletic shorts work best in performance fabrics with moisture-wicking properties. Regular cotton gets soggy with sweat and stays wet. Use appropriate athletic knits for sports wear.
How many pairs of shorts does a boy need for summer?
5-7 pairs of casual shorts for daily rotation, 3-5 athletic shorts if playing sports, 2-3 swim trunks for water activities. Having variety ensures always having clean, appropriate options.
Should shorts have drawstrings?
Athletic shorts definitely benefit from drawstrings for security during activity. Casual shorts can use just elastic or add drawstrings for adjustability. Most boys prefer having drawstrings for fit adjustment.
