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Temps are rising, and with them, hopes that we’ll finally get the hot vax summer we were promised. To be clear, we’re talking high hemlines à la handsome Harry or Milo Ventimiglia, with the emphasis on some great shorts and a whole lot of leg. InsideHook is formally manifesting that this will be the season of thighs, so strap in and take stock of your warm-weather wardrobe. Because the shorts that would help us do so? The famed Patagonia Baggies, preferably their 5″ inseam.
Alas, as fate would have it, Patagonia Baggies are perennial sell out (damn you, Tik Tok, damn you). It happens at the start of every summer as enthusiasts and those eager to see what all the hype is about stock up in preparation for the season ahead, leaving the rest of us with slim pickings or left to scout out pairs on resale sites for exorbitant prices.
But before you resign yourself to chino shorts that linger around your knee (yikes) we recommend broadening your shorts horizons and considering styles and brands beyond Patagonia Baggies. We aren’t going to deny the allure of their icon status, but we can recognize that there are plenty of other worthy nylon options on the market — options that often offer things the Baggies don’t, whether it be a shorter length (we’re talking 3″) or no mesh lining.
So yes, the summer of shorts is still firmly on, as evidenced by the 10 alternatives to the Patagonia Baggies we’ve listed below. Who knows — you might even find a new favorite, dare we say better, pair of shorts.
L.L.Bean Classic Supplex Sport Shorts
Like the Baggies, L.L.Bean’s are made from the same Supplex nylon favored for its water-repellant, quick-drying properties and feature a similar pull-on silhouette. What were originally designed to be swim trunks are now appropriate for both aquatic and non-aquatic activities alike, the UPF 50+ fabric capable of blocking 97.5% of the sun’s UV rays, ideal for (safely) spending your day soaking up some rays.
J.Crew Tech Dock Short
If you’re familiar with J.Crew’s Dock Short silhouette then you’ll appreciate their Tech version of the short, which keeps the same cut and updates it with a recycled nylon and spandex fabric. The result is a short slightly inspired by the athletic styles of the ’60s yet updated to handle today’s wealth of activities and your busy, active lifestyle.
Standard Cloth 3″ Oliver Nylon Short
While we love a good Baggie, the shortest length they offer is 5″, which by today’s short standards is long. So if you’re really looking to go in on the short shorts craze, we recommend these 3″ nylon shorts from Standard Cloth. Sure, two inches might not seem like a lot but you know what they say — every inch counts.
Gramicci Shell Package Shorts
Gramicci maybe be on the cutting edge of Gorpcore cool, but that doesn’t mean that their packable nylon shorts aren’t also a durable, functional choice. Water-resistant and hiding an internal pouch, they can double as swim trucks — the ultimate travel shorts for your beach getaway.
Topo Design River Shorts
Topo Designs draws inspiration directly from outdoor pursuits, and it shows with the River Short. The DWR-treated nylon bottoms clock in at a generous 2-way stretch 6″ inseam, making them perfect for hiking, camping or otherwise hanging out.
The North Face Class V Belted Shorts
Made from a reinforced ripstop nylon, the shorts are more than equipped to handle their fair share of wear and tear while still remaining suitable enough for less strenuous activities like brunch with friends. A built in belting system means no fussing with drawstrings, either.
Lululemon Bowline Short 5″ Stretch Ripstop
Lululemon’s version of the nylon short offers a sleeker look than most (their pair, like The North Face, are made from water-resistant, ripstop fabric) thanks to the flat-front pockets and monochromatic colorway, meaning you can just as easily pair them with a button-down as t-shirt.
Abercrombie Saturday Short
One of our spring short picks, the Abercrombie Saturday Short are primed for a hot boy summer, still comfortable enough to remind you of your favorite athleisure yet offering a look that’s a little more put together than those well-worn sweatpants. Take them from brunch to the beach and everywhere in between.
Myles Apparel Everyday Short
We’d be lying if we didn’t say that part of the reason we’re so attracted to these shorts is the fun turquoise drawstring which contrasts nicely against the khaki fabric. But hey, it’s the little things. right?
Snow Peak Light Mountain Cloth Shorts
If you desire a bit more…luxe than the classic crunchy old Baggies afford, then Japanese outdoors label Snow Peak’s eye-catching shorts, with premium cotton-nylon blending and tons of utility pockets are right up your fancy-schmancy alley.
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