Old School Shorts to Wear Right Now
The best corduroy shorts are timeless
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There’s a lot going on when it comes to these shorts. Equally rugged and retro, corduroy shorts have an easygoing beach vibe because they were the chosen shorts of California surfers decades ago. And while you might think a hardier fabric like corduroy wouldn't be suited for warm weather, there's something about it that works. Partly because the napped, fuzzy ribs have a way of softening and fading with each wear. For summer 2021, brands of all stripes have come out with their ideal version. Some are vintage-inspired with patch pockets and shorter inseams, others are more relaxed and offer drawstring waists and a touch of stretch for ultimate movement. Herewith, our picks for the best shorts of the season.
The Best Corduroy Shorts
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Battenwear, $180
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Banks Journal, $70
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Mollusk, $65
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Goodlife, $98
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Birdwell Beach Britches, $89.95
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Polo Ralph Lauren, $79.50
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Carhartt WIP, $95
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Todd Snyder, $98
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Katin, $62
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UO, $54
Vintage Option
In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Ocean Pacific (OP to you and me) was the preeminent maker of these corduroy shorts. And an impressive amount of vintage and deadstock versions can be found on eBay.