Men's Clothing

The Best Men’s Pleated Shorts

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Pleated shorts offer a touch of classic style and comfort, making them a versatile addition to any man's wardrobe. While often associated with formal wear, modern designs have made them suitable for a range of occasions. Understanding key features will help you select a pair that best fits your needs and personal style.

No. 1
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Gabardine Hidden Expandable Waist Pleat Front Short,British Khaki,36
  • COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
  • STYLE: These are the ideal pleat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
  • COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
  • INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
  • FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
No. 2
COOFANDY Men's Casual Shorts Pleated Front 9 Inch Inseam Linen Textured Business Dress Dressy Shorts Khaki Tan
  • 【Comfort Fabric & Feel】Crafted from a stylish lightweight,and breathable linen-blend fabric, these shorts are designed for all-day comfort and cool, especially in hot weather. The material offers a soft feel that is comfortable to wear and allows...
  • 【Classic & Fashion Design】The 9-inch inseam and pleated front create a timeless, tailored silhouette, ensuring a reliable fit and clean style.The hybrid waistband is the nice feature for daily use, while the elastic in the waist adds noticeable...
  • 【Functional & Versatile】These COOFANDY shorts blend comfort, style, and versatility. Wear them with a polo or button-down for casual walks, golf, business lunches, work office,or dinners. They move easily between casual and dressy, giving you a clean...
  • 【Easy Care】 Designed for a low-maintenance lifestyle, these shorts are machine washable and resist wrinkling for easy care. Please refer to the size chart to select your perfect fit.
SaleNo. 3
JEMLDL Mens White Cotton Linen Shorts Casual Pleated Summer Beach Resort Elastic Waist 7 Inch Inseam...
  • Important Fit Note - Please Size Up: Designed with a slightly trim tailored waist, this style offers a structured, polished fit. Please refer to the size chart and choose based on your measurements. If you prefer a more relaxed, laid-back drape as shown...
  • Premium Linen Shorts Fabric: A 3-in-1 fabric—cotton's softness, linen's breathability, plus polyester for crisp structure. Cool and lightweight with a structured hand and subtle woven texture. Stays crisp, not limp, even after long wear. Light colors...
  • Tailored Straight-Leg Fit: Features a trouser-inspired silhouette with a structured, slightly trim cut that’s tailored without feeling restrictive. Sharp front pleats add smart-casual structure, offering a polished, refined look that elevates it above...
  • Refined Functional Details: A classic button-fly zipper pairs with a hidden elastic waistband for a clean look and all-day comfort. The finished cuff hem resists flipping and fraying. Side pockets are discreetly deep to secure essentials like your phone...
  • Versatile All-Occasion Shorts: Master versatile styling beyond any single scene. They are equally suited for smart-casual Fridays, weekend travels, or relaxed evenings. Pair with a polo for a resort look, a button-down for city wear, or a lightweight...
No. 4
COOFANDY Men's Casual Shorts Pleated Front 9 Inch Inseam Linen Textured Business Dress Dressy Shorts Beige...
  • 【Comfort Fabric & Feel】Crafted from a stylish lightweight,and breathable linen-blend fabric, these shorts are designed for all-day comfort and cool, especially in hot weather. The material offers a soft feel that is comfortable to wear and allows...
  • 【Classic & Fashion Design】The 9-inch inseam and pleated front create a timeless, tailored silhouette, ensuring a reliable fit and clean style.The hybrid waistband is the nice feature for daily use, while the elastic in the waist adds noticeable...
  • 【Functional & Versatile】These COOFANDY shorts blend comfort, style, and versatility. Wear them with a polo or button-down for casual walks, golf, business lunches, work office,or dinners. They move easily between casual and dressy, giving you a clean...
  • 【Easy Care】 Designed for a low-maintenance lifestyle, these shorts are machine washable and resist wrinkling for easy care. Please refer to the size chart to select your perfect fit.
No. 5
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Gabardine Hidden Expandable Waist Pleat Front Short,Navy,38
  • COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
  • STYLE: These are the ideal pleat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
  • COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
  • INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
  • FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
SaleNo. 6
Runcati Mens Golf Shorts Flat Front Chino Dress Work Short Pants Grey
  • Design: The chino shorts are feature with elastic at side waist with belt loops for a perfect fit, button and zip closure, front pleats, two slant pockets and relaxed cut for easy comfort. It's a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
  • Fabric: These khaki shorts are crafted from high-quality cotton fabric. Comfort, soft, breathable and flexibility, allowing you to move with ease throughout the day.
  • Match: The casual shorts for men can pair with dress shirts, polo shirts for a formal look or dress them down with a casual shirt for a more relaxed look, these pants offer versatility and timeless sophistication.
  • Occasions: These pleated work shorts are suitable for casual daily wear, office, work, business, date, beach, party, school, travel, vacation, golf, walking, home wearing, beach or outdoor activities. Perfect gift for father, friend and boyfriend.
  • Tips: Machine or hand wash, tumble dry low. Please check the size chart carefully before you purchase the product.
SaleNo. 7
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Gabardine Hidden Expandable Waist Pleat Front Short,Black,44
  • COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
  • STYLE: These are the ideal pleat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
  • COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
  • INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
  • FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
SaleNo. 8
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Gabardine Hidden Expandable Waist Pleat Front Short,String,38
  • COOL 18: This collection combines classic Haggar styling with a revolutionary technology to enhance fabrics on a molecular level. The result? Fabric that resists wrinkles, wicks away moisture, and resists static without sacrificing comfort.
  • STYLE: These are the ideal pleat front shorts for a summer date or casual work event. They are a classic fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist, depending on your fit preference.
  • COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure. The material is also moisture wicking.
  • INSEAM: With a 9.5" inseam that hits above the knee, these pleated shorts will work for lunch in the park with your family on the weekend or for a nice dinner with friends.
  • FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, single welt back pockets, and a roll hem, and a gabardine fabrication. Pair them with your favorite t-shirt or a nice colored polo.
No. 9
PLEPAN Men's Baggy Wide Leg Casual Shorts Pleated Dress Elastic Waist Summer Vacation Light Khaki Shorts Large
  • Relaxed Wide-Leg Silhouette: Featuring a relaxed, wide-leg, above-the-knee design that prioritizes comfort and freedom of movement. This short masterfully blends the loose, contemporary silhouette of casual wear with a structured waist for a polished...
  • Premium Draping Fabric: Made with upgraded high-drape suiting fabric that feels soft and smooth. The wrinkle-resistant material offers lightweight comfort, stretch, and breathability while maintaining a polished, sophisticated appearance.
  • Elastic Waistband & Pockets: Equipped with a zippered fly and elasticized waistband for easy on-and-off and a secure, comfortable fit. Four practical pockets provide storage for essentials. The sharp front pleats add dimension, and the unique waistband...
  • Versatile Dress Shorts: One pair of shorts meets diverse styling needs. Pair with a shirt and blazer for the office or business-casual settings. Switch to a simple T-shirt or polo for weekend outings and social gatherings, effortlessly transitioning from...
  • Easy Care & Relaxed Fit: Machine washable for easy care. This style features a relaxed, wide-leg cut—not a standard tailored fit. Please check the PLEPAN size chart carefully before ordering. Vacuum packaging may cause light creases; steam iron to...
SaleNo. 10
Haggar Men's Cool 18 Pro Classic Fit Stretch Solid Pleat Front Short, gray, 36
  • COOL 18 PRO: This collection from America's favorite pant brand features 4-way stretch for ultimate comfort, moisture wicking technology, UV protection, and best of all, they are machine washable.
  • MATERIAL: Made of 50% polyester and 50% Sorbtek polyester, a moisture wicking fabric that will keep up with your every movement while staying cool and dry. These shorts will stay comfortable all day and are bound to become a staple in your closet.
  • STYLE: These are the perfect pleated front shorts for going on a summer date or to a family event. They are a regular straight fit, meaning they are relaxed throughout the hip and thigh. They sit at or below the waist and have a 9.5" inseam that hits just...
  • COMFORT: Without a doubt, these shorts will not hinder your comfort throughout the day. They feature an expandable waistband that stretches up to 3 inches, so your shorts will stay secure.
  • FEATURES: There are many subtle details of these shorts including offseam front pockets, a single welt back pocket, and a roll hem. Pair them with a classic button-up shirt or a simple tee and white sneakers.

Last update on 2026-07-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Men’s Pleated Shorts

Understanding Pleat Types

The type of pleat significantly impacts the look and feel of the shorts. Single pleats are the most traditional, featuring a single fold that adds fullness around the waist and hips. Double pleats offer even more fabric and a more relaxed drape, often seen in vintage-inspired styles. Forward pleats, where the fold points towards the pocket, are common and provide a clean, structured appearance. Understanding these differences can help you achieve the desired silhouette.

Fabric Matters

The material of your shorts will influence their comfort, durability, and how they are best worn. Cotton and cotton blends are popular choices for their breathability and casual feel, suitable for everyday wear. Linen offers excellent ventilation, making it ideal for warmer climates, though it can wrinkle easily. Wool or wool blends provide a more refined look and are better suited for cooler weather or dressier occasions. Consider the weight and texture of the fabric in relation to your intended use.

Fit and Length

The fit and length are crucial for both comfort and style. Pleated shorts tend to have a fuller cut through the seat and thigh due to the added fabric of the pleats. Look for a fit that allows for ease of movement without appearing baggy. The length can vary, with options ranging from just above the knee to mid-thigh. A classic length typically falls around the knee, offering a balanced and timeless look.

Design Details

Beyond pleats and fabric, several design details can enhance your shorts. Consider the closure type, with button-fly or zipper options available. The presence of belt loops offers versatility in styling. Pocket designs, such as slash pockets or welt pockets, can also affect the overall aesthetic. Subtle details like contrasting stitching or unique button materials can add a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are pleated shorts suitable for casual wear?
Yes, pleated shorts can be dressed down for casual occasions. Opt for lighter fabrics like cotton or linen and pair them with t-shirts or casual button-downs. The key is to balance the more formal nature of pleats with relaxed styling.
How should pleated shorts fit?
Pleated shorts should offer a comfortable fit around the waist and allow for ease of movement through the seat and thigh, thanks to the extra fabric. They shouldn't be overly tight or excessively baggy. The length typically falls around the knee.
What kind of footwear goes well with pleated shorts?
The choice of footwear depends on the formality of the shorts and the occasion. For casual looks, sneakers, loafers, or boat shoes work well. For a slightly more dressed-up ensemble, consider leather sandals or espadrilles.
How do I care for pleated shorts?
Care instructions vary by fabric. Cotton shorts can generally be machine washed and dried, though it's wise to check the care label. Linen and wool blends may require more delicate washing or dry cleaning to maintain their shape and texture.
Can pleated shorts be worn by all body types?
Absolutely. The structure of pleats can actually be flattering for many body types by adding shape and definition. Experiment with different fits and lengths to find what works best for your individual proportions.