Back To School Shorts

Back to school shorts are an essential part of every student’s wardrobe, offering easy comfort and timeless style for busy school days and after-class adventures. From the classroom to the playground, these shorts keep up with every activity, making them a reliable choice for the new school year. With a variety of classic colors and versatile designs, it’s simple to find pairs that go with everything—helping kids get ready for whatever the day brings.

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388 Items

Men's L.L.Bean Allagash Cargo Shorts, 10"
Price was from: $64.95 now: $44.99

A pair of ultrarugged 100% cotton cargo shorts with a 10" inseam and multiple functional pockets.

Pros: Durable material Great color options High quality construction Comfortable fit Roomy pockets
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, 8"

A versatile pair of platinum nylon shorts with UPF 50+ protection, perfect for various outdoor activities.

Pros: Versatile for outdoor activities High quality material Lightweight and fast-drying Attractive design and colors Comfortable fit
Men's L.L.Bean Multisport Shorts, 9"

A pair of graphite synthetic shorts with UPF 50+, featuring stretch, quick-dry fabric, and multiple pockets.

Pros: Great fit Quick-dry fabric Lightweight Versatile Comfortable
Kids' Stowaway Shorts
Price was from: $39.95 now: $29.99

A lightweight, water-repellent red nylon short with UPF 50+ protection and a comfortable elastic waistband.

Pros: Lightweight Durable Plush feel Good fit Warm
Men's L.L.Bean Multisport Training Shorts, 7"
Price was from: $69.95 now: $34.99

A pair of ultracomfortable, quick-drying black training shorts with UPF 50+ and built-in boxer brief liner.
Women's Comfort Stretch Shorts, Seersucker Bermudas 9"

A pair of blue cotton seersucker Bermuda shorts featuring a 9" inseam and comfortable mid-rise fit.
Men's Tropic-Weight Cargo Shorts, Comfort Waist, 10"

A pair of lightweight, breathable 100% cotton cargo shorts with elastic side panels for all-day comfort.

Pros: Durable construction Lightweight material True to size Deep pockets Comfortable fit
Men's Tropic-Weight Cargo Shorts, Comfort Waist, 6"

A pair of tan, 6" inseam cargo shorts made from breathable 100% cotton with a comfort waist.

Pros: Lightweight fabric Durable quality Versatile style Ample pockets Comfortable fit
Men's Dock Shorts, 8"

A pair of walnut-colored, 100% organic cotton twill shorts with an 8" inseam and adjustable drawstring waist.

Pros: Lightweight fabric High quality Great color Versatile design Comfortable fit
Men's Wrinkle-Free Double L® Chino Shorts, Natural Fit, Hidden Comfort Waist, 8"

A pair of wrinkle-free khaki shorts with an 8" inseam and hidden elastic waist for comfort.

Pros: High quality Comfortable waistband Durable Good fit Wrinkle-free fabric
Women's Lakewashed Dock Shorts, Mid-Rise
Price was from: $49.95 now: $29.99

A pair of yellow mid-rise shorts made from a soft, stretchy organic cotton blend with an elastic waist.
Men's L.L.Bean Multisport Shorts, 7"
Price was from: $64.95 now: $44.99

A versatile pair of blue shorts with stretch, quick-dry fabric, UPF 50+, and multiple pockets.

Pros: Perfect fit Wrinkle resistance Comfortable material Deep pockets Lightweight design
Men's Everyday Poplin Shorts, Standard Fit, 8"
Price was from: $64.95 now: $44.99

A lightweight blue cotton-blend short with built-in stretch, featuring an 8" inseam and multiple pockets.
Men's Access Trail Shorts, 9"
Price was from: $64.95 now: $44.99

A versatile pair of black shorts with UPF 50+ protection, made from a durable nylon-spandex blend.
Men's VentureStretch Chino Shorts, 7"
Price was from: $69.95 now: $44.99

A versatile gray short with a 7" inseam, featuring water-resistant nylon blend and UPF 50+ protection.
Men's Ripstop Hybrid Shorts, 7"
Price was from: $69.95 now: $34.99

A versatile pair of red shorts with UPF 50+ protection, perfect for swimming and everyday wear.
Men's Explorer Ripstop Shorts, Fixed Waist, 8"
Price was from: $69.95 now: $59.99

A rugged, moisture-wicking short with a fixed waist and modern styling in fossil brown.
Men's Comfort Stretch® Chino Shorts, 8"

A pair of blue chino shorts with breathable cotton/CoolMax blend and built-in stretch for comfort.
Men's Field Chino Shorts, 7"

A rugged pair of gray chino shorts crafted from a soft, durable cotton blend with added stretch.
Men's Comfort Stretch Performance® Everywhere Chino Shorts, 6"

A pair of blue chino shorts made from a soft, abrasion-resistant cotton-nylon blend with built-in stretch.
Men's Comfort Stretch Performance® Everywhere Chino Shorts, 8"

A pair of tan chino shorts made from a soft, stretchy cotton-nylon blend for versatile comfort.
Men's Sunwashed Khaki Shorts, 7"

A pair of blue peached twill shorts offering lived-in softness, stretch comfort, and classic everyday style.
Men's Sunwashed Khaki Shorts, 9"

A pair of tan peached twill shorts offering lived-in softness, stretch comfort, and classic everyday style.

Back To School Shorts

Back-to-school shorts are a practical part of a child’s school wardrobe, especially during the transition from warm days to the cooler stretch of the school year. They can bring a little more ease to busy mornings, when backpacks are being packed, lunches are being gathered and everyone is trying to get out the door on time. Look for styles that suit the school’s dress expectations while still leaving room for personal preference. Some children gravitate toward a neat, uniform-inspired look in classic colors, while others prefer a more relaxed silhouette for everyday schoolwear. Length is another important consideration: shorter styles may feel casual and easygoing, while longer shorts can offer a more traditional appearance and a little extra coverage. A good pair should sit securely without requiring constant adjustment, with a waistband that feels comfortable during a full day of sitting, walking between classrooms and joining in at recess. Pockets are useful for small essentials, though school policies may determine what children are allowed to carry. When shopping, consider the child’s usual size, preferred fit and how much room they like through the seat and leg. A child who likes a close, tidy fit may choose a different size or cut than one who prefers a little more space for movement. It can also help to compare measurements with a familiar pair of shorts at home rather than relying on age labels alone, since children grow at different rates and sizing can vary from one style to another.

For families preparing for a new school year, versatility often matters as much as appearance. Shorts may be part of a weekday rotation, paired with simple tops for class, layered with a sweatshirt on cooler mornings or worn for school activities that call for a more relaxed outfit. Neutral shades are easy to coordinate with a range of shirts, while brighter colors or patterns can give a child’s wardrobe a bit more personality. If the school has a dress code, check its requirements before choosing details such as color, length, logos or decorative finishes. For children who change quickly between classroom time, outdoor play and after-school plans, look for a straightforward style that feels appropriate in more than one setting. Parents and caregivers often appreciate shorts that can be mixed into several outfits, since a small group of dependable options can make weekly outfit planning much simpler. Children may appreciate having a say in the details, too. Letting them choose between two acceptable colors or select a favorite style can turn a routine shopping task into a small moment of independence. Shorts can also make a thoughtful back-to-school gift for grandchildren, nieces, nephews or family friends, particularly when paired with other everyday clothing. A gift-giver who is unsure of a child’s exact preferences can choose a versatile color and confirm the size with a parent or caregiver. For a coordinated warm-weather wardrobe, families may also want to browse Back To School Camp Shirts for additional outfit possibilities that carry the same easygoing school-day spirit.

As the weather begins to change, back-to-school shorts can remain useful when chosen with the child’s routine in mind. Early school mornings may call for a sweatshirt or light layer, while indoor classrooms and active afternoons can still feel warm enough for shorts. During the cooler months, they may be worn on milder days, for indoor activities or at schools where children spend much of the day in heated classrooms. Paying attention to the child’s schedule is helpful: a student who walks to school, takes part in outdoor programs or has frequent recess may have different preferences from one who spends most of the day indoors. Think about how often laundry is done, how many school outfits are needed between wash days and whether the shorts will be used outside the classroom. A few pairs in complementary colors can create a range of combinations without making the closet feel crowded. Before wearing them to school, check the waistband, hems, closures and pockets so there are no surprises during the day, and follow the care instructions on the garment to help preserve its shape and appearance. Most of all, choose shorts that match the child’s real life rather than an idealized picture of it. The best back-to-school wardrobe is one that supports busy mornings, ordinary classroom days, playground breaks and the many small changes of pace that make up a school year.

FAQs

Back-to-school shorts are often made from comfortable, breathable materials like cotton or cotton blends, which help keep students cool and comfortable throughout the day. For active kids, moisture-wicking fabrics are a great choice because they help manage sweat during gym class or recess. Durable fabrics with reinforced seams are also valuable for standing up to the demands of everyday school activities.

When choosing shorts for school, look for features such as adjustable waistbands for a better fit, deep or secure pockets for carrying small essentials, and sturdy construction for lasting wear. Some schools may have guidelines about the length or style, so selecting shorts with a classic, neat appearance and finished hems can help ensure they meet dress codes.

Absolutely! Many back-to-school shorts are designed with versatility in mind, making them suitable for after-school sports, weekend outings, or family adventures. Their comfort and durability make them a reliable choice for everything from playground fun to backyard barbecues.

Encourage your child to pick from a range of colors and patterns that reflect their personality, while also considering school guidelines. Classic shades like navy, khaki, or gray are easy to pair with a variety of tops, while subtle prints or stripes can add a bit of fun to their everyday look.

Most school shorts are designed for easy care and can be machine washed with like colors. Turning shorts inside out before washing can help preserve color and minimize wear on the fabric. For best results, follow the care instructions on the label and avoid using harsh detergents or bleach.

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Back To School Shorts