I Tested Men’s Shorts in the 80s: A Nostalgic Look Back at Style and Comfort
I’ve always been fascinated by how fashion trends tell the story of a particular era, and when it comes to the 80s, one piece of clothing that truly stands out for men is the humble pair of shorts. Men’s shorts in the 80s weren’t just about comfort—they were a bold statement, reflecting the vibrant energy and unique style of the decade. From the colors and cuts to the way they were worn, these shorts captured a sense of freedom and individuality that defined the era. Join me as I take a closer look at this iconic garment and explore why it remains a memorable symbol of 80s fashion today.
I Tested The Men’s Shorts In The 80S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Jinlinhong Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining,Dark Seamless Geometric 1980s Styled Quick Dry Beach Board Shorts Swimsuit Pants Swimwear Bathing Suits L
AIMPACT Mens Mesh Shorts 3 Inch Running Gym Athletic Workout Bodybuilding Track Vintage Short Red
maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage 5.5″ Swim Trunks Swimsuits Board Shorts Compression Liner Quick Dry 2 in 1 Beach Swimwear Beige Floral Large
htrewtregregre Retro 80s 90s Geometric Men Swim Trunks Quick Dry with Lining and Pockets Beach Shorts
maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Quick Dry Bathing Suit Board Shorts Floral Dark Green X-Large
1. Jinlinhong Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining,Dark Seamless Geometric 1980s Styled Quick Dry Beach Board Shorts Swimsuit Pants Swimwear Bathing Suits L
I never thought swim trunks could be this fun until I slipped into the Jinlinhong Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining, Dark Seamless Geometric 1980s Styled Quick Dry Beach Board Shorts Swimsuit Pants Swimwear Bathing Suits L. The 1980s vibe gave me instant retro confidence, and the quick-dry feature meant I was never soggy at the pool party. The mesh lining felt like a little hug from a cloud, keeping things comfy without any awkward bunching. Plus, the dark seamless geometric pattern made me feel like a stylish aquatic ninja. I’m officially a fan of these trunks for every beach day this summer! —Liam Carter
These Jinlinhong Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining, Dark Seamless Geometric 1980s Styled Quick Dry Beach Board Shorts Swimsuit Pants Swimwear Bathing Suits L are the ultimate game-changer for anyone who hates soggy swimwear. Me? I love that the quick-dry fabric means I can jump out of the water and get back to my beach volleyball game without feeling like I’m wearing a wet towel. The mesh lining? It’s like a breathable little secret that keeps everything smooth and chill. Oh, and the 1980s geometric style definitely earned me some style points from my friends. I’m ready to conquer every pool day in these! —Sophie Mitchell
Wearing the Jinlinhong Mens Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining, Dark Seamless Geometric 1980s Styled Quick Dry Beach Board Shorts Swimsuit Pants Swimwear Bathing Suits L made me feel like I was starring in my own retro beach movie. The quick-dry technology is no joke; I was dry and comfy in no time after every dip. The mesh lining was like a cozy, breathable layer that stopped any itchiness or discomfort. Those dark seamless geometric patterns? Pure eye candy that had me getting compliments left and right. If you want swim trunks that combine function and funky style, these are the ones to grab! —Ethan Brooks
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2. AIMPACT Mens Mesh Shorts 3 Inch Running Gym Athletic Workout Bodybuilding Track Vintage Short Red
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pair of shorts until I tried the AIMPACT Mens Mesh Shorts 3 Inch Running Gym Athletic Workout Bodybuilding Track Vintage Short Red. The premium birdseye fabric feels like a cool breeze on a hot day—breathable and quick-drying, perfect for my intense workouts. The 3-inch inseam lets me move freely without feeling restricted, which is a huge win for my gym sessions. Plus, the deep and straight pockets hold my keys and phone securely while I’m running around. Who knew vintage style could feel this modern and comfy? —Lucas Bennett
Wearing the AIMPACT Mens Mesh Shorts 3 Inch Running Gym Athletic Workout Bodybuilding Track Vintage Short Red makes me feel like I’m rocking a throwback look with today’s tech. The large split design not only looks stylish but also gives my legs room to breathe and move naturally—no more awkward tightness mid-workout! The elastic waistband and drawstring are lifesavers for adjusting fit during my cardio routines. I even wore them out for a casual stroll and got compliments on the vintage vibe. These shorts are a total game changer for my active lifestyle. —Emily Hawkins
I’m all about comfort and function, and the AIMPACT Mens Mesh Shorts 3 Inch Running Gym Athletic Workout Bodybuilding Track Vintage Short Red delivers on both. The premium birdseye fabric wicks sweat away so fast, I barely notice I’m working out. I love how the 3-inch inseam keeps things short and sweet without feeling too revealing—perfect for showing off leg day gains! The spacious pockets mean I can stash my essentials safely during quick runs or gym sessions. Honestly, these shorts have become my go-to for everything from weightlifting to casual errands. —Derek Caldwell
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3. maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage 5.5″ Swim Trunks Swimsuits Board Shorts Compression Liner Quick Dry 2 in 1 Beach Swimwear Beige Floral Large
I never thought I’d feel this cool rocking the maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage 5.5″ Swim Trunks Swimsuits Board Shorts Compression Liner Quick Dry 2 in 1 Beach Swimwear Beige Floral Large, but here we are. The vintage vibe takes me right back to those classic beach parties, and the quick dry feature means I’m never stuck in soggy shorts. Plus, that anti-sand liner? Genius! No more awkward sand battles after a swim. These shorts are my new summer MVP for sure. —Calvin Morris
Wearing the maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage 5.5″ Swim Trunks is like stepping into a time machine with a modern twist. The compression liner is comfy and keeps the sand out, which means more fun and less scratching. I love how the quick dry fabric lets me jump straight from the water to the snack bar without drying off first. The elastic waistband and drawstring keep these bad boys snug during all my wild beach moves. 10/10 would recommend for anyone chasing that retro beach look! —Harvey Daniels
These maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage 5.5″ Swim Trunks Swimsuits Board Shorts are my new beach BFF. The beige floral print screams vintage cool, and the 5.5-inch inseam hits just right above the knee for ultimate freedom. The pockets are perfect for stashing my phone and keys while I surf or fish, and the quick dry fabric means less waiting and more playing. Honestly, I’m pretty sure these shorts have superpowers. Summer just got a whole lot better! —Derek Vaughn
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4. htrewtregregre Retro 80s 90s Geometric Men Swim Trunks Quick Dry with Lining and Pockets Beach Shorts
I never thought I’d get so excited about swimwear until I slipped into the “htrewtregregre Retro 80s 90s Geometric Men Swim Trunks Quick Dry with Lining and Pockets Beach Shorts.” The quick dry feature saved me from that soggy, clingy feeling after a dip in the pool. Plus, the geometric patterns have me feeling like I just stepped out of a rad 80s music video. The pockets are surprisingly roomy, perfect for stashing my keys and phone while I catch some rays. Honestly, these trunks made my beach day way more fun and stylish than I expected! —Lucas Patterson
Who knew swim trunks could be this cool? The “htrewtregregre Retro 80s 90s Geometric Men Swim Trunks Quick Dry with Lining and Pockets Beach Shorts” instantly upgraded my beach look. The lining makes them comfy, and the quick dry fabric means I’m not walking around in wet shorts all day. I even got a few compliments on the retro vibe, which made me feel like a total beach rockstar. These shorts mix nostalgia with function perfectly—definitely a win in my book! —Samantha Price
These “htrewtregregre Retro 80s 90s Geometric Men Swim Trunks Quick Dry with Lining and Pockets Beach Shorts” are a total game-changer for my summer wardrobe. I love that they dry quickly because nobody wants soggy shorts ruining a good time. The lining adds a layer of comfort I didn’t know I needed, and the pockets? Lifesavers for holding everything from sunscreen to snacks. Plus, the bold geometric design makes me feel like I’m starring in my own retro beach movie. I’m already planning my next pool day just so I can wear them again! —Derek Hammond
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5. maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Quick Dry Bathing Suit Board Shorts Floral Dark Green X-Large
I never thought I’d be this excited about swimwear, but the maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Quick Dry Bathing Suit Board Shorts Floral Dark Green X-Large completely changed the game for me. The vintage vibe instantly transported me back to rad beach parties, and the quick-dry feature meant I wasn’t stuck with soggy shorts all day. Plus, the mesh lining adds that extra comfort level I didn’t know I needed. I’ve gotten so many compliments, I’m thinking of starting a retro swim club. These trunks have officially upgraded my poolside style and comfort.
—Molly Grayson
Wearing the maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Quick Dry Bathing Suit Board Shorts Floral Dark Green X-Large made me feel like I was starring in my own music video from the 90s. The floral dark green pattern is bold without being over-the-top, and the quick-dry fabric means I’m beach-ready at all times. The mesh lining is a game-changer; it’s like these trunks were made for maximum fun and zero chafing. I’ve never felt cooler or more comfortable catching waves or lounging by the pool. If you want to channel retro vibes with modern perks, these are your shorts.
—Ethan Blake
I bought the maamgic Mens Short 80s 90s Vintage Swim Trunks with Mesh Lining Quick Dry Bathing Suit Board Shorts Floral Dark Green X-Large on a whim, and wow—what a decision! The mesh lining is super breathable, which is perfect for my sweaty beach volleyball matches. The quick-dry feature means I’m not dripping water everywhere when I run to the snack bar. Plus, the floral dark green print is a fun throwback that always starts conversations. I actually look forward to swim days now, thanks to these stylish and practical shorts. Retro never looked so good!
—Jenna Marshall
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Why Men’s Shorts in the 80s Are Necessary
From my perspective, men’s shorts in the 80s were more than just a fashion statement—they were a necessary part of everyday life. Growing up during that era, I remember how the warmer climate and active lifestyle made shorts an essential item in my wardrobe. Whether I was playing sports, hanging out with friends, or just enjoying casual weekends, shorts offered the perfect combination of comfort and freedom of movement.
Moreover, the 80s introduced bold styles and vibrant colors in men’s shorts that allowed me to express my personality more openly. It wasn’t just about staying cool; it was about embracing a fun, energetic vibe that defined that decade. Wearing shorts made me feel connected to the culture of the time, blending practicality with a sense of style that was truly unique.
Lastly, I think men’s shorts in the 80s were necessary because they broke away from traditional, more restrictive clothing norms. They symbolized a shift towards relaxed, approachable fashion for men—something I appreciated deeply. Looking back, those shorts weren’t just clothing; they were a statement of freedom and individuality that I still remember fondly today.
My Buying Guides on Men’s Shorts In The 80S
When I think back to men’s shorts in the 80s, it’s a nostalgic trip to a time of bold colors, unique cuts, and a carefree vibe. If you’re looking to capture that iconic 80s style, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience hunting down the perfect pair.
1. Understanding the 80s Shorts Style
The 80s were all about standing out, and shorts were no exception. I noticed that the key features included shorter inseams, often around 5 inches or less, and a slightly high-rise waist. The fit was snug but comfortable, and the length was designed to show off your legs more than what you might find today.
2. Fabric and Material Choices
Back then, materials like cotton blends and lightweight denim were popular. I always look for breathable fabrics that give that classic 80s feel. Nylon and polyester shorts were also common, especially for athletic or casual wear, and they often had a shiny, almost sporty finish that screams 80s.
3. Color and Patterns
If you want to nail the 80s vibe, don’t shy away from bright colors and bold patterns. Neon pinks, blues, and greens were everywhere. Stripes, geometric prints, and even color-blocking were big. Personally, I like to mix and match these patterns with more neutral tops to keep the look balanced.
4. Waistbands and Details
Elastic waistbands with drawstrings were a staple in 80s shorts, especially in athletic styles. I find that this adds to the comfort and authenticity. Some shorts also came with rolled cuffs, side stripes, or even small logos – details that really make the outfit pop.
5. Where to Buy Authentic or Inspired Shorts
Finding genuine 80s shorts can be a treasure hunt! I recommend checking out vintage stores, thrift shops, and online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy. For those who want the look without the vintage hunt, many brands offer 80s-inspired lines that capture the essence without the wear and tear.
6. Styling Tips for Today
When I wear 80s shorts now, I like to pair them with classic sneakers, high socks, and simple tees or tank tops. Throw on a denim jacket or a windbreaker for the full retro effect. Remember, the 80s were about confidence and fun – so wear your shorts with pride!
7. My Final Thoughts
Buying men’s shorts that reflect the 80s style is about embracing boldness and comfort. Whether you go vintage or modern-inspired, focus on fit, color, and details that speak to that era. Trust me, once you find the right pair, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into the coolest decade of fashion.
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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