I’m all for embracing the body you were given. Especially when it comes to wearing whatever the hell you want. But, I’m also a realist. And I believe that the best pants for short men are different from the ones taller guys wear.
If you’re reading this, you’re probably short. So you’ll understand what I’m saying. The sad truth is, finding suitable clothing is not as easy as simply buying the things you like. Unless you want to look like a 90s hip-hop star, you have to put more thought into your shopping. Which, even at the best of times, can be a drag.
Thankfully, there are people like me who are willing to help. I’m going to be rounding up the finest pants for short men, whilst sprinkling in a few styling tips and answers to some commonly asked questions.
Key Takeaways
If you’re short in the height department, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style. Sure, it can be a little harder to find the perfect fit, but that’s where I come in. I’ve pulled together the best pants for short men, including an assortment of options suitable for all kinds of styles and budgets. From
Our Top Picks
Being short has its perks. Better leg room on an airplane is one of them. Being great at hide and seek is another. Shopping for clothes is not. But when it comes to securing the perfect pants, it’s actually a lot easier than you think.
Whether you’re Tyler Perry tall or Danny DeVito small, blue jeans are a timeless wardrobe staple. You simply need to invest in the right pair to fulfill your sartorial potential. For shorter guys, choose a slim-fitting design like these from
Material: 100% Cotton | Type: Jeans | Sizes: 28-38” | Colors: 2
On days when your schedule is giving you a headache, you don’t want the added stress of finding pants to go with your outfit. Which is why you should always have a pair of everyday jeans to hand. No frills, no fuss. Just versatile denim and the kind of comfort you require to get you through the day.
The Unity jeans from Closed perfectly tread the line between casual and corporate—making them an essential investment for any wardrobe. Dress them up with a shirt and boots, or down with an oversized tee and sneakers. If you still find them a little long, don’t be afraid to turn up the hem.
Material: 98.5% Organic Cotton, 1.5% Elastane | Type: Cargo | Sizes: 27-38” | Colors: 13
While I’m all for being experimental with your clothing, sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. Especially when you want to maximize your styling options and get some serious
A pair of khakis, like these from
Material: 98% Organic Cotton, 2% Elastane | Type: Chinos | Sizes: 28-38” | Colors: 5
What constitutes “work pants” will vary depending on your job. But whatever your title, you should at least be turning up well presented. For the sake of this next pick, I’m going to assume you either work from home, or in an office environment. Outside grafters may want to invest in a pair of shorts (or head over to Dickies).
The multi-functional 24 Trouser is L’Estrange’s answer for hybrid working. You can wear them as suit pants or as a jean alternative—it all depends on where you’ll be setting up for the day. As soft as they are stylish, the design is finished with a hidden elastic waistband that allows for ultimate comfort and added movement.
Material: 97% Organic Cotton, 3% Elastane | Type: Hybrid Trouser | Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 5
There’s nothing worse than ill-fitting trousers. Even more so when you’re short. Find yourself with pants crumpling at the hem and you’ll start losing inches you really couldn’t afford to see go. But before you start sobbing into your pillow, I’ve found your sartorial savior.
Luca Faloni’s wool pants have tailored pleats through the front that help emphasize the slim-straight leg profile (and do wonders for your proportions). Apart from the oodles of outfit opportunities, what I love most is the internal drawstring waistband and fishbone lining for durability.
Material: 100% Wool | Type: Trousers | Sizes: 28-40” | Colors: 2
Unless you spend your life in a suit, casual pants are one of your most frequent companions. And because of this, it’s absolutely vital that you invest in the right pair. Let’s not spend another year in those grease-stained sweatpants, okay?
Corridor’s drawstring trousers offer up the comfiness of lounge pants with the appearance of your favorite denim. You basically get to wear pajamas outside and nobody will have a clue. Better yet, they’re made from a blend of cotton and linen—making them the perfect replacement for jeans this summer.
Material: 55% Cotton, 45% Linen | Type: Casual Trousers | Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 1
At 5’8,” Jeff Bezos stands just below the average height of the US male. So it’s no surprise Amazon has a rather impressive selection of pants for short men. Amongst them are Puli’s slim-fitting cargo pants.
Made from nylon with some stretch for comfort, they’re lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant—making them a fine choice for outdoor adventures, as well as weekend brunches and trips to the bar. Not just easy on the eye, they come complete with seven utility pockets that’ll keep all your essentials close by.
Material: 96% Nylon, 4% Spandex | Type: Cargo | Sizes: 29-38” | Colors: 13
If you’re fed up with looking like an extra from The Wire, it’s time to find yourself some clothes that fit. And the best place to start is your pants. The trick is to make the most of what you’ve got—accentuating features instead of trying to hide them with heaps of fabric.
H&M’s cotton twill pants are a cross between khakis and jeans. Impressive—but it’s the flattering silhouette that’s going to help you look a little taller. Slim but not too skinny, they’ve been given some stretch that’ll easily accommodate killer calves. Throw them on at the weekend with a graphic tee or head to the office with a button-down shirt and loafers.
Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex | Type: Smart-casual Pants | Sizes: 28-44” | Colors: 8
It’s true: as a shorter guy, your lower-half options are somewhat limited. However, there are still plenty of luxury brands willing to give you a helping hand. So where does a man go to splurge on pants for short men?
These cotton-blend trousers from Massimo Alba tick a lot of boxes. Comfortable, easy to style, and perfectly tapered, they’ll help elongate stumpy legs and bring a dash of color to your everyday outfits. Wear yours at the weekend with a polo shirt and casual sneakers.
Material: 97% Cotton, 3% Elastane | Type: Casual Trousers | Sizes: 32-38” | Colors: 2
Since the athleisure trend found its way into our casualwear, the stock of sweatpants has never been so high. What was once considered the uniform of the lazy is now an essential item for every well-dressed guy.
By far the most comfortable option on this list, Represent’s Owners Club joggers will take you from weekend lounging to lunch with the boys. You can team them with your favorite graphic tee, or wear them with a vest and pool slides in the summer.
Material: 100% Cotton | Type: Sweatpants | Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 5
If you’re the kind of man that tiptoes in photos, it can be a real challenge to find jeans that fit—yet alone flatter. Sure, a trip to the tailor can work a treat, but it’s not exactly cost-effective to do this every time you buy a new pair. Thankfully, there are brands like Levi’s that offer a wider range of sizes to cater to smaller frames.
These 511s are available with a 29” inseam and come with a flattering fit that’s narrow through the seat and thigh. They’re made from cotton with a dash of stretch—making them comfortable enough to wear every day. Show yours off at the weekend with a long-sleeved tee and canvas sneakers, or dress for the office with a casual shirt and boots.
Material: 99% Cotton, 1% Elastane | Type: Jeans | Sizes: 26-46” | Colors: 20
Whether you’re catching a flight or heading to the movies, chances are you’ll prioritize comfort when it comes to putting together your outfit. But what if I told you there was a way to look good as well as feel it? I know, right?
Onia’s sweatpants are made from a beautifully textured waffle-knit fabric that’s soft and stretchy. While the tapered profile ensures they’re never considered too casual. You can up the coziness with a hoodie or keep it classy with a plain crew neck tee.
Material: 60% Cotton, 40% Polyester | Type: Sweatpants | Sizes: S-XXL | Colors: 2
What To Look For In The Best Pants For Short Men
Style
Pants come in many different forms. Which one you choose will depend on your style and when you plan to wear them. For example, khakis or jeans are an excellent everyday choice, while smart slacks are better suited to formal occasions. If you’re looking for unbeatable comfort, sweats are always a good idea.
Fit
The fit is the most important thing to consider when finding the best pants for short men. Get it wrong and you’ll end up appearing even smaller than you actually are. As a general rule of thumb, keep it slim with a mid-rise. And stay away from overly baggy styles.
Material
The material of your pants is more important than you may think. For everyday options, you’ll require something tough yet comfortable. Denim or pure cotton is ideal. As you enter the summer months, you may want to think about lighter fabrics such as linen (but look out for blends if you want to avoid excess creasing).
Final Verdict
If you’re finding yourself phoning your tailor more than your mom, chances are you’ve been struggling to find the best pants for short men. However, now you’re equipped with this list of stylish must-haves, perhaps you can finally get back to being the number one son.
Before I sign off, I feel that I should remind you of
FAQ
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Short men can wear many different types of pants. In fact, they can wear whatever they want. It’s not specifically about finding the right style of pants, but more to do with choosing a suitable fit. Avoid low-rise designs as these will make legs appear shorter. You’ll also want to keep it slim, as this will further help elongate your bottom half.
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Wide styles aren’t exactly the best pants for short men (that’ll be slim), but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid them altogether. Steer clear of extra baggy fits and make sure they sit on your waistline, or just above.
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If your goal is to look taller than you actually are, slim-fit styles are the perfect choice. The rise of your pants is important too. Stay away from low-rise designs and stick with mid-rise cuts that help give off the allusion you’re taller than you are.
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