Shorts have become an essential piece of clothing due to their comfort and stylish look. They come in various lengths, and choosing the right size is key. In men’s shorts, two standard sizes are 5 and 7 inches. Some prefer fit and balanced 5-inch shorts, while others prefer bold 7-inch shorts. So, a debate arises: 5-inch vs 7-inch shorts, and which one is the winner?
While this two-inch difference seems minor, it makes all the distinctions. It decides how your shorts feel and how they complement your body type. Are you confused about choosing between these two sizes? Worry not! This guide will explain all the differences between 5-inch and 7-inch shorts. By the end, you will be able to choose the perfect size. So, let’s get started!
What Does “Inseam” Mean in Shorts?
While buying shorts, you often come across the term “inseam.” Before diving into the differences, you must be familiar with this term. Let me explain it in the simplest possible way.
The inseam is the measurement of shorts. It helps you understand how long or short your shorts are. It is measured from where your legs meet(crotch area) to the bottom of the shorts(hem area). In simple words, the inseam determines the inner leg length of the shorts or where the shorts will end on your legs.
Let me clarify it with one example. Suppose you have a pair of shorts. Start measuring from the crotch area down to the hem area. If this total length is 6 inches, it means this is a pair of 6-inch shorts, and so on. Inseams can be short, medium, or long in shorts. These inseam sizes highly affect the coverage and overall look. So, before you buy shorts, know the exact inseam.
5-inch vs 7-inch shorts: Key Differences!
Do you think two inches do not differentiate between 5-inch and 7-inch shorts? You are using the wrong concept! I will eliminate your confusion in the section below by differentiating these two short sizes. So, let’s dive in and explore the key distinctions.
1- Length
This is the most prominent difference between 5-inch and 7-inch shorts. You can determine this difference through the inseam. For example, in 5-inch shorts, the inseam value is 5. This length lies above the knee and is a shorter type of shorts.
On the flip side, 7-inch shorts have an inseam value of 7. These shorts reach about mid-tight and sit on or below the knees, depending on your body weight. Usually, 7-inch shorts are medium and have a longer length than 5-inch shorts.
2- Coverage
Coverage refers to how much of your legs the shorts cover. It is another difference that sets 5-inch and 7-inch shorts apart. For example, 5-inch shorts have a low inseam. They sit above the knee, exposing more of your leg and covering less.
These shorts allow the legs to move more freely and prevent extra fabric hindrance. On the flip side, 7 inches short reaches the middle of the tight. They are slightly larger than 5-inch shorts. As a result, these shorts provide more coverage to your legs, exposing less skin.
3- Best Use Case
Both of the shorts are versatile in their usability. However, their use mainly depends on your lifestyle and activities. But remember, the difference in length changes the style. For example, 5-inch shorts are best for hot weather and beach outings.
Moreover, these shorts provide extra flexibility for gym workouts to prevent fabric hindrance. However, 7-inch shorts are the best for family occasions and hiking because they do not show more skin. If your height is 6 inches, these shorts provide extra comfort and prevent too much revealing.
4- Comfort Level
Comfort is the key factor when choosing between 5-inch and 7-inch shorts. Both provide different levels of comfort for various situations. For instance, 5-inch shorts are more lightweight and feel airy in the summer. Moreover, these shorts offer more flexibility and comfort during physical activities.
However, they might feel more exposed while sitting in public spaces, making them uncomfortable in some places. On the reverse side, 7-inch shorts provide extra coverage. They feel comfortable in public areas and as everyday wear. However, these shorts might feel hot in the summer and restrict free movement during sports.
5- Mobility and Flexibility
In terms of mobility and flexibility, 5-inch shorts are the clear winner. HOW? As I said above, they have large inseams. It means they have less fabric around your thighs and don’t cover much of the thighs. This provides a maximum range of motion for physical activities. On the inverse side, 7-inch shorts have a high inseam value comparatively.
This provides more coverage around the thighs, creating restrictions due to more fabric. Therefore, these shorts offer less flexibility and mobility for physical activities. However, 7-inch shorts allow better fabric stability for walking and sitting.
6- Social Acceptability
Both 5-inch and 7-inch shorts have their place in fashion. However, their social acceptability varies due to the length difference. For example, 5-inch shorts come with a smaller inseam. So, they are widely accepted in beach towns and gyms where everyone is in the same dress. However, in workplaces, these shorts might look unprofessional.
Moreover, because these shorts are shorter, they ride above the thighs, exposing more skin. This feels unethical in public places. On the other hand, 7-inch shorts provide a balanced fit. They lie on the knee so that you can wear them casually. Moreover, they do not expose skin while sitting, so you can use them in public places.
7- Body Type Suitability
Besides style, another critical factor is how shorts complement your body. The right pair of shorts elevates your body look and personality. For example, 5-inch shorts are best for a muscular body to highlight the figure. Moreover, these shorts create an illusion for shorter men and make the legs look longer.
However, these men’s shorts might feel tight and uncomfortable if you have bigger thighs. On the other hand, 7-inch shorts are the best fit for taller men for a balanced look. These shorts provide extra fabric for a relaxed fit for a thicker and muscular body. However, they cover more skin, so they may not fit shorter men and make shorter heights look even shorter.
8- Popularity Among Different Age Groups
Another difference lies in the popularity of both shorts among different age groups. Different age groups have varying preferences for these shorts. For example, 5-inch shorts are liked mainly by teenagers and young people. These people prefer them during the hot summer and work out in the gym for mobility and flexibility.
However, 5-inch shorts are not very popular among the older generation due to their short length. Conversely, 7-inch shorts are widely accepted among middle-aged and old-aged men. About 30- to 50-year-old men prioritize these shorts for their classic and professional look. While sitting, 7-inch shorts provide more coverage and feel comfortable, which is a significant concern for aged men.
5-inch or 7-inch shorts: Which One Should You Choose?
Shorts are not just about clothing; they define your confidence and personality. Wearing the wrong size shorts makes you look outdated. So, before you choose between 5-inch and 7-inch shorts, let’s take a glimpse at the factors you must consider for the best fit.
- First, consider your comfort level. If you love flexibility and showing your thighs, wear 5-inch shorts. These shorts are also lightweight and allow more airflow. So, for gym purposes, you should consider them. However, if you prefer extra coverage and don’t want to expose more skin, 7-inch shorts are best.
- Think about where you will be wearing them. For example, if you are going to a beach or gym, 5-inch shorts will suit you. However, for casual occasions such as dinner or family gatherings, you should choose 7-inch shorts.
- When choosing shorts, your body shape matters a lot. For instance, if you have muscular thighs or are shorter in height, you should go with 5-inch shorts. Conversely, if you have long legs and a traditional look, 7-inch shorts are the best match.
- Dressing according to the weather is also very crucial. So before you choose shorts, keep the weather in mind. For instance, for humid and hot weather, 5-inch shorts are reliable. However, for mild, breezy days, you should wear 7-inch shorts that provide extra coverage.
- Lastly, keep your style in mind. Trends come and go, but your comfort with personal style should remain. For instance, if you like flexibility and a modern look, 5-inch shorts are a good option. However, if you love coverage with a classic and traditional look, 7-inch shorts are the way to go.
Conclusion
Shorts are the most trendy outfits. They have become necessary for the modern age due to their comfort and cool look. However, shorts come in various lengths. Among those, two popular choices are 5-inch and 7-inch shorts. At first glance, these two look alike and don’t show much difference, but they vary in many aspects. I have discussed several differences between 5- and 7-inch shorts in this article.
For example, 5-inch shorts have less inseam and come with less length. These shorts are flexible but sit above the thighs and provide less coverage. However, 7-inch shorts are slightly larger and do not expose much skin. However, they are not as flexible as 5-inch shorts. So, you should choose them for everyday wear and casual occasions. Lastly, the final selection of both shorts depends on your body type and personal style.