Boys' Shorts

Boys' shorts at FlipBuy UK: lightweight cotton sports shorts for summer, running and casual wear, £9.99.

How to choose shorts for an active child

• Elasticated waist with a drawstring is the practical combination, elastic alone softens and stops holding, and a drawstring lets a child adjust it themselves.
• Cotton for everyday, technical fabric for sport. Cotton breathes and is comfortable, but holds sweat. Quick-dry fabrics suit football and running where they'll get properly hot.
• Pockets, and whether they close. Open pockets lose everything on a climbing frame.
• Check the length against school rules if they'll be worn for PE, some schools specify.
• Flat seams matter. Chafing on the inner thigh is a common complaint children can't articulate; they just refuse to wear them again.

How to size children's shorts

• Go by height and waist, not age. The measurements on the product page are the reliable guide.
• One size up if buying ahead. Elasticated waists accommodate the difference far better than fixed ones.
• Don't go two sizes up. Shorts that fall down get abandoned, and children won't wear something they're constantly hitching.

PE kit and school

Most primary schools require plain shorts in a specified colour, usually black or navy, with no large logos or slogans. Check your school's policy before buying, since a pair bought in the wrong colour won't be worn at all. Label everything: PE kit is the single most commonly lost item in a primary school, and a name in permanent marker on the waistband is worth the two minutes.

How to keep them looking decent

• Wash at 40°C: hot washes fade and shrink faster than wear does
• Treat grass stains cold and immediately with washing-up liquid or a stain remover. Never wash hot before the mark is out; heat sets grass permanently
• Line dry. Tumble drying shortens elastic waistbands, which is what fails first on children's shorts
• Turn inside out to protect any printed detail

How many pairs

Three or four covers a summer for most children, one on, one in the wash, one clean, and a spare for the day something goes wrong at school. Children grow roughly a size a year at primary age, so buying large quantities in one size rarely pays off.

Common questions

What ages do these fit?

Check the height and waist measurements on the product page rather than the age label.

Are they suitable for PE?

Check your school's colour and logo policy first, most primaries specify plain shorts in a set colour.

Should I size up?

One size if buying ahead. The elasticated waist accommodates the difference.

How do I get grass stains out?

Treat with washing-up liquid or stain remover, then wash cold. Heat sets grass stains for good.

Related collections

For the full range, see boy's fashion. For tops, boys' t-shirts. For footwear, boys' shoes.