Shorts Price Comparison
Compare 128 shorts from ONLY, Jack & Jones, MASCOT and more — prices from 0 £, updated daily across top UK retailers.
Shorts price comparison UK
Shorts sit at an interesting crossroads in the clothing market: a category where a £5 ONLY basic and an £80 Carhartt workwear piece coexist, and where the right choice depends almost entirely on what you actually need the garment to do. Our analysis of 128 products across this catalogue reveals a market dominated by ONLY — which accounts for the lion's share of listings at a notably lower average price — alongside more specialist players like MASCOT and Carhartt at the premium end.
The most striking split is between casual/fashion shorts and technical or workwear styles. ONLY and Jack & Jones anchor the everyday end of the market, with most of their range sitting comfortably below 0 £. MASCOT, by contrast, averages nearly double that figure — but these are reinforced workwear shorts built for tradespeople, not weekend wear. It's a distinction that matters enormously when you're comparing prices side by side. Pair these with the right work clothing and you have a genuinely functional kit.
For sport and fitness use, ERIMA and hummel offer purpose-built options with technical fabrics — moisture-wicking, flatlock seams, stretch panels — at prices that sit firmly in the mid-range. Urban Classics fills the streetwear gap with relaxed fits and oversized cuts that have found a loyal following. If you're building a summer wardrobe, it's also worth browsing swimwear and trousers alongside this category — the overlap in casual styling is significant.
Prices run from 0 £ at the very entry level up to 0 £ for premium workwear, though the vast majority of the catalogue clusters between 0 £ and 0 £. That's a reassuringly tight range, which means you're rarely paying a huge premium for a recognisable brand name — the differences tend to come down to fabric quality, construction, and intended use rather than marketing. Compare offers carefully before buying; the same size and colourway can vary meaningfully between retailers.
How to Choose the Right Shorts
With styles ranging from lightweight casual cuts to reinforced workwear, picking the wrong pair is easier than it sounds. The key is matching the construction to the context — a slim-fit chino short is a poor choice on a building site, and a cargo work short looks out of place at the beach. Here's what actually matters when you're comparing options.
Intended use: casual, sport, or workwear?
This is the single most important filter. Casual shorts (ONLY, Jack & Jones, Urban Classics) prioritise style and comfort in everyday settings — cotton or cotton-blend fabrics, standard pockets, relaxed or slim fits. Sport shorts (ERIMA, hummel) use technical fabrics: moisture-wicking polyester, stretch panels, flatlock seams to prevent chafing. Workwear shorts (MASCOT, Carhartt, NEO tools) are a different product category entirely — reinforced seams, tool pockets, high-abrasion fabrics, often rated for specific occupational use. Buying a fashion short for physical work is a false economy; it won't last.
Fabric composition and weight
100% cotton is breathable and comfortable but can feel heavy when wet and takes longer to dry. Cotton-polyester blends (typically 60/40 or 70/30) offer a practical compromise — easier to wash, quicker to dry, more shape-retentive. For sport, look for polyester or polyamide with moisture-wicking treatment. For outdoor use, nylon or treated fabrics with anti-UV or water-repellent finishes are worth the extra cost. Fabric weight matters too: lightweight fabrics (under 150 g/m²) suit hot weather; heavier constructions (over 250 g/m²) are more durable but less breathable. Check the label — brands don't always make this easy to find.
Waistband and closure system
An elasticated waistband with a drawcord is the most forgiving fit — ideal for sport, loungewear, and anyone between sizes. A button-and-zip closure with belt loops gives a smarter, more structured look but requires accurate sizing. Some workwear shorts use adjustable waistbands with side tabs, which is genuinely useful if your weight fluctuates or you're wearing them over base layers. Avoid shorts where the only size guidance is S/M/L with no measurements — sizing inconsistency between brands is one of the most common complaints in this category.
Inseam length and cut
Inseam length is often overlooked until you're standing in a changing room wondering why a 'mid-thigh' short hits you at the knee. Very short inseams (10–15 cm) suit sport and beach use; mid-thigh (around 30 cm) is the most versatile casual length; knee-length styles (40–45 cm) read as smarter and work better in semi-formal settings. Slim-fit cuts look sharper but restrict movement; relaxed or regular fits are more comfortable for active use. Cargo cuts add pocket volume but add visual bulk — not always a problem, but worth knowing.
Pocket configuration
For casual wear, two front pockets and a back button pocket is the standard — enough for a phone, keys, and wallet. Sport shorts often sacrifice pockets for aerodynamics, which is fine until you need somewhere to put your phone on a run. Workwear shorts are where pocket count really matters: MASCOT and NEO tools models typically offer multiple reinforced pockets, including dedicated tool loops and zipped security pockets. If you're buying for work, count the pockets before you buy — it sounds obvious, but it's easy to miss on a product page.
Seam construction and durability
For casual wear, standard single-needle seams are perfectly adequate. For sport, flatlock seams (stitched flat against the skin) eliminate the raised ridge that causes chafing on longer runs or gym sessions — worth prioritising if you're active. Workwear shorts should have reinforced seams at stress points: the crotch, pocket openings, and belt loops. Overlock finishing on internal seams is a sign of better construction. At the lower end of the price range, this is often where corners are cut first.
- Budget picks (From 0 £ to 0 £) : Entry-level casual shorts from ONLY and hummel. Expect basic cotton or polyester construction, limited pocket options, and standard seams. Fine for occasional wear or as a spare pair, but don't expect longevity under heavy use. Kangol also appears at this level.
- The sweet spot (From 0 £ to 0 £) : Where most of the Jack & Jones and ERIMA range sits. You get noticeably better fabric quality, more considered fits, and proper seam finishing. This is the right budget for everyday casual or recreational sport use — the step up from budget is genuinely worth it here.
- Mid-range and technical (From 0 £ to 0 £) : Urban Classics streetwear, ERIMA sport models, and the lower end of The Helper Bees range. Fabrics become more technical, fits more refined. Sport shorts at this level typically include moisture-wicking and stretch. A sensible ceiling for most buyers who aren't doing physical work.
- Premium and workwear (Over 0 £) : MASCOT and Carhartt dominate here. These are not fashion shorts — they're occupational garments with reinforced construction, tool pockets, and fabrics rated for sustained physical use. Mammut's hiking chino also sits at this level. Only worth the outlay if the use case genuinely demands it.
Top products
- ONLY 15199801 Female Green (ONLY) : The cheapest entry point in the catalogue — fine for occasional casual wear, but don't expect premium construction at this price. A useful option if you just need a basic pair.
- Jack & Jones 12252814_1991.59 shorts (Jack & Jones) : One of the best-value casual options here — Jack & Jones consistently delivers decent fabric quality and considered fits at a price well below the market median. Our pick for everyday wear.
- NEO tools 81-679-L shorts (NEO tools) : A budget workwear option that punches above its price — multiple sizes available, practical construction, and a fraction of the cost of MASCOT. Worth considering for light trade use.
- Mammut Hiking Chino Female Black (Mammut) : The most technically credible outdoor option in the top 15. Mammut's reputation for durable, performance-oriented clothing is well-earned — but only justify the price if hiking is genuinely your use case.
- Urban Classics TB243 Tap trousers/shorts Male Black, White (Urban Classics) : The standout streetwear pick — relaxed fit, distinctive styling, and a price that sits comfortably in the mid-range. Urban Classics has a loyal following for good reason, though the fit runs generous.
Related categories
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between sport shorts and casual shorts — does it really matter?
Yes, it matters more than most people expect. Sport shorts use technical fabrics — typically polyester or polyamide with moisture-wicking finishes — and are cut for freedom of movement, with flatlock seams to prevent chafing. Casual shorts prioritise appearance and everyday comfort, usually in cotton or cotton blends. Wearing a casual cotton short for running or the gym is uncomfortable and the fabric degrades faster; wearing a sport short in a smart-casual setting just looks wrong. Buy for the primary use case.
How do I get the right size when buying shorts online?
Always check the brand's own size guide and measure your waist in centimetres — don't rely on S/M/L alone, as sizing varies significantly between ONLY, Jack & Jones, and workwear brands like MASCOT. For elasticated waistbands, you have more flexibility; for button-and-zip closures, accuracy matters. If you're between sizes, size up for comfort, especially in cotton fabrics that don't stretch. Most major UK retailers offer free returns, so ordering two sizes to compare is a practical option.
Are workwear shorts like MASCOT worth the higher price?
Only if you're actually doing physical or trade work. MASCOT shorts cost significantly more than casual alternatives — often over 0 £ — because they're built to a different standard: reinforced seams, abrasion-resistant fabrics, multiple tool pockets, and occupational safety compliance. For a tradesperson or outdoor worker, that investment pays off in longevity. For weekend DIY or casual wear, you're paying for features you won't use. Don't let the rugged aesthetic justify the price if the use case doesn't match.
What fabric is best for shorts in warm weather?
Lightweight cotton (under 150 g/m²) or linen is the most breathable option for hot, dry conditions — comfortable and natural against the skin. For humid conditions or active use, a moisture-wicking polyester or polyamide fabric dries faster and feels less clammy. Avoid heavy cotton blends above 250 g/m² in summer — they trap heat and take an age to dry after washing. If you're hiking or spending long periods outdoors, look for fabrics with an anti-UV rating.
Is it worth buying shorts with zipped pockets?
For most casual use, no — standard open pockets are fine and more comfortable. Zipped pockets become genuinely useful for travel, cycling, running, or any activity where losing your phone or keys is a real risk. Workwear shorts from brands like MASCOT and NEO tools often include zipped security pockets as standard, which makes sense in a professional context. For everyday wear, the added bulk and slight inconvenience of zips rarely justifies the trade-off.
Which shorts brands offer the best value on this catalogue?
Jack & Jones consistently offers the best balance of quality and price in the casual segment — well-constructed, on-trend fits at prices that sit below the market median. ERIMA is the standout for sport use, with proper technical fabrics at accessible prices. ONLY has the widest range and lowest average prices, but quality is variable — check individual product reviews before buying. At the premium end, MASCOT is genuinely worth the money for workwear, but only for that specific use case.
What are the most common mistakes people make when buying shorts online?
The biggest pitfall is ignoring the inseam length — product pages often list overall length rather than inseam, and what reads as 'mid-thigh' on a 5'10" model can hit very differently on a different frame. The second mistake is buying casual shorts for active use, or vice versa. Third: not checking the fabric composition — a short listed simply as 'shorts' with no material breakdown is a red flag. Always read the full product description, not just the headline.