What Are Shorts Below the Knee Called? | Naming Every Length

Shorts below the knee are most commonly called Bermuda shorts or long shorts, depending on the fabric and cut.

The answer isn’t one universal label. Whether you’re shopping online, sewing a pair, or describing what someone wore, the right term shifts with the material and the style. For most US shoppers, Bermuda shorts is the standard name for tailored styles that hit at or just below the knee, while long shorts covers any casual pair that extends past the knee. Understanding the differences helps you search for the exact pair you want and avoids the frustration of ordering the wrong cut.

Why “Bermuda Shorts” Is The Most Common Answer

Bermuda shorts is the most widely recognized term for shorts that reach the knee or fall slightly below it. Fashion references describe them as knee-length or just above the knee, often sitting about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the kneecap. They can be cuffed or uncuffed, and they’re most often made from khaki or cotton twill in classic men’s and women’s styling.

These shorts carry a more tailored, semi-formal reputation, especially in men’s wear. That’s why you’ll see them in office-casual dress codes and golf courses more often than at the beach. If the garment is structured, has belt loops, or comes in twill or chino fabric, Bermuda shorts is the precise term.

What Are The Other Names For Longer Shorts?

Different fabrics and functions create different names. Here’s the breakdown so you can match the right word to the garment:

• Long shorts — A generic catch-all for any shorts that extend below the knee. Use this when the cut is casual and the fabric doesn’t fit a specific category.
• Board shorts — Longer, loose-fitting swim or surf shorts, often hitting around the knee. They’re made from quick-drying synthetics like polyester or nylon and usually have a drawstring waist.
• Jorts — Denim shorts, especially the longer, roomier cuts that have come back into fashion. The term is simply a blend of “jeans” and “shorts.”
• Walk shorts — An alternate, less common name for Bermuda-style shorts, often used in dressier or uniform contexts.
• Baggies — Loose-fitting shorts that reach the knees, a term more common in British English and athletic contexts.

How Do I Pick The Right Term?

Matching the garment to the correct name is straightforward if you check two things: the length and the fabric. The table below summarizes the decision:

The same length can honestly be called Bermuda shorts, long shorts, or board shorts depending on the material and the occasion. A tailored khaki pair that hits the knee is Bermuda; the same length in quick-dry surf fabric is board shorts; a longer raw-denim pair is jorts. Defining the term on first use is the smart move since brands themselves use these labels loosely.

What Should I Avoid Calling Them?

One common mistake is treating Capri pants as shorts. Capri generally refers to cropped pants that end below the knee — a longer garment than shorts, and a distinct category. Some sources use the term loosely for below-knee garments, but for shopping and style conversations, Capri means pants.

Beyond that, don’t force “Bermuda shorts” onto everything. Using it for swimwear or denim styles muddies the meaning and leads to confusing search results. When in doubt, “long shorts” is the safe, accurate fallback that everyone understands.

If you’re ready to shop and want a curated list of well-reviewed options, our roundup of the best below-the-knee shorts covers the top styles for men and women.