Chubbies Spring/Summer ’22 Collection | Gear Review

If you don’t already know Chubbies Shorts, let me start by saying these aren’t your grandpa’s shorts – well sort of. Chubbies burst onto the shorts scene in 2011 and have since been on a mission to create accessible, comfortable “proper-length” shorts for men, as well as a variety of other weekend-inspired clothing (Hawaiian shirts, comfy sweaters, etc.). 

Almost all Chubbies feature a four-way stretch breathable fabric that makes their shorts adaptable to any situation. Whether you are wrestling alligators, running from a giant boulder, or sipping a fruity drink out of a coconut, these shorts are ready for anything. 

I had the opportunity to pick up one pair from each of their most popular collections, with the highlight being The Ulitmate Training Short – but more on that later! 

So, sit back and grab your favorite beverage as I welcome you to the weekend with Chubbies Shorts.

The Originals (7.0” Inseam)

Probably the most like your grandpa’s old Bermudas, these shorts have the old-school khaki look but pack in all of the modern comforts of today’s athleisure standards – aptly named The Khakinators. 

Here’s a quick look at the features and details: 

• Fabric – Made out of our 4-way stretch 92% Polyester/8% Spandex Blend. They are impossibly stretchy.
• Inseam – These handsome guys have a 7″ Inseam. Nothing will make your thighs look as good as these.
• Fit – Elastic waistband with a drawcord and an updated fit.
• Pocket – Now with a Zipper Back pocket! – and two non-zip side pockets for your doubloons.
• Liner – A lightweight, ultra-supportive, anti-chafing boxer brief liner to provide breathability and support in those moments when you need it most

A cotton and spandex blend may not necessarily be new to the world of shorts, but Chubbies’ execution is superb. An elastic waistband ensures a custom fit, while the button and fly closure remind you that these shorts are actually for adults. In my opinion, most brands tend to overcompensate for their slimmer fits by adding a little stretch to their fabrics. However, Chubbies stay true to their roots and deploy their stretchiness on a looser, more traditional cut short – giving you the benefits of a roomier classic fit and extra mobility where you need it. In fact, despite Chubbies shorts not having a gusseted crotch, they are still ridiculously light, airy, and flexible.

The chambray-lined pockets add a touch of class to an everyday classic that will suit you well for nearly three seasons and years to come. While I picked up the 7” inseam version, these puppies are available to you in 4.5” and 5” inseam as well.

You can pick them up yourself over at Chubbiesshorts.com for $59.50.  Sky’s out thighs out!

The Swim Shorts (7” Inseam // Lined Classic Swim Trunk)

“The Pop Flock and Drop Its”, as they are known, are Chubbies’ Flamingo-clad swim shorts with an anti-chafe compression liner and an abundance of other features.

Check out the specs here:

• Fabric – Made out of our 4-way stretch 92% Polyester/8% Spandex Blend. They are impossibly stretchy.
• Inseam – These handsome guys have a 7″ Inseam. Nothing will make your thighs look as good as these.
• Fit – Elastic waistband with a drawcord and an updated fit.
• Pocket – Now with a Zipper Back pocket! – and two non-zip side pockets for your doubloons.
• Liner – A lightweight, ultra-supportive, anti-chafing boxer brief liner to provide breathability and support in those moments when you need it most

I’m a net guy. I’m aware of how controversial that statement is, and for all those who spend good money on a bathing suit just to cut the liner out, I see you, I get it, but I do not care. I need the support, and these trunks certainly have plenty. It’s common among you no-netters to remove the liner and wear some compression shorts underneath your trunks, but this time Chubbies has beat you to it. This bathing suit has a built-in perforated compression liner that provides excellent coverage and just the right amount of room to “protect all your treasures from the deep sea” (Chubbies). And don’t worry, these shorts also feature a small side split on either side to ensure you have extra mobility for all of your aquatic stunts.

These trunks also boast a perforated rear zippered pocket that prevents “air bubbling” and has room for all of your waterproof valuables. There are also two side pockets, just in case you forget what to do with your hands. The classic drawstring waist provides extra comfort and customizability. Simply put, these are modern swim trunks that are available in a variety of timeless styles and a choice of two inseams (5” or 7”).

Check them out over at Chubbiesshorts.com for $79.50. 

The Ultimate Training Short (The Quests // 7” inseam)

Are these the ultimate training shorts? Well, Chubbies has certainly packed in enough features into these puppies to make them a serious contender.

Let’s take a look at the features and then dive into the review:

• Fabric – Made of an 86% polyester/14% spandex 4-Way stretch fabric that allows you to rock climb, high kick, and deep lunge like no other short has before.
• Inseam – 7-inch inseam that is ideal for squats and roundhouse kicks
• Fit – Perfectly fitted with extra inner thigh piecing, a supportive double-layered waistband, and side vents for breathability.
• Liner – An exposed, anti-chafe 85% Polyester/15% Spandex compression boxer brief liner to provide maximum support, comfort, and range of motion.
• Tech Pockets – With 5 pockets hidden on the sides, back, liner, and waistband, you’ll never forget your phone or keys at the gym again – but you might forget which pocket they’re in.

I went for ‘The Quests’ pattern, which features a subtle gray-on-black geometric motif on the outer shell and a way less subtle multicolor geometric patterned lining. Truthfully, I really like how the bright lining is slightly exposed, stretching nearly an inch past the length of the shorts – definitely a standout feature. Another unique design queue Chubbies went for on these shorts is a deep, lacrosse-inspired side seam for added mobility. It’s nearly impossible for you to get your knee caught in these shorts, which means you can do high-knees and mule-kicks until your legs fall off.

It’s also nearly impossible for you to chafe. These liners are seriously soft and comfortable. Being on the longer side, they really benefit you in the gym during those deep squats or other perhaps awkward movements that may overexpose certain areas. These shorts totally have you covered.

But what’s really impressive about these shorts is the storage. Located on the liner is a super stretchy phone/valuables pocket that will fit even the largest of iPhones. It has an in-flap closure and is very secure. The shell boasts two deep pockets on either side and a zippered rear pocket that’s great for headphones and other small goods. There’s even a key holder that tucks neatly into the waistband – a departure from the usual “baggie” that floats around the liners of most running shorts.

So are these the ultimate training shorts? My only gripe/suggestion: I wished the liner was perforated. While super comfortable and soft, I think they need much more breathability to be truly great gym shorts. Overall, I think these are some serious shorts ready for any number of adventures.

Experience the ultimate training shorts yourself at Chubbiesshorts.com for $79.50!

Final Thoughts

As a whole collection, I really like the shorts. I think each pair does their job very well. The Khakinators are a comfortable, laid-back yet up-to-date approach to a classic, while the swim shorts and training shorts are purely modern iterations meant to provide the wearer with the latest and greatest in comfort and expressiveness. Chubbies has always been on the irreverent side of menswear and it shows in their attention to detail. From their cheeky marketing or brutally honest tags, there’s a certain experience you get when buying a pair of Chubbies that’s unlike anything on the market. They are shorts for people who love wearing shorts. So don’t be afraid to show some thigh, and know that you’ll look good (and comfortable) doing it.

Shop the entire collection and be sure to check out the latest offerings at Chubbiesshorts.com