Best shorts to wear when needed
Make your own. I have several pair made of a hybrid fabric which is very light and with good air flow. If what you find in the store is a bit long, shorten them. I like mine better than gym shorts because they have pockets.
Amazon has some sheer nylon running shorts. Search for:
TR-623 Men's 2.5" Performance Track Short with Split Leg Sides and Inner Brief
TR-60 Men's 2.5" Athletic Lightweight Sheer Fabric Running Short with Waistband and Side Vent
From the seller: "Our TR60 and TR623 have the same inseam length of 2.5". The TR623 has a slit on each side of the short that goes up almost to the waistband, this is called a "New Zealand" cut. The TR60 does not have a slit and only has a side vent at the bottom of each side."
Both have an inner lining, but that can be cut out if you want to freeball. The 623 is especially nice for that and gives you great freedom of movement. Without the liner the lighter colors see through when wet, and even the darker color "print" your stuff, especially if you are cut. Walking with liner-less 623s is very free.
Amazon has some sheer nylon running shorts. Search for:TR-623 Men's 2.5" Performance Track Short with Split Leg Sides and Inner BriefTR-60 Men's 2.5" Athletic Lightweight Sheer Fabric Running Short with Waistband and Side VentFrom the seller: "Our TR60 and TR623 have the same inseam length of 2.5". The TR623 has a slit on each side of the short that goes up almost to the waistband, this is called a "New Zealand" cut. The TR60 does not have a slit and only has a side vent at the bottom of each side."Both have an inner lining, but that can be cut out if you want to freeball. The 623 is especially nice for that and gives you great freedom of movement. Without the liner the lighter colors see through when wet, and even the darker color "print" your stuff, especially if you are cut. Walking with liner-less 623s is very free.
Doesn't a 2.5 inch inseam and no liner present a risk of accidental exposures, especially when sitting?
It depends. If that is the concern, leave the liner in.
Alternately, consider rugby shorts. The are typically rugged while allowing activities-- some have reinforced seams. The "Gilbert Kiwi Pro Rugby Short" has two reinforced side pockets which can be handy for keys and ID. While a little bulkier than nylon shorts, the heavier fabric allows easier on and off (which can take a little longer with sheer shorts that have an inner liner).
I buy the Gravel Gear from Northern Tool for around the yard in the summer. They are a really nice lightweight nylon for keeping cool and dry really quick and the price is right.
They are extremely comfortable and easy to slip on and off!
Gravel Gear Nylon Ripstop Shorts
Lee