With summer quickly approaching—but the temperatures already here in Oklahoma—I’ve been looking for new shorts to keep me cool. I’ll admit, finding shorts that are both cute and comfortable, yet also mom-friendly, isn’t exactly a walk in the park. So when my tween and teen offered to help, I braced myself for eye rolls and fashion advice I wasn’t ready for. To my surprise, though, they actually picked out several pairs of mom shorts I love, calling me “cool” and admitting they would wear them too.  

We found some pairs with a drawstring waistband that feel like loungewear and ripped denim shorts that are casual yet stylish enough for a lunch date with friends. And we are not missing these Old Navy shorts, which are currently 60% off, or these American Eagle mom shorts, which are also on sale. Our other favorites start at just $12 (and no joke, I’m already waiting on some to arrive in the mail). 

These high-waisted jean shorts were the first pair my girls and I came across, and they instantly made the cut. They feature a wide, straight-leg fit and a raw-edge hem that adds just the right amount of edge without being over the top. Not to mention, you can easily style them in various ways, such as with sneakers and a cute, tucked-in shirt. Available in sizes 0 to 14 and 12 different colors and washes, there's a look for just about everyone. Even my teen is highly considering ordering herself a pair. 

Out of all the styles we browsed, this one caught my teen’s eye the most, which honestly surprised me (in a good way). These casual denim shorts feature a relaxed fit, a mid-rise cut, and a slightly ripped look. I picked the light blue color, but my teen says she likes the navy because they remind her of a similar pair she already has and describes as “comfortable.” Although we both agreed every color could easily pair with a tank, tee, or whatever we grab from our closets. 

My tween daughter says these drawstring shorts are her favorite because “they look nice and light and you can stay cool in them on a hot summer day.” There are 29 different styles to choose from, including options with or without buttons, drawstring or elastic waistbands, and some with cute ruffled hems. Plus, the 100% cotton material makes them lightweight enough to wear all summer.

I’m a huge Old Navy fan and always find great shorts there every year, so these high-waisted jean shorts clearly had to make the list. They look just like classic denim shorts but with a bit more coverage, which I love for feeling comfortable and confident. Available in sizes 0 to 30, they’re incredibly inclusive, and right now, they’re an impressive 60% off.

I’ve learned to appreciate a good pair of shorts with deep front pockets—because truthfully, moms always have something to carry. These Lee shorts have just that and more. They have a real zipper (which somehow just makes everything feel more put together), and they come in seven great colors, like Henna and Stormy Gray. They’re comfy enough for busy days but still look like I put in a little effort.

I’ve owned a pair of Levi’s jeans or shorts for as long as I can remember, and this mom short version is exactly why I keep coming back. The high-waist design gives me that flattering fit I love, and they’re available in both standard and plus sizes. Between the classic denim washes and a black option, they’re an easy go-to for everything from park days with my kids to casual dinners with friends.

Ever since high school, I’ve always found a reason to shop at American Eagle—usually for their jeans and shorts. These mom shorts are super cute and have some neat details, too, like a faux braided belt. And honestly, my tween is obsessed with this pair. She told me she likes “the braid pattern at the top and deep pockets,” and when I asked why the pockets mattered, she said, “You have more space to hold things like my clam shells from the park.” Enough said.

I am grabbing these mom shorts on Amazon ASAP. I need something that is lightweight, soft, and actually stays in place without digging in. The drawstring makes them very easy to adjust, and they come in sizes Small to 2XL. I noticed they also have a 4.0-star rating—so it's clear I’m not the only one who loves how easy and comfy these are for busy summer days.

My teen spotted these cut-off denim shorts while we were shopping on Amazon and instantly pointed them out. She said she “loves the different styles” and really likes how “they have some made with one button and others made with several.” I was drawn to the high-waisted fit and some of the ripped, distressed looks—they remind me of shorts I wore back in the day, just with a trendier feel.