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If You Straight-Up Refuse To Wear Shorts, Here Are 17 Pairs Of Pants That’ll Still Keep You Feeling Cool

If You Straight-Up Refuse To Wear Shorts, Here Are 17 Pairs Of Pants That’ll Still Keep You Feeling Cool

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Summer heat doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your no-shorts policy. For those of us who prefer full-length coverage regardless of temperature, there’s good news. Breathable, lightweight pants exist that won’t leave you sweating through scorching days, and they come in styles for every preference and occasion.

1. Linen Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants

© Boston Proper

Breezy linen fabric allows air to circulate freely around your legs. The wide-leg design prevents the material from clinging to your skin when temperatures rise.

These palazzo-style stunners come in various colors and patterns, making them versatile enough for beach days or casual office settings.

2. Moisture-Wicking Joggers

© Women’s Health

Athletic brands have perfected the art of cooling technology. These joggers pull sweat away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate quickly.

The tapered ankle keeps them looking stylish while preventing fabric from dragging on hot pavement or dirt trails during outdoor adventures.

3. Cotton Gauze Beach Pants

© Faherty Brand

Gauze fabric creates tiny air pockets that keep your skin cool. The ultra-lightweight material feels almost like wearing nothing at all!

Often featuring drawstring waists and relaxed fits, these pants embody carefree summer vibes while providing full coverage for those who prefer it.

4. Bamboo Fiber Lounge Pants

© Barefoot Dreams

Bamboo fabric naturally regulates temperature and wicks moisture better than cotton. The silky-soft texture feels luxurious against skin even on sweltering days.

Perfect for lounging at home or running errands, these eco-friendly pants often feature relaxed cuts that maximize airflow.

5. Perforated Chinos

© Lululemon

Tiny laser-cut perforations create ventilation without sacrificing the classic chino look. The small holes are barely noticeable but make a huge difference in breathability.

These office-appropriate pants keep you looking professional while preventing that dreaded sweaty-leg feeling during commutes or outdoor meetings.

6. Silk Blend Cropped Pants

© Slipintosoft

Silk’s natural temperature-regulating properties make these luxe pants surprisingly practical for hot weather. The cropped length provides additional ventilation around ankles.

A touch of stretch ensures comfort through long summer days, whether you’re attending outdoor weddings or sophisticated dinner parties.

7. Mesh-Lined Cargo Pants

© Amazon.com

Strategic mesh panels hidden inside these utility pants create airflow where you need it most. The practical pockets eliminate the need for a bag in hot weather.

Originally designed for outdoor activities, these durable pants work equally well for urban adventures when temperatures climb into uncomfortable territory.

8. Drawstring Hemp Pants

© Everyday Yoga

Hemp fabric gets softer with each wash while maintaining its natural breathability. The plant fibers create a porous weave that allows heat to escape.

Adjustable drawstrings let you customize the fit as your body temperature fluctuates throughout hot days, providing comfort without constriction.

9. Seersucker Slim Pants

© Loft

The distinctive puckered texture of seersucker holds fabric away from skin, creating cooling air pockets. This Southern classic is designed specifically for hot, humid climates.

Modern slim cuts update the traditional look while maintaining the fabric’s natural ventilation properties that have made it a summer staple for generations.

10. Paper-Bag Waist Linen Blend Trousers

© Etsy

The gathered waistline creates a flattering silhouette while allowing extra airflow around your midsection. Linen blend fabric balances breathability with wrinkle resistance.

These fashion-forward pants pair beautifully with crop tops or tucked blouses, making them versatile enough for both work and weekend summer activities.

11. Cotton Poplin Ankle Pants

© Quince

Poplin’s tight weave creates a smooth, lightweight fabric that feels crisp against skin. The classic ankle length prevents excess material while still providing full coverage.

Available in bright summer colors and patterns, these pants transition seamlessly from office air conditioning to warm evening commutes without looking wilted.

12. Tencel Lyocell Tapered Pants

© Everlane

Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel absorbs moisture better than cotton while feeling silky-smooth. The natural temperature regulation prevents that sticky, hot feeling.

The tapered cut creates a modern silhouette that works for both casual and semi-formal summer occasions without sacrificing comfort.

13. Embroidered Cotton Eyelet Pants

© Charlie B

Decorative eyelet patterns aren’t just pretty – they function as built-in ventilation! The small cutout designs allow air to circulate freely through the fabric.

Usually lined with lightweight cotton, these pants provide modesty while the outer layer’s perforations create a cooling effect that’s perfect for garden parties or vacation wear.

14. Loose-Fit Chambray Pants

© Pink Lily

Chambray offers denim’s durability in a much lighter weight fabric. The loose fit prevents the material from clinging to sweaty skin on humid days.

These casual pants pair perfectly with everything from tank tops to light sweaters, making them ideal for unpredictable summer weather or air-conditioned indoor settings.

15. Rayon Challis Wide-Leg Pants

© Torrid

Rayon challis drapes beautifully while feeling feather-light against skin. The plant-based fabric absorbs and releases moisture quickly, preventing that clammy sensation.

The flowing wide-leg design creates a breezy effect with every step, making these pants feel as close to shorts as possible while maintaining full coverage.

16. Perforated Faux Leather Joggers

© Popsugar

Tiny perforations transform typically hot faux leather into a surprisingly breathable option. Modern manufacturing techniques create ultra-thin, pliable materials that don’t trap heat.

These edgy pants let you maintain your style aesthetic without sacrificing comfort, proving that summer fashion doesn’t have to mean abandoning your personal look.

17. Cupro Blend Drapey Trousers

© Etsy

Made from repurposed cotton fibers, cupro fabric feels like liquid silk against skin. The breathable material wicks moisture while maintaining a luxurious drape.

These sophisticated pants elevate summer outfits beyond casual wear, proving that staying cool doesn’t require sacrificing elegance or professional appearance.