What Are Essential Shorts?
If you love streetwear, comfort, and minimalist style, you’ve probably heard of Essential Shorts. Part of the wildly popular Fear of God Essentials line, these shorts have become a go-to for anyone wanting elevated basics that feel premium but stay versatile. Designed with clean lines, relaxed fits, and subtle branding, Essential Shorts embody the brand’s mission: to offer timeless wardrobe staples that look good on everyone.
The Story Behind Fear of God Essentials
The Essentials line is an offshoot of Jerry Lorenzo’s luxury label, Fear of God. While Fear of God focuses on high-end, runway-ready pieces, Essentials brings that same understated luxury to everyday basics — like sweatshirts, hoodies, t-shirts, and of course, the iconic Essential Shorts. Made for layering and easy styling, they reflect the laid-back California vibe while staying sharply modern and functional.
Why Essential Shorts Are So Popular
Essential Shorts have exploded in popularity because they nail that sweet spot between casual and elevated. They’re roomy but not sloppy, minimal yet recognizable thanks to the iconic “Essentials” logo and high-quality build. Fans love them for their versatility — you can wear them to the gym, to run errands, to chill at home, or even styled up with a crisp tee and sneakers for a city-ready fit.
Key Features of Essential Shorts
One of the biggest reasons Essential Shorts are so coveted is their attention to detail. Expect premium cotton or cotton-blend fleece, an elastic waistband with a sturdy drawstring, roomy pockets, and a relaxed fit that hits above the knee. Many pairs feature the signature Fear of God Essentials reflective logo on the thigh, adding just enough branding without being loud. The quality stitching and soft feel mean these shorts last season after season.
Popular Styles and Colorways
Over the years, the brand has dropped multiple variations of Essential Shorts in different colorways and fabrics. Classic colors like black, gray, taupe, and cream are always fan favorites because they’re easy to match. Seasonal drops sometimes include earthy tones like olive, dusty brown, or faded pastels. The most popular version remains the fleece Essential Shorts, but lightweight knit and jersey versions are also loved for summer wear.
How to Style Essential Shorts
The beauty of Essential Shorts is how effortlessly they work with almost anything. Pair them with an Essentials Hoodie or Essentials T-Shirt for that perfectly coordinated loungewear look. Throw on crisp white sneakers and crew socks to channel that LA vibe. Want to elevate the fit? Add a bomber jacket or denim overshirt with layered jewelry for a look that feels both casual and styled. Whether you’re hitting the gym or the street, Essential Shorts keep you looking fresh.
Where to Buy Essential Shorts
Because they’re so popular, finding Essential Shorts can be competitive. The best way to grab a pair is during seasonal drops on the official Fear of God Essentials site, PacSun, SSENSE, or luxury retailers like Mr Porter. They sell out fast, so be ready when they drop. For past collections, trusted resale platforms like StockX, Grailed, or GOAT are good options — just be cautious of fakes by checking seller ratings and product details.
How Much Do Essential Shorts Cost?
New retail prices for Essential Shorts usually range from $70 to $100 USD, depending on the material and season. Resale prices can go higher if it’s a rare colorway or older drop. Considering the premium quality, modern fit, and how versatile they are, many fans agree they’re worth every dollar.
Are Essential Shorts Worth It?
If you love quality basics that look and feel better than your average gym shorts, then yes — Essential Shorts are absolutely worth it. The quality materials, subtle branding, and thoughtful fit make them feel elevated compared to standard sweats or mesh shorts. Plus, they’re easy to dress up or down, which means you’ll get tons of wear out of them.
How to Care for Essential Shorts
To keep your Essential Shorts looking and feeling great, always wash them inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent to preserve the fabric’s softness and the reflective logo. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. For fleece shorts, hang dry or tumble dry low to prevent shrinking or pilling. With proper care, your shorts will keep their fit and finish for years.
How to Spot Fake Essential Shorts
Due to their popularity, fake Essential Shorts do exist, especially on resale platforms. Authentic pairs always have high-quality stitching, a reflective Essentials logo, and premium fabric. Check the drawstrings — legit pairs use sturdy cords with metal aglets, not flimsy ties. Tags should read “Fear of God Essentials” with proper branding placement. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is — stick to verified sellers when buying secondhand.
Essential Shorts vs. Other Designer Shorts
Plenty of brands make designer shorts — so what makes Essential Shorts special? Compared to options from Off-White, Palm Angels, or Supreme, Essentials offers a minimalist vibe that’s easier to mix and match. There’s no flashy print or loud graphics — just clean, well-made basics that go with anything. That’s why they’ve become a core piece for everyone from casual streetwear fans to style influencers.
FAQs About Essential Shorts
Are Essential Shorts unisex?
Yes! Like most Essentials pieces, the shorts are designed to be unisex with a comfortable, relaxed fit.
Do Essential Shorts run true to size?
Most people find they run slightly oversized for that relaxed fit. If you want a more fitted look, consider sizing down — but always check the size guide.
How often do Essential Shorts drop?
Essentials usually drops two major collections a year — Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter — plus surprise restocks and collabs.
Can you work out in Essential Shorts?
Absolutely! They’re great for light training, lounging, or running errands. For intense workouts, consider the jersey versions, which are lighter than fleece.
Are Essential Shorts good for resale?
Certain colorways or collabs hold good resale value, especially if they’re rare or discontinued. Keep them in good condition to maximize resale potential.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Essential Shorts?
In a world full of basics, Essential Shorts stand out for doing more with less. They’re minimal yet luxurious, casual yet refined, and easy to dress up or down. Whether you’re lounging at home, hitting the gym, or flexing a chill streetwear fit, these shorts deliver comfort and style every time. If you haven’t added them to your rotation yet, now’s the time — your wardrobe will thank you.