Footy season is back and that means it's time to get your game day shorts sorted.
You’d think any shorts will be enough to get you through. But if they don’t breathe, don’t stretch, or don’t hold their shape, you’ll feel it before halftime.
The question isn't just about whether you should wear shorts - it's which colour works best for footy and the rest of weekend.
If you're still figuring out what works, it helps to look at a proper range of men's shorts so you can compare fits, colours and fabrics in one place.
In this article, we’ve covered the top colour options for footy games based on versatility, practicality and how well they work beyond just match day. Whether you're watching the Blues at the MCG, the Broncos at Suncorp or local footy on a Saturday arvo, the right colour shorts make the day that much better.
Why Does Color Really Matter For A Footy Game?
Colour is not just a fashion statement for a crowd shot to post on Instagram later. Your choice of colour shorts can be a real asset in several different situations that your wardrobe will be put through at a footy game.
You have to deal with Australia's strong sunlight during the day games, spilled beer, grass stains (if you decide to kick the ball around at halftime), and then moving from the stadium to the post-game pub.
Darker colours are going to cover up stains a little bit better than lighter colours, and they will appear clean longer as well. Lighter colours are going to help keep you cool on those sunny days, but they're also going to reveal dirt faster. Neutral colours can match with almost any team jersey or polo shirt, while bold colours limit you to only specific combinations of outfits.
If you get navy, grey, and black shorts, you can wear them in between games on the weekends to run errands, go to barbecue's or go for a night out after the game. If you get bold colours representing your favourite team, you will love wearing them at the game, but there's a chance you may not want to wear them anywhere else. The middle ground? Choose colours that can be used for anything you might do on the weekend, but still provide enough functionality to withstand the nature of a footy game.
Should You Wear Your Team Colours?
Wearing shorts with your team's colours is a good way to show you care about your team. However, it is not a necessity. One important factor to consider is that you may never wear your team colours again after the season is over.
It may be safer to own neutral coloured shorts for almost every game, and only break out the bold colours of your team for finals, or a derby match where you want to show your team spirit.
Navy Shorts - The Ultimate Shortcut to A Great Game Day Look
Shorts in navy blue are the perfect way to cut corners on game day. These will go with any colour combination for any team, will hide stains well and will never make you feel awkward going from the stadium to the pub.
Wear them with almost any team jersey, almost any polo, or any casual shirt and they simply work.
If you like having extra storage on game day, Frankster's modern men’s cargo shorts in navy give you that added pocket space without looking bulky.
To make the most of the football season, pair navy shorts with white sneakers and your favourite team's jersey and you will achieve a clean and neat look.
Grey Shorts: A Versatile, Neutral Option
Grey shorts are the "neutral" version of game day attire. They blend in with all team colours; they are in fashion without looking like it; and they make the transition from day to night games better than almost all other options.
As a neutral supporter or someone going to the game with friends that support different teams, you can use grey shorts. You are not showing allegiance to either team, you are just there for fun. Pair the grey shorts with a basic t-shirt and you will have an outfit that is suitable for a football match, trip to the pub, weekend chores or a barbecue at home.
Practical Black Shorts For A Night Game
Black shorts are probably the most practical option for a night game. Not only do they conceal all stains, but they also work better in the cooler temperatures; and when paired with team colours they make a sharp impression.
Stretch fabric black shorts are the best for football games as they allow you to stay comfortable for many hours of standing and sitting and still maintain a neat appearance. Pairing them with white or light coloured shoes will prevent you from looking too heavy.
Casual, Relaxed Aussie Shorts - Olive
Olive shorts have that classic, relaxed Aussie feel about them. They work extremely well in suburban and rural footy areas where the dress code is casual and the surrounding environment is more natural. Earthy tones like olive tend to produce a relaxed, informal appearance that takes no account of itself.
If you prefer a slightly tougher look, you could explore men’s utility shorts or structured men’s workwear shorts that still keep things modern.
Why Comfort is MVP
Colour may be important, but it is the comfort that will ultimately determine if you have fun. At the footy you are likely standing on your feet for hours, sitting on hard stadium seating, walking back and forth to grab food, and possibly staying out until late after the final siren. Irrespective of how fashionable the shorts appear, uncomfortable shorts will always ruin your enjoyment of the event.
Stretch cotton blend fabrics (minimum 98% cotton & 2% elastane) allow for movement with minimal restriction. Partially elastic waistband allows for flexibility while seated, standing and eating without constant adjustments. A high-quality fabric minimises irritation caused by friction for extended periods of wear and retains its form even after many hours.
That’s exactly why brands like Frankster focus so heavily on stretch and waistband comfort, because game day is long.
Cargo Shorts vs Chino Shorts at the Footy
Cargo shorts provide additional pocket space, which can assist in carrying multiple items, without having to bring a bag. Modern cargo shorts with refined pocket design eliminate the bulky look associated with older-style cargo shorts, while providing the same functional aspects.
Chino shorts provide a clean, professional appearance, and are suitable if you plan to head somewhere slightly dressier after the game. Chino shorts generally have fewer pockets, but are designed with a more streamlined appearance. In general, both types of men’s work shorts are suitable for most footy games where you are moving directly from the stadium to the pub, so long as the fit is modern and the fabric contains stretch.
Select the Best Colour and Wear Them All Weekend
The ideal colour of shorts to wear to the footy are the ones you intend to wear throughout the entire weekend. Navy, grey and black colours offer the greatest versatility while still looking good at the stadium. Whereas Olive is suitable for more casual venues. Team colours with bold colour schemes clearly show your allegiance, however, can limit how often you will choose to wear them.
Prioritise quality fabrics with stretch capabilities, correct positioning of the pockets and colours that are versatile enough to use in various applications.
The footy is about enjoying yourself, supporting your team and spending time with your friends and family. The right shorts will allow all these things to occur without thinking twice about what you’re wearing.
FAQs
What colour shorts will be best for day time vs. night time football games?
Grey and olive coloured shorts are ideal for daytime football games because they help reflect the heat of the sun and keep you cooler. Navy and Black coloured shorts are the smartest choice for night time football, as they will hide stains better and are perfect for the cooler weather. If you’re just purchasing one pair of shorts for football games, then Navy would be the best option, as it will be suitable for all two different conditions, providing the most versatility.
Will cargo shorts or chino shorts work better for me when I go to the footy?
As long as your cargo or chino shorts are modern fits (go above the knee and are not baggy), and you are made of good quality stretch fabric, you will be fine with either type of short for football games. Cargo shorts provide you with a lot of extra pocket space to carry items like your phone, wallet, and keys without needing to bring a bag. Chino shorts will create a clean look that can be easily transitioned to a slightly dressed-up venue after the game. Ultimately, this decision comes down to whether you want functionally or a sleek, put-together look.
What kind of material should I look for in footy ready shorts?
You want to look for stretch cotton blends that contain a minimum of 98% cotton, and 2% elastane. Stretch cotton blends allow for flexibility while standing and sitting for hours, while still allowing for breathability in the Australian climate. Do not look for 100% cotton as it will have no give. Also, avoid pure synthetic materials as they will not breathe well. Adding partially elastic waistbands provides comfort without making the shorts appear too casual.
Can I wear the same shorts I wear to the footy to the pub afterwards?
Yes, if you choose the correct colour and style. Navy, Grey, Black, and Khaki are all great options that will work perfectly from the stadium to the pub. You want to avoid overly sporty styles with excessive branding, elastic-only waistbands, or anything that is below the knee as these will look dated. The best shorts to wear to the footy are ones that include belt loops and a simple, yet stylish pocket design so you can dress them up a bit if you need to.
