When it comes to men's shorts, most Aussie blokes are falling into the same old trap — running straight to the familiar racks at Country Road or Gazman. They're the brand names, no doubt. But are they actually producing shorts made for the way we live now?
Enter Frankster — an Aussie brand that’s ditched the fashion fluff to focus on one thing, and one thing only: making ridiculously good shorts. We’re not churning out full wardrobes. We’re perfecting a single staple.
As more Aussies flock to specialist, direct-to-consumer brands for improved quality and value, it's time to pit Frankster against the traditional suspects. We're putting them side by side across what matters most: fabric, fit, focus, price, and service.
Because if you live in shorts, you should have ones that are made for living.
Detailed Breakdown of Frankster vs. Country Road vs. Gazman
Let's get down to business. When it comes to men's shorts, they're not all made the same. Here's how Frankster measures up against the high-street heavyweights — and trust me, it's not even close.
1. Fabric Quality: Comfort Meets Craft
Frankster:
Fabric at Frankster is all about comfort. We're using top-shelf stretch cotton that's as buttery soft as it gets, breathable, and designed to move. Whether you're hitting the green, chasing the kids around the park, or downing a cold one at the pub, our fabric's got your back — and your legs covered. It's fast-drying, moisture-wicking, and designed for the Aussie climate.
Check out the ultimate in comfort here:
👉 The Comfies Shorts Collection
Country Road & Gazman:
These blokes prefer tougher cotton mixes — less about comfortable all-day wear and more about sharp appearances. Sure, they may look neat, but they tend to be less breathable and don't have the give you require for actual life. Suitable for a boardroom, not so ideal for the backyard barbecue.
2. Fit & Comfort: Actual Fit for Actual Blokes
Frankster:
We know Aussie blokes don't all fit the same shape — and neither do our shorts. With elastic waistbands, stretchy soft fabrics, and a fitted shape, Frankster shorts are designed for movement, for lounging, for living. If you're like a footy player in shape or a weekend warrior, our fits have got you covered.
Country Road & Gazman
Think old-school fit with minimal give. These shorts usually retain a firm, fashion-model cut that won't stretch when you do. If you prefer shorts that move with you — and not vice versa — you may end up, well… a bit restricted.
3. Focus on Shorts: One-Trick Pony (And Loving It)
Frankster:
Shorts are what we do — period. We're not sidetracked by suits, shirts, or seasons. Each stitch, waistband, and pocket is fixated on with intent. The outcome? Shorts that are thoughtfully crafted and seriously dependable.
See our complete collection of purpose-designed styles:
Country Road & Gazman
For them, shorts are merely one item on the menu — an afterthought of the season pushed in between jackets and chinos. When shorts are not the focal point, the nuances are ignored. And let's be truthful, you can sense it.
4. Price Point: Premium Without the Price Tag
Frankster:
You're getting elite-level quality without the inflated retail markups. We're a direct-to-consumer brand, so you pay for high-end men's chino shorts — not pricey storefronts or middlemen. It's high-end equipment without the high-end price tag.
Country Road & Gazman:
With large brands comes large overhead. You're paying for branding, rent, and the in-store playlist, not necessarily superior shorts. In most cases, the price tag reads premium, but the product reads average.
5. Customer Experience & Policies: Stress-Free Shopping
Frankster:
Shopping made easy: free shipping across Australia, a gigantic 100-day free returns policy, and a support team that actually responds to you. You can shop Frankster shorts risk-free, and if they're not the most comfortable pair you've ever worn, no problem, return them.
Country Road & Gazman:
Return policies here are shorter, tighter, and usually accompanied by a little fine print. And unless standing in line at the store or emailing back and forth with customer service is your idea of fun, the experience can feel… a little old-fashioned.
6. Size Inclusivity
Frankster:
Frankster provides an inclusive sizing range from XS to 3XL, designed to fit a diverse range of body types comfortably. Their men’s golf shorts are neither too tight nor too loose, with partially elasticated waistbands to enhance fit and comfort.
Country Road & Gazman:
Both brands offer standard sizing but with less emphasis on inclusivity or stretch features. Gazman’s shorts are noted for a generous leg cut, which can suit stockier builds, but overall, their sizing is more traditional and less flexible compared to Frankster’s.
Ready to Make the Switch?
When it comes down to it, Frankster takes the lead on fabric, fit, focus, and value — no contest. If you want men’s shorts that look sharp, feel incredible, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg, the choice couldn’t be clearer. Even major publications wrote about this.
Join the growing army of Aussie blokes who’ve made the switch from the big brands to Frankster — shorts made by Aussies, for Aussies.
👉 Explore the Full Collection: All Men’s Shorts and feel the difference for yourself.