How Long Should Tennis Shorts Be?Written by Saad Hajidin · February 10, 2025

Club sports like golf and tennis are steeped in rich traditions and decorum, and this extends to clothing. Tennis, in particular, used to require restrictive, formal attire in the early 20th century. This included white flannel trousers for men and floor-length skirts for women. Over the years, however, the sport has transitioned to more functional and stylish outfits, and men’s shorts and much shorter women’s skirts have become the norm.

So, how long should tennis shorts be? Let’s dive into the dress code guidelines set forth by organizations such as the International Tennis Federation and the Association of Tennis Professionals.

Are There Rules for How Long Tennis Shorts Should Be?

There have never been strict regulations regarding the exact men’s tennis shorts length. However, there are some general recommendations outlining the style of shorts appropriate for professional events and tournaments:

• Governing bodies like the ITF and ATP require clean and customarily acceptable attire but do not specify exact short lengths.

• For Wimbledon, shorts must adhere to the all-white dress code, but there are no unique length restrictions.

• Shorts must be long enough to provide adequate coverage but short enough to allow unrestricted movement, particularly during sprints and lunges.

• Shorts should not be overly long or baggy, as this could impede performance or appear unprofessional.

For nonprofessional play, shorts should simply be comfortable, functional, and in line with any club or tournament dress code.

What Is the Best Length for Men’s Tennis Shorts?

When determining how long tennis shorts should be, men often consider factors such as how they feel, freedom of movement, and personal style. While modesty can influence the choice of length, it typically varies based on individual preferences and cultural practices. Here are the most common men’s shorts lengths and why they might be the best for you:

• 5-Inch Inseam: Because of the shorter length, these provide increased mobility and a modern aesthetic. However, some may find this length less modest.

• 7-Inch Inseam: In the middle of the range, 7 inches strikes a balance between coverage and freedom of movement, making it a popular choice for many players.

• 9-Inch Inseam: These longer shorts feature additional coverage, which some may prefer for modesty or comfort reasons. This length is also suitable for those who favor a traditional look.

There are other things to consider regarding tennis shorts length, as well. For instance, shorts should allow for a full range of motion without causing discomfort. Choosing the appropriate length can boost your performance by making movement easier. In addition, individual comfort levels with different lengths vary. Some may prioritize modesty, while others focus on functionality or style. Finally, due to customs and social norms, perceptions of modesty differ across cultures and communities, which influences athletic wear choices.

Deciding How Long Your Tennis Shorts Should Be

When shopping for court attire, you need to figure out how long your tennis shorts should be. There are no set rules — it’s up to you. Consider comfort, mobility, and your individual preference. Then, browse inPhorm’s selection of tennis shorts and choose the perfect style for your game.