The word ‘technical’ gets thrown around a lot these days, but what does it mean? According to the Oxford Dictionary, one definition of technical, as an adjective:
2. “involving or concerned with applied and industrial sciences.
“an important technical achievement”
Which would imply that technical, in a fashion sphere, relates to the use of new and applied science or industry. New fabrics, new materials, innovation. That would explain why cutting-edge materials – Gore-Tex, Pertex, various forms of Quantum – get labelled technical. But often, subtle details like pockets, zips and slightly leftfield design tweaks earn something the technical accolade.
We gathered six of our favourite technical shorts – some have innovative materials, some just have nice cargo pockets – for your perusal. One thing that’s for certain about all these shorts: they’re built to last, and they’re multifunctional. From hiking to running to relaxing, you’re covered.
Norse Projects ‘Lukas’ Tab Series Shorts
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This pair from Norse Projects utilises a ripstop weave that bolsters the shorts’ resistance, gracing you with extra sturdy and hard-wearing construction.
Marshall Artist Forte Cargo Shorts
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Stone Island-affiliated Marshall Artist carry the technical torch with a UK-based approach. This pair, with a cotton polyamide shell and injected pockets, is packed with hidden details and touches.
ACG Snowgrass
![technical](https://www.propermag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/nike_acg_snowgrass_cargo_shorts_dark_smoke_grey_summit_white_summit_white1-edited.jpg)
You can always rely on ACG to produce stellar goods. These nylon beauties are full to the brim with external cargo pockets, mesh and net attachments, and a built-in belt. Plus – are there any logos which hit as hard as the ACG triangle?
Gramicci Canyon Shorts
![technical](https://www.propermag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/858176999_OS-edited.jpg)
We can’t do shorts without doing Gramicci. These shorts, a slight adaption of their famous G-Pant, boast a water-resistance soft-shell fabric, and unmatched flexibility. Each leg can stretch to 180° – which is extremely useful if you’re a flexible climber, or Jean-Claud Van Damme.
New Balance All Terrain Shorts
![technical](https://www.propermag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/13-05-2022_AJ_MS21502-SFR_1_1.jpg)
New Balance’s All Terrain range is their answer to ACG, encompassing a broader group of outdoor related activities. These shorts, in striking sunflower yellow, are exactly what you need for long hikes or strenuous outdoor exploration; if you get lost, someone will see the shorts before they see you.
ACRONYM Shell Cargo Shorts
![technical](https://www.propermag.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/w2000_q60-1-edited.jpg)
Look, everything we’ve said above stands, but if you want technical, ACRONYM is king. Slick, utilitarian, robust. Anything Errolson Hugh produces will be unbelievably well considered.