As all men who are ashamed of their skinny legs would know, summer can be a stressful time. It's too hot for your favourite pair of jeans but you're scared to slip into a pair of shorts and bare your legs. Don't worry though, there are plenty of different shapes and styles of shorts out there, the chances are that you'll be able to find a pair to help you feel confident in the heat. Not all shorts are as scary as it seems and you'll be glad of the extra breeze they create when you're sweating through another sunny day.

If you're feeling shy, start your introduction to shorts slowly. Choose three quarter lengths such as cargo shorts which barely show off any leg at all, whilst still being able to appreciate the way they allow air to circulate around your ankles. Choose long denim shorts when you're finding it hard to let go of your jeans or turn to short sports trousers if you're looking for something that's perfect for running around in.

Once you get a little more used to the idea, you can start experimenting with board shorts. Available in a massive range of fabrics and colours, you'll be able to find everything from dark colours to loud, summery prints. Whilst in the past, they might have been considered the attire of only "surfing types", board shorts are now acceptable as soon as the summer sun hits, but you may feel a little intimidated by the thinness of the fabric, so you can always look for similar cuts in denim or khaki instead.

If board shorts aren't quite your style, you could find that a nice pair of chino shorts is exactly what you're looking for. Typically coming to just above the knee, these shorts are suitable for semi-smart occasions as well as casual days at the beach or down the pub. Choose from a range of colours and pair with an un-tucked shirt for that formal yet relaxed look.

Of course, if you do decide you're feeling particularly brave, you can always buy a pair of men's short shorts - make sure to slap on some fake tan if it's the first time you've had your legs out in a while though, or you might blind people with the reflection.

Whether you're able to get over your fear and step into a pair of short-shorts or you're looking for discreet short trousers that protect your knobbly knees, you're sure to find men's shorts to suit - there are many different styles out there for you to choose from.