Best Travel Pants for Shorter Men

Traveling should be about the adventure, not about uncomfortable pants that restrict your movement or look wrinkled after an hour in your seat. Whether you're catching a red-eye flight, exploring a new city on foot, or transitioning from a business meeting to dinner, the right pants can make all the difference. For men under 5'10", finding travel pants that actually fit properly—without bunching at the ankles or requiring expensive alterations—has traditionally been a challenge. Until now.

At Under 510, we've engineered pants specifically for shorter men's proportions, with inseams ranging from 25" to 28". Our collection combines performance fabrics, thoughtful design, and proper fit to deliver pants that excel on every journey. Here's your guide to the best travel pants that prove you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort.

Why Travel Pants Matter

The best travel pants share a few key characteristics:

• Wrinkle-resistant fabrics that look fresh even after hours of sitting
• 4-way stretch for freedom of movement through airports, on planes, and during activities
• Quick-drying materials that can be hand-washed in a hotel sink and ready by morning
• Versatile styling that works for multiple occasions without packing extra pants
• Proper fit that doesn't require rolling, hemming, or constant adjusting

Let's break down the best options from Under 510's pants collection.

Super Stretch Performance Pants: The Ultimate Travel Companion

Best For: Business travelers, long flights, city exploration

When it comes to do-it-all travel pants, the Super Stretch Performance Pants are in a league of their own. These pants look refined enough for a client dinner but feel as comfortable as your favorite athletic wear—making them perfect for the modern traveler who needs one pair that can handle every situation.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

The exclusive 4-way super stretch fabric (88% Nylon, 12% Spandex) moves with you in every direction. Rushing to catch a connecting flight? No problem. Sitting through a transcontinental journey? You'll arrive feeling fresh. The refined appearance means you can go straight from the airport to a meeting without looking like you just rolled out of bed.

The slim-tapered fit creates a taller, leaner silhouette—perfect for shorter men who want to look polished. The narrow leg opening shows off your footwear, whether you're wearing clean white sneakers for sightseeing or loafers for dinner.

Available in versatile colors like black, navy, and charcoal, these pants pair effortlessly with polo shirts, button-downs, or casual tees. Pack one or two pairs, and you've got your bottom half covered for any itinerary.

Travel Pro Tip: The wrinkle-resistant fabric means you can stuff these in your carry-on without worry. They'll look crisp when you pull them out at your destination.

Pace Performance Pants: The Commuter's Choice

Best For: Business travelers, golf trips, active travel days, versatile commuting

The Pace Performance Pants are Under 510's newest addition to the performance pants category, designed specifically for the man on the move. These pants bridge the gap between refined style and functional durability, making them ideal for travelers who need pants that can handle diverse activities without compromising on appearance.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

Crafted from innovative performance fabric with added stretch, the Pace pants deliver lightweight breathability, wrinkle resistance, and quick-dry functionality—everything you need for life on the go. The slim-fit design tapers from knee to ankle for a sleek silhouette that looks polished whether you're heading to a business meeting or weekend brunch.

What sets the Pace pants apart are the thoughtful durability features: a gusseted crotch prevents blowouts during active days, while a hardy tack button closure ensures these pants can handle wear after wear. The double-tracked stitching throughout enhances longevity, giving you confidence that these pants won't let you down mid-trip.

The functional pocket system is a traveler's dream: slant pockets with an additional hidden zip pocket keep valuables secure, while snap closures on back pockets with premium pocket lining add both security and comfort. The hidden zip pocket is perfect for keeping a backup credit card or hotel keycard safe while you're exploring.

Available in versatile colors like black, navy, and taupe, the Pace pants transition effortlessly from casual to elevated looks. Wear them on the golf course in the morning, then pair them with a button-down for dinner—no wardrobe change required.

Fit Note: The Pace pants have a slim, tapered fit. If you have larger calves or prefer a more relaxed fit, consider ordering one size up on the waist.

Versatility Factor: These pants work equally well for active pursuits and refined occasions. From airport travel to golf courses to client dinners, the Pace pants adapt to your itinerary without missing a beat.

Superlight Easy Pants: Maximum Comfort for Warm-Weather Travel

Best For: Spring/summer trips, warm destinations, casual travel, maximum comfort

When traveling to warmer climates or during summer months, the Superlight Easy Pants deliver unmatched lightweight comfort without sacrificing style. These pants were designed specifically as a comfortable, breathable option for guys who need performance in hot weather.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

The ultra-light, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry whether you're exploring humid cities or relaxing at beach destinations. The super stretchy material ensures total freedom of movement—perfect for active days of sightseeing or simply staying comfortable during long travel days.

What sets these apart is the innovative half-elastic waistband (elastic on the back, clean on the front) with an interior drawstring closure. This design gives you the adjustability and comfort of joggers with a more refined appearance. After a big meal or during fluctuating travel comfort needs, you'll appreciate this flexible waistband design.

The relaxed fit with a straight leg from knee to ankle creates a casual, breezy aesthetic that's both trendy and comfortable. Available in versatile colors like black, navy, charcoal, and tan, these pants are lightweight enough to pack multiple pairs without adding bulk to your luggage.

Warm Weather Essential: The moisture-wicking properties mean you can hand-wash these in your hotel sink and they'll dry quickly overnight—perfect for extended travel with limited luggage space.

Styling Note: While the fit is relaxed, these pants maintain a polished look. Pair them with a polo or button-down for dinner, or keep it casual with a quality tee for daytime exploration.

Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans: Casual Style Meets Travel Durability

Best For: Casual trips, weekend getaways, versatile packing, cool-weather travel

Sometimes you want the comfort and durability of jeans but with more versatility than traditional denim. The Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans solve this perfectly, offering comfortable stretch denim in unique solid colors that are traditionally hard to find.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

The cotton-spandex blend provides just enough stretch for all-day comfort without looking like stretchy jeans. The garment-dyeing process creates rich, deep colors with a beautiful "slubbed" denim texture that develops its own unique fades over time—giving you jeans with character that only get better with wear.

Available in versatile colors like olive, gray, fossil, mocha, kelp, and deep sea, these jeans offer more styling options than traditional blue denim. The solid colors make them easier to dress up or down, pairing seamlessly with everything from tees and hoodies to button-downs and casual blazers.

The slim-tapered fit (cut from knee to ankle) creates a polished look that makes shorter men appear taller and leaner—crucial when you want to look put-together while traveling. Unlike traditional jeans that bunch at the ankles for shorter guys, these fit perfectly right out of the box with inseams starting at 25".

Versatility Factor: These jeans work with sneakers for casual exploration, boots for cooler weather, or loafers for dinner. Pack one pair in a neutral color like gray or olive, and you've got a reliable foundation for multiple outfits.

Durability Bonus: The mid-weight fabric and strong construction mean these jeans can handle active travel days while still looking great. They're pre-washed for a soft, broken-in feel from day one.

Chinos: Classic Versatility for the Sophisticated Traveler

Best For: Business trips, dressy-casual occasions, versatile packing

Sometimes you need pants that lean more toward the classic side. Under 510's chinos deliver timeless style with the comfort features modern travelers demand. The slim-tapered fit makes shorter men look taller and leaner while maintaining that crisp, put-together appearance.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

Chinos are the chameleons of the travel wardrobe. Dress them up with a button-down and blazer for business meetings, or dress them down with a polo or tee for weekend exploration. This versatility means you can pack less while covering more occasions.

The tailored-to-fit design eliminates the frustration of bunched fabric at the ankles—a common problem when shorter men try to travel with standard chinos. You'll look polished from the moment you arrive, with no tailor visit required.

Packing Strategy: Chinos in navy and khaki are travel essentials. These two colors pair with virtually everything in your suitcase, maximizing your outfit combinations without overpacking.

Joggers: The Comfort Wild Card

Best For: Casual trips, adventure travel, leisure-focused journeys, maximum comfort

Don't underestimate the power of well-designed joggers for travel. Under 510 offers two excellent jogger options that blur the line between athletic wear and casual pants, offering elastic cuffs at the ankles and waist with a sleek, modern appearance.

Standard Joggers: Casual Comfort

Under 510's standard joggers deliver lux-athleisure fabric with that stretchy, breathable comfort you want for long travel days, but with a chino-like appearance that doesn't scream "gym clothes." The tapered fit offers a slim, tall look that's more polished than traditional sweatpants.

These joggers shine on casual trips where you'll be active—hiking, exploring, or simply prioritizing comfort. The elastic cuffs keep the fabric from dragging, which is especially valuable for shorter men who often deal with too-long pants.

Versatility Note: Pair them with a polo or button-down to elevate the look, or keep it casual with a quality tee. They're perfect for those trips where you want maximum comfort without looking sloppy.

Pace Performance Joggers: Travel-Ready Athleisure

For travelers who want jogger comfort with genuine performance features, the Pace Performance Joggers take things to the next level. These represent Under 510's latest innovation in the jogger category, specifically designed for commuters and the modern man on the move.

Why They're Perfect for Travel:

Crafted from the same innovative performance fabric as the Pace pants, these joggers offer lightweight breathability, wrinkle resistance, and quick-dry functionality that's ideal for life on the go. The moisture-wicking properties keep you comfortable whether you're rushing through airports or exploring a new city.

The slim-fit design tapers from knee to ankle for a sleek silhouette, while the elastic waistband with rubberized tips and cuffed hems ensure a comfortable, tailored fit. The gusseted crotch prevents blowouts during active movement, and double-tracked stitching throughout enhances durability—crucial features when you're wearing the same pants for multiple days on the road.

What makes these joggers exceptional for travel is the thoughtful pocket system: slant pockets with a hidden zip pocket, plus a back zip pocket. The zippered pockets are invaluable for securing your passport, wallet, or hotel keycard while you're on the move—providing peace of mind in crowded tourist areas or during active adventures.

Available in versatile colors like black, stone, gray, and taupe, the Pace Performance Joggers transition effortlessly from casual to elevated looks. Wear them on the plane for maximum comfort, then pair them with a button-down for a casual dinner—they're refined enough to pass in most settings while delivering unmatched comfort.

Travel Security: The multiple zippered pockets make these joggers particularly valuable in high-traffic tourist areas. Keep your valuables secure without constantly checking your pockets.

Quick-Dry Advantage: Like all Pace products, these joggers can be hand-washed in a hotel sink and will dry overnight, making them perfect for extended travel with limited luggage.

Building Your Travel Wardrobe

The smartest travelers build their pants rotation around versatility and comfort. Here's a strategic approach:

For a Week-Long Trip:

• 1 pair Super Stretch Performance Pants or Pace Performance Pants (black or navy)
• 1 pair Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans (gray, olive, or deep sea)
• 1 pair Superlight Easy Pants or Pace Performance Joggers for downtime

For Business Travel:

• 2 pairs Super Stretch Performance Pants or Pace Performance Pants in different colors
• 1 pair classic chinos

For Casual/Adventure Travel:

• 1 pair Pace Performance Pants
• 1 pair Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans
• 1 pair Pace Performance Joggers

For Warm-Weather/Beach Destinations:

• 2 pairs Superlight Easy Pants in different colors
• 1 pair Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans for evening
• 1 pair Pace Performance Joggers for ultimate comfort

The Under 510 Difference for Travelers

Traditional travel pants present a unique challenge for shorter men. Standard 30" inseams bunch at the ankles, creating a sloppy appearance that undermines even the best travel outfit. Getting pants hemmed before every trip is expensive and time-consuming—and even after alterations, the proportions often look off.

Under 510 solves this problem by designing every pair of pants with shorter men's proportions in mind. With inseams from 25" to 28", you get pants that fit perfectly right out of the box. The slim-tapered cuts create a taller, leaner appearance—exactly what you want when you're trying to look your best on the road.

No Alterations Required: Order your pants, pack your bag, and go. No tailor appointments, no hemming costs, no waiting.

Fabric Technology That Travels

Modern travel demands modern fabrics. Every pair of pants in the Under 510 collection features performance materials that outperform traditional cotton:

• 4-way stretch moves with you through TSA lines, cramped airplane seats, and full days of exploration
• Wrinkle-resistant materials mean you can pack efficiently without worrying about a rumpled appearance
• Quick-drying fabrics enable hand-washing in hotel sinks for multi-day wear
• Breathable construction keeps you comfortable in varying climates
• Moisture-wicking properties (especially in Superlight Easy Pants and Pace Performance products) keep you cool and dry

These technical advantages mean your pants work harder, so you can pack lighter and travel smarter.

Style Tips for Shorter Travelers

Looking polished while traveling is about more than just the pants—it's about creating proportional outfits that make you look taller and more confident.

Create Clean Lines: The slim-tapered fit of Under 510 pants creates an unbroken vertical line from waist to ankle. Pair them with fitted (not tight) tops to maintain these clean proportions.

Show Your Shoes: The narrow leg openings on performance pants and chinos naturally showcase your footwear. Choose low-profile shoes like minimal sneakers or sleek loafers to enhance the tall, lean look.

Monochromatic Magic: When possible, match your pants and shoes in similar tones. Dark pants with dark shoes create visual continuity that adds perceived height—perfect for travel photos and professional appearances.

Color Coordination: Take advantage of the unique colors in the Garment Dyed Stretch Jeans collection. Olive jeans with earth-tone tops, gray jeans with navy or black, deep sea with lighter neutrals—these combinations create sophisticated looks that stand out from standard blue denim.

Making Travel Easier

The right pants transform your travel experience. You move through airports with confidence, arrive at your destination looking fresh, and transition seamlessly between activities. For shorter men, finding pants that actually fit—without alterations, without compromises—makes travel that much more enjoyable.

Under 510's collection proves you don't have to choose between comfort and style, between perfect fit and performance features. Whether you're boarding a plane for business or adventure, you deserve pants that fit your proportions and support your journey.

Ready to upgrade your travel wardrobe? Explore the full pants collection and experience the difference that proper fit makes. With free shipping on orders over $150 and free returns on all US orders, finding your perfect travel pants is risk-free.

Your next adventure awaits—make sure your pants are ready for it.