Last updated on October 31, 2025
Question:
Should shorts be above the knee or at the knee?
Answer:
The basic function of clothing is to cover our sexual areas. See Proper Attire for details. We need to consider the coverage in all positions, not just when we are standing. For example, tunics were commonly worn in the Bible lands. A tunic is similar to a long T-shirt, covering from the shoulders to the knees. While this garment is modest, it may pose a problem when climbing steps or a ladder. Someone might see up under the tunic. “And you shall not go up by steps to My altar, so that your nakedness will not be exposed on it” (Exodus 20:26). As added insurance, God required His priests to wear shorts under their tunics. “You shall make for them linen breeches to cover their bare flesh; they shall reach from the loins even to the thighs.
They shall be on Aaron and on his sons when they enter the tent of meeting, or when they approach the altar to minister in the holy place, so that they do not incur guilt and die. It shall be a statute forever to him and to his descendants after him” (Exodus 28:42-43). Today, we would call them boxer shorts. They were to cover the loins (the region where your genitals are) and the thighs.
Loose shorts could cover your thighs, but when sitting, they could allow someone to see up underneath them. This becomes more of a problem the shorter the shorts are.
You should also consider the material from which the shorts are made. Mesh can be seen through. Thin, white fabric can be seen through in bright light or when wet.
We are not priests under the Old Law, but the principles are reasonable and should be considered when selecting clothing. Your shorts should cover your thighs so that your genitals are covered in all situations. Going beyond the knees is extra security, but it is not necessary.