If you’ve ever wondered “what is awrah for men?”—or whether shorts above the knee are allowed, you’re not alone. This guide explains the rulings in simple terms, how they apply to everyday life (gym, swimming, prayer), and why many brothers choose modest 3/4 shorts for reliable coverage and comfort.
Awrah for Men: The Basics
In Islam, awrah refers to the parts of the body that must be covered in public. For men, scholars commonly define this as the area from the navel to the knees. Clothing should be loose enough not to outline the body and opaque enough not to become see-through—especially when wet or under strong light.
Does the Knee Count as Awrah?
Schools of thought vary in detail, but a widely safe practice is to ensure the knees are covered to avoid doubt—especially during prayer and in mixed public settings. If you’re unsure which opinion to follow, covering the knees is the safest and most broadly accepted approach.
Shorts Guidelines for Daily Life
Quick checks you can use at home, at the gym, or on holiday:
- Length: shorts should reach to—and cover—the knees when standing and sitting.
- Fit: relaxed, not tight around the thighs; avoid clinging fabrics.
- Opacity: stays opaque when wet and under bright light (do a torch/flash test).
- Movement: coverage should hold during squats, sprints, and swimming.
- Prayer: when you bow or prostrate, awrah remains covered from all angles.
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Why Many Choose 3/4 Shorts
3/4 shorts (three-quarter length) sit below the knee or mid-calf, striking a balance between breathability and modesty. They’re popular for prayer, gym sessions, swimming, and everyday wear because they stay comfortable while keeping coverage simple.
- Consistent knee coverage—standing, sitting, or moving
- Relaxed fit that doesn’t cling
- Opaque fabric that remains modest when wet
- Practical touches: drawstring waist, deep zipped pockets
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Built for coverage, comfort, and real life—gym, travel, and prayer.
Shop 3/4 ShortsFrequently Asked Questions
What are awrah shorts?
Awrah shorts are modest men’s shorts designed to cover from the navel to the knees with a relaxed fit and opaque fabric.
Can Muslim men wear regular swim shorts?
Most high-street swim shorts are too short or clingy. Choose styles that cover the knees and stay opaque when wet—like three-quarter shorts paired with appropriate liners.
Are 3/4 shorts halal?
Yes—if they cover the knees, fit loosely, and stay opaque, they meet common modesty guidelines for public wear and prayer.
Does showing the knee affect prayer?
Because the knee is treated as awrah by many, it’s safest to keep knees covered throughout salah, especially in bowing and prostration.
Where can I find modest 3/4 shorts in the UK?
You can shop UK-friendly options here: THIRTY4ERS three-quarters.
Final Thoughts
In short: men’s awrah is from the navel to the knees. For everyday life, training, travel, swimming and prayer, choose shorts that keep the knees covered, don’t cling, and stay opaque. That’s why many brothers prefer 3/4 modest shorts—simple, comfortable, and aligned with Islamic values.