To be called "Shorts" they need to be hemmed at least 3" ABOVE the knee. Anything at the knee are generally called knickers. Anything between the bottom of the knee and the ankle are capris. Simple.I fully understand the popularity of men's capris among the younger men around Boston. Even if some misuse the name "shorts". I have often wondered when they refer to their shorts whether they mean the capris or the boxers that are displayed above them.