It’s official – it is summer time in Canada! The sun is hot, the skin is in, and the patios are buzzing! But is your man ready for the heat? Judging by the many run-ins with style-handicapped guys I spotted this weekend at The Beach, many guys don’t get that you can be both comfortable and stylish during the summer. And while, I realize that most men would balk at the idea of making over their style, below are the three essential items, that I think every guy should have this summer! And yes, this includes le boyfriend.

1. Summer shorts

As the temperatures rise, the hemlines of ladies’ skirts keep going up, but what about the guys? I think it’s very important for guys to have at least one decent pair of shorts for the summer. Unfortunately, lots of men’s idea of decent shorts are sloppy, slouchy, ill-fitting, and at times plain ugly. Men’s shorts come in a variety of styles to fit different lifestyles, but in general the more pockets there are, the less streamlined, and therefore less flattering the shorts will look. Stores usually have an abundance of shorts and swim trunks at this time of the year, so your options are definitely not limited. So pick up a pair that you like for your man, and chances are he’ll grow to like them, and won’t look sloppy any more. I’ve also found this site, which also has some cool options from brands like G-Star.

2. Stylish kicks

Back when I lived in Houston, seeing a guy wearing flip-flops never induced any unpleasant feelings on my part. Here in Toronto, however, I am not a fan…unless we’re at the beach, at the pool, or at a BBQ that is. Converse have been my guy shoe of choice for a few years now, and with the canvas upper, I think they are pretty good shoes for the summer, as well as always in style. Though le boyfriend loves them as well, he did find the Lacoste sneakers much more comfortable. I love Lacoste shoes, especially since they have so many simple, yet stylish looks available…it’s easy to find one that would work for your man. And of course, the penny loafers look amazing with rolled up pants/jeans, in the summer…so very “Sartorialist meets Italian riviera”…but it takes a certain type of man to rock those. Though in the end, I think any of these beat sandals with socks, no?

3. Below the neck grooming

When Lisa of One Voice offered to send le boyfriend Philips Bodygroom Pro, I jumped at the chance. While he agreed to be my guinea pig (thanks, baby!), he didn’t fully realize what that would entail. Luckily for me, he isn’t as hairy as some men, but some shaving and trimming still goes a long way. Thankfully, nowadays, most men already realize that at least some body grooming is important below the neck…necessary, even. But with the beach season quickly approaching, and if your man is still hesitant to try it, perhaps you could sneak a Bodygroom unit into his bathroom one day as a hint. Le boyfriend did secretly like Philips Bodygroom Pro, not that he necessarily needs the shaving side, but the trimmer definitely came in handy! Plus, he was able to use it both in the shower and out. Now help your man take off that “sweater” and enjoy some sunshine! Bodygroom Pro is currently available at Bed Bath and Beyond in Canada, while Sears, HBC, and Personal Edge should be getting them sometime in July.

What other mansentials would you suggest for your guy? Share in the comments!