Imagine this: you’re halfway up a rocky trail, sweat dripping, and your shorts are riding up, chafing, or just plain uncomfortable. Sound familiar? Choosing the right hiking shorts can feel like a trek in itself, with so many fabrics, lengths, and features to consider. It’s easy to get lost in the options, leading to blisters, overheating, or just a disappointing hike.
But what if you could confidently pick shorts that felt like a second skin, keeping you cool, dry, and ready for adventure? This post is your ultimate guide to finding those perfect hiking shorts. We’ll break down what really matters, from breathable fabrics to handy pockets. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for, so you can stop worrying about your gear and start enjoying the view.
Our Top 5 Hiking Shorts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hiking Shorts Detailed Reviews
1. Pudolla Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 9″ Lightweight Outdoor Work Shorts for Men Travel Golf Camping Casual with 5 Zipper Pockets(Deep Grey Large)
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready for your next adventure? The Pudolla Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts are here to keep you comfortable and prepared, no matter where you go. These shorts are designed for active guys who need practical gear for hiking, camping, or just a relaxed day outdoors. The deep grey color and 9-inch inseam offer a classic look that works for many occasions.
What We Like:
- These shorts have five zipper pockets, including two slash pockets, two flat pockets, and a back pocket. They securely hold your phone, wallet, and keys.
- The fabric is lightweight and breathable. It wicks away sweat and dries quickly, keeping you cool and dry.
- An expandable back waistband and adjustable button closure ensure a comfortable, personalized fit. You can move and bend freely.
- The shorts offer UPF 50+ sun protection to block harmful UV rays. They also have a water-repellent finish to shed light rain and dirt.
- They are versatile for hiking, golf, cycling, fishing, and yard work. They are also great for casual wear and make a nice gift.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the pockets are secure, some users might prefer more traditional cargo pockets with flaps for easier access to items during activity.
- The “lightweight” feel, while good for summer, might not offer enough warmth for cooler weather hiking.
These Pudolla shorts offer a solid blend of features for outdoor fun. They are a great pick for staying comfortable and keeping your essentials safe.
2. CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Mens Workout Athletic Shorts 7 inch Inseam Quick Dry Hiking Shorts Men Lightweight Sports Gym Shorts Running
Rating: 8.9/10
Looking for comfortable and functional shorts for your workouts and outdoor adventures? The CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Mens Workout Athletic Shorts offer a great solution. These shorts are designed for performance and comfort, making them a versatile addition to any active man’s wardrobe. They feature quick-drying fabric and a lightweight feel, perfect for keeping you cool and dry during intense activities.
What We Like:
- The high-quality fabric is incredibly soft, lightweight, and breathable. It effectively wicks away sweat and dries quickly, keeping you comfortable.
- The 7-inch inseam and V-cut leg design allow for unrestrained movement, giving your legs plenty of space for any activity.
- Three secure zipper pockets are a fantastic feature to keep your phone, cards, and other essentials safe during exercise.
- The inclusion of reflective strips on the front enhances safety for low-light conditions, like early morning jogs or evening walks.
- UPF 50+ fabric provides sun protection, and the shorts are easy to care for, retaining their shape and color after washing.
- This pack comes with two pairs of shorts, offering great value.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to carefully check the size chart picture before buying, as fit can vary.
- While versatile, the solid color design might be less appealing to those seeking more variety.
These shorts are a solid choice for men who value comfort, functionality, and safety during their active pursuits. They offer excellent performance for a variety of sports and casual wear.
3. bepopotan Women’s Quick-Dry Cargo Shorts – Lightweight Hiking Shorts with 5 Pockets for Athletic Golf Travel Work (Charcoal Grey XL)
Rating: 9.2/10
The bepopotan Women’s Quick-Dry Cargo Shorts in Charcoal Grey (XL) are designed for comfort and practicality. These shorts are lightweight and feel smooth. They offer protection from the sun and can handle light rain. They dry fast, making them great for active days.
What We Like:
- The performance fabric is lightweight and stretchy. It protects you from the sun and sheds light water. It dries very quickly.
- You get five useful pockets. Two are deep for your phone. Two have velcro closures for your cargo. One zips shut in the back. They don’t make the shorts look bulky.
- The elastic waist in the back and belt loops let you adjust the fit. The legs are not too loose, so you can move freely when hiking or playing golf.
- These shorts are built to last. The zippers are good quality. The seams are strong. The fabric breathes well, even in hot weather.
- They work for many activities. You can wear them on hiking trails or for traveling. Pair them with athletic tops for running or polos for a casual look.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the quick-dry feature is excellent, for very heavy rain, a more robust water-repellent finish might be beneficial.
- The current color options are great, but a wider variety of colors could appeal to more people.
These shorts are a solid choice for anyone needing versatile and comfortable activewear. They offer great features for a variety of adventures.
4. Rdruko Men’s Quick Dry Hiking Shorts Lightweight Running Workout Gym Active Shorts with Zipper Pockets(Dark Grey
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking for shorts that can keep up with your active lifestyle? The Rdruko Men’s Quick Dry Hiking Shorts are designed for comfort and performance, whether you’re hitting the trails, the gym, or just running errands. These shorts are made with a special fabric that dries fast and pulls sweat away from your skin, keeping you cool and dry during any activity.
What We Like:
- The fabric is super lightweight and wicks away sweat, so you stay dry and comfy.
- You get three zippered pockets to safely store your keys, phone, or wallet while you move.
- The elastic waistband with a drawstring lets you adjust the fit for maximum comfort.
- The 7-inch inseam is a good length for most activities, and they don’t have a lining to prevent rubbing.
- They’re great for tons of different things, from hiking and running to working out or just wearing them around the house.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are quick-drying, some users might prefer a slightly longer inseam for certain sports.
- The color selection could be expanded to offer more variety beyond the current options.
These Rdruko shorts are a solid choice for anyone needing versatile and comfortable activewear. They offer great features at a good value, making them a practical addition to any wardrobe.
5. Lee Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Short
Rating: 8.8/10
The Lee Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Short in Slate, size 36, offers a great blend of comfort and practicality for your active lifestyle. These shorts are designed with movement in mind, making them ideal for everything from running errands to enjoying a hike.
What We Like:
- These shorts have a relaxed fit that feels great.
- They hit right at the knee, which is a good length for most people.
- You get plenty of storage with 7 pockets, including handy side cargo pockets and a special cell phone pocket.
- The extreme comfort waistband and athletic flex waistband move with you, so they never feel tight.
- The comfort stretch fabric lets you bend and move freely.
- The 10.5-inch inseam provides good coverage.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the slate color is nice, more color options would be a plus.
- The cargo pockets could be a little deeper for carrying larger items.
These Lee Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Shorts are a solid choice for anyone wanting comfortable, functional shorts. They deliver on their promise of ease and utility.
Your Guide to Awesome Hiking Shorts
Picking the right hiking shorts makes a big difference on the trail. You want shorts that are comfy, tough, and let you move freely. This guide helps you find the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for hiking shorts, keep these things in mind:
1. Fit and Comfort
- Waistband: Look for a comfortable waistband. Some have elastic, others have adjustable straps. A good fit stops shorts from sliding down or digging in.
- Inseam Length: This is how long the shorts are on the inside. Shorter inseams (around 5-7 inches) offer more freedom for climbing or scrambling. Longer inseams (8-10 inches) give more coverage and sun protection.
- Freedom of Movement: Shorts should not be too tight. They need to let you bend your knees, lift your legs, and walk without feeling restricted. Stretchy fabrics help a lot here.
2. Pockets
- Zippered Pockets: These keep your phone, keys, or snacks safe and prevent them from falling out.
- Cargo Pockets: These extra pockets on the sides are handy for carrying more gear. Make sure they don’t get in the way when you walk.
- Pocket Placement: Think about where pockets are. You don’t want them to be uncomfortable when you sit or bend.
3. Durability and Protection
- Reinforced Seams: Strong stitching holds the shorts together, even with a lot of wear and tear.
- Sun Protection: Some shorts have UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings. This means they block harmful sun rays.
- Water Resistance: Some shorts have a coating that makes water bead up and roll off. This is great for light rain or splashes.
Important Materials
The fabric of your hiking shorts matters a lot.
- Nylon: This is a strong and durable material. It dries quickly and resists wrinkles. Many hiking shorts use nylon blends.
- Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester is tough and dries fast. It’s also good at wicking away sweat.
- Spandex/Elastane: This adds stretch to the shorts. It makes them more comfortable and allows for a wider range of movement. You’ll often see it mixed with nylon or polyester.
- Cotton: While soft, cotton can hold moisture and takes a long time to dry. It’s generally not the best choice for serious hiking, especially in wet conditions.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality hiking shorts last longer and perform better.
-
What Makes Them Better:
- High-Quality Stitching: Look for neat, strong seams.
- Durable Zippers and Closures: YKK zippers are a good sign of quality.
- Breathable Fabrics: Materials that let air pass through keep you cool.
- Moisture-Wicking: Fabrics that pull sweat away from your skin keep you dry and comfortable.
-
What Makes Them Worse:
- Cheap Materials: Thin, flimsy fabric won’t last long.
- Poor Construction: Loose threads or weak seams can lead to rips.
- Lack of Stretch: Stiff shorts limit your movement.
- Pockets That Get in the Way: Poorly placed pockets can be annoying.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your shorts.
- Day Hikes: For shorter trips, comfort and a few pockets are usually enough.
- Backpacking: If you’re carrying a heavy pack, durable shorts with good pockets are important.
- Hot Weather Hiking: Breathable, quick-drying shorts are a must.
- Technical Trails: Shorts that allow a lot of movement and are abrasion-resistant are best for rocky or overgrown paths.
- General Outdoor Activities: Many hiking shorts work well for camping, travel, or even just running errands on a warm day.
Hiking Shorts FAQs
Q: What are the most important features for hiking shorts?
A: The most important features are a comfortable fit, freedom of movement, and useful pockets. Durability and breathable, quick-drying fabric are also key.
Q: What materials are best for hiking shorts?
A: Nylon and polyester blends with some spandex are usually the best. They are strong, quick-drying, and stretchy.
Q: Should I choose shorts with zippers on the pockets?
A: Yes, zippered pockets are a great idea. They keep your belongings secure and prevent them from falling out while you’re active.
Q: How long should my hiking shorts be?
A: The length depends on your preference and the type of hiking. Shorter inseams (5-7 inches) offer more movement, while longer ones (8-10 inches) give more coverage.
Q: Will cotton shorts work for hiking?
A: Cotton is generally not recommended for serious hiking because it absorbs moisture and dries slowly, which can make you feel cold and uncomfortable.
Q: What does UPF mean on shorts?
A: UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It means the fabric helps block the sun’s harmful rays, offering sun protection.
Q: How can I tell if hiking shorts are good quality?
A: Look for strong stitching, durable zippers, breathable fabrics, and a good fit that allows for easy movement. Well-made shorts will feel sturdy.
Q: Are cargo pockets useful on hiking shorts?
A: Yes, cargo pockets can be very useful for carrying extra items like snacks, a map, or a small first-aid kit. Just make sure they don’t interfere with your stride.
Q: Can I wear hiking shorts for other outdoor activities?
A: Absolutely! Hiking shorts are versatile and work well for camping, traveling, or any other outdoor adventure where comfort and durability are needed.
Q: How do I make sure my hiking shorts don’t restrict my movement?
A: Choose shorts made with stretchy materials like spandex blends. Also, try them on and do some squats or lunges to see if they feel comfortable and allow you to move freely.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.