We have taken the time to meticulously test a variety of men’s hiking shorts examining comfort, durability, features, dry time, and weight and packed size.
From brands like Patagonia, prAna, Nike, Outdoor Research, and more, we’ve learned what works well and what doesn’t when it comes to a pair of hiking shorts.
The CleverHiker team has tested over 40 pairs of different shorts across 6,000 miles of trails all over the world, and we are confident you’ll find your new favorite pair of hiking shorts below.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Men’s Hiking Shorts
Check out this quick list of the best hiking shorts for men if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.
Best Hiking Shorts Overall: Patagonia Quandary ($85)
Best Hiking Shorts for Carrying Capacity: Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts ($75)
Best Value Hiking Shorts: prAna Stretch Zion II ($75)
Best Balance of Durability, Utility & Style: Outdoor Research Ferrosi ($79)
Best Athletic Shorts for Hiking: Nike Dri-FIT Challenger ($41)
Athletic Hiking Shorts with Secure Hand Pockets: Patagonia Multi-Trails ($79)
Budget-Friendly Hiking Shorts with a Flat Waistband: The North Face Wander ($50)
Best Budget Cargo Shorts: REI Sahara Cargo ($60)
Best Trail-to-Town Shorts: prAna Brion II ($75)
Quick Drying Cross Between Board Shorts & Hiking Shorts: REI Trailmade Amphib ($50)
Stylish & Versatile Athletic Shorts: Vuori Kore ($68)
Best Swimming/Hiking Shorts Hybrid: Cotopaxi Brinco ($70)
Good Affordable Hiking Shorts: Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo ($50)
What’s new
The CleverHiker team has been hiking and running in all the new shorts that came out this year and comparing them against our long-time favorites. We’ve revamped this list completely, and the order of products has been reorganized.
- The low weight and durable Patagonia Quandary Shorts are at the top of our list as a high-value pair of shorts built for long days on trail.
- The Khul Renegade Rock Shorts are another addition to the list that are as good for a casual day at the office as they are for a hike on the trail.
- The REI Sahara Cargo is a good value with plenty of pockets for hikers who like easy access to gear and snacks.
Men’s Hiking Shorts Overall Testing Scores
Men’s Patagonia Quandary
Best Hiking Shorts Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 81.5/100
Price: $85
Weight: 7.5 oz.
Inseam: 8 in. / 10 in.
Pros
- Durable
- Good value
- Breathable
- Great pockets
- Stretchy
- Stylish
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
- A bit tight in the thighs
- No built-in belt
The Patagonia Quandary Shorts are an awesome value with a great balance of low weight and durability. These classic shorts are some of our favorites for day hiking since they have a nice town-to-trail look. And the breathable, stretchy fabric is also great for long-term comfort and mobility on backpacking trips. The Quandarys have a plethora of pockets, but they all sit flat and make these shorts feel very sleek for the amount of storage they offer. If we could add anything about them, they would include a built-in belt, but this isn’t a dealbreaker for us: these shorts fit well and have a nice, stretchy waistband to accommodate different body shapes. For those wanting a versatile pair of shorts that easily transition from urban to alpine, the Quandarys are hard to beat.
These shorts look so good that we opt to wear them around town as well, considering they are so comfortable. The drawstring waistband makes it possible to wear them sans belt. One nice feature that these shorts have is a small additional zippered pocket on the right side of the leg. It is not the biggest pocket, so it can’t hold too much, but it does provide extra storage. These are not the lightest hiking shorts on the list, but they are light enough that you won’t notice the weight. They roll up nicely and the stretch-woven 96% NetPlus post-consumer recycled nylon / 4% spandex stretches with the body nicely. These shorts may not dry as quickly as some other options on this list, but they will still dry in a matter of minutes, not hours, in a warm environment. These shorts are one of our absolute favorites and perform consistently across the board.
Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts
Best Hiking Shorts for Carrying Capacity
CleverHiker Rating: 81/100
Price: $75
Weight: 8.5 oz.
Inseam: 7 in. / 9 in.
Pros
- Versatile
- Stylish
- Dries quickly
- Great pockets
- Durable
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier than some
The Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts have high-performance fabric that you can feel as soon as you put them on. These hiking shorts are available in 7″ and 9″ inseams and have a signature FreeRyde waistband with a soft micro-chamois to help with comfort and odor. The crotch is gusseted making it easier to hike in and stronger than ever.
We especially like the stealth phone pocket on the side of the right leg. A normal-sized smartphone will easily slip in and stay secure. It is easy to access while hiking with a pack on for photos or navigation purposes. These shorts received top marks not only for durability but also for comfort and how quickly they dry.
They are a few ounces heavier than some shorts on the list, however, they are still light enough, and the extra ounces amount to more protection and durability for longer miles on the trail.
Men’s prAna Stretch Zion II
Best Value Hiking Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 79.8/100
Price: $75
Weight: 9.7 oz.
Inseam: 8 in. / 10 in. / 12 in.
Pros
- Very durable
- Great value
- Stretchy
- Stylish
- Built-in belt
- Versatile
Cons
- A bit heavy
- A bit bulky
PrAna clothing is known for having a great balance of style and longevity, and the Stretch Zion II shorts certainly live up to that reputation. The fabric is stretchy, easy to move in, and thick yet breathable for durability and comfort. The Zions are a bit on the heavy and bulky side, so we like the trimmed down design of the prAna Brions (below) for most casual outings. But those going for utility will like that the Zions offer a ton of secure storage without feeling or looking frumpy like some other cargo shorts, and they come in a ton of stylish color ways for every style. These crowd-favorites are an awesome value since they’re comfortable, they have a built-in belt for dialing in the fit on long hikes, and they can be worn for pretty much any occasion.
Men’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi
Best Balance of Durability, Utility & Style
CleverHiker Rating: 79.3/100
Price: $85
Weight: 7.6 oz.
Inseam: 7 in. / 10 in. / 12 in.
Pros
- Stretchy
- Breathable
- Durable
- Versatile
- Dries quickly
- 7 in. shorts include belt
- Stylish
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Expensive
- Handwarmer pockets are a bit floppy
We’re big fans of the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts. They are made from comfortable material and plenty of stretch for a full range of movement. We find the fit is comfortable on trail as well as stylish enough for around-town use, so these versatile shorts are ready for any adventure.
We wore these shorts on the Colorado Trail and found that they worked flawlessly. The lightweight material kept us moving with ease in all conditions, and dried quickly when rain hit. These do tend to fit a little big, so consider sizing down when buying a pair. However, the built-in drawstring ensures these stay in place even if you don’t have a hiking belt on hand.
The small zippered pocket on the right thigh is nice for storing food or small maps, even a phone can fit in it. The soft lined inside of the waist belt is another great little feature. It prevents the shorts from rubbing while wearing a pack with a hipbelt, and can also absorb excess moisture or sweat. These shorts did great when it came to dry time. The breathable recycled nylon material is ideal for staying cool and dry.When back at home, these shorts look so good you can wear them to coffee or even the office on a casual Friday. Whether you’re going for a quick jaunt in a city park or setting off for a thru-hike, the breathable and durable Ferrosi is a great choice.
Men’s Nike Dri-FIT Challenger
Best Athletic Shorts for Hiking
CleverHiker Rating: 75/100
Price: $40
Weight: 4.8 oz.
Inseam: 5 in. / 7 in. / 9 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Dries quickly
- Soft/comfy fabric
- Breathable
- Built-in liner
- Ultralight
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not as versatile as some
- Drawstring waist is not as adjustable
- Not as durable as some
The Nike Dri-FIT Challengers have been our go-to for many years since they’re affordable, lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. The simple design of these athletic shorts makes them easy to move in, and we’ve found the ultralight material is just durable enough for a couple of seasons of intense hiking.
These are the quickest-drying shorts we tested, in part due to the small lightweight material that packs down into no more than a ball the size of your fist. Though there are no extra features or pockets, the liner, and the drawstring are all you need for these ultralight shorts.
For those who are tackling longer distances, the Challengers are what we wear thanks to their light material, airy feel, and easy-to-love fit. That said, for casual hikes, we’d choose something with more pockets.
These are running shorts and can have drawbacks when it comes to hiking. For hikers with a larger frame or body type, these may not be the best choice as they can ride up and cause discomfort or chafing while hiking. However, if you want to keep it light, then these are the shorts for you.
Men’s Patagonia Multi Trails
Athletic Hiking Shorts with Secure Hand Pockets
CleverHiker Rating: 73.5/100
Price: $79
Weight: 6.4 oz.
Inseam: 8 in.
Pros
- Stretchy
- Dries quickly
- Breathable
- Zippered hand pockets
- Lightweight
- Built-in liner
Cons
- Not as durable as some
- Very thin
The Patagonia Multi Trails are a close second to our go-to athletic shorts, the Nike Dri-FIT Challengers above. We ranked the Nikes higher for their friendlier price point, more functional brief liner, and wider range of size offerings, but the Multi Trails win out is for their more flattering fit and the inclusion of zippers on the hand pockets. The Multi Trails are less billowy, but still plenty breathable and airy for toasty days on trail. We found the lightweight material of the Multi Trails is a little thin, so they’re not as durable as other options on this list – which means they may not be the best choice for trails that include a lot of butt-scooting down rock. But we think the tradeoff in durability is worth it for the soft, comfy fabric and outstanding fit that comes in almost every color you could want.
Men’s The North Face Wander
Budget-Friendly Hiking Shorts with a Flat Waistband
CleverHiker Rating: 71.5/100
Price: $50
Weight: 4.4 oz.
Inseam: 7 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Flat waistband sits nicely under a hipbelt
- Ultralight
- Dries quickly
- Comfortable
- Simple design
Cons
- Fabric is swishy & stiff
- No waist cinching
The affordable Wander Shorts from The North Face are minimalist bottoms that fall somewhere between an athletic short and a casual short. We found the flat waistband of the Wanders to be one of the most comfy under a hipbelt, and the simple pocket setup (just two hand pockets) keep the legs bulk-free as well. While the drop pockets are fine for holding a small item or two, we appreciate the stealthy zippered pocket for better security. We just wish the Wanders were made with a softer fabric, because the stiff polyester has a tendency to bunch up a bit and can feel uncomfortable on really long adventures in hot weather. That said, we still find these shorts to be exceptionally comfortable, and we even lounge around in them at home.
Men’s REI Sahara Cargo Shorts
Best Budget Cargo Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 70.5/100
Price: $60
Weight: 9 oz.
Inseam: 9 in.
Pros
- Lots of storage
- Zippered cargo pockets
- UPF 50+
- Less expensive
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Heavier than some
- Feel bulky when loaded down
- No integrated belt
The REI Sahara Cargo is a solid option for high-capacity storage on trail. This pair by REI is comfortable and functional.
The two side pockets, one of which is secured by a zipper, are helpful on a hike when it comes to carrying a few extra items such as snacks or maps. We tried out putting lunch in one pocket and a phone in the other while hiking. The pockets are large enough to fit an entire sandwich. The pockets made it possible to access food and gear without having to rummage through a pack.
You will want to wear your own belt with these shorts as they do not include a drawstring or integrated option. Also, the REI Saharas are a bit heavier than others on this list, but for the price, they are great for hikers looking to carry more items on them while on the trail.
Men’s prAna Brion II
Best Town-to-Trail Hiking Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 70/100
Price: $75
Weight: 8.6 oz.
Inseam: 9 in. / 11 in.
Pros
- Stylish
- Stretchy
- Durable material
- Versatile for town to trail
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Expensive
- Not as good for long backpacking trips (not as many pockets, fit is a bit tighter)
- No built-in belt
- Longer fit isn't for everyone
We love the prAna Brion II shorts for their town-to-trail style. When it comes to a pair that transitions easily from day hikes and rock climbing to a brewery with friends, this pair can handle it all. With a simplified pocket setup and a flattering fit, the Brions are a trimmed-down version of more utilitarian options that come with additional thigh pockets and a belt. Though their lack of water resistance and limited feature set makes them suboptimal for long backpacking trips, we highly recommend these for day hikes and frontcountry camping. The Brions have a good amount of stretch to balance out their slim fit, and they’re ready for any adventure if you prefer more traditional bottoms.
Men’s REI Trailmade Amphib
Quick Drying Cross Between Board Shorts & Hiking Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 69.3/100
Price: $50
Weight: 5 oz.
Inseam: 6 in.
Pros
- Dries quickly
- Affordable
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Stylish
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not stretchy
- Material can cause chafing if worn for long periods in the heat
The REI Trailmade Amphib is one of our favorite affordable picks. These shorts are versatile and sit somewhere between board shorts, hiking shorts, and casual everyday shorts. This amphibious model is perfect for those who never miss a chance to dip into a lake on a trail, as they’ll be dry not long after you resume hiking. The Amphibs are nice looking, but since they’re not stretchy we typically only use them for short, easy hikes or when swimming is part of the plan.
If you want the versatility of swimming shorts, these are ideal for you. They are simple, very lightweight, and packable. They are the size of a softball when balled up. The built-in belt and zippered back pocket are the only additional features you get in addition to hand pockets (they do not have a built-in liner so you’ll need to bring your own underwear).
The nylon polyester mix material is less stretchy than some other shorts, however, this pair is shorter with a 6-inch inseam so they don’t inhibit movement while hiking. If you are planning on a hike where there is lots of water, or you anticipate getting wet, these shorts are ideal for the price as they dry quickly and are very lightweight.
Men’s Vuori Kore
Stylish & Versatile Athletic Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 68.3/100
Price: $68
Weight: 7.7 oz.
Inseam: 5 in. / 7.5 in.
Pros
- Stylish for athletic shorts
- Built-in liner
- Very soft & comfortable
- Dries quickly,
- Stretchy
- Versatile
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Boxer brief liner can bunch up
- Not as durable as some
The Vuori Kore shorts are versatile bottoms that we use for everything from swimming, to day hikes, to casual outings around town. They’re good-looking for athletic shorts and comfier than dedicated hiking shorts (like the prAna Stretch Zions), so they’re a good in-between when the occasion calls for a balance of performance and style. The draw-string cord is simple, the pockets are functional, and they come in a ton of colorways to match the occasion. Having said that, we’ve found the boxer briefs of the Kore shorts tend to ride up over time. However, the Kores are some of our favorites for shorter hikes and urban walks.
Men’s Cotopaxi Brinco
Best Swimming/Hiking Shorts Hybrid
CleverHiker Rating: 67.3/100
Price: $70
Weight: 7.5 oz.
Inseam: 5 in.
Pros
- Dries quickly
- Stylish
- Good value
- Versatile
- Tons of bright colorways
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not stretchy
- Material can cause chafing during long periods in the heat
- 5-inch inseam isn't for everyone
Who says hiking clothes can’t be trendy? The style-forward Cotopaxi Brincos are designed with colorful, retro flair, and they’re down for any adventure – hiking, going for a swim, or heading out for lunch. The Brincos are made with nylon material that dries quickly for fun in the water and holds up to hard use for fun on the trail.
We’ve tested several pairs of shorts that fall into this swim shorts hybrid category. The Brincos are our favorite because the material is a bit softer and less prone to causing chafing than others. That said, these aren’t as soft as the material used in athletic shorts, so we wouldn’t recommend them for multi-day treks in hot weather.
It can sometimes feel like the options for men’s hiking shorts are an endless sea of browns, beiges, and army green. But the vibrant Brincos offer a fresh change of pace and are sure to be a clothing item that you reach for often.
Men’s Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo
Good Affordable Hiking Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 66/100
Price: $50
Weight: 10.4 oz.
Inseam: 10 in. / 12 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Breathable
- Town-to-trail look
- Good pockets
- Built-in belt
- Inclusive sizing
Cons
- Not as durable as some
- A bit heavy
Cargo shorts have a tendency to look bulky, but the affordable Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo is a trimmed-down take on a utilitarian style, which is why they are one of our favorite budget options. These bottoms have a secure pocket on each thigh – one with Velcro, the other zippered – that we find really useful for storing important small items like a key or an ID.
These also come with a belt, which is a nice addition along with a soft felt-lined waistband that enhances comfort on and off the trail. The mesh pockets make these shorts a bit lighter, but for a more durable heavy-duty option in the cargo short category consider the REI Sahara Cargo on the list. These do not pack down or dry as quickly as some hiking shorts, but they do include Columbia’s UV-blocking fabric that offers UPF 50 protection.
For a day hike on the trail, these are a great option and serve their purpose. While the hand and back pockets are mesh, the cargo pockets on the legs are built into the shorts. This provides a bit more support for heavier items.
The fabric isn’t very durable or breathable compared to some others, and the pockets will typically be the first thing to show signs of wear. That said, we think the weight tradeoff is worth the small durability penalty since the Silver Ridges don’t feel as frumpy as other cargo shorts we’ve worn.
The shorts are comfortable and move freely with you, but are less comfortable than others on the list due to the amount of material they include. For longer multi-day backpacking trips consider something lightweight and less bulky.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Inseam | Comfort | Durability | Features | Dry Time | Weight & Packability | 0 |
Patagonia Quandary View at REI View at Patagonia 
|
$85 | 7.5 oz. | 8 in. / 10 in. | 9 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 7.5 | 8 | 1 |
Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts View at REI View at Kuhl
|
$75 | 8.5 oz. | 7 in. / 9 in. | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8 | 7 | 7.5 | 2 |
prAna Stretch Zion II View at REI View at Amazon |
$75 | 9.7 oz. | 8 in. / 10 in. / 12 in. | 8.5 | 8.5 | 7.5 | 7 | 7 | 3 |
Outdoor Research Ferrosi View at Backcountry View at Outdoor Research
|
$85 | 7.6 oz. | 7 in. / 10 in. / 12 in. | 9 | 6 | 7.5 | 8 | 8 | 4 |
Nike Dri-FIT Challenger View at Amazon View at Nike
|
$40 | 4.8 oz. | 5 in. / 7 in. / 9 in. | 7.5 | 6.5 | 6 | 9 | 9.5 | 5 |
Patagonia Multi Trails View at REI View at Patagonia |
$79 | 6.4 oz. | 8 in. | 7.5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 8.5 | 6 |
The North Face Wander View at Amazon View at The North Face |
$50 | 4.4 oz. | 7 in. | 7.5 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9.5 | 7 |
REI Sahara Cargo Shorts View at REI 
|
$60 | 9 oz. | 9 in. | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 |
prAna Brion II View at Backcountry View at Amazon |
$75 | 8.6 oz. | 9 in. / 11 in. | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 7.5 | 9 |
REI Trailmade Amphib View at REI
|
$50 | 5 oz. | 6 in. | 7 | 6 | 5.5 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
Vuori Kore View at REI View at Vuori |
$68 | 7.7 oz. | 5 in. / 7.5 in. | 7 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 8 | 11 |
Cotopaxi Brinco View at REI View at Amazon |
$70 | 7.5 oz. | 5 in. | 7 | 5.5 | 6 | 7.5 | 8 | 12 |
Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo View at Amazon View at Backcountry |
$50 | 10.4 oz. | 10 in. / 12 in. | 6.5 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 6.5 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
We test hiking shorts in five different metrics: comfort, durability, features, dry time, and weight/packability. We take out each pair for hundreds of miles on long-distance thru-hikes as well as dozens of day hikes.
COMFORT
We hiked with the shorts on trails in varied terrain and weather conditions to see how they performed in the field. We assessed how well the shorts move and feel after a hike. We examine the waist to see how well it fits and if it is too tight or loose. We also check to ensure there is room in the crotch and seat for stretching and stepping up on rocks or roots. We examine how the fabric, pockets, and seams feel on the legs and determine if they stay put or ride up when hiking or sitting down.
DURABILITY
For durability, we put these shorts through the wringer on trail. We assessed the performance of their material and seams as we scrambled, squatted, and stretched over the course of our testing period. We also looked at characteristics like the thickness of the fabric and quality of hardware like buttons and zippers. In addition to on-trail testing, we also washed the shorts to see how well they hold up to a spin cycle.
FEATURES
Here, we tested and considered some of the special features that make each short unique. This includes the number of pockets, the size of the pockets, where they are located, and their shape/dimensions. We also look at drawstrings, integrated belts, fastener style loops, liners, and specialty fabrics.
DRY TIME
Having a pair of shorts that can dry quickly is valuable on the trails where rain, streams, and lakes can drench material in a moment. We not only tested each pair on trail, but hopped in the pool with each pair of shorts and then walked around until they were dry. We also hosed down the shorts and laid them all out in the sun side-by-side to see which ones dried the fastest.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
While weight is a straightforward metric, we also looked at how well these shorts pack into a backpack. We weighed and compressed each model to see which ones were the smallest. We also packed them into a backpack to see how easy they are to carry on trail.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We’ve collectively hiked and backpacked over 25,000 miles and 3,000 days in hiking shorts to identify the best of the best. Gear Analyst, David Young, has backpacked the Colorado Trail in the hiking shorts included in this list. He’s also climbed more than 40 Fourteener peaks across Colorado, which has given him a deep understanding of what to look for in a solid hiking short. His previous testing, research, and working in the outdoor industry, helped him discern the pros and cons of the hiking shorts that he reviews.
Analysis & Results
We rate our hiking shorts on a variety of different metrics – comfort, durability, features, dry time, and weight/packability. Check out how they performed in our real-world, hands-on testing.
VALUE
We understand one of the most critical factors is how much value you get from a pair of shorts. We are always on the lookout for pairs that might be worth spending extra because they deliver excellent performance as well as those that are easier on your wallet.
The REI Sahara Cargo shorts stand out as one of our favorite budget options, offering solid comfort, pockets, and quick-dry fabric at one of the lowest prices on this list. The Nike Dri-Fit is a great lightweight quick-drying short for the money. Though it does not have the extra features it is a good price for a quality short. While a little more money, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi excels with its lightweight design and flexible material that performs great on a variety of terrains. These hiking shorts provide the best combination of quality and affordability for your outdoor adventures.
COMFORT
When it comes to comfort, all of the hiking shorts on this list are great to hike in, however, there are some that stand out. One of our top choices for comfort is the Patagonia Quandary Shorts, providing next-level ease and movement from trail to town. This pair moves seamlessly with you as you hike, and the waist is nice and perfectly fits with the drawstring.
Also near the top are the Outdoor Research Ferrosi and the Khul Renegade Rock Shorts. Both of these pairs are comfy enough to keep wearing well after the hike is over. They provide a balanced mix of structure, the fabric does not sag, and flexibility, while the seams and pockets fall right in place, making them perfect for long-distance hikes. The REI Sahara Cargo Shorts are one of our favorites for cargo shorts, which can often be one of the more bulky and uncomfortable categories. But the Sahara fits nicely and moves through hikes with ease while carrying additional gear. n.
DURABILITY
When it comes to going the distance, at the top of our list for durability is the Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts. True to the name, these are solidly built. The thick material and exceptional quality mean that they will stand up to rough rock and dirt better than others on the list. You can tell by the almost canvas-like feel they have that these shorts mean business. Close behind is the prAna Stretch Zion II. This pair has reinforced stitching and similarly thick material and hardware.
In the next tier, the Patagonia Quandary Shorts are made from recycled fishing nets. This model provides more strength and protection against sharp branches and scooting across sharp rocks. The material will ensure you can focus on hiking, not repairing frayed shorts. The REI Sahara Cargo Shorts make the top of our durability list for cargo shorts. They are a bit heavier, but that bulk means the bluesign-approved, mainly recycled nylon with a bit of spandex will hold their own in tough terrain.
FEATURES
Features on hiking shorts can range from pockets and drawstrings to lightweight integrated belts, fastener-style loops, liners, and even special materials used. Having a pocket that fits a smartphone perfectly, such as the Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts do, makes life on the trail so much easier.
Other shorts from the list that have special features include the Outdoor Research Ferrosi and Patagonia Quandary Shorts for their waist drawstrings, extra pockets, and soft waist liner. The REI Sahara Cargo Shorts and Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo also get points for the additional pockets, and a nice built-in belt for the Silver Ridge shorts. All of the shorts proved easy to wash, we just recommend air drying them so they do not shrink. Often, little features such as this can make or break a good pair of hiking shorts.
DRY TIME
Having a pair of hiking shorts that will dry quickly is valuable. Whether you get caught in a flash rain storm on the trail or want to jump in a lake to cool off while hiking, high-tech fabrics mean your shorts can dry in a matter of minutes not hours. The Nike Dri-Fit Challenger takes the top honors in this category. As the name suggests, these shorts dried in the sun within a few minutes of getting wet. The swimsuit-like running shorts work well for wet hikes too. The REI Trailmade Amphib and the Outdoor Research Ferrosi are also two hiking shorts that dry quickly thanks to the lightweight quick-dry material they are made out of.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
This category comes down to a few ounces (or few tenths of an ounce) so for most folks, there won’t be an important difference from one pair to the next. However, on a long-distance hike, those ounces add up. The Nike Dri-Fit Challenger and The North Face Wander take the crown when it comes to weight at under five ounces. These minimalist lightweight shorts are ideal for long-distance hikers who are looking for small packable material that dries quickly. These shorts make each step feel airy and effortless.
The REI Trailmade Amphib is similar and very lightweight. It offers a built-in belt but otherwise, it is quite similar to the Nikes. The other lighter-weight all-around high-performance options on the list are the Outdoor Research Ferrosi and Patagonia Quandary Shorts, which are both just over seven ounces. Each provides a bit more protection, coverage, and features such as pockets. All this while still feeling light as air on the trail.
How to Choose Hiking Shorts
SHORTS VS. PANTS
Hiking shorts are lightweight, cool, and comfortable – which is why they’re our first choice for fair weather adventures. For colder months, diehard shorts fans can use their favorite shorts with a quality set of base layer bottoms to their layering system to stay toasty. That said, shorts will make your skin more vulnerable to hazards like scrapes, sunburn, brambles, and mosquitoes. Most shorts don’t have as many pockets for storing things. either.
Hiking pants offer the best protection from the elements, bugs, and spiky, stinging plants. If you’re hiking in an area with thick brush or where the threat of pests such as ticks is increased, pants are probably the better choice. Of course there are some downsides – it’s harder to regulate your body temperature in pants, they’re heavier, and they can limit your movement a bit more than shorts. Convertible and roll-up pants give you more control over temperature, although we tend to prefer roll-ups for their more flattering fit. Check out our Best Hiking Pants list to see our top picks.
FABRICS MATTER
Synthetic materials are great for outdoor clothing since they’re durable and don’t absorb moisture. We prefer shorts made with stretchy fabrics to allow for easy movement.
Nylon
Nylon is an exceptionally durable synthetic fabric that dries quickly. It tends to feel slightly softer on the skin than other synthetic fabrics. Because of the way nylon is made, it tends to be a bit pricier.
Polyester
Polyester is very durable (although slightly less so than nylon) and naturally hydrophobic. It absorbs less water than nylon and wicks moisture more effectively. It’s also less prone to pilling, so it will stay looking nice for longer.
Cotton
Cotton is soft and comfortable, but it absorbs water. It dries very slowly, sticks to the skin and causes chafing when wet, and can be potentially dangerous in cold/wet climates. Because of these downsides, cotton is generally not recommended for outdoor activities.
Spandex/elastane
We prefer hiking shorts with some spandex/elastane content for mobility. Most shorts we tested have two-way stretch, which means they stretch in one direction (typically crosswise). Some have four-way stretch, which means the fabric stretches crosswise and lengthwise. Four-way stretch is usually more expensive, but it’s more comfortable and provides a greater range of motion.
POCKETS
Pockets are the most helpful on pants – in general, we don’t use the pockets on hiking shorts as often, since they can feel bulky and annoying over time and can impede natural movement. That’s why we prefer shorts with minimal pockets, because they look more sleek and feel more comfortable.
Back pockets
We almost never use back pockets on trail because they’re hard to access with a backpack on, and things stored there get in the way when we want to sit down. WE prefer using hip-belt pockets on our backpacks or a small front pocket instead.
Front pockets
Front pockets can be useful around town, but we use them less often on trail because they’re hard to access with a hip belt on. Items stored in front pockets can also be uncomfortable when you have to lift your legs high for scrambling.
Leg pockets
In our opinion, zippered pockets on the thigh tend to be the most useful, but we’ll keep small items like chapstick, a lighter, or a small multitool in there for quick access.
PRETREATED FABRIC CARE
Some technical clothing comes pretreated with water or bug repellent. These pretreatments aren’t permanent, will need regular reapplication, and they drive up the cost of the garment. You can easily maintain a treatment or add one to your shorts with these products:
Water repellency
To maintain or add water resistance to hiking shorts we recommend using Nikwax Softshell Proof. This treatment will maintain breathability while effectively causing water to bead and roll off the fabric. Keep in mind that this won’t make your shorts completely waterproof, since moisture can still get through the seams.
Bug-proofing
To maintain or add bug repellant to your clothing we recommend Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray. It repels and kills ticks, mosquitoes, mites, and chiggers. It lasts about six weeks or six washes before you need to reapply it.
Repairing tears/holes
To patch holes and tears, we recommend using the Noso Patchdazzle Gear Repair Kit. These patches don’t require any sewing or ironing, can withstand repeated machine washes, and are UV protective and waterproof.
GENERAL CARE
Technical fabrics require a bit of additional care to keep them performing their best year after year. Always follow the washing directions on the tags carefully, but we outline some general tips below:
Use a front loading washer
The agitator in a top loading washer can be rough on seams and thin fabrics, and can snag zippers or drawstrings. Make sure you zip all the zippers and tie the drawstrings before washing in a front loader to prevent wear and tear.
Use a laundry bag
If you’re worried about how your garments will hold up in the wash – especially if your only option is a top-loading washer – consider picking up an inexpensive mesh laundry sack to better protect the fabric, drawstrings, and seams of your clothes as they’re washed.
Use a technical fabric wash
We recommend Nikwax Tech Wash for washing any technical fabrics. You can also use a gentle detergent, like Woolite.
Only wash when you need to
A lot of technical fabrics are designed to be antimicrobial and shouldn’t hold odors. Hiking clothing doesn’t necessarily need to be washed after every single adventure, especially if it’s a shorter hike or a day trip. Consider airing your clothing out first to see if that does the trick before washing.
Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets
Fabric softener and dryer sheets can deposit residue on the fabric and affect the overall performance. Both products can be harsh on technical fabrics, so wash your hiking gear separately and without these additions.
Hang dry when possible
Heat and agitation in the dryer can damage technical fabrics, especially over time. We recommend hanging your garments to dry for longevity and durability.
Conclusion
Selecting the right pair of hiking shorts means finding the right balance of the comfort, durability, features, dry time, and weight/packability. Though it’s a simple piece of clothing, good shorts help you stay happy and healthy on trail. There are a lot of options out there, but we hope this guide helped you find your next favorite pair.
