Best Hiking Shorts for Comfortable and Durable Outdoor Adventures

Hiking is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting, having the right gear is essential. One piece of gear that can make a big difference in your hiking experience is a good pair of hiking shorts.

Hiking shorts are designed to be comfortable and durable, with features that make them ideal for outdoor activities. They are typically made from lightweight, quick-drying materials that wick away moisture and keep you cool and dry. Many hiking shorts also have built-in sun protection to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.

When choosing the best hiking shorts, it’s important to consider factors such as fit, material, and features. A good pair of hiking shorts should fit well and allow for a full range of motion, without being too loose or too tight. Materials like nylon or polyester are ideal for hiking shorts, as they are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.

Another important factor to consider is the length of the shorts. While some hikers prefer longer shorts that provide more coverage, others prefer shorter shorts that allow for greater freedom of movement. Ultimately, the best length for your hiking shorts will depend on your personal preference and the type of hiking you plan to do.

We spent hours researching and testing various hiking shorts to identify the best options for outdoor enthusiasts. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks for the best hiking shorts, based on factors such as comfort, durability, and overall performance.

Best Hiking Shorts

We know that hiking can be a strenuous activity, and the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable in the wrong clothing. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best hiking shorts on the market. These shorts are designed to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable during even the most challenging hikes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these shorts are sure to make your next adventure a success. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best hiking shorts.

ZUTY Women’s 6″ Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Water Resistant Lightweight with Zipper Pockets UPF 50+ for Women Golf Athletic Large Black

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of hiking shorts that are comfortable, quick-drying, and offer sun protection, then the ZUTY Women’s 6″ Hiking Cargo Shorts might be just what you need.

Pros

• The lightweight and quick-dry fabric keeps you dry and cool during sports.
• UPF50+ fabric blocks harmful UV rays, providing excellent protection against sunburn.
• The wider elastic waistband with drawstring and soft knitted high waistband reduces friction on the torso, improving the wearing experience.

Cons

• The waistband might be a bit tight for some users.
• The shorts might run a bit small, so consider ordering a size up.
• The excess material might make the shorts bulky for some users.

We recently took these shorts on a hiking trip and were impressed with their performance. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable to wear all day long. We also appreciated the UPF50+ protection, which kept us from getting sunburned during our hike.

The shorts feature four cargo pockets, which provide secure storage for your belongings when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities. We also liked the D-ring, which makes it easy to hook on hiking gear.

The only downside we found was that the waistband might be a bit tight for some users. We recommend ordering a size up if you’re in between sizes. Additionally, the excess material might make the shorts feel bulky for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile pair of the best hiking shorts that offer sun protection and plenty of pockets, then the ZUTY Women’s 6″ Hiking Cargo Shorts are worth considering.

CRZ YOGA Women’s Waterproof Stretch Hiking Shorts

We highly recommend the CRZ YOGA Women’s Waterproof Stretch Hiking Shorts for anyone looking for comfortable, durable, and stylish hiking shorts.

Pros

• The 4-way stretch material is breathable, waterproof, and tear-resistant making them perfect for hiking.
• The mid-rise design and elastic waist with a removable belt offer a custom fit.
• The side zipper pocket is perfect for storing your phone or other essentials.

Cons

• The material is a bit thick, which may not be ideal for hot weather.
• The inseam is only 3 inches, which may be too short for some hikers.
• The hook and loop closure may not be as secure as a button or snap closure.

These shorts are designed for hiking and are made of 92% Polyamide and 8% Elastane, which provides the perfect combination of stretch and durability. The material is breathable and waterproof, making them perfect for all weather conditions. They are also tear-resistant, which means they can withstand the rigors of hiking.

The mid-rise design and elastic waist with a removable belt offer a custom fit that is both comfortable and flattering. The side zipper pocket is perfect for storing your phone or other essentials while hiking.

The only downside to these shorts is that the material is a bit thick, which may not be ideal for hot weather. Additionally, the inseam is only 3 inches, which may be too short for some hikers. Finally, the hook and loop closure may not be as secure as a button or snap closure.

Overall, we highly recommend the CRZ YOGA Women’s Waterproof Stretch Hiking Shorts for anyone looking for comfortable, durable, and stylish hiking shorts.

BALEAF Women’s Hiking Shorts

If you’re looking for a comfortable and functional pair of hiking shorts, the BALEAF Women’s Hiking Shorts might just be what you need.

Pros

• The upgraded stretchy and high dense fabric feels comfortable and soft to the skin without making a ‘swishing’ noise while walking or running.
• The high wide elastic waistband with drawstring provides better tummy control and customized fit, while the large cargo pockets on each side are perfect for storing your cellphone, map, and other hiking essentials.
• The UPF 50+ fabric provides maximum sun protection against harmful ultraviolet rays, while the 5″ inch inseam with slight “A” hem design doesn’t impede your movement.

Cons

• Some users might find the waistband too tight or uncomfortable.
• The sizing may be inconsistent, so make sure to check the size chart before purchasing.
• The shorts might ride up a bit during intense physical activity.

We recently tried out these shorts on a hiking trip and were impressed with their comfort and functionality. The fabric felt soft and stretchy, and we appreciated the high waistband with drawstring for a customized fit. The cargo pockets were also a great feature, allowing us to store our phone and other essentials without having to carry a separate bag.

One minor issue we encountered was that the waistband felt a bit tight and uncomfortable at times, especially during long hikes. Additionally, we noticed that the shorts tended to ride up a bit during intense physical activity, which might be a concern for some users.

Overall, we would recommend the BALEAF Women’s Hiking Shorts to anyone looking for a comfortable and functional pair of hiking shorts. They offer great comfort and a full range of motion, making them suitable for any kind of outdoor activity, including golf, hiking, running, jogging, walking, summer vacation, travel, or daily wear.

BALEAF Women’s Hiking Capri Shorts

We highly recommend the BALEAF Women’s Hiking Capri Shorts for anyone looking for comfortable and versatile hiking shorts.

Pros

• The drawstring closure makes it easy to adjust the waist for a perfect fit.
• The shorts have three pockets, including a zippered side security pocket, providing ample space to store your essentials.
• The quick-dry, breathable fabric ensures that you stay comfortable and dry during your hike.

Cons

• The shorts are a little baggy on the thighs, so if you prefer a snug fit, you should order a size down.
• The shorts’ length may not be suitable for everyone as they are below the knee.
• The shorts are only available in one color.

We recently used these shorts on a hiking trip and were impressed with their comfort and durability. The upgraded stretch fabric allowed us to move freely while hiking, and the shorts’ lightweight construction made them ideal for hot weather. The mid-rise stretch waist made them easy to pull on and off, and the tummy control feature provided a flattering fit.

The three pockets were a great addition, providing ample space to store our phone, keys, and other essentials. The zippered side security pocket was especially handy for keeping our valuables safe while hiking.

The shorts’ quick-dry, breathable fabric was a lifesaver during our hike. We stayed comfortable and dry, even during the most challenging parts of the trail. The durable water repellent (DWR) finish also fended off light rain and spills, keeping us dry and comfortable.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for comfortable and versatile hiking shorts, we highly recommend the BALEAF Women’s Hiking Capri Shorts. They are perfect for hiking, camping, climbing, travel, trekking, casual work, or just taking a walk around your house.

Wrangler Authentics Men’s Canvas Utility Hiker Short

If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable hiking short, the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Canvas Utility Hiker Short is a great option.

Pros

• The relaxed fit and partial elastic waistband make these shorts comfortable for all-day wear.
• With cargo function and style, these shorts provide plenty of storage for your hiking gear.
• Made from 100% cotton twill, these shorts are both durable and breathable.

Cons

• The pockets may be a bit smaller than expected.
• The cotton fabric may start fraying after a few wears.
• The material may be a bit thin for some hikers.

We recently took these shorts on a hiking trip and found them to be comfortable and functional. The relaxed fit and partial elastic waistband allowed for a full range of motion, and the cargo pockets provided ample storage for our hiking essentials. The cotton twill material felt durable yet breathable, making these shorts a great choice for warm weather hikes.

However, we did notice that the pockets were a bit smaller than we expected, and the cotton fabric did start to fray after a few wears. Additionally, the material may be a bit thin for some hikers who prefer a more rugged feel.

Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and functional hiking short, the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Canvas Utility Hiker Short is definitely worth considering.

PULI Men’s Golf Dress Shorts

We highly recommend the PULI Men’s Golf Dress Shorts for anyone looking for comfortable, stylish, and practical hiking shorts.

Pros

• The high-performance fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making these shorts perfect for outdoor activities.
• With five practical pockets, including a zipper pocket and two back pockets, these shorts are convenient for carrying all your essentials.
• The stretch waistband provides an improved fit and mobility, while the brushed tricot-lined waistband keeps your shirt tucked in through the golf swing.

Cons

• Some users have reported issues with the zipper breaking after a few uses.
• The sizing may run a bit small, so it’s recommended to order a size up.
• The shorts may wrinkle easily, requiring frequent ironing or steaming.

These shorts are perfect for hiking, golfing, and other outdoor activities. The moisture-wicking technology keeps you dry and comfortable, while the stretch waistband and lightweight fabric provide improved mobility and breathability. The five practical pockets make it easy to carry all your essentials, and the stylish design makes these shorts suitable for both outdoor sports and daily casual wear.

In summary, if you’re looking for comfortable, practical, and stylish hiking shorts, the PULI Men’s Golf Dress Shorts are an excellent choice.

Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short

We highly recommend the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short for anyone looking for a comfortable and functional pair of shorts for hiking or everyday wear.

Pros

• The quick-drying stretch fabric is perfect for any outdoor activity, from hiking to kayaking.
• The comfort flex waistband ensures a comfortable fit that moves with you, allowing for natural range of motion.
• The classic cargo style provides extra storage with (2) cargo zip pockets, (2) back pockets, and (2) slash pockets.

Cons

• The shorts may run a bit large, so it’s recommended to order a size down.
• The cargo pockets may be a bit bulky for some users.
• The material may not be as durable as other hiking shorts on the market.

We recently tested out the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short on a hiking trip and were impressed with their performance. The quick-drying stretch fabric kept us comfortable and dry throughout the day, even when we encountered unexpected rain. The comfort flex waistband ensured a comfortable fit that moved with us, allowing for easy movement on the trail. The classic cargo style provided plenty of extra storage, with multiple pockets for our phone, wallet, and other items.

However, we did notice that the shorts may run a bit large, so it’s recommended to order a size down for a better fit. Additionally, some users may find the cargo pockets to be a bit bulky, depending on their personal preference. Finally, while the material is comfortable, it may not be as durable as other hiking shorts on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short for anyone looking for a comfortable and functional pair of shorts for hiking or everyday wear.

Willit Women’s Hiking Shorts

If you’re looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of shorts for hiking, yoga, or lounging, the Willit Women’s Hiking Shorts are a great choice.

Pros

• The stretchy and lightweight fabric wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable during outdoor activities.
• The wide and adjustable waistband ensures a custom and secure fit, while the flatlock stitching reduces chafing and provides next-to-skin softness.
• The shorts come with hand pockets that are perfect for carrying small essentials like a key, card, or cash.

Cons

• Some users may find the shorts too short or tight, depending on their body type and personal preference.
• The hand wash-only care instructions may be inconvenient for some users who prefer machine-washable clothing.
• The shorts may not be suitable for colder weather or more rugged terrain, as they are designed for light and casual activities.

We recently tried out the Willit Women’s Hiking Shorts on a day hike in the mountains, and we were impressed with their comfort and performance. The shorts are made of a soft and stretchy fabric that moves with your body, and the moisture-wicking technology kept us cool and dry even on a hot and humid day. The waistband is wide and comfortable, and the adjustable drawcord allowed us to find the perfect fit. The hand pockets were a nice touch, as we were able to carry our phone and some cash without having to bring a separate bag or pouch.

Overall, we would recommend the Willit Women’s Hiking Shorts to anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of shorts for light outdoor activities. They are stylish, functional, and affordable, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes to suit different preferences. Just make sure to follow the care instructions and hand wash them to keep them in good condition.

Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts

We highly recommend the Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts for those looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of hiking shorts.

Pros

• The lightweight and quick-dry fabric is perfect for long hikes and outdoor activities.
• The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent protection against harmful ultraviolet rays.
• The five pockets, including a cargo pocket, provide ample space to store essentials securely.

Cons

• The center-front snap closure can be difficult to fasten.
• The inseam of 7″ may be too short for some hikers.
• The sizing can run small, so it’s essential to check the size chart before purchasing.

These shorts are made with stretchy, breathable fabric that wicks moisture and dries quickly, making them perfect for hiking, golfing, or everyday wear. The durable water repellent finish helps repel light moisture and stains, ensuring they stay looking new for longer.

The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent protection against harmful ultraviolet rays, making these shorts ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the five pockets, including a cargo pocket with a flap on the left thigh, provide ample space to store essentials securely.

While the center-front snap closure can be difficult to fasten, the button closure ensures a secure fit. The inseam of 7″ may be too short for some hikers, but it’s perfect for those who prefer a shorter length.

Overall, the Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts are a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of hiking shorts. With their blend of functionality and technicality, these shorts are perfect for hiking, golf, summer vacation, travel, boating, walking, or daily wear.

CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking Pants Women

We highly recommend the CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking Pants Women for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable pair of hiking shorts.

Pros

• The fabric is lightweight and quick-dry with excellent functions of water-resistant and wicking moisture quickly, making them perfect for outdoor activities or daily wear.
• The elastic waistband with an adjustable belt and snap belt button ensures a comfortable fit for all body types.
• With six pockets, including three zipper pockets, these shorts provide ample space to store essentials like phones, keys, and wallets.

Cons

• The inseam is only 7 inches, which may be too short for taller individuals.
• Some users have reported inconsistencies in sizing and color.
• The price point may be higher than other hiking shorts on the market.

These shorts are made of lightweight and durable fabric that is resistant to tearing and stretchy to the touch. The quick-dry and breathable material make them perfect for hiking, climbing, traveling, or just walking. The water-resistant and UPF 50+ features protect you from harmful UV rays, while the cord lock at the hem ensures a snug fit.

The CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking Pants Women come with six pockets, including two cargo pockets, two back pockets, two side pockets, and one zip-closure pocket to secure small items. The Bermuda long shorts with a classic fit and mid-waist design are perfect for summer outdoor activities.

Overall, we believe that the CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking Pants Women are an excellent investment for anyone looking for a comfortable and durable pair of hiking shorts.

Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts 9″ Quick Dry Athletic Long Summer Shorts with Pockets Water Resistant Khaki 12

If you’re looking for a versatile pair of shorts that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts are a great option. With quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric and UPF50+ sun protection, these shorts are perfect for hiking, golf, travel, or everyday wear.

Pros

• The spandex-nylon blend fabric is stretchy and breathable, keeping you comfortable and dry all day long.
• The four pockets, including two secure-zip hand pockets and two drop-in back pockets, provide ample storage for your essentials.
• The knee-length design offers additional coverage and protection from the sun.

Cons

• Hand wash only.
• The narrow opening of the side pockets may make it difficult to access your items.
• Some customers have reported sizing issues.

We recently tried out these shorts on a hiking trip and were impressed with their performance. The moisture-wicking fabric kept us dry and comfortable during a long day on the trail, and the UPF50+ sun protection kept us protected from the sun’s harmful rays. The four pockets were a great feature, allowing us to easily store our phone, keys, and other essentials.

While we did have to hand wash these shorts, they dried quickly and were ready to wear again in no time. We did find that the side pockets were a bit narrow, but this was a minor issue. Overall, we would definitely recommend the Willit Women’s Golf Hiking Shorts for anyone looking for a comfortable, versatile pair of shorts for their active lifestyle.

Lee Men’s Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Short

If you are looking for a comfortable and flexible pair of hiking shorts, then the Lee Men’s Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Short is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The shorts are made with a comfort stretch fabric that allows for unrestricted movement, making them perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities.
• The shorts feature an extreme comfort waistband and an athletic flex waistband, which ensures a comfortable fit even during long hikes.
• The shorts have seven pockets, including side cargo pockets and a cell phone pocket, providing plenty of storage space for your essentials.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pockets are not as deep as they would like, which may be an issue if you need to carry larger items.
• The shorts are only available in a limited number of colors, which may be disappointing if you are looking for a specific shade.
• The shorts may not be as durable as some other options on the market, so they may not last as long if you frequently go hiking or engage in other outdoor activities.

Overall, we would recommend the Lee Men’s Extreme Motion Crossroad Cargo Short to anyone who is looking for a comfortable and flexible pair of hiking shorts. While they may not be the most durable option out there, they are certainly comfortable and provide plenty of storage space for your essentials.

Jessie Kidden Hiking Shorts

We highly recommend the Jessie Kidden Hiking Shorts for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. These shorts are comfortable, lightweight, and versatile.

Pros

• Made with high-performance wicking fabric that keeps you cool and dry
• Features Omni-Shade UPF 50 for maximum sun protection
• Multiple pockets for convenient storage

Cons

• Belt is not very sturdy
• Zipper can be difficult to use
• Sizing may be inconsistent

The Jessie Kidden Hiking Shorts are perfect for hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. The high-performance wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry, even on the hottest days. The Omni-Shade UPF 50 provides maximum sun protection, reducing your exposure to harmful UVA/UVB radiation. The multiple pockets are perfect for storing your phone, keys, and other essentials.

The only downside to these shorts is that the belt is not very sturdy. It may need to be replaced after a few uses. The zipper can also be difficult to use, especially if you have larger hands. Additionally, sizing may be inconsistent, so be sure to check the size chart before ordering.

Overall, the Jessie Kidden Hiking Shorts are a great choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. They are comfortable, lightweight, and versatile, making them perfect for all your adventures.

Haimont Men’s Hiking Shorts

We highly recommend the Haimont Men’s Hiking Shorts for those in search of durable, comfortable, and versatile shorts for their outdoor activities.

Pros

• Made of ripstop nylon and spandex for durability and flexibility
• Water-resistant and UPF 50+ for sun protection
• High elastic waistband with drawstring for a customized fit

Cons

• Only has two side zipper seam pockets and one rear zipper pocket
• May run a little small
• Does not have a back pocket

These shorts are made of ripstop nylon and spandex, making them durable and flexible for any outdoor activity. They are also water-resistant and UPF 50+ for sun protection, ensuring your comfort and safety during your hikes. The high elastic waistband with drawstring provides a customized fit, making it easy to put on and take off.

The Haimont Men’s Hiking Shorts have two side zipper seam pockets and one rear zipper pocket, which are deep and durable enough to protect your phone or other valuables during athletic activities. However, they do not have a back pocket, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Overall, these shorts are versatile and can be used for hiking, paddling, backpacking, running, and other casual wear. They are comfortable, lightweight, and quick-drying, keeping you cool and fresh all day.

In conclusion, if you are looking for durable, comfortable, and versatile hiking shorts, we highly recommend the Haimont Men’s Hiking Shorts.

Looleafy Women’s Hiking Cargo Shorts

We highly recommend these shorts for anyone in need of a comfortable and durable pair of hiking shorts.

Pros

• Lightweight and quick-dry fabric
• UPF50 sun protection
• Four functional pockets
• Elastic waistband for custom fit

Cons

• Hand wash only
• Limited color options
• May run small for some individuals

These shorts are made of a lightweight and quick-dry fabric that wicks moisture away from your skin to keep you cool and comfortable. The UPF50 fabric also provides maximum protection against harmful UV rays during outdoor activities. The four functional pockets are deep enough to store your cellphone, keys, and wallet, allowing you to fully enjoy your hiking or golfing experience. The elastic waistband provides a custom fit and prevents pressure marks on the tummy.

We do want to mention that these shorts require hand washing, which may be inconvenient for some individuals. Additionally, the color options are limited, and some customers have reported that the shorts may run small.

Overall, we believe that the Looleafy Women’s Hiking Cargo Shorts are a great investment for anyone in need of a comfortable and functional pair of hiking shorts. With their quick-dry fabric, sun protection, and functional pockets, they are perfect for hiking, camping, traveling, golfing, fishing, climbing, kayaking, gardening, walking, and casual wear.

Buying Guide For Best Hiking Shorts

When it comes to buying the best hiking shorts, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure that the shorts we choose are comfortable, durable, and functional. Here are some key features to look for:

Material

The material of the hiking shorts is an essential factor to consider. You want to choose a fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. Look for materials like nylon, polyester, or a blend of both. These materials are known for their durability and moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

Fit

The fit of the hiking shorts is also crucial. You want to choose a pair of shorts that fit comfortably and allow for a full range of motion. Make sure to try on different sizes and styles to find the best fit for your body type. Look for shorts with an adjustable waistband or drawstring to ensure a secure fit.

Pockets

Pockets are another important feature to consider when choosing hiking shorts. Look for shorts with multiple pockets, including zippered pockets, to keep your essentials safe and secure. Make sure the pockets are easily accessible and large enough to hold your phone, wallet, and other small items.

Length

The length of the hiking shorts is also a personal preference. Some hikers prefer longer shorts that provide more coverage, while others prefer shorter shorts that allow for better ventilation. Consider the weather and terrain you will be hiking in when choosing the length of your shorts.

UPF Protection

If you plan on hiking in sunny conditions, consider shorts with UPF protection. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and measures how well a fabric protects against UV radiation. Look for shorts with a UPF rating of 50 or higher to ensure maximum protection.

By considering these key features, you can find the best hiking shorts for your next outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Shorts