If you’re anything like us, you’d probably swear by your beloved hiking pants any day of the week.
But sometimes we need to mix things up a bit. We need a little more breathability to keep ourselves from going stir-crazy in the scorching heat, or a little less fabric when we need to take that unexpected dip in the water.
But just like your favorite pair of hiking pants, your shorts should also be top-notch quality, offering similar handy features.
Sounds daunting to find such a pair, doesn’t it? After countless trails and 20+ shorts tested over the years, we’ve put together this guide to share with you our top picks for the best hiking shorts for both men and women.
Let’s see which ones made the cut.
What Are the Best Hiking Shorts?
Best Overall: REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts | For Men | For Women
Best Versatility: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts | For Men | For Women
Best Durability: Black Diamond Sierra Shorts | For Men | For Women
Best on Budget: REI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Shorts | For Men | For Women
Best Cargo Shorts: REI Co-op Sahara Cargo Shorts | For Men
Best Comfort: Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda Shorts | For Women
REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
One of my favorite things about these shorts? The pockets.
They’ve got 2 drop-in hand pockets, 2 drop-in back pockets, and a side-zip security cargo pocket. That’s plenty of storage space for all your essentials.
Another big plus is how packable these shorts are. They are the ideal travel buddy, folding up nicely to fit into your backpack without taking up much space. Whether you’re off for a day hike or a weeklong trek, these shorts won’t disappoint.
However, there’s still room for improvement for these shorts as the back pocket sewing could be better and it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering them.
Along the same lines, I can’t help but wish they had a back pocket zipper. It would offer extra security for your belongings and peace of mind on your hikes.
Verdict
These shorts are priced at $50, making them an incredible deal dollar-for-dollar.
If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and affordable pair of shorts for your hikes or travel, you can’t go wrong with the REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts.
They may not be perfect, but they’re a strong contender for the best hiking shorts out there.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
Have you ever had a pair of shorts that you liked so much that you couldn’t help but get them in EVERY SINGLE color? That’s me with the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts.
They’re my companions for every hiking, climbing, kayaking, and even casual town strolling.
The material is a mix of 46% Recycled Nylon, 40% Nylon, and 14% Spandex. The blend makes them lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, but they’re also water-resistant, wind-resistant, and even have a UPF 50+ sun protection.
They’ve done an excellent job with a harness-compatible waist, a metal shank button closure, and an internal drawcord waist. They’ve also got a brushed tricot-lined waistband for added comfort.
There are numerous pockets, from drop-in hand pockets to a right hip security zip mesh pocket. You’ll never lose your keys again, right? Well, you actually might as the drop-in pockets are a bit on the shallow side.
If you’re a deep-pocket kind of hiker, this might be something to note.
Verdict
What’s the final word? Get these shorts! I can almost guarantee that you’ll like them so much, they will become your mainstay for hiking and general wear shorts.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably end up buying one in every color. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Black Diamond Sierra Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
Made from heavy-denier polyester fabric, they’re designed to withstand the rough and tumble of our hikes. If you’re familiar with prAna shorts, you’ll find these comparable, but a notch better.
One thing you’ll love is their elastic waist which provides a comfortable fit even during the most strenuous climbs.
Keep in mind that they’re designed to be worn with a harness, so if you like them for regular wear without a climbing harness or backpack waist strap, I suggest going down one size.
They’ve got 2 hand pockets and a back pocket, but I can’t help but wish they were slightly deeper. While they’re okay for holding small items like keys and lip balm, they’re not ideal for larger items like a phone or wallet.
Weighing in at 4.8 ounces, they ensure lightness that’ll make your every step easier. The shorts have a regular fit, perfect for rock climbing and hiking.
Verdict
The Sierra Shorts are durable, comfortable, and versatile enough to take on all your outdoor activities. The pockets could be a little deeper for extra security, but overall, these shorts are a solid (and stylish) choice in your gear collection.
REI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
Like most of you, I love shorts that can handle both hiking and swim activities. These shorts excellently serve this dual purpose.
If your hike route lies through a river or a lake, these shorts dry out REALLY fast. Yes, they’re not 100% waterproof, but they won’t trap water. You won’t feel bogged down and soggy.
I’ve read about a few hikers having issues with the belt. For me it works just fine but it could be designed a bit better as the belt gets pulled into the shorts a bit after every wash. It takes a couple of minutes to get it back to the previous shape.
One thing I can’t compromise on in any hiking gear is practicality. These shorts deliver it with deep pockets for your possessions.
They are on the shorter side, with a 6-inch inseam. I actually appreciate this when I need less restriction and more freedom, but you may want to keep this in mind if you prefer longer shorts.
The fabric is a blend of nylon and polyester, designed specifically to be “tear-resistant”.
The elasticized waistband and pull-on design with a faux fly make them comfortable and easy to wear. One unique feature is the cord loop at the waistband. You can just clip your sunglasses onto it.
To top it off, these shorts have a UPF 50+ sun protection feature, which is a must in my book.
Verdict
The REI Co-op Trailmade Amphib Shorts are a great option for those who love to hike and swim. They’re quick-drying, lightweight, and have high durability.
REI Co-op Sahara Cargo Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
One of my favorite features of these shorts is their amazing pockets. They come with six (!) deep pockets that can safely hold your keys, GPS, snacks, and much more. They are an absolute champion in this space.
What’s impressive about Sahara Cargo Shorts is their wrinkle-resistant fabric. You can pack these shorts in your hiking bag without worrying about them getting wrinkled. That’s a great time-saver, isn’t it?
They are made of a material that repels water, so you’ll remain dry even when you cross a brook or get caught in a drizzle.
Another big bonus for me is that these shorts don’t hold onto unpleasant odours like some other shorts do.
I observed that the belt loops on these shorts are on the smaller side. If you’re planning to wear a wide belt, you may have to search for specialized hiking belts. For those who prefer narrow belts, these shorts will work just fine.
The REI Co-op Sahara Cargo Shorts are lightweight, durable, quick-drying, and have a UPF 50+ rating.
One of the things I appreciate about REI is their inclusivity. The Sahara Cargo Shorts come in various sizes including plus, petite, and tall options. No matter your build or size, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience these shorts offer.
Verdict
The REI Co-op Sahara Cargo Shorts are a great choice for hikers looking for comfort, storage space, and quick-drying capabilities. Be sure to check the size of your belt before purchasing!
Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda Shorts
KEY FEATURES
PROS
CONS
Hi! Martha here. I’ll share my experience with the Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda Shorts.
These shorts have won my heart (and my thighs), scoring a solid 4.8 out of 5 stars on REI. Women hikers love them, and now I know why.
The Dynama/2 shorts are truly comfortable. After a heavy 15-mile hike, I experienced no chafing.
What’s more, these power shorts hold up well through many, many washes. They’re almost as fresh as the first day I wore them.
You’re going to love how these shorts pull on – no struggle with buttons, snaps, or belts. Just pull them up and you’re good to go!
If there’s one thing I would change, it’s making the leg openings a bit snugger. But that’s just a personal preference and doesn’t take away from the overall excellence of these shorts.
Another tiny issue is the pockets. Sadly, they were too shallow for my liking.
Verdict
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda Shorts are a solid investment. Comfortable, durable, and easy to use – what more could we ask for?
What Are Hiking Shorts?
Hiking shorts, much like their long-legged cousins – the hiking pants – are typically made of sturdy materials like nylon or polyester.
Why these materials? They strike that perfect balance between durability and breathability, two features you absolutely need when you’re conquering hills and dales.
The best quality hiking shorts aren’t just about material. They’re PACKED with features that make your hiking experience a whole lot better.
A pair of good hiking shorts, although not as important as hiking pants, should still find its place in your backpack just in case. Don’t worry, they’re easily packable and won’t take too much space.
Is It OK to Wear Shorts When Hiking?
It’s perfectly fine to wear shorts when hiking. Shorts are useful for hot summer hikes (usually 70-80°F and above) as they offer that sweet freedom of movement and unbeatable breathability you won’t get from full-length pants.
But here’s the thing – while shorts are great for those warm, clear days, they might put you in a tricky situation when things take a turn for the worse.
Cold nights? Rainy days? That’s when you’ll wish you had a pair of hiking pants handy.
There are also our not-so-friendly trail companions – brush and bugs. Shorts won’t give you much protection against these. After all, your legs are pretty much exposed to the great outdoors.
So, what’s the verdict? Shorts for hiking? A definite yes! But, just like any good hiker knows, always be prepared. Pack decent pants along for changing weather or rough terrains.
Conclusion
Even if you’re a die-hard fan of your hiking pants, it’s still important to have a pair of hiking shorts in your backpack. They’re a little bit more than just a “nice-to-have” because of how lightweight, quick-drying, and versatile they are.
That’s why I always pack a pair, and I suggest you do too.
But low-quality hiking shorts could be a disaster waiting to happen. Imagine chafing, soggy fabric, or worse, a tear in the middle of nowhere!
A pair of top-notch hiking shorts listed and reviewed in this article can actually save your hike and your peace of mind.
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
