When you’re miles deep into a trail, sweating under the summer sun, or crossing a stream with your pack on your back, one piece of gear can make or break your day: your shorts. Choosing the best hiking shorts isn’t about fashion—it’s about comfort, durability, and performance in the outdoors. The right pair will keep you cool, wick away sweat, move with your body, and hold up against rocks, scrub, and long miles. Whether you’re a thru-hiker logging hundreds of miles, a weekend adventurer, or just someone who likes to head from trail to town in style, the best hiking shorts are an essential part of your kit.
Let’s break down what makes a good pair stand out, the features you should consider, and the top options available today.
Hiking Shorts vs. Hiking Pants: Which Is Better?
The age-old debate. Do you stick with the freedom of shorts or the protection of pants?
- Warm weather advantage: Hiking shorts shine in the heat. They’re lightweight, airy, and let your legs breathe. If you’re prone to overheating, shorts win.
- Protection factor: Pants, on the other hand, shield you from ticks, thorny plants, sunburn, and rocky scrambles. If you’re heading into thick brush or cooler climates, pants may be the safer choice.
- Compromise options: Some hikers go with convertible pants that zip off into shorts. Others pair shorts with lightweight leggings for extra warmth without losing mobility.
For most summer hikes, the best hiking shorts strike a balance—cool, light, and flexible—while still offering durability where it counts.
Key Features to Look for in the Best Hiking Shorts
Not all shorts are created equal. Here’s what separates your everyday gym shorts from trail-ready performers.
Fabric Types: Nylon, Polyester, or Cotton?
- Nylon: Tough and abrasion-resistant, dries quickly, and feels soft on the skin. A premium choice for rugged trails.
- Polyester: Slightly less durable than nylon but even more hydrophobic—great for moisture-wicking.
- Cotton: Comfortable at first but a poor choice for hiking. It holds water, dries slowly, and can cause chafing. Best avoided unless blended with synthetics.
- Spandex/Elastane blends: A touch of stretch (2–5%) makes a world of difference for comfort and mobility.
Durability
Hiking shorts need to withstand rock scrambles, brush, and pack straps. Look for reinforced stitching, ripstop weaves, and thicker yet breathable fabrics.
Breathability
Sweaty legs are inevitable on the trail, but breathable shorts keep you cooler and reduce chafing. Fabrics with looser weaves or mesh panels enhance airflow.
Moisture-Wicking & Quick-Dry
Wet shorts are uncomfortable and dangerous in cooler weather. The best hiking shorts wick sweat and dry fast—ideal for river crossings or summer storms.
Flexibility & Stretch
Climbing over boulders, high-stepping on steep terrain, or crouching at camp requires freedom of movement. Shorts labeled “two-way stretch” or “four-way stretch” are worth the investment.
Water Resistance
Water-resistant coatings like DWR (Durable Water Repellency) help rain bead off and keep you drier longer. Some shorts even feature waterproof panels in high-contact areas like the seat.
Types of Hiking Shorts
Different activities demand different designs. Here are the main categories:
Men’s Hiking Shorts
Built with durability and practicality in mind, they often feature multiple pockets, reinforced fabrics, and slightly longer inseams.
Women’s Hiking Shorts
Designed with fit and comfort for female hikers, often with higher waistbands or more tailored cuts. Many women, however, prefer men’s shorts for a looser fit.
Athletic & Ultralight Shorts
Perfect for fast-packers and trail runners. Minimalist in design, super light, and often with built-in liners. Best for those counting ounces.
Cargo Hiking Shorts
Known for extra pockets—great for carrying maps, snacks, or a phone when you want quick access without digging in your pack. They can be bulkier but are practical.
Trail-to-Town Shorts
These strike a balance between outdoor performance and casual style. They look good enough for a brewery stop after your hike but perform on the trail.
Hybrid Swim/Hike Shorts
For hikers who love alpine lakes or riverside trails, these double as swim trunks and dry fast.
The Best Hiking Shorts by Category
After reviewing thousands of miles of testing from outdoor experts, here are the best hiking shorts across categories:
Overall: Patagonia Quandary Shorts
- Lightweight yet durable
- Great balance of breathability and stretch
- Sleek town-to-trail style
- Plenty of pockets without bulk
Ultralight: Patagonia Strider Pro
- Just 3.8 oz—featherlight
- Quick-drying and packable
- Ideal for fast and light hikers
- Downsides: smaller pockets, less durable
Durability: Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts
- Rugged fabric with gusseted crotch
- Reinforced stitching for rough terrain
- Great stealth phone pocket
- Heavier than others, but built to last
Value: prAna Stretch Zion II
- Extremely durable yet comfortable
- Built-in belt for adjustability
- Versatile for hiking, climbing, or casual wear
- Slightly bulkier, but excellent performance for the price
Balance of Utility & Style: Outdoor Research Ferrosi
- Stretchy and breathable fabric
- Dries fast, stylish enough for town
- Soft waistband prevents rubbing with a hip belt
- Hand pockets can feel a bit loose
Budget-Friendly: The North Face Wander Shorts
- Affordable, ultralight, simple design
- Flat waistband fits well under a pack
- Not as durable but excellent for casual hikes
Cargo Option: REI Sahara Cargo Shorts
- Tons of storage for snacks and maps
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Comfortable fit with big pockets
- Bulkier than minimalist shorts
Hybrid: Cotopaxi Brinco Shorts
- Fun, colorful design with swim-ready fabric
- Quick-drying nylon
- Great for hikes ending at the lake
- Less stretch, so not for long treks
Care and Maintenance of Hiking Shorts
The best hiking shorts will last years if you treat them right.
- Wash sparingly: Technical fabrics don’t need to be washed after every use—air them out first.
- Avoid fabric softeners: They reduce water resistance and damage performance fabrics.
- Use technical washes: Products like Nikwax Tech Wash keep shorts performing at their best.
- Hang dry: Heat can break down fabric stretch and coatings.
- Reapply DWR: Refresh water repellency with sprays like Nikwax Softshell Proof.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Pair
The best hiking shorts are the ones that fit your adventures. Maybe you want ultralight shorts for trail running, or tough-as-nails cargo shorts for rugged backcountry trips. Maybe you need something stylish enough to wear downtown after the hike. The key is balancing comfort, durability, and the right features for your style of outdoor adventure.
Invest in one good pair—or two if you want variety—and you’ll never regret it when you’re out on the trail. After all, comfort from the waist down can make the difference between a long, happy hike and a miserable one.
