Cracking Choice is reader-supported and thanks to your clicks (at no extra cost to you) we may earn a small commission on qualifying links. Learn more here.
Are you a newbie or a seasoned hiker?
Experienced hikers know that finding the right gear can be the difference between a great hiking experience and a terrible one. That’s why we’ve found shorts for you to wear on your hike designed specifically with hikers in mind: shorts made with durable, lightweight and moisture-wicking fabric; shorts providing protection from the sun, rain, bugs and scratches; shorts designed for both comfort and functionality.
Choosing shorts designed specifically for hiking, makes a difference. So do yourself a favour, and have a look, your legs will thank you.
How We Uncover The Best For You
There will things that you will wish you'd known before you left on your hike. We know how that feels and so we take a lot of time making sure that we facilitate proper preparation. Having hiked for over 40 years myself, I can draw on my experience when it comes to what to wear hiking. In addition, as a team, we also read 1000s of reviews so we can uncover some great products. This article is no different. We have found some cracking choices for you.
Best Women's Lightweight Hiking Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Lightweight and Cool
- Comfortable Fit
- Storage Options
Things We Love
The Santiny Hiking Cargo Shorts are a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and stylish hiking short. Made from lightweight and breathable fabric, these shorts are comfortable to wear in warm weather and offer a great deal of flexibility in terms of style and movement. The elastic waistband and drawstring make them easy to adjust, and you won't have to worry about chafing from shorts that don't fit properly. Durable and stylish, the Santiny Hiking Cargo Shorts are a great option for hikers looking for a lightweight pair of shorts.
Things To Know
The quick-drying nylon and spandex fabric means that these shorts are water-repellent and offer 50+ UPF protection from the sun. They also have four zippered pockets, so you can keep your hiking essentials close at hand. The cargo pockets are perfect for carrying small items on the trail. Whether you're hiking in the woods or the mountains, the Santiny Hiking Cargo Shorts are a great choice for your next hike.
Best Men's Lightweight Hiking Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Lightweight Breathable Material
- Functional Storage Options
- Comfort and Fit
Things We Love
If you need ultralight hiking shorts, you should check out the Pudolla Men's Hiking Shorts. These durable shorts are made from a lightweight fabric that has a UPF 50+ rating, making them ideal for hiking in sunny weather. They also have five pockets, including a zippered thigh pocket or two, and a zippered rear pocket, so you can keep all your essential items close at hand - perfect for holding snacks, your phone, or a small backpacking first-aid kit. The part elastic waistband is adjustable for a comfortable fit.
Things To Know
The Pudolla Men's Hiking Shorts, are great if you are looking for comfort in a pair of hiking shorts, as these shorts are made from a moisture-wicking material that will keep you cool and dry, even when you're sweating on the trail. The breathable fabric helps keep you cool. They have a loose fit that allows you to move freely, and best of all, they're available in a variety of colors to suit your style. So whether you're tackling a challenging hike or just taking a leisurely walk in the park, the Pudolla Men's Hiking Shorts are sure to keep you comfortable.
Best Women's Fitted Hiking Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Flexibility
- Fit
- Functionality
Things We Love
The Eddie Bauer Pro Shorts are the perfect choice for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy a more fitted pair of shorts. The lightweight fabric allows for easy mobility, and the range of movement ensures you'll have no problem scaling even the most challenging terrain. The functional waist belt and zippered pockets provide ample storage for all your hiking essentials, while the moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties ensure you'll stay comfortable even when the temperature rises.
Things To Know
The Eddie Bauer Pro Shorts are made with 94% nylon and 6% spandex, making them flexible and breathable. They also have a water-resistant finish and UPF 50+ UV protection, making them ideal for hiking or other outdoor activities. Best of all, they're made without any harmful environmental chemicals. So you can feel good about wearing them, knowing that you're doing your bit for the planet. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, the Eddie Bauer Pro Shorts are a great choice for your next hike.
Best Men's Fitted Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Flexible Comfortable Fabric
- Great Storage Options
- Belted Fit
Things We Love
The XKTTAC Men's Outdoor Shorts are quality hiking shorts, perfect for trekking, hiking or other outdoor activities. They are made of 100% polyester and are stretchable and comfortable. The waistband is adjustable and the belt loops mean you can also add a belt if required. These shorts are made from robust fabric that is quick-drying and breathable. They also have 50+ UPF protection which is great for hiking in the summer and reflective safety strips just in case you find yourself in low-light conditions.
Things To Know
There are 6 deep zippered pockets which are great for carrying all your belongings. The designers have chosen not to add rear pockets, the 4 big deep side pockets are perfect for carrying your hiking gear, and the 2 front pockets are additional space for storing your phone etc. The pants come in 8 different colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. So if you are looking for a great pair of fitted men's outdoor pants, check out XKTTAC's Mens Outdoor Shorts.
Best Women's Hiking Short Shorts
Columbia Saturday Trail Shorts
A Cracking Choice For A Shorter Pair Of Womens Hiking Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Short Fitted Style
- Lightweight Stretchable Fabric
- Water Wicking and UV Protection
Things We Love
The Columbia Saturday Trail Hiking Shorts are a great option for hiking and other outdoor activities due to their cut. The short has a shorter length, which makes it ideal for hiking or any other activity where you need freedom of movement. The short is made from a soft nylon and elastane fabric that is lightweight and stretchable. The material also has wicking properties, which help to keep you cool and comfortable. Belt loops give you the option of adding a belt if necessary.
Things To Know
The Columbia Saturday Trail Hiking Short is the perfect hiking companion for women. Made from durable fabric with 50+ UPF protection, it's both comfortable and stylish. The integrated sun protection helps to keep you safe from harmful UV rays. The front and rear pockets are perfect for holding all your essentials, and the quick-drying fabric means you'll always be ready for whatever the trail throws at you. Whether you're hiking in the mountains or strolling through the park, the Columbia Saturday Trail Short is a great outdoor clothing choice for any adventure.
Best Men's Casual Shorts
We Chose This Because
- Casual Style
- Snug and Secure Fit
- Robust
Things We Love
If you need hiking shorts that are made from quality materials, the Columbia Brewha II Shorts are many hikers' go-to hiking shorts. Made from soft cotton material, they are comfortable to wear all day long. They also have a great fit, with an elastic waist that ensures a snug and secure fit. Plus, made from durable nylon fabric, they are durable and robust, meaning they can withstand the rigours of hiking without tearing or falling apart.
Things To Know
In addition, the Columbia Brewha II Shorts offer 50+ UPF sun protection, making them ideal for hiking in hot weather. As far as functionality goes, they have six pockets, including a zippered pocket for securing valuables - plenty of pockets for storing snacks, a map, and a phone. They also have a key loop, which is handy for keeping track of your keys when you're on the trail. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect pair to match your hiking gear.
Best Hiking Shorts For You?
Hiking is a great way to be active outdoors, but it's important to be properly equipped for the trail. One essential piece of gear for any hiker is a good pair of hiking shorts. But with so many different styles and brands on the market, how do you choose the right pair for you? This Buyers Guide will help you choose what is best for your needs.
Here are a few things to consider when selecting hiking shorts:
Fabric
Choose a fabric that suits the hike you will be doing. If the weather is likely to be wet, it is always a good idea to choose a fabric that is water-wicking. This is great for wet weather but also helps you stay dry if you are sweating. It wicks the water away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable.
If you'll be hiking off-trail or in rough terrain, you will need to choose a sturdy pair of shorts made of robust fabric that can stand up to abrasion.
If you are hiking in the summer try to find shorts that will provide you some level of sun protection. Fabric with a UV protective layer is perfect for this.
Features
If you're planning on hikes in hot weather, then you'll want shorts that offer good airflow and ventilation.
Belt loops are great on hiking shorts as it gives you somewhere to hang hiking gear if you need it handy. Things like hiking knives and hiking binoculars.
Other gear like maps are best stored in a pocket of some kind. It is always a good idea to have at least one zippable pocket for the safe keeping of things like keys and phones.
Fit
Finally, take into account your own personal preferences when it comes to fit and style. Some hikers prefer a loose-fitting short while others prefer a more snug fit. Be careful when choosing as buying a pair of shorts that is too tight as this will impede movement. Buying a pair that is too loose is also not a great idea as this will inevitably lead to chafing. Some shorts come with a belt and others are elasticised so give that some thought too.
The Best Shorts For Hiking - Your Questions Answered
Sometimes you just have that niggly question. You think you know which pair of shorts you like, but don't know if they will be the best choice for your planned adventure. So we try to anticipate that by including some of the questions other hikers commonly ask, to help you understand what will work best for you.
Your Answers Are Just A Short Distance Away, Keep Reading!
What Shorts Should Women Wear Hiking?
When hiking, it's important to wear shorts that are comfortable and won't impede your movement. Look for a pair of shorts that are neither too tight nor too loose. They should also be the right length to suit the climate — shorts are great for hiking in the summer months but bear in mind your legs may get scratched or sunburnt. The fabric of your hiking shorts is also important. Breathable, UPF-rated and moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal, as they'll help you stay cool and dry even when you're sweating. Quick-drying fabrics are also a good choice, as they won't leave you feeling wet and uncomfortable if you happen to get caught in a rain shower. Finally, make sure your hiking shorts have pockets—they'll come in handy for storing snacks, maps, and other small items. And if you are hiking through long grass, don't forget to check your socks and legs carefully for ticks at the end of the day!
What Shorts Should Men Wear Hiking?
When it comes to hiking, comfort is key. You want to make sure you're wearing shorts that won't rub or chafe, and that will keep you cool and dry even when you're working up a sweat. Here are a few things to look for in the perfect pair of hiking shorts:
Fabric that's quick-drying and moisture-wicking - you don't want to be hiking in wet, heavy fabric that will take forever to dry out.
A fit that's comfortable and not too tight or too loose - you need to be able to move freely, but you don't want your shorts riding up or falling down every time you take a step.
A length that's appropriate for the activity
Pockets for storing essentials - it's handy to have a place to stash your phone, keys, and snacks while you're hiking.
UPF protection - if you're hiking in sunny conditions, make sure your shorts have built-in UV protection to keep your legs from getting scratched or sunburnt.
With all these features in mind, you'll be sure to find a pair of hiking shorts that are just right for your next adventure.
What Is UPF?
Answer: UPF is Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It rates how effectively a fabric blocks out the sun's ultraviolet rays. The rating is expressed as a percentage. A garment with a UPF of 50, for example, means that it allows only 1/50th of the sun's UV radiation to pass through it.
Clothing can be treated with a chemical to boost its UPF rating. The most common chemicals used are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They work by scattering and absorbing UV radiation.
Some fabrics are better at blocking UV radiation than others.
Can I Wear Bike Shorts For Hiking?
Wearing bike shorts for hiking is not generally recommended.
Bike shorts are designed to be tight and aerodynamic, which makes them a poor choice for hiking. They also don't offer much in the way of cushioning or protection against abrasion.
However, while they may not be specifically designed for hiking, their moisture-wicking properties make them a better bet than shorts made of a fabric that absorbs water and doesn't dry easily.
Still, you would be better off getting something specifically designed for hiking rather than wearing biking shorts hiking.
Can I Wear Running Shoes For Hiking?
Yes, you can wear running shoes for hiking. However, you may find that they don't provide as much support as hiking boots do. Hiking boots are typically designed to provide more stability and protection for your ankles than running shoes. This is important when you are hiking along uneven surfaces as you could turn an ankle far more easily in running shoes than in hiking boots.
And if you are hiking in areas where there are snakes and ticks in the grass, boots provide you with more protection from bites.
There are some benefits to wearing running shoes. Specialized running shoes are designed to be lightweight which is worth considering when you are planning a long hike. They are also made from a water-wicking material which is great for those hikes where you find yourself wading through a stream for instance. In addition, once wet, gear that dries quickly has some benefit over other gear as the ability to dry quickly once wet is invaluable.
What Should I Wear For Hiking?
This depends on the conditions of the hike itself. However, there are a few general tips that can help you choose the right clothes for your hike.
First, consider the weather conditions you'll be hiking in.
If it's cold, you'll want to dress in layers that you can take off or add on as needed. A good base layer might be a long-sleeved shirt made of wicking material, followed by an insulating layer like a sweater or fleece, and topped with a waterproof outer layer like a windbreaker or rain jacket.
Pants should also be made of durable, breathable fabric with some stretch for comfort, and should be loose enough to allow for layering underneath if necessary.
If you're hiking in hot weather, you'll want to dress in light, airy clothing that will help you stay cool and avoid overheating.
A tank top or t-shirt made of moisture-wicking fabric is a good option for the base layer, followed by a light sweater or jacket if it's cooler.
Shorts made of lightweight fabric are also a good choice, as they will allow your skin to breathe.
It's also important to wear comfortable shoes that provide good support and traction.
What Should I Carry Hiking?
There are a few things you should always carry with you when hiking, regardless of how long or short the hike is.
You will need a backpack so that you can carry your gear and keep your hands free. Then it's all about planning what you need to bring along.
First and foremost, always bring plenty of water. It's easy to get dehydrated when hiking, especially in hot weather, so it's important to drink frequently. A good rule of thumb is to bring one liter of water for every three hours of hiking.
In addition to water, you should also pack some snacks and a lunch if you're planning on being out all day.
Don't forget weather specific gear like hats and sun cream in the summer and gloves, camping vests and beanies in the winter.
Trekking poles can also be helpful, both for balance and for getting through tough sections of the trail.
Bear in mind that even a short hike can take longer than expected so it might be useful to carry a compact flashlight with you too. Nothing worse than stumbling around in the dark if the sun sets before you get back to camp.
Basic first aid kit including things like ointment for bites and bandages to support a sprain or use as a sling. A hiking knife is also a great idea as it can be used for many things from creating kindling for a fire to first aid.
Finally, make sure you have a map of the area and know your route before setting out. Getting lost is no fun, especially if you're in an unfamiliar area. Binoculars are great for spotting trail markers so it may be worth bringing some along too.
How Many Pairs Of Hiking Pants Do I Need?
This is a tough question to answer because it depends on so many factors, such as how often you hike, what kind of hiking you do, the weather conditions you typically hike in, and your personal preferences.
If you're an occasional hiker who mostly does day hikes in fair weather, one or two pairs might be all you need. But if you're an avid hiker who does a lot of different types of hikes in all kinds of weather conditions, you might need three or four pairs.
Here are some things to consider when deciding how many pairs of hiking pants to buy:
How often you hike: If you hike regularly, you'll probably want at least two pairs of hiking pants so you can have a clean, dry pair to wear on your next hike.
What kind of hiking you do: Day hikes, overnight hikes, and backpacking trips all have different requirements. Day hikes usually don't require as much gear, so you might not need as many pairs of pants. Overnight hikes and backpacking trips might require more gear, so you might need more pairs of pants.
The weather conditions you typically hike in: If you hike in cold weather, you might need a pair of pants that are insulated. If you hike in hot weather, you might need a pair of pants that are light and breathable.
Take time to consider your own preferences when deciding how many pairs of pants to buy.
Should Hiking Pants Be Tight Or Loose?
There is no definitive answer as to whether hiking pants should be tight or loose. Some people prefer a tighter fit for added support and protection, while others find it more comfortable to wear looser-fitting pants. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Whatever your preference something you need to take into account is mobility. Hiking in the great outdoors will require a level of agility. If your shorts restrict your movement too much it might have an impact on the pace of your hike, your comfort and even your safety.
Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, but it's important to have the right gear. We have highlighted some of our favorite hiking shorts to give you some choices before you take those first steps into the great outdoors.
Our Choice For Womens Lightweight
Our Choice For Mens Lightweight
Our Choice For Fitted Hiking Shorts For Women
Our Choice For Fitted Hiking Shorts For Men
Our Choice For Shorter Hiking Shorts for Women
Columbia Saturday Trail Shorts
Our Choice For Casual Hiking Shorts For Men
Have I made short work of that indecision? I hope that by us laying out these options for the best hiking shorts, we have made things a little easier for you. Take this time to get yourself properly prepared, so you are all set for a wonderful time and have loads of fun.
Keep Asking Questions And We Will Keep Finding Answers For You.
