When you’re gearing up for your next hiking adventure, the right shorts can make all the difference. You’re probably wondering which ones will keep you comfortable, protected, and performing at your best. Don’t worry, we’ve found the solution. After researching and testing top contenders, we’ve narrowed it down to three exceptional options: the Eddie Bauer Womens Rainier Shorts, Columbia Mens Tech Trail Short, and prAna Mens Mojo Short. Each boasts unique features that set them apart, but which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at what makes these hiking shorts stand out from the rest.
Contents
- Eddie Bauer Womens Rainier Shorts
- Columbia Mens Tech Trail Short
- prAna Mens Mojo Short
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Hiking Shorts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Casual, Everyday Activities?
- Do Hiking Shorts Make a Difference in Hot and Humid Weather?
- Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Water-Based Activities Like Kayaking?
- Are Hiking Shorts Suitable for Hiking in Cold and Snowy Conditions?
- Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Other Outdoor Activities Like Cycling?
- Conclusion
Eddie Bauer Womens Rainier Shorts
If you’re a pear-shaped woman seeking a comfortable, true-to-size hiking short that accentuates your curves without constricting, the Eddie Bauer Womens Rainier Shorts are an excellent choice.
You’ll appreciate the perfect fit, with a waist that isn’t too tight and legs that have room to move. The high waist and right inseam design make these shorts ideal for your body type.
You’ll also love the storage options, with zippered pockets that fit your iPhone and a cargo pocket along the thigh that can hold your wallet and phone. The pockets are mesh, lightweight, and comfortable, making them perfect for outdoor activities.
With their super light, stretchy, and breathable fabric, these shorts are a great choice for hiking and casual summer wear.
Best For: Pear-shaped women seeking a comfortable, true-to-size hiking short that accentuates their curves without constricting.
Pros:
- True to size, with a comfortable fit that doesn’t constrict the body
- Multiple storage options, including zippered pockets and a cargo pocket, that can hold an iPhone and wallet
- Super light, stretchy, and breathable fabric that’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and casual summer wear
Cons:
- One reviewer found the pockets to be useless
- Panty line visibility may be an issue if not wearing seamless panties
- Belt loops are too small for some belts, such as the BSA uniform belt
Columbia Mens Tech Trail Short
For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize comfort and protection, Columbia’s Tech Trail Short stands out as a top choice, offering UPF 50 sun protection and a stain-resistant exterior layer.
You’ll appreciate the durable and comfortable design, made with Columbia’s signature protection materials.
The shorts are available in multiple staple colors and sizes, so you can easily find a pair that fits your style.
When choosing your size, be sure to refer to the sizing chart and measure around your natural waistline.
You’ll find the fit is true to size, although some users have noted they can be a bit loose or baggy in certain areas.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize comfort and protection while engaging in various activities.
Pros:
- Offers UPF 50 sun protection and a stain-resistant exterior layer for optimal comfort and protection.
- Made with durable and comfortable materials, providing a great quality product.
- Available in multiple staple colors and sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for most users.
Cons:
- Some users experienced issues with back pocket stitching coming unraveled, raising concerns about quality control.
- Fit can be a bit loose or baggy in certain areas, which may not be ideal for all users.
- Disappointment with quality control from Columbia, which could impact overall user satisfaction.
prAna Mens Mojo Short
You’ll appreciate the prAna Mens Mojo Short’s exceptional breathability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize flexibility and moisture-wicking performance in their hiking shorts.
They’re lightweight, stretchy, and perfect for yoga, TRX training, or casual activities like walking or summer parties.
While some reviewers found them a bit tight in the crotch, others found them true to size, so you might want to size up, especially if you have bulky quads.
Overall, you’ll love the prAna Mens Mojo Short’s performance, comfort, and durability, making them a great addition to your outdoor gear.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize flexibility and moisture-wicking performance in their hiking shorts, particularly those who engage in yoga, TRX training, or casual activities like walking or summer parties.
Pros:
- Exceptional breathability and comfort for outdoor activities
- Lightweight, stretchy, and perfect for various exercises and casual wear
- Well-made with durable material that can withstand outdoor use
Cons:
- May be a bit tight in the crotch for some users
- May not be suitable for all yoga poses due to restrictive design
- Can get heavy and sticky when wet
Factors to Consider When Choosing Hiking Shorts
When you’re shopping for hiking shorts, you’ll want to think carefully about a few key factors to find the perfect pair.
You’re looking for shorts that fit comfortably, meet your storage needs, and can keep up with your active lifestyle.
From sizing options to moisture resistance, let’s delve into the essential factors to think about when selecting your next hiking shorts.
Fit and Sizing Options
As you start searching for the perfect hiking shorts, think about your body type and measure around your natural waistline to guarantee a comfortable fit.
You’ll want to check the sizing chart to verify you’re getting the right size, as ‘true to size’ can vary between brands. If you have a pear-shaped body, look for high-waisted shorts with the right inseam to accentuate your curves without constricting. If you’ve recently lost weight, you may be able to fit into a smaller size, but prioritize comfort and mobility over the number on the label.
Waist size isn’t the only factor to take into account – leg room and thigh circumference can also impact the overall fit and comfort of the shorts.
You want a relaxed fit that allows for freedom of movement, without being too loose or baggy. Reviewers often stress that a comfortable fit is essential for outdoor activities, so prioritize shorts that provide a comfortable, unrestricted feel.
Pockets and Storage Needs
Your hiking shorts’ pocket configuration and storage capacity play a crucial role in keeping your essentials within easy reach while keeping your hands free to navigate the trail.
When choosing the best hiking shorts for you, consider how many pockets you need and where they should be placed. Do you prefer multiple small pockets for organization or a few larger ones for bulk storage? Think about what you’ll be carrying: snacks, a map, sunscreen, or a first-aid kit?
You’ll want easy access to these items without having to stop and dig through your backpack.
Look for shorts with secure, zippered pockets to keep your valuables safe. Some hiking shorts even feature pockets with mesh linings for ventilation and drainage.
Consider the type of activities you’ll be doing while wearing the shorts. If you’ll be hiking in wet conditions, you may want pockets with water-resistant materials. If you’ll be hiking in warm weather, mesh pockets can help keep you cool.
Comfortable Fabric Choices
You’ll want to opt for hiking shorts made from comfortable, high-performance fabrics that cater to your outdoor adventure needs.
Lightweight and breathable fabrics with moisture-wicking properties are ideal, as they keep you cool and dry during physical activity. Fabrics with stretch are also essential, allowing for a full range of motion and flexibility during hiking and other outdoor activities.
Quick-drying fabrics are a must, as they prevent chafing and discomfort caused by wet clothing. Additionally, look for fabrics with UPF 50 sun protection, which provides added protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
Mesh fabrics can add ventilation and cooling to your hiking shorts, making them a comfortable choice for warm weather hiking. By choosing hiking shorts with these fabric features, you’ll be able to focus on your hike rather than being distracted by uncomfortable clothing.
You’ll appreciate the comfort and performance these fabrics provide, allowing you to take on your outdoor adventures with confidence.
Style and Design Elements
When choosing hiking shorts, consider the style and design elements that cater to your specific needs and preferences, as these factors can substantially impact your overall hiking experience.
You’ll want a comfortable and flattering fit that allows for a full range of motion. If you have a pear-shaped body, look for shorts with an ideal inseam length and high waist design for added comfort and practicality.
Think about the pocket configuration too – cargo pockets with zippers can store essentials like phones and wallets, while mesh pockets can add breathability and comfort.
The style and design of your hiking shorts can also impact their versatility – some styles are perfect for both outdoor activities and casual summer wear.
Finally, don’t forget to check the belt loop size and adjustability to guarantee a secure and comfortable fit with your preferred belt or waistband.
Moisture and Stain Resistance
Moisture and stains can quickly ruin a hike, but hiking shorts with the right features can save the day, keeping you dry, comfortable, and focused on the trail ahead.
When you’re hiking in wet conditions, moisture-resistant hiking shorts can be a lifesaver. They’ll help keep you dry and comfortable, reducing the risk of chafing and discomfort.
Stain-resistant treatments are also a must-have, making it easier to clean and maintain your shorts after a muddy or dirty hike.
Look for water-repellent fabrics like nylon or polyester, which provide an extra layer of protection against moisture.
Some hiking shorts even feature specialized membranes like Gore-Tex or eVent, which offer both breathability and moisture resistance. These membranes will keep you dry and comfortable during intense activities.
When choosing hiking shorts with moisture and stain resistance, make sure to look for features like water-repellent coatings, breathable membranes, and quick-drying fabrics.
With the right shorts, you’ll be able to hike with confidence, no matter the conditions. By considering moisture and stain resistance, you’ll be able to focus on the trail ahead, not on your soggy, stained shorts.
Breathability and Ventilation
Breathability and ventilation are essential features to prioritize in your hiking shorts, as they enable a constant flow of air to reach your skin, preventing overheating and discomfort during even the most intense hikes.
When choosing the right shorts, look for breathable fabrics with mesh linings or perforations that allow for airflow and moisture-wicking properties to keep your skin dry and cool. Ventilation systems, such as zippered thigh vents or crotch gussets, can provide additional airflow and help regulate your body temperature during intense exercise.
The type of fabric used in your hiking shorts can greatly impact breathability. Opt for fabrics like nylon, polyester, or merino wool, which are known for their moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties.
Additionally, consider hiking shorts with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to enhance breathability and protect against wind and rain.
Activity-Specific Features Needed
Depending on your outdoor pursuits, you’ll want to think about specific features in your hiking shorts to verify they meet the demands of your activity.
If you’re a backpacker or long-distance hiker, you’ll appreciate zippered pockets and cargo pockets to keep your gear secure. If you’re heading out on a sunny day, look for shorts with UPF 50 sun protection to keep your skin safe.
For activities that involve water or high-sweat levels, such as climbing or TRX training, opt for shorts with breathable, quick-drying, and moisture-wicking fabrics. This will help keep you cool and dry.
If you’re planning to engage in activities that require a full range of motion, like yoga or rock climbing, choose shorts with stretchy fabric and a comfortable, flexible fit. Furthermore, if you’ll be hiking in rainy or wet conditions, consider shorts with a water-resistant or waterproof treatment to keep you dry and comfortable.
Weight and Packability Matters
As you ponder the specific features you need for your outdoor pursuits, you’ll also want to think about the weight and packability of your hiking shorts.
This is vital because super light and stretchy fabric enables comfortable movement and allows for easy packing. Shorts with a lightweight design weigh much less than traditional hiking pants, making them ideal for backpackers and minimalist hikers.
When choosing hiking shorts, look for ones with a packable design that can be easily stowed away in a backpack or daypack when not in use, freeing up space for other essential gear.
The weight and packability of hiking shorts directly impact the overall weight and bulk of your pack, so you must prioritize these factors.
Additionally, hiking shorts with water-resistant and breathable fabric can help keep you dry and comfortable, even in wet or humid conditions, while also reducing the need for additional gear like rain pants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Casual, Everyday Activities?
You can definitely wear those shorts for casual, everyday activities – they’re comfortable, practical, and versatile. Since they’re designed for outdoor adventure, they’ll handle daily wear and tear with ease, and you’ll appreciate their freedom of movement.
Do Hiking Shorts Make a Difference in Hot and Humid Weather?
When you’re outdoors in sweltering heat and humidity, you’ll appreciate the breathability and moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and dry, making a huge difference in your comfort level.
Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Water-Based Activities Like Kayaking?
You’re wondering if you can wear hiking shorts for water-based activities like kayaking? Absolutely! You’ll appreciate the quick-drying, breathable fabric and flexibility for paddling, making hiking shorts a great choice for water adventures.
Are Hiking Shorts Suitable for Hiking in Cold and Snowy Conditions?
You’d freeze your buns off in Antarctica wearing hiking shorts in the snow! Seriously, though, you’ll want insulated, waterproof pants for cold and snowy conditions, not hiking shorts, which are designed for warm, dry trails.
Can I Wear Hiking Shorts for Other Outdoor Activities Like Cycling?
You can definitely wear shorts for cycling, but consider the terrain and weather. If it’s a casual ride on a warm day, shorts are perfect. However, if you’re cycling in rough terrain or cold weather, you may want to opt for more protective gear.
Conclusion
You’ve finally found the perfect hiking shorts!
With the Eddie Bauer Womens Rainier Shorts, Columbia Mens Tech Trail Short, and prAna Mens Mojo Short, you’ll be ready to tackle any trail.
These exceptional options offer comfort, protection, and breathability.
Remember to weigh factors like fit, fabric, and features when choosing your ideal shorts.
Now, get out there and hike a million miles (okay, maybe not that far, but you get the idea!) with confidence and style!
