Hiking shorts are one of the go-to hiking gear for experienced hikers and outdoor lovers. Over the years, we wore shorts on different hiking trips especially during the summer or when weather was not much cold. Additionally, shorts are also great option for backpacking; you can wear them when you want to relax at camp site. We did an extensive research and based on our own experiences, we have shortlisted the best hiking shorts for men available in the market. There are a few things that you should keep in mind when searching for the perfect pair of shorts for your next hike. In addition, we have prepared a simple guide, if you plan to buy hiking shorts soon (or in the future).
In addition to this, we have reviewed the best base layers, hiking pants, hiking hats, hiking belts and rain poncho for all your hiking and outdoor adventure needs in one place.
Features of Hiking Shorts
Hiking shorts are a great option for those who want to get out and enjoy nature without having to deal with sweaty legs. There are many different types of shorts for hikes, ranging from cotton to stretchy materials like lycra. If you’re looking for some shorts that are comfortable and durable while still being able to move freely, keep in mind the following options:
Washing Machine Safe
The material of the pants should be washable. You need not worry about the washing machine damaging your shorts or making them shrink. Cotton, polyester, and spandex make up the bulk of these types of materials. While cotton is soft and comfortable, polyester provides more durability and less stretch. Spandex is the best fabric material for workout apparel because they provide flexibility and breathability. When buying hiking shorts make sure you buy something made out of the right type of fabric since these fabrics have different characteristics and use.
Breathable Material
When you go hiking, you want to be able to breathe comfortably. These shorts should be breathable because that way you won’t feel too hot or cold in action. Also, if you sweat while hiking, you would not want your shorts to soak up all the moisture. Hiking shorts should be made out of a material that keeps water away from the skin without being bulky.
Waterproofing
There are many ways to waterproof hiking shorts. One way is to use a waterproof lining inside the shorts. Another method is to cut holes in the pockets and sew them closed. Many hiking shorts have mesh material on the sides of the shorts. Mesh material helps the shorts to dry faster than traditional shorts.
Durable Material
Since hiking shorts are meant to withstand rigorous activity, the material should be strong enough to resist tearing, punctures, and abrasions. You want to purchase hiking shorts that will last for quite some time. To ensure the durability of the hiking shorts, choose ones made of leather and nylon. Leather hiking shorts are the most durable and long-lasting. Nylon hiking shorts are stronger and more flexible than leather hiking shorts.
Pockets
Hiking shorts should have lots of pockets so you can store items easily. You may also want to add some extra pockets for larger items. Most hikers prefer having at least two back pockets. However, if you plan to carry a backpack along with you, then you might want to invest in four back pockets.
Straps
Straps are a great addition to any pair of hiking shorts. They help keep your in place while you move around or climb over things. There are various styles of straps that you can choose from. A few popular options are elastic straps, adjustable waist belts, and chest straps. You may also find ankle straps or leg loops useful.
Length
While hiking, you will probably end up carrying a backpack along with you. Your hiking shorts should fit well under your backpack straps, no matter how big the hiking pack is. In case you don’t own a backpack, you could always wear shorts that extend below your knees to protect your knees and inner thighs from abrasions and being breathable at the same time.
Top 8 Best Hiking Shorts for Men
1. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Short is made of a thin, highly breathable fabric ideal for hiking in warm weather. The gusseted crotch is highly mobile. These shorts are versatile gear that is great for keeping the legs cool on hot summer hikes or cool enough for a brief dip in a mountain lake. They’re comfortable and well-constructed, and we didn’t experience any durability issues during testing. We recommend them for a wide range of activities, especially for anyone who gets warm quickly when hiking or climbing in the summer.
These shorts use a fit with room in the thighs but tighten up towards your knees to be more comfortable walking. The fabric stretches, and the crotch is gusseted to increase space. As a result, we found these shorts had good freedom of movement without the fabric being too tight. Despite its basic feature set, the shorts worked well for our testers, and we appreciate the lightweight.
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Men’s Shorts are a versatile trail option with a lightweight and breathable feel. However, due to the thinness of the fabric, we do not think they are the most durable option out there. If you are looking for a good pair of shorts for hiking and outdoor use, these shorts an excellent choice.
2. Columbia Silver Ridge Ii Stretch Short
The Columbia Silver Ridge II Stretch shorts are a decent option for those looking for a reliable and affordable pair of hiking shorts. They’re not perfect, but they do a reasonable job at most things, from comfort to weather resistance. With that said, there are a few details where these shorts could be improved, such as the zippered security pocket. Nonetheless, they’re still one of the better options in terms of price and performance.
Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge II Stretch Shorts are perfect for a casual day. These shorts are made with a 95%/5% nylon/elastane blend and are made to be stretchy and comfortable. However, the material is one of the most static we tested, making them ineffective for active pursuits. The Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Ii Stretch Short is a versatile option for the active man. Also, these are made from a comfortable blend of cotton and polyester and are perfect for a day of hiking or spending time outdoors.
The Velcro closure on the pockets keeps your belongings secure, while the zip fly and button closure provide a custom fit. Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Ii Stretch Short is perfect for a day outdoors. The fabric has a UPF 50 rating and a nice tight weave, which also offers solid wind protection.
3. THE NORTH FACE Wander Short
The North Face Men’s Wander Short is made from stretch-woven fabric; this short offers increased mobility and durability. Additionally, the highly durable, moisture-wicking FlashDry-XD™ fabric helps keep you cool and dry when temperatures start to rise. The North Face Men’s Wander Short is perfect for the modern man who wants a versatile and stylish short that can handle any activity. Made with a non-PFC DWR finish, these shorts are water resistant and perfect for outdoor. The elastic waistband and internal drawstring allow you to customize the fit. At the same time, the concealed-zip pocket keeps your belongings safe.
We loved it because the color of the shorts doesn’t fade away after washing many times. It fits best when you choose to perfect size. Otherwise, it doesn’t give the fit. We found the fabric is super comfy and great for hiking. These are perfect shorts for summer and come in a variety of colors. Testers also found that they don’t even shrink after wash. Some of the testers found that the pocket size of a short caused the phone to bounce, so it’s not for jogging. The only issue we face with this short is you have to be very careful while picking your size because if the size is not fit, this will not give you a stylish look.
4. Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Short
The Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts are the perfect cargo shorts for all your adventuring needs. Made with synthetic quick-drying material and a belt, these shorts will keep you feeling comfortable and looking great no matter what the day throws your way. With five pockets that each have decent space to hold any number of objects, you’ll never have to worry about losing anything while you’re out and about. The Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts are the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for great value in hiking shorts.
These shorts are made from durable yet lightweight fabric; these shorts are perfect for backpacking, hiking, car camping, or any other activity where you need a bit of extra mobility and protection. And if you’re traveling internationally, the versatile Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts can do double-duty as your go-to cargo shorts. The Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts are perfect for a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. The comfortable fit and stylish design make these shorts a favorite among athletes and casual wearers.
The Silver Ridge shorts are often on sale, making them an excellent value for your money. With a variety of colors and sizes to choose from, there is a pair of Columbia Silver Ridge shorts for everyone. The sun protection factor makes these shorts perfect for outdoor activities. The Columbia Silver Ridge shorts are perfect for classic cargo hiking shorts. With a comfortable fit and multiple pockets, these shorts are perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Read our in-depth Review: Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Short in-depth review
5. prAna Stretch Zion Short
The prAna Zion Shorts are one of the most iconic hiking shorts available in the market. They’re made of abrasion-resistant fabric that can take a beating against all sorts of terrain, and they also dry relatively quickly and stretch incredibly well. Whether you’re hitting the trails or just out and about town, these shorts will keep you looking and feeling your best. The shorts have five pockets, four of which are fairly standard front and back hand pockets, and a hook-and-loop closure cargo pocket. This allows easy storage, but not quite as much as other cargo shorts on this list. However, the lightweight and quick-drying fabric makes these shorts perfect for activewear and outdoor adventures. The Stretch Zion is the more hiking-oriented version.
The prAna Stretch Zion hiking short is ideal for hiking, climbing, and exploring. With a technical fabric blend, this cargo short provides the exact amount of stretch and recovery you need for a comfortable fit. The stretch fabric is flexible yet durable, and the fit is snug enough to provide a good range of motion without being too constricting. We were disappointed with the water resistance of these shorts and found that the pockets were not particularly well-thought-out, but overall, they still look good.
6. Fjallraven Abisko Shorts
Based on the extremely popular and successful Women’s Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights, we now have a Men’s version – the Fjallraven Abisko Shorts. We fell in love with these shorts last summer and have used them extensively for everything from hiking and backpacking to multi-pitch rock climbing. While decidedly less technical, their construction is equally well executed with premium workmanship. The Abisko shorts are perfect for hiking and trekking in warm weather.
The headliner here is Fjallraven’s legendary G-1000 fabric, which uses a mix of polyester and cotton to effectively balance durability, water-resistance, and comfort. Another unique feature is the waist design, which is slightly lower at the front and higher in the back to maximize comfort when carrying a pack. The Fjallraven Men’s Abisko Shorts are the perfect choice for an active lifestyle. With a comfortable fit and a stylish design, these shorts are sure to be your go-to shorts for any outdoor adventure.
7.Helikon-Tex Outdoor Tactical Shorts
Helikon-Tex Urban/Outdoor Tactical Short is the perfect solution when you need to carry a lot of gear without compromising style. The multiple large and flat pockets are perfect for carrying all of your essentials, while the front pockets provide quick and easy access to whatever you need. With a wide variety of colors to choose from, you can easily match these shorts to the rest of your wardrobe or working conditions.
Helikon-Tex is the perfect shorts for the outdoorsman. These long-lasting tactical shorts are made of stretchable fabric. The elastic material lets you move freely with every activity providing comfort while you are out on the open range. We love the hook and loop Velcro closure, instead of a button closure, which allows a better waist adjustment. Made up of heavy material, it is not recommended for summer, as they take time to dry. The amount of pockets is unbelievably convenient, though some phones are not getting fits. Overall, the shorts are nice. We love all the pockets but not the price.
8. Rdruko Quick Dry Hiking Shorts
Hike in comfort wherever you go in these shorts. Quick drying, moisture-wicking, and lightweight sports fabric wicks sweat from the skin to help you stay comfortable and dry and comfortable – so much as to forget you are wearing them. It has three deep zippered pockets for keeping things organized. The do dry quickly after swimming. The elastic is nice and snug. The waistband does have a drawstring if you need to make them tighter. It is highly recommended for hot weather and not at all for winter. We found it the same after crossing mud and sand. The fit and texture of this short are up to the mark.
The only problem is that they look very baggy. Overall, these are a very nice pair of shorts that can be worn for hiking and for working out. Would recommend these especially given the zippered pockets and quality materials at this amazing price. It’s worth trying.
Hiking Shorts: Comparison Table
| Name | Price | Material | Waist | Pockets | Weight | Quick Dry | Best For |
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts | $55.96 – $69.95 | 86% nylon, 14% spandex | 28 – 38 | 2 hand, 1 zip thigh, 2 back | 190g | Yes | Hiking Outdoor activities |
| Columbia Silver Ridge Ii Stretch Short | $50.00 | 95% nylon, 5% elastane | 28 – 42 | 5 | 190g | Yes | casual day hikes weekend wear |
| THE NORTH FACE Wander Short | $32.14 | 86% recycled polyester/14% elastane | 23 – 44 | concealed-zip pocket at the side seam two drop-in hand pockets | 138g | Yes | Casual Hikes and for the gym |
| Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Short | $45.00 | 100% nylon ripstop | 29 – 48 | Zip-closed security pocket, hand pockets and mesh pocket bags | 158.76 g | Yes | Hiking |
| prAna Men’s Stretch Zion Short | $41.37 – $143.06 | 97% nylon, 3% Spandex | 28 – 42 | Two front, two rear, and one on the left | 258g | Yes | Travel, Backpacking, Casual, Hiking |
| Fjallraven – Men’s Abisko Shorts | $82.46 | 65% polyester, 35% cotton | 29 – 42 | 5 | 303g | No | Outdoor Hiking Trekking |
| Helikon-Tex Outdoor Tactical Shorts | $52.00 – $91.95 | 60% Cotton, 37% Polyester, 3% Elastane | 28 – 47 | 10 | 474g | Yes | Hiking Civilian and tactical use |
| Rdruko Men’s Quick Dry Hiking Shorts | $19.99 | 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex | 28 – 46 | Three zipper pockets, athletic shorts with three deep zippered pockets | 222g | Yes | Workout, Exercise, Running, Jogging, Walking, Gym, Fitness, Training, Soccer, Basketable sports or Casual at home |
How To Choose Hiking Shorts
If you’re a hardcore hiker, then you probably already know what’s awesome about hiking shorts! You might even own a pair that you love to wear while exploring nature and spending time outdoors. It is the most versatile piece of clothing for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re out in the wilderness, enjoying a day hike, or even just going on a casual stroll around town, choosing the right pair of hiking shorts is definitely worth the investment. No matter what you’re doing, you’ll want to ensure that you have comfortable, durable clothes that fit well for long periods without sacrificing style. To find out how to choose the best hiking shorts, keep reading below.
Comfortable Fit
Hiking shorts should fit comfortably without being tight around the waist. If you have a larger waistline than average, it is important to look for hiking shorts that don’t bunch at the back. You want to avoid any uncomfortable pressure points while hiking.
Durability
If you’re buying camping equipment or clothing for general use, you should consider durability. Hiking shorts aren’t going to be pounded on daily, but you shouldn’t expect the same level of durability as hiking boots or jackets either. Look for materials that will stand up to time and weather. You will probably want to invest in a pair of waterproof hiking shorts that resists mildew and moisture.
Activity
If you’re going to be spending long days in the wilderness, you may want to consider purchasing hiking shorts that offer some extra padding on the knees and thighs. These will help protect you from blisters and chaffing.
Find Storage in Ease
Look for hiking shorts that feature pockets for storing small items like water bottles or snacks. You’ll also find that many hiking shorts are designed with a drawstring waistband, making them easier to put on and take off, and adjust to support the bulky pockets.
Fabric
Most hikers prefer cotton fabrics because they’re lightweight and breathable, but they tend to be less durable than some alternatives. If you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors, then synthetic materials like polyester might be preferable. Look at the label to determine if any chemicals were used to create the material. A chemical called phthalate, which is often used to make plastics softer, was recently banned from many children’s clothing products due to its negative effects on human health.
Colors & Patterns
You may have heard about camouflage patterns, but they’re not meant for hiking. Camouflage patterns are primarily designed to help you hide when you’re hunting or fishing. Instead, look for colors and patterns that blend well with natural surroundings. Black and white hiking shirts are classic for obvious reasons. You should also avoid bright colors since they can attract unwanted attention while you’re exploring.
Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, then you’ll want to make sure that you purchase hiking shorts that fit into a price range that meets your needs. If you plan on purchasing hiking shorts in bulk, you may want to buy some cheap ones initially and upgrade later. To avoid spending a lot of money, try buying online. Many retailers offer deals and discounts on their products, so you might be able to save a little bit of cash.
Be Ready to Pay for Quality
When it comes to buying hiking shorts, price shouldn’t matter as much as quality does. But, if you do decide to splurge on a pair, make sure they’re constructed using high-quality materials such as polyester, nylon, fleece, etc. such as polyester, nylon, fleece, etc. Buying cheap hiking shorts isn’t a good idea if you are going on a long or rough expedition because they won’t sustain and won’t provide the same level of comfort as pricier options.
FAQs
What Kind of Shorts Are Best for Hiking?
This is not really a question that we can answer with 100% certainty. It is all about the hikers’ preference. Some hikers like extra storage room for their equipment like compass or trail map and they will most likely go with cargo pants. But, if they want some more elegance, they will go with Savane hiking shorts, which have almost the same features as cargo shorts.
Also, some prefer lightweight and minimalistic hiking shorts, so they will go with some kind of running shorts or trail running shorts that have pockets and are a little bit longer. There are so many factors to take into consideration when naming the best kind of hiking shorts.
Ask yourself a few questions that will help you find what suits your needs the best like:
- Where are you going?
- How long are you going to be on a trail?
- What terrain are you going to be in?
Are Cargo Shorts Good for Hiking?
Cargo pants are outstanding for hiking because they have plenty of pockets to store all your essentials for hiking, like maps, compass, GPS device, and all kinds of gear. Like we answered in the first question, hiking shorts should be made of breathable and quick-drying fabrics and so should cargo shorts be.
Summary
Hiking shorts should be comfortable and durable. If they do not provide comfort after long hours of hiking then they are no good at all. Look out for elastic waistbands and pockets. Be sure the pockets are big enough to hold things like water bottles without them being uncomfortable while you hike. You want to avoid bulky material that will make walking difficult, especially if you are wearing heavy boots. Avoid low-cut legs unless you know how to hike properly. Another thing to consider is whether the zipper goes up or down. A zipper going up makes getting dressed easier than one going down. Go for something that won’t ride up or rub against your thigh. Look for fabric that looks nice and that doesn’t fade easily. These are just some things to think about before buying best hiking shorts.
Stay away from cotton because it stays wet much longer than some synthetic fabrics. Hiking in shorts like these is very comfortable and you can find them in pretty much all sizes. It’s not like some fancy shorts that aren’t made for plus-size buyers. They are also very durable and they won’t rip that easily.
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