Best Hiking Shorts for Men & Women 2021, FREE Buyer Guide

Have you ever gone on a hike? If yes, you must know comfort comes first in those harsh conditions. The woods and stiff mountains want you to be agile. The best hiking shorts can give you all the enjoyment of keeping you worry-free.

Pack a pair of lightweight and water-resistant shorts, and you are good to go.

Hiking shorts are a mandate during summertime.

Altogether, the best hiker shorts will keep you cool and protected from the scorching sun. None the less, it adds up to your fashion statement fellas!!

With all the variety available, you must be hell lot confused about selecting the best shorts for hiking

We are here to help you out. After extensive research and testing, we present you with the best shorts through this article.

Also, we have included a buying guide at the end to help you out with choosing the best shorts for hiking.

Now let’s get you going on the journey of acquiring the best hiker shorts.

Best Hiking Shorts for Men & Women: Short Version(Best Price)

1. PRANA – Men’s Stretch Zion Lightweight, Water-Repellent Shorts  

2. Icebreaker Men’s Compass Shorts

3. Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Shorts

4. Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Short

5. Arc’teryx Palisade Short Men’s  

6. The North Face Men’s Straight Paramount 3.0 Short   

7. The North Face Women’s Aphrodite Short   

8. ExOfficio Men’s Camino 8.5” Shorts

9. Coleman Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts with Belt Ideal for Inclement Weather 

10. Mountain Hardwear Women’s AP Scrambler Shorts

1. PRANA – Men’s Stretch Zion Lightweight, Water-Repellent Shorts  

We all prefer being comfortable in our wear, whether it is traveling or day-to-day life. PRANA brand has kept comfortability above everything and showed us to its stretch zion fabric. These features made it the best men hiking shorts.

Pros

• Built-in waist adjuster
• Available in a variety of color options
• Comfortable because of more space around the seat and thigh area

Cons

• The short comes a bit pricey

PRANA – Men’s Stretch Zion Shorts has blown our minds with the comfort it provided for hiking.

Being the best hiking shorts for men, it has got quick-dry and UPF protection fabric.

It has got an adjustable waist that discards the need for a belt.

You can depend on it for its durability in peaks. As the best lightweight hiking shorts, it helps you chill post your climb on terrains.

Therefore, chuck out a few dollars, but get the best one. You can take our words for Prana’s quality and durability.

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2. Icebreaker Men’s Compass Shorts: Best Men’s Hiking Shorts

The best hiking shorts come from the brand Icebreaker.

Though it is expensive, you will get out-of-world comfort. Plus, these shorts will last you a lifetime. So, exhibit them in your rough terrains as well as daily wear.

Pros

• The unique feature of triple needing stitching makes it durable
• Number of pockets to carry on things during hikes
• Gives a fashionable look with the webbing belts

Cons

• Need a big chunk of money to buy Icebreaker shorts

Have you ever faced trouble storing small things during your adventures?

We have got you Icebreaker men’s compass shorts, that got secure zippered cargo and rear pockets.

The front fly with zip and snap closure at the waist enhance the look of the best hiking shorts for men. It also features belt loops with a webbing belt.

This is one of the best lightweight hiking shorts that doesn’t restrict your movement in the rocks. Hence super comfy for sunny days too.

Also, the super-dry technology fabric helps you stay dry in all weather.

Believe in our words and spend your money to buy the Icebreaker.

We guarantee you, you will never repent. Happy hiking guys!!

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3. Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Shorts: Best Durable Shorts

Got big money with you? Then invest it on Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi shorts.

As the best hiking shorts, it comes with guaranteed durability.

Altogether, a thin and flexible softshell material from nylon and elastane makes up the shorts.

Pros

•   Feather-weight
•  Stretchable
• Long-lasting
• Reliable in harsh conditions
• Available in different color variants

Cons

•  A bit pricey for average hikers

Our researchers termed it as the best shorts for hiking seeing its sturdy and stable fabric.

The super-light material makes it a great friend for your summer hikes. Even more, structure provides you protection from the sun and resists from friction.

We give kudos to the wind and water-resistant fabric. They have got a bunch-full of pockets to keep your valuables safe and handy.

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4. Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Short: Best Cargo Short

Hey, you all, looking for the best hiking cargo shorts? You are in the correct place as we have got you the best hiking shorts.

And all you fashionistas, you got varied color options and along with a cozy short.

Pros

• Agility
•  Best in comfort
• It has got zip-closure pockets
•  Built with a UPF protection fabric

Cons

• No as Such

UPF 50 fabric has made the Columbia silver ridge cargo short.

Fabric is infused with Omni-wick technology that pulls away moisturizer and keeps you cool and dry in summertime.

Zipped security pockets, side pockets with hook and loop closing and mesh pockets improve the efficiency.

We stand for the partial elastic waist and hem detailing that gives the optimum comfort.

Make this Columbia shorts yours, and get the freedom in movement with a classic fit.

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5. Arc’teryx Palisade Short Men’s: Best Zipper Pocket Shorts

Arc’teryx palisade shorts can top the list of the best hiking shorts. This short is the perfect combination of fashion and features.

Pros

•  Zippered pockets
•  Integrated belt with the shorts
•   Comes with a fashionable look

Cons

•  Less stretchy

The best men’s hiking shorts come in a breathable material that allows moisture to fade.

Also, the fabric dries up faster and keeps you sweat-free.

This short is best for trekking, being durable and comes with protection. You will get a front fly with snap closure.

Our team considers this the best hiking cargo shorts for the numerous pockets it got. It also got an adjustable integrated webbing belt.

You can enjoy the soft-lined waste and laminated hem. Kudos to the brand for its detail design and features.

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6. The North Face Men’s Straight Paramount 3.0 Short: Best in-built belt Shorts 

The North Face is a famous clothing brand, and they make the best hiker shorts.

We all are a fan of their fabric and comfortable to wear clothes.

Pros

• Consists of built-in belts
• Stretchable
•  Enough pockets to hold things during hike
• DWR finish casts off rain from the shorts

Cons

• Gets easily tangled inside a washing machine

The dry flash fabric keeps moisture away from the body and helps in fast drying. Flash dry technology used increases breathability and promote agility.

These shorts are very light-weight and hence considered as the best hiking cargo shorts.

We are cheering these shorts for their thin waistbands and webbing belts. Grab this best men’s hiking shorts and rule the wild.

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7. The North Face Women’s Aphrodite Short: Best Women Hiker Shorts

Do you want comfort and a sporty look during your adventurous trips?

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite Shorts is a perfect choice if you desire to wear the best hiker shorts.

It is one of the most preferred brands for buying the best women’s shorts for hiking.

Pros

• Exclusively designed to give you comfort in your hiking experience.
• You experience it the whole day because of the most comfortable material used.

You get a warranty on material quality and longevity of the product. Prefer buying the product from an authorized reseller to avail the warranty offer.

Cons

• The price is little high still worth every penny

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite Short comes with the best quality material that wicks away sweat. You can wear it for an extended period without any discomfort.

We recommend you to buy the best hiking shorts for its best quality and comfort.

The product also gives a warranty on its longevity and material quality.

Plus, the design of the brand will provide you with a fresh and trendy look for your hiking trip.

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8. ExOfficio Men’s Camino 8.5” Shorts: Best Mobile Pouch Hiker Shorts

ExOfficio Men’s Camino short contemplates as the best hiking shorts for its nylon construction. The nylon fabric is pleasant to wear and has a super-fast drying characteristic.

Pros

• Machine washable
• Have zip-closure pockets
• Have an additional mobile phone pouch
• Full inseam hem

Cons

• Available in only two colors.

The security zip cargo pockets make ExOfficio short, the best hiking cargo shorts. Also, the fast-drying jade-infused fabric keeps you airy and refreshes you in your sweaty hikes.

We are up for this best men’s hiking shorts for the UPF 30 protection it provides.

So the fabric keeps you burn-free in the scorching heat.

Plus, the multiple zip pockets help you keep your knick-knacks handy. In the end, you get this short in a medium price range, making it affordable to all.

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9. Coleman Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts with Belt Ideal for Inclement Weather 

Say goodbye to your regular denim shorts and switch to comfortable shorts. Feel the comfort and style of wearing the best Men’s shorts for hiking.

Coleman Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts with Belt Ideal for Inclement Weather is going to be your favorite summer wear now. Go for water or land activity with one short.

Pros

• The tear-resistant feature of the product won’t restrict your body movements.
• Perfect wear for land or sea adventure trips.
• It comes with zipped pockets to lock your valuables safe.
• Get protected from harmful UV-A and UV-B rays with its unique technology.

Cons

• The product has a fitting issue Size issue. Order your hiking shorts carefully.

Undoubtedly it is one of the best hiking shorts one can own. It is easy to wear due to its quick-release buckles. It is the most perfect wear for water activities. It solves the dual purpose. Just buy one short for water and land adventure.

We suggest this short as something you must have in your wardrobe. Best men’s shorts for hiking comes with multi-purpose use. Hurry up  Buy the best of all hiker shorts and go to an unending hiking adventure.

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10. Mountain Hardwear Women’s AP Scrambler Shorts: Best UV Protection Hiking Shorts

Wondering, what makes Moutain Hardwear Women’s AP Scrambler Shorts, the Best women’s hiking shorts? Bid Farewell to your discomfort and embarrassment after you get wet during water adventure! Enjoy your hiking with the best women’s shorts.

Pros

• Get quick dry with help of its draining pockets.
• Stay safe from UV RAYS
• Get the unique UPF-50 FABRIC

Cons

• It is only preferred for Healthy people as it comes in large size.
• You will have fewer options to choose your favorite color.

It is recommended for people with plus size to fit well inside it. The product is recognized among the best shorts in hiking due to its durable fabric and west band that provides extra support.

No need of carrying an extra pair of shorts in case you get wet. It comes with a unique feature of quick-draining pockets. Get the Best hiker shorts for your hiking trip and enjoy!

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Buying Guide: Best Short for Hiking Men & Women

Style and utility

Utilize the shorts in a variety of activities, other than a single one.  It should be flexible enough for both short and long trips. It must have a style sense to it as well.

Weather Adaptable

The best of all shorts must be water-resistant, adaptable to wind and heat conditions. You should also consider how much time the fabric takes to dry up when wet.

Ventilation

The shorts design should let go of heat from the body. It must be able to evaporate sweat faster. This feature will keep your body cool and fresh.

Construction Fabric

The fabric used in the shorts is one of the most critical factors. Nylon is durable and abrasion-resistant is famous for hiking shorts. Lycra can add stretch to your shorts making it comfortable.

Polyester is a soft fabric that helps in evaporation. Cotton fabric is suitable for hot summer day hiking.

Pockets

Hiking shorts should have pockets to store hiking accessories. These pockets should be deep enough or have zip closers to prevent loss of items.

Weight

Lightweight hiking shorts should be preferred to provide you a comfortable and easy movement.

Sun protection (UPF)

Hiking shorts you choose must have a coating to protect you from the sun. It should protect you from harmful UV rays by having standard UPF.

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Conclusion: Best Hiking Shorts 2020

We are now all sorted in terms of your hiking shorts. Go through our list of the best hiker shorts

The buying guide also adds up to your knowledge of selecting hiking shorts.

Keep in mind, give comfort and quality priority over money. It is better to spare a bit more money than repent later with poor performance.

We are more than happy to give you insights on the best hiking shorts.

Both men and women enjoy affordable good quality shirts on your next hiking. Kudos to your hikes.