Best Women's Hiking Shorts of 2023

JUMP TO: ATHLETA TREKKIE NORTH SHORT  /  ALDER APPAREL TAKE A HIKE SHORT  /  ARC’TERYX GAMMA LT SHORT  /  LULULEMON ALIGN HIGH RISE SHORT  /  CARHARTT FORCE RELAXED FIT RIPSTOP 5 POCKET WORK SHORT  /  TITLE NINE SWITCHBACK ULTRALIGHT HIKING SKORT   /  NRS LOLO SHORT  /  PATAGONIA BAGGIES SHORT  /  BUYING ADVICE / COMMON QUESTIONS

Author: Juliet Kennedy | Updated: Mar 27, 2023
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When daylight lingers into the evening and the chill in the air dwindles, we begin eagerly packing away bulky winter layers and pulling out our spring and summer gear.

When setting out on summer adventures; we tend to choose outfits with comfort and functionality in mind. So, whether wandering trails flocked with spring wildflower blooms, bagging rugged mountain peaks, or exploring around town on a sunny day, the comfort and flexibility of shorts is tough to beat.

Shorts offer versatility as they provide the best mobility and range of motion, but can be accompanied by warm layers on your upper body if summer temps happen to drop whilst out on the trails.

In this article, we review the best women’s hiking shorts to help you find the perfect pair to wear next time you head out on your endeavors.

This list will guide you through the specifications of each choice, categorized by which options might be best for any activity that you embark on. From trekking in the wilderness to exploring your favorite city, here are our top choices for the best women’s hiking shorts.

If you love reading this review of the best women’s hiking shorts, then you'll likely love reading some of our other hiking and backpacking content:

 

Need To Know What To Look Out For?

When choosing the right pair of shorts for hiking, keep in mind what you want to do while wearing them. Will you be scrambling up a peak, squatting to get the best photo angles, or sitting on logs beside a babbling brook? Check out our buying advice at the end of this article to help guide your decision on choosing the shorts that will work best for you.

 

MATERIAL: Recycled Nylon/Nylon/Spandex

POCKETS: 4

INSEAM: Regular/Plus 3.5”

PROS: Quick-drying material, lightweight, abrasion resistant, functional pockets

CONS: Run large, no length variations in this style

The Athleta Trekkie North Shorts are built for a wide range of outdoor activities. They’re designed with ripstop technology so you can hike, climb, and scramble without worrying about them catching and tearing. The wide waistband provides comfort and keeps them snug on your hips whether you’re wearing them with a backpacking bag for an overnight in the wild or heading out for a trail run.

These shorts are moisture wicking and dry easily so if your trails lead you to an alpine lake, you can take a dip and dry off quickly without having soggy bottoms all day. There are 4 pockets which come in handy if you don’t want to carry a day bag or purse while walking around town. The pockets have quality zipper closures to keep your things secure and have enough space to hold your essentials.

The fabric incorporates sun protection with SPF 50+ keeping you safe from harsh sun rays. One of our favorite features is that you can toss them in the washer and dryer without having to take any special care or precautions to clean or dry them.

They are breathable in warm weather and lightweight for long treks. These shorts can be styled for an afternoon around town and are durable enough to wear on all your adventures exploring the great outdoors. Another perk is that there are a wide range of neutral and vibrant color options to complement all your other outdoor gear.

MATERIAL: 88% recycled nylon and 12% spandex

POCKETS: 8

INSEAM: 4”

PROS: Tons of storage for essentials, removable belt, stretchy, sturdy, water-wicking

CONS: Run small, material may wrinkle or shrink after machine washing and drying

The Alder Apparel Take A Hike Shorts serve both functionality and style. Designed with consideration for all body types, these shorts have a wide size range and inclusive model representation. They come with a low-profile belt that is easily adjusted and can also be removed from the garment if it doesn't suit your fit and style.

The Take A Hike Shorts boast 8 pockets of different sizes and varying closures which allow you to carry all your essentials and still have room for more. The internal mesh pocket is large enough for a cell phone and keeps your electronics protected from dust and dirt. 

These shorts are made primarily from recycled nylon, paired with 12% spandex that provides stretch in the fabric and allows for freedom of movement. The combination of nylon and spandex also promotes breathability and moisture wicking properties that help keep you cool and dry in the heat.

The waist sits high on the hips to prevent them from slipping down while wearing a backpack waist strap and the stretch of the fabric prevents gapping in the back when bending or squatting. The cuffs on each leg can also be rolled up or down to give you length and style variation. You can choose from a handful of color options to show off your personal style while staying cool and dry out on the trails.

Best for Scrambling: ARC’TERYX GAMMA LT SHORT

MATERIAL: 88% Nylon, 12% Elastane 

POCKETS: 2 

INSEAM: 6”

PROS: Simple design, zippered pockets, softshell water resistance, gusseted crotch

CONS: No back pockets, only offered in two dark colors

The women’s Arc'teryx Gamma LT Shorts are constructed with Arc’teryx Fortius™ DW 2.0 fabric – with a softshell outer material and smooth internal feel. They are made tough to withstand your most epic endeavors while also being soft against your skin to prevent chafing. The water and abrasion resistant outer shell provides protection from nature and the elements while also keeping you comfortable no matter what outdoor adventure you embark on.

The proprietary material is Bluesign® approved, making them one of the more environmentally friendly choices on this list. The cushioned waistband has a built-in adjustable belt that lays flat and sits comfortably beneath a harness or backpack waist strap. Intuitively placed pockets make reaching for your personal items easy and thoughtless while the zippered closures give you peace of mind that your essentials will remain right where you put them.

The fabrics of the Gamma LT Shorts are meant to last and withstand long term use which means they shouldn’t pill after washing and wearing. Arc’teryx incorporated a seamless laminated hem on the legs to cut down on friction against your skin for increased comfort. They are durable enough to not tear against jagged rocks while climbing and lightweight enough to keep you cool and dry while scaling mountains in the hot sun.

MATERIAL: Body: 81% nylon, 19% Lycra® elastane. Lining: 90% nylon, 10% Lycra® elastane.

POCKETS: 1 hidden waistband pocket (available with outer pockets online only)

INSEAM: 4” / 6” / 8” / 10”

PROS: 4 length variations, soft material, shape retention, color variety, wide high-rise waistband

CONS: Designed for lower intensity workouts, double lined can be too warm in some weather conditions, material may pill with machine drying

The Lululemon Align High Rise Shorts are made for comfort. While they are not designed to be as durable as some of the other options on this list, what they lack in strength they make up for in softness. The combination of nylon and lycra is super smooth against your skin and made to stretch as far as you can. Though these are meant to be stretchy and snug for low impact exercise like yoga, they are also designed to wick sweat away from your skin for more intense workouts like biking and hiking.

The high waistband and snug fit hug your shape pleasantly, helping the shorts stay  in place while you move. They can be worn on their own as well as layered beneath your favorite hiking dress or skirt providing modest coverage and chafing protection. This style offers four different inseam lengths for whatever your style may be, and the four-way stretch material stays put and doesn’t roll or bunch as you explore.

The Align High Rise  shorts are double lined which makes them extra cozy for your home workouts and can keep your muscles warm if the heat of the day hasn’t set in yet on an early morning hike. The double layers could also mean that they might be too much in the high heat of summer and are not the most breathable option compared to a few others on this list.

MATERIAL: 60% polyester, 40% cotton

POCKETS: 5

INSEAM: 5”

PROS: Ripstop, FastDry®, and Stain Breaker® technology, ultra-durable, water resistant, odor control

CONS: Non-adjustable waistband, durable material can be stiff

While the Carhartt Force Relaxed Fit RipStop 5 Pocket Work Shorts are technically designed to be used on the job, this pair made our list because of their long lasting reliability. Designed to withstand intense working conditions, these shorts are tough. The fabric is designed to be a workhorse capable of enduring harsh weather and fierce action. Made with ripstop technology for abrasion resistance, FastDry® technology to wick moisture, and built-in odor control to keep you fresh all day long.

Despite their durability, the fabric is relatively lightweight and does have some stretch to support your movements while recreating. The relaxed fit gives you room to move and a drop tail hem provides extra leg coverage and length. There are five pockets with one zippered back pocket to keep your most valuable items secure. While the pull-on style waistband isn’t adjustable, it is elastic for a flexible fit and has a tagless label to prevent irritation. While the cotton design adds durability to these shorts, it does make them less capable of wicking moisture compared than other hiking shorts, even with Carhartt’s moisture-wicking treatment.

Don’t let Carhartt’s workwear reputation deter you from considering them as an option for trekking. If you’re hard on your gear or you are looking for a durable short to add to your outdoor wardrobe, these tenacious shorts are a good option.

MATERIAL: 100% polyester treated with DWR finish (durable water repellent)

POCKETS: 7

INSEAM: 9 ¾”

PROS: Function of shorts with added style of a skirt, water repellant, quality storage with zippered pockets, elastic drawstring in waistband, lightweight material

CONS: Zipper on waistband pocket might snag, fabric may bunch at waistband seam

The Title Nine Switchback Ultralight Hiking Skort is our pick for versatility because of its style and purpose. Skorts offer the look of a skirt with the performance of shorts. Hiking clothes are more often focused on function than fashion, but this option gives you both.

While we want our gear to serve us as intended, it can be difficult to find items that also make us feel good while wearing them. For those that consider the look of their outdoor apparel to be just as important as its use, this skort is a great option. The Switchback skort is versatile enough to be worn out on the town and transition seamlessly out onto the trails.

The lightweight four-way stretch fabric is moisture wicking and water repellant making it a practical choice for looking cute while camping in the backcountry. The seven pockets offer ample storage for your daily essentials. There are two hand pockets, two back pockets, a zippered waistband pocket, as well as two drop-in pockets hidden under the skirt on the shorts.

The waistband has an elastic drawstring that allows for minor fit adjustments. Finally, there are reflective details on the side hem of the skirt for visibility in low light and added safety when running on roads.

Best for Water Use: NRS LOLO SHORTS

MATERIAL: 95% recycled nylon, 5% spandex blend

POCKETS: 5

INSEAM: 8”

PROS: Zippered fly, zippered cargo pockets, stretch with movement

CONS: Run a size or two too large, material can snag and run

The NRS Lolo Shorts are designed for action, whether you’re out climbing mountains or tackling water sports. If your expedition itinerary involves forging rivers or crossing creeks, these shorts are what you’re after. They are lightweight while still maintaining substantial abrasion resistance. The nylon fabric is water wicking and treated with a DWR finish. Other ultra lightweight shorts on this list may dry faster than these, but they make up for it in durability and flexibility.

Whether you’re hiking your kayak to a launch site to go crashing down the rapids of a raging river or hauling your paddle board up the trail to glide over the glassy waters of a pristine lake, the stretch and comfort of these shorts makes them a reliable choice.

Made primarily of recycled nylon with a bit of spandex, they easily transition from hiking to paddling. These shorts are malleable and light enough to move with you without weighing you down when wet.

There are 5 pockets in these shorts with one zippered cargo pocket for protecting your valuables while out on the water.  If you are the type of adventurer that loves the trail but can’t just stick to the shore, these shorts make a good option to allow you to enjoy it all.

Best for Sustainability: PATAGONIA BAGGIES

MATERIAL: 4 ply NetPlus® 100% post-consumer recycled nylon faille

POCKETS: 2

INSEAM: 5”

PROS: Made from 100% recycled materials, PFC-free durable water repellent finish, offered in multiple lengths

CONS: Non-closing pockets may not secure your items well, pull on elastic waistband may stretch out over time

The Patagonia Baggies are designed with the planet in mind. Made from 100% post-consumer recycled nylon faille, these shorts are a more sustainable option than most. They are made entirely from discarded fishing nets – making them about as sustainable as synthetic apparel can be.

Plus, while other shorts on this list include durable water repellent (DWR) treatments, these are the only ones that offer a PFC-free DWR finish – free from “forever chemicals” that can cause lasting harm to the environment.

Patagonia Baggies are offered in two different lengths and a wide range of colors and patterns giving you options to match your fit and style preferences. While these shorts include a pull-on elastic waistband, there is also a drawstring cord for minor fit adjustments that help keep them secure on your hips. The relaxed fit provides comfort, freedom of movement, and airflow.

These shorts are low maintenance and easy to clean. The material dries quickly when wet and the deep hand pockets are mesh lined for drainage and breathability. If you try your best to leave no trace while out in nature, picking up after others, and leaving the trails better than you found them, then these shorts will align with your values while keeping you cool and comfy.

BUYING ADVICE FOR HIKING SHORTS

Use Case

The first thing you need to think about is your use case. Where are you going to wear your shorts? Are you the type of person that likes to explore the wilderness on a multi-day trek with a tent, or do you prefer a relaxed afternoon hike in your local forest? Maybe you’re planning on hiking the PCT in one push! As you can imagine, each of these goals and environments may require a totally different pair of shorts.

When on a trek, you’ll be wearing a backpack. A hiking short with belt loops or a bulky closure system can cause unwanted pressure points or chafe marks due to your hip belt so you may want to avoid belts and buckles. You also might want to look for a lighter pair of shorts for longer treks or backpacking trips, since you’ll be carrying a lot of weight already. It might sound like a cliché, but every ounce really does matter!

If you are likely to be hiking closer to home, perhaps even without a daypack, then consider whether you might want a pair of shorts with more pockets and storage. On longer backpacking trips, the importance of pockets – or lack of it – might depend on how you plan to use any storage space and whether you already have hip belt pouches and/or chest pouches attached to your backpack.

Fabrics

After you’ve determined what you're going to use them for, you can have a look at the materials used. Hiking shorts are made from one or a combination of the following fabrics:

NYLON: A synthetic material that is strong, lightweight, dries quickly and is more abrasion-resistant than polyester. It is also slightly more expensive.

POLYESTER: Also synthetic, polyester is warmer than nylon, and dries slightly faster than nylon. One potential drawback is that polyester absorbs smelly body oils in perspiration more than nylon. This is why polyester garments have the tendency to ‘smell’ more over the long term.

COTTON: Cotton is a natural material. It feels soft to the skin and is very breathable, but it also absorbs and retains moisture and thus, dries very slowly. Therefore, cotton is generally avoided when it comes to technical outdoor clothing. Nonetheless, some brands have created blended fabrics that include a cotton component for its exceptional durability — for example, Carhartt’s Force Shorts blend cotton and polyester.

ELASTANE / SPANDEX / LYCRA: This is the stretchy ingredient in a good deal of outdoor clothing. A higher percentage of this fabric makes for a stretchier garment and will give you more freedom of movement. This is especially helpful when you’re ascending a steep trail or scramble, so that your clothing won’t restrict your mobility.

Design & Style

Every manufacturer designs their hiking shorts differently, and it really is up to you what kind of features you prefer. Nowadays, many hiking shorts are designed in such a way that they still look stylish.

CARGO SHORTS: Cargo shorts are great for storing a lot of items like snacks, a camera or a smartphone, and still look stylish when going to town for a drink after a day hike. This is the “classic” hiking short style: they are thicker and more durable than most performance-oriented shorts. Keep in mind though that all these extra pockets and fabric add to the shorts overall weight.

RUNNING SHORTS: Running shorts, on the other hand, are often the most lightweight you can get, but often lack pockets, plus they are not the most fancy looking for a stroll through town. We love the breathability and flexibility you get when hiking in running shorts, but they tend to not be as durable as cargo-style hiking shorts. Think about your personal preference.

Fit

Nowadays, thanks to stretch materials and articulated designs, hiking shorts have a slimmer fit than before. Make sure you choose the right fit for your activity. For challenging hikes or scrambles, make sure you have enough freedom of movement.

A gusseted crotch also helps in this metric. This is a diamond-shaped patch of fabric stitched into the crotch, eliminating four seams coming together, and improving mobility.

Additional Features

SUN PROTECTION: Many hiking shorts have a built-in sun protection of UPF 50+ (Ultraviolet Protection Factor). This comes in handy on sunny days and high altitude.

CLOSURE SYSTEM: Buttons, zippers, snaps, draw cords, stretch waist, you can find about any type of closure system. Like we mentioned before, consider your personal use case. A hip belt from a backpack can push down on buttons, belt loops, etc. and can cause unwanted chafe marks, turning your hike into a painful endeavor. Be sure you keep this in mind when shopping for a new pair!

LENGTH: Many shorts come in multiple inseam lengths. Depending on your preference, pick the length that suits you.

DWR-FINISH: A Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish is a coating that’s applied to the fabric to prevent it from absorbing water. Although it might sound like a useless feature on a pair of hiking shorts, it’s actually worth a lot. Hiking through wet shrubs or grass or a light shower is no problem when your hiking shorts have a DWR-finish. Besides that, it also protects against stains.

POCKETS: Pockets are perfect for storing snacks or other small items. However, pockets add to the overall weight of the shorts, plus it can get really uncomfortable when you’re ascending or descending and your camera or smartphone keeps banging into your legs. Depending on your use case, choose the appropriate amount of pockets. If you are going to be carrying a backpack, then consider hip belt or shoulder strap pouches as an alternative.

COMMON QUESTIONS

What fabrics are best for hiking shorts? The best hiking shorts are made from a blend of synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. They are quite durable, wick moisture effectively, and dry quickly. Some hiking shorts feature a small percentage of elastane, a stretchy material that allows for more flexibility and range of motion.

Can I wear running shorts for hiking? Running shorts are often excellent for hiking. They are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. However, they may not offer the durability you would want on brushy or bug-infested trails, or the coverage to protect you from intense UV rays or unpredictable weather.

How should hiking shorts fit? Hiking shorts should be formfitting, but not restrictive. Baggy shorts with longer in seams are heavier and easily catch on brush and rocks. That said, your shorts should not feel uncomfortably tight or impede your natural range of motion.

Is it better to hike in shorts or pants? The choice between shorts and pants depends partly on trail conditions and partly on your personal preference. Pants offer more protection from cold weather, rain, and sun, but shorts are more comfortable and breathable, making them better for hiking in warm and dry summer conditions.

Can I hike in cotton shorts? While some hiking shorts contain cotton, it is generally best to avoid it when it comes to hiking apparel. Cotton takes a long time to dry, does not wick moisture effectively, and is a poor insulator. Hiking in it can put you in a dangerous situation if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

MORE INFORMATION

If you loved this gear review article, then you'll likely love traversing some of our other hiking and backpacking content:

Or check out our entire list of Gear Reviews, Knowledge Base Articles, or Destination Guides for more hiking, backpacking, and outdoors related content.