10 Best Hiking Shorts – Top Picks for Best Hiking Shorts

When it comes to hiking in the summer, having the best hiking shorts can make your hiking more fun and comfortable. If you want to have a great experience hiking, you need comfortable and possibly multipurpose hiking pants.

The need for the best hiking shorts becomes evident during strenuous activities where regular shorts just won’t cut it. Long hikes, variable weather conditions, and challenging terrains require gear that can keep up with the demands.

Out of many hiking shorts out there, we have selected the best hiking shorts and tested them. Among the best hiking shorts, we have picked those that are perfect for you. They are comfortable and durable. So, let’s get to the list.

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Best Hiking Shorts

Hiking shorts are useful and comfortable. When you are hiking in the summer you want to stay comfortable by avoiding too much heat, which is where hiking shorts come in. Here are some of the best hiking shorts we have tested and confirmed to be great:

1. XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts

Lightweight and stretchy, XKTTAC hiking shorts are crafted from top-quality polyester, spandex and PVC material. The waistband has elastic and adjustable bands that keep snug to your waist. The material is breathable and quick drying while also offering a water-resistant feature.

With its UPF 50+ UV ray protection, you are sure to keep your waist and leg from UV rays. Another good thing about the shorts is that they come with 6 pockets including 4 big and deep ones and 2 front pockets.

Features

• High-quality polyester, PVC and spandex material
• UPF 50+ protection
• Lightweight. comfortable and breathable
• Elastic and adjustable waistband
• Quick drying and water-resistant
• 6 pockets including 4 big pockets and 2 front ones
• Stretchy and durable
• Reflective strip that ensures safety
• Versatile

Cons

• No back pockets
• No liner

2. TBMPOY Men’s Running Hiking Shorts

Featuring water resistance and sun protection, TBMPOY hiking shorts are made with 92% polyester and 8% spandex, making them lightweight, quick drying and 4-way stretch. Whether you are hiking or performing any other outdoor activities, these shorts are functional and comfortable.

With 3 zip pockets, 2 at either side and one at the back, you can keep your personal items such as phones securely safe while hiking. The waistband is elastic and its inner drawstring makes the shorts fit snugly.

Features

• Polyester and spandex materials
• Elastic and drawstring closure
• Lightweight and comfortable
• 3-zip pockets for keeping your items
• Flatlock seams to reduce chafe and make movement easier
• Stylish with contrasting color design
• Different color choices
• Versatile

Cons

• If you are a big guy, it may be tight in the legs. You may want to size up.
• Not machine washable

3. BASUDAM Men’s Cargo Hiking Shorts

Crafted with 90% nylon and 10% spandex, BASUDAM men’s cargo hiking shorts excel in outdoor activities. These hiking shorts are lightweight, breathable, wear-resistant, water-resistant and keep you cool all summer days. The shorts are quick drying and wick away moisture easily.

They come with 6-zip pockets for keeping your things. They are also UPF 50+ to protect you from UV rays. It offers a great fit and is perfect for different outdoor activities including hiking and biking.

Features

• Top spandex and nylon material
• Lightweight and water resistant
• 4-way stretch fabric
• Comfortable
• 6 pockets for keeping your stuff safe
• UPF 50+ for UV ray protection
• Moisture wicking
• Machine washable

Cons

• A bit loud

4. Mens Cargo Hiking Shorts

Equipped with UPF 50+ for optimal UVA and UVB protection, these men’s cargo hiking shorts are not only protective but super comfortable. The shorts are created with top-quality nylon and spandex for comfort and flexibility.

The shorts come with multiple pockets up to 7. So, you can easily store your stuff without discomfort. The shorts are water-repellent and moisture-wicking. It combines an elastic waistband with a nylon belt that allows you to use the belt in case it is not snug enough.

Features

• 88% nylon and 12% spandex
• UPF 50+ for protection against UVA and UVB ray
• Water repellent
• Comfortable and stain-resistant
• Fast-drying and breathable
• Elastic waistband with nylon belt
• Multiple pockets up to 7
• Versatile

Cons

• Not machine washable
• The bet is always twisting

Little Donkey Andy Men’s Ultra-Stretch Hiking Shorts

These shorts are made from 75% nylon and 25% spandex and are cool and moisture-wicking. They allow you to stay comfortable all day. The shorts don’t only keep you comfortable but also keep you dry with their quick-drying features.

The four-way stretch hiking shorts for men have two front pockets, and two seamless laser cutting zipper side pockets to secure your valuables. The elastic waistband and drawstring make it easier to customize. They also come with flatlock seams to reduce chafe.

Features

• Spandex and nylon materials
• Stretchy
• Cool and moisture-wicking fabric
• 4 pockets for keeping valuables
• Elastic waistband with drawstring
• Water resistant
• Flatlock seams
• Versatile and stylish

Cons

• No bet loops
• Handwash only
• No SPF protection

6. NORTHYARD Men’s Hiking Shorts

Versatile and made with top-quality materials, NORTHYARD hiking shorts are breathable and lightweight. The comfortable shorts are made of spandex and polyester, making them stretchable and comfortable. The good thing about it is that it is both machine and hand-washable.

With the shorts, you don’t need to fear moisture buildup because it is moisture-wicking. The three zipper pockets make it easy for you to keep your phone, wallet and keys. Also, the shorts offer sun protection up to UPF 50+.

Features

• Great quality spandex and polyester materials
• Machine washable
• Drawstring closure and elastic waistband
• UPF 50+ protection against UV ray
• Flatlock seams to reduce chafe
• Super comfortable and lightweight
• 3 zipper pockets including 2 on the side and one back pocket
• Versatile and durable

Cons

• Zipper can be hard at times

7. Quick Dry Cargo Casual Hiking Shorts

This short is made for all, available in tall and big for big guys. Whether you are tall, big or on the smaller side, there is something for you. The short is made from 90% nylon and 10% spandex, meaning it is water-resistant and stretchable. It is machine washable.

The shorts are lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying, keeping you cool all day. When you wear the shorts, they are comfortable and allow for easy movement without discomfort. They feature 2 front side pockets, 2 pockets on the thigh and 1 back pocket.

Features

• Nylon and spandex materials
• Lightweight and quick-drying
• Comfortable
• Machine washable
• 5 pockets for keeping your stuff
• Durable
• Partial elastic waistband

Cons

• No belt is attached

8. Hiauspor Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts

Made from a combination of 90% polyester and 10% spandex, Hiauspor hiking cargo shorts are great and comfortable for hiking. The wick moisture and dry quickly. Their water-resistant and lightweight features make them the choice of many hikers.

The shorts come with six functional and deep zipper pockets. They also offer UPF 50+ to protect you from UV rays. The shorts also feature an adjustable waistband with a button closure. The elastic waistband makes them easy to put on. You can also use a belt as they come with bet loops.

Features

• 10% spandex and 90% polyester
• Breathable and quick-drying
• Comfortable
• Machine wash
• Lightweight and water resistant
• UPF 50+ protection
• Six functional and deep zipper pockets
• Elastic waistband with belt loops
• Stretchy and durable

Cons

• Sizing can be an issue

9. Hiking Shorts for Men Cargo

When it comes to the best hiking, Jessie Kidden’s hiking shorts excel. These shorts are excellent quality and made from great quality materials. They come with an elastic waistband alongside belt loops. Their lightweight feature makes them the choice of many hikers because they always make you feel comfortable.

The UPF 50+ sun ray protection also makes them a great choice. You can comfortably keep your stuff safe while hiking with multiple pockets: two front pockets, two back pockets, and two thigh pockets. The shorts wick moisture as they also feature water-resistant materials.

Features

• Comfortable materials
• Six functional pockets
• Moisture wicking
• Lightweight and quick dry
• Comfortable and easy to move in
• UPF 50+ for protection against UVA/UVB ray
• Elastic waistband with belt loops
• Water-resistant
• Versatile and durable

Cons

• Thin belt loops

10. CQR Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts

Well-designed, CQR hiking cargo shorts are made from 61% cotton, 3% elastane and 36% nylon. The fabric is quick-dry, lightweight and moisture-wicking, providing you with maximum comfort while hiking. They come with multi-pockets for keeping your things.

The elastic waistband and belt loops make the shorts easy to wear. They fit properly with elastic bands and belts. The good thing about the shorts is that they are durable, stylish and versatile.

Features

• Cotton, elastane and nylon material
• Lightweight and quick-dry
• Moisture wicking
• Many pockets for keeping items
• Belt loops
• Machine washable
• Breathable and stretchy
• Versatile

Cons

• May run small

Types of Hiking Shorts

Hiking shorts are not created the same way. Your ideal shorts depend on personal preference and your demand for the hiking trail. Here are different types of hiking shorts:

1. Short Length

Short-length hiking shorts typically have a 5-7-inch inseam, offering maximum ventilation and freedom of movement. These are ideal for warm weather hikes where breathability is key.

They allow for greater mobility, making them suitable for activities like scrambling and climbing. However, they offer less protection from the sun and brush, so they may not be the best choice for dense or overgrown trails.

2. Mid-Length

Mid-length shorts, with an 8-10-inch inseam, strike a balance between coverage and mobility. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of hiking conditions.

These shorts are a popular choice among hikers, providing ample protection from the sun and minor scrapes while maintaining good ventilation. They are a great all-around option for those who want a bit more coverage without sacrificing too much flexibility.

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3. Capri Length

Capri-length shorts, also known as ¾ length or pedal pushers, extend below the knee. With an inseam typically around 15-20 inches, these shorts provide excellent protection from the sun and rough terrain.

They are ideal for cooler weather or hikes through areas with dense vegetation. However, they may restrict some movement compared to shorter options and can be warmer in hot conditions.

Features to Consider for The Best Hiking Shorts

When choosing the best hiking shorts on this list, we considered a lot of features. Here are a few features we considered:

1. Quick-Drying Fabric

Quick-drying fabric is essential for hiking shorts because it helps manage sweat and moisture efficiently. When you’re on a trail, unpredictable weather conditions or water crossings can leave your shorts wet.

Quick-drying materials, such as nylon or polyester blends, ensure that your shorts dry rapidly, reducing chafing and discomfort. This feature is particularly beneficial during multi-day hikes, where staying dry is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing skin irritation.

2. UPF Sun Protection

Hiking often means prolonged exposure to the sun, making UV protection a key feature in hiking shorts. UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric blocks harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

UPF-rated shorts provide an extra layer of defense against the sun, allowing you to hike longer and safer. Shorts with a UPF rating of 30 or higher are necessary to ensure adequate protection.

3. Breathability

Breathability is vital for maintaining comfort on the trail, especially in warm or humid conditions. Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate, helping to regulate body temperature and wick away sweat.

Materials like mesh panels and moisture-wicking fabrics enhance breathability to keep you cool and dry even during intense physical activity. This feature prevents overheating and helps maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout your hike.

4. Comfortable Waistband

A comfortable waistband is crucial for ensuring a secure and snug fit without restricting movement. Look for hiking shorts with adjustable waistbands, such as those with drawstrings, belts, or elastic bands, to customize the fit to your preference.

A well-designed waistband can prevent the shorts from slipping or digging into your skin, offering you maximum comfort during long hikes. Additionally, some waistbands feature padding or a soft lining to enhance comfort and prevent chafing.

5. Weight

As a hiker, you do not need shorts with lots of cotton materials. When hiking, you need lightweight shorts that will not hold you back. It should not prevent you from remaining comfortable even if it rains. So, weight is important when choosing the best hiking shorts.

The Bottom Line on The Best Hiking Shorts

When it comes to the best hiking shorts, your comfort is essential. We have tested and selected 10 of the best hiking shorts based on features such as quick-drying, UPF protection, breathability, weight and waistband. When you are choosing, make sure to choose based on your preference, hiking trails and comfort.