Best Hiking Shorts for Women 2026

We’ve spent over 10,000 miles testing more than 30 pairs of hiking shorts – analyzing their durability, functionality, and comfort, and all-around performance on trails across the country.

Editor’s Note: We updated this guide on June 11, 2026, to add four new favorite shorts to our list, update the Oiselle Roga to reflect its latest design, and refresh our coverage on several old favorites.

How We Test Women’s Hiking Shorts

We’ve researched and then trail-tested pairs from trusted outdoor brands like REI, Patagonia, Outdoor Research, prAna, and athletic brands that work just as well in the gym as they do with a loaded pack crossing a scree field. We put every pair through its paces on varied terrain – from dusty desert routes to muddy high-alpine trails. They have seen sun, rain, and everything in between.

And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:

Quick Picks for Women’s Hiking Shorts

Check out this quick list of our favorites if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list of the best hiking shorts with in-depth reviews.

1. Best Women’s Hiking Shorts Overall: REI Trailmade ($50)

2. Best Ultralight Hiking Shorts: Patagonia Multi Trails ($75)

3. Best Quick-Drying Hiking Shorts: Patagonia Baggies ($75)

4. Best Trail Running Shorts: Oiselle Roga ($79)

5. Best Trail-to-Town Hiking Shorts: Stio Vallis ($89)

6. Best Hiking Shorts for Pocket-lovers: Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” ($75)

7. Best Value Hiking Shorts: REI Sahara Bermuda ($60)

8. Most Durable Hiking Shorts: Outdoor Research Ferrosi ($90)

9. Best High-Waisted Classic Hiking Shorts: prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts ($84)

10. Comfortable Knee-Length Hiking Shorts: Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Shorts ($79)

11. Best Warm-Weather Hiking Shorts: Black Diamond Pursuit ($99)

12. Best Compression Shorts for Hiking: Fjallraven Abisko 6” Shorts Tights ($90)

13. Versatile & Durable Hiking Shorts: Patagonia Quandary ($79)

Analysis & Results

When we evaluate hiking shorts, several key metrics come into play, including comfort, weight, durability, and features. Here’s how the top-performing models stack up against each other in our rigorous hands-on testing.

Which hiking shorts are the best value?

The top-rated REI Trailmade Shorts are the best bang-for-buck shorts. Their well-rounded performance earned them the top spot in our lineup. With six pockets, UPF 50+ sun protection, and even a cord loop at the waistband for hanging a pair of sunglasses, these shorts are hard to beat for features and function at a great price point. 

For a little more dough than the Trailmade, the Sahara Bermuda offers 4 inches more coverage and a wider size range. They’re made with a similar material mix, although they’re a little less stretchy than the Trailmade. But overall, these shorts are an economical choice for budget-minded hikers who don’t want to skimp on performance.

Apart from the two REI shorts mentioned above, there’s a pretty narrow spread in cost. The Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” isn’t priced as aggressively, but it’s a solid value, given that it can be worn for both running and hiking. The Oiselle Roga can, too, although its single-pocket layout is less ideal than the Rabbit’s for long days on the trail.

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda and Patagonia Quandary both stand out as solid options for the price, with generous coverage, practical storage, and quality constructions from reputable brands. Though a bit pricier, the Stio Vallis Shorts are a decent buy since you can wear them both outdoors and around town – they fit in much better at the brewery than the Dynama or Sahara Bermuda shorts.

Which hiking shorts are the most comfortable?

The Patagonia Multi Trails and Oiselle Roga offer excellent comfort. Both are fantastic for hiking thanks to their airy and streamlined designs that go largely unnoticed throughout the day. They also feature soft, stretchy waistbands that pair well under hip belts. From hot-weather hiking to trail running, these shorts are supremely comfy.

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda has the softest fabric of all the shorts we tested. The supple, flexible construction has an almost pajama-like feel, but the shorts have an unusually short undercarriage measurement, which is worth noting before buying. 

The Stio Vallis is similarly smooth and pliable, with an all-polyester construction that offers an airy, barely there feel. The fabric features four-way stretch for unrestricted mobility. In testing, they felt more like running shorts than a hiking design. They were comfortable enough that we often left them on after testing for errands and other around-town activities.

A final strong contender in the comfort category is the REI Trailmade. Made with 94% nylon and 6% spandex, they strike a nice balance between softness and stretch. The fabric felt comfortable against the skin and never caused any chafing or discomfort, and the elasticized waistband sits flat without pinching or riding up.

Which hiking shorts are the most durable?

When it comes to durability, prAna Stretch Zion Cargo shorts are the winner, winner, chicken dinner. The Stretch Zion’s fabric is tough yet comfortable. Whether we’re scrambling over rocks or navigating thick vegetation, these shorts hold up exceptionally well.

By comparison, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi shorts offer a nice balance between durability and flexibility. Though not as thick as the prAna shorts, the Ferrosi uses a softshell fabric that resists tears and abrasions while maintaining a stretchiness that feels liberating during technical hikes. They’re ideal for those who don’t want to sacrifice freedom of movement while tackling more advanced trails and off-trail routes.

Another standout in our testing was the Fjallraven Abisko. We have a pair of Abisko pants that’s lasted us over six years and has seen countless rock-climbing pitches with very little to show for it. The shorts are similarly well built with a technical fabric that gives (rather than tears) under pressure.

Finally, the REI Sahara Bermuda Shorts strike us as perfectly durable for most hikers. Though not the thickest option on our list, they are reasonably sturdy and abrasion-resistant, showing no signs of wear after several pokey hikes and a couple of short bouldering sessions on rough granite.

Which hiking shorts have the best features?

At the top for functional features, the prAna Stretch Zion Cargo, Outdoor Research Ferrosi, REI Trailmade, and Patagonia Quandary each have memorable and practical features that are actually usable. They make accessing items while hiking far more convenient.

The prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts feature a well-designed waistband with belt loops and practical pockets that offer ample storage. The rear pockets feature zippered closures, the open hand pockets are deep, and there’s an additional zippered security pocket on the left hip. The shorts also have a UPF 50+ rating for sun protection.

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi shorts stand out for their deep and well-designed front pockets. These pockets are strategically placed for easy access, and the strong waistband provides a secure and adjustable fit with the built-in belt. The waist is a bit tight for some, but we like the thickness of the elastic because it means the shorts won’t fall down, even with things in the pockets. The back pockets are also actually useful.

The REI Trailmade has the most generous storage layout on our list, with six pockets for divvying up on-trail essentials. There are two drop-in hand pockets, two rear drop-in pockets, and two flap-protected thigh pockets. The shorts also feature a small loop at the waistband for suspending sunglasses, as well as UPF 50+ sun protection and a waist bungee.

Finally, we want to call out the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” and Fjallraven Abisko 6” Shorts Tights. Both options are well-appointed, given their streamlined designs. The Fuel n’ Fly shorts offer more storage than most running shorts, including a back zippered pocket that fits most phones, two rear stash pockets, and two internal stash pockets at the front. The Abisko shorts feature a deep, phone-friendly pocket at either side, with fabric flaps to keep items secure and minimize bounce.

Which hiking shorts dry the fastest?

The REI Trailmade Shorts lead the pack with their ultralight fabric, designed specifically to dry fast. These shorts perform exceptionally well in hot conditions, drying almost instantly when exposed to the sun. The Trailmade’s DWR coating works wonders at repelling moisture, preventing the shorts from becoming saturated and weighed down by water. Even after being submerged in water, the shorts didn’t cling to our skin, and they were dry within 15 to 20 minutes of hitting the trail.

The Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts also dry extremely fast. Their ultra-soft, breathable fabric provides reliable moisture control during intense activity. The Multi Trails also bead off light rain and remain comfy when wet. 

The Patagonia Baggies were impressive in this area, too. The fabric performs exceptionally well in hot and humid conditions, drying almost instantly when exposed to air. This makes them an ideal choice for scenarios where moisture management is critical, such as long hikes in wet or humid environments. 

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi shorts feature a fabric blend that dries extremely quickly and is more durable than some other quick-drying shorts. We wore them in extremely sweaty conditions, and they remained comfortable while drying in what felt like no time at all. They are a solid choice for those who need reliable moisture management without sacrificing other features.

Which shorts are the lightest & most packable?

If you’re looking for ultralight options, the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” shorts are the lightest design on our list at a feathery 3.5 ounces. They’re great for fast hikes or trail runs where every ounce matters, allowing for effortless movement with minimal bulk.

The Patagonia Multi Trails come in at 4 ounces, making them another top contender in the ultralight category. Although slightly heavier than the Rabbit shorts, the Multi Trails strike a great balance between weight and features, including a more robust waistband and better coverage. They are an excellent choice for those who want to keep things light and free-flowing without eschewing all creature comforts.

Next up are the Oiselle Roga and Patagonia Baggies at 4.4 and 5 ounces, respectively. Like the Rabbit shorts, the Rogas are designed for running with limited coverage (although more than the Fuel n’ Fly) and a streamlined design that prioritizes freedom of movement. Part of the weight savings is due to the Roga’s minimalist feature set, which includes just one zippered pocket at the rear that’s not big enough for a smartphone.

On the other hand, the Baggies provide excellent durability and a versatile style that works beyond the trail. They’re more substantial than all of the options mentioned above. Although not ultralight, they strike a great balance between weight and functionality, especially if you’re looking for a pair of shorts that can transition from hiking to more relaxed environments.

How to Choose Hiking Shorts

How Long Should Hiking Shorts Be?

The shorts we tested have inseam lengths ranging from 2.5 to 9 inches, which is a fairly wide spread, and there’s a use-case for all of them. At the short end are athletic shorts (often best for day hikes and trail running), which offer minimal coverage and protection but excellent breathability and mobility. 

If you do a lot of scrambling or high-stepping, a shorter option will allow for easier freedom of movement. However, you lose protection should you need to butt scoot over sharp rock or know some scree sliding is inevitable (in this case, pants might be best.

At the long end are Bermuda styles, which cover the entire thigh. Breathability often suffers from the extra coverage, but some hikers will find the trade-off worth it, especially those who spend a lot of time bushwhacking or sliding through slot canyons. 

For general hiking, we tend to gravitate toward shorts in the middle of the pack, with a 4- to 6-inch inseam being the sweet spot for balancing coverage and mobility.

Are Athletic Shorts Good for Hiking?

Many athletic shorts make great hikers, but there are some caveats to note. First, hikers will appreciate secure storage – or at least deep hand pockets that can hold a smartphone and sunscreen sticks semi-securely. 

Second, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough coverage for your liking. Many athletic designs have short inseams that offer limited protection against the sun, bugs, and scrapes from rocks, branches, and other abrasive surfaces.

If you like to split your time between running and hiking, athletic shorts make a lot of sense. Most are lightweight, highly breathable, easy to move in, and quick-drying. They are also typically very streamlined, meaning no excess material or hardware to get in your way.

Some hikers will want more coverage and protection, but we gravitate toward athletic shorts for everything from trail runs to multi-day backpacking trips.

What is the best fabric for hiking shorts?

Synthetic materials are great for outdoor clothing since they’re durable and don’t absorb moisture. We prefer shorts made with stretchy fabrics to allow for easy movement.

Nylon
Nylon is an exceptionally durable synthetic fabric that dries quickly. It tends to feel slightly softer on the skin than other synthetics. Because of the way nylon is made, it tends to be a bit pricier.

Polyester
Polyester is very durable (although slightly less so than nylon) and naturally hydrophobic. It absorbs less water than nylon and wicks moisture more effectively. It’s also less prone to pilling, so it will stay looking nice for longer.

Spandex/elastane
We prefer hiking shorts with some spandex/elastane for mobility. Most shorts we tested have two-way stretch, which means they stretch in one direction (typically crosswise). Some have four-way stretch, which means the fabric stretches crosswise and lengthwise. Four-way stretch is usually more expensive, but it’s also more comfortable and provides a better range of motion.

Cotton
Cotton is soft and comfortable, but it absorbs water. It dries very slowly, sticks to skin, causes chafing when wet, and can be potentially dangerous in cold/wet climates. Because of these downsides, cotton is generally not recommended for outdoor activities.

What pockets do I need on my hiking shorts?

Many hikers (ourselves included) never max out the storage on their hiking shorts. Items stored in them can feel bothersome and impede movement, so we typically prefer to stash items in a jacket, fanny pack, hydration vest, or pack instead. 

That said, we often find ourselves using at least one pocket to temporarily stash a smartphone, swallow our keys, or keep lip balm handy. Zippered pockets on the thigh tend to be the most useful, in our experience. We’ll keep small items like Chapstick, AirPods, or a multitool in there for quick access.

Front pockets can be useful around town, but we rarely use them on the trail because they’re hard to access with a hipbelt on. Items stored in front pockets can also be uncomfortable when you have to lift your legs high for stepping over deadfall or scrambling. 

We almost never use back pockets on the trail because they’re hard to access with a backpack on. Plus, things stored there get in the way when we want to sit down.

Why Trust CleverHiker

Gear Analysts Alice Hafer and Emily Parnay have been busy putting in the miles in these hiking shorts. With backgrounds in gear sales, product reviews, and combined decades of outdoor experience, Alice and Emily maintain rigorous standards for quality and performance. Alice does much of her testing around Lake Tahoe, on the Appalachian Trail, and in the French Alps. Emily has hiked in countless shorts throughout California.

Gear analyst Sarah Nelson has been putting outdoor gear through its paces for more than 10 years. Based in the Reno area, Sarah does a lot of hiking and running in town and around nearby Lake Tahoe – whether it’s to enjoy some time outside after work, approach a crag, or train for a trail race. She prefers moving quickly on the trail, so she opts for shorts over hiking pants in most scenarios.

Testing Methodology

We tested these hiking shorts on countless hikes across diverse terrains, including the coastlines and forests of Northern California, Nevada, parts of the Tahoe Rim Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail, in both hot and cool weather. Each pair was evaluated for comfort, weight, durability, and quick-drying performance through rigorous hikes and practical use.

How do we assess comfort?

We tested comfort by wearing the shorts on varied trails over several miles. We paid close attention to how the shorts fit around the waist, crotch, and seat, as well as through the legs. We checked for any discomfort caused by the waistband, whether it was too tight or loose, and evaluated if it chafed when worn with a backpack. 

We also assessed the feel of the fabric against our skin and examined how the pockets and seams held up during movement. Key aspects included ensuring there was enough room for dynamic movements, such as stepping over rocks, and verifying that the shorts stayed in place without riding up.

How do we test durability?

We assessed durability by putting the shorts through a series of rugged adventures. This included hiking over rocky terrain and sitting and sliding on various surfaces. We also washed the shorts multiple times to evaluate how well they held up to repeated cycles. The focus was on whether the fabric showed signs of wear, such as fraying or fading, and if any seams or features became compromised.

What features do we look for?

We tested the unique features of each pair of shorts by evaluating their pockets, fasteners, and any additional design elements. This included the number and size of pockets, their locations, and whether they were useful, mostly for decoration, or big enough to comfortably and securely hold a phone. 

We also checked for features like drawstrings, integrated belts, and any unique materials or care instructions. We tested each feature for functionality, such as how well the pockets secured essentials and how convenient and comfortable the waistband and belts were.

How do we measure dry time?

To test drying time, we submerged the shorts in water and then monitored how quickly they dried in various conditions. We compared them side by side under sunlight and observed their drying rates. We also tested their quick-drying capabilities by wearing them fully soaked and noting how long they took to dry.

How do we measure weight & packability?

To evaluate weight and packed size, we weighed the shorts on a kitchen scale and tested how compactly they could be packed by compressing them and seeing how they fit into a backpack or stuff sack. We noted if the shorts could be stowed easily and how much space they occupied when packed. This metric helped us determine their practicality for multi-day hikes or travel when space is at a premium.

Conclusion

Our detailed evaluations of hiking shorts consider comfort, drying time, durability, and features to help you make an informed choice and get the right hiking shorts for you. Whether you’re a casual weekend hiker looking for a nice balance of style and trail-readiness or an ultralight backpacker who demands the utmost performance out of their gear, there’s an option for you on our list above. As always, we welcome your comments and testing recommendations. Happy trails!