Bottom Line
The Janji AFO Middle Shorts are an excellent choice for those seeking ultra-light, high-comfort hiking gear. We loved their barely-there feel and extremely soft fabric, which dries quickly and never chafes, even on long hikes. The internal drawcord and comfortable liner add to their appeal, making them feel almost like a second skin. Their minimalist design, including a phone pocket, is great for keeping essentials handy, although some might find the shorts too short or the pocket pressing on their back uncomfortable.
Though they might not be ideal for those needing more coverage or larger pockets, these shorts offer impressive comfort and a lightweight design. They’re a solid value for eco-conscious hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability. For more top options, check out our guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.
Quick Specs
Janji 3″ AFO Middle Short
Best Athletic Shorts for Hiking
CleverHiker Rating: 83.5/100
Price: $64
Weight: 3.2 oz.
Inseam: 3 in
UPF Rating: 15
Fabric: 88% recycled polyester / 12% spandex
Pros
- Barely-there feel
- Extremely soft
- Phone pocket
- Dry fast
- Don't chafe
- Internal draw cord is convenient
Cons
- Could be too short for some
- Phone pocket can press on back
Comfort
The Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts are incredibly comfortable, and we love the barely-there feel. Hiking uphill with a heavy pack, the waistband stayed snug without digging in, and we didn’t experience any chafing, even when sweaty. It’s worth noting that they run small, which isn’t unusual for running shorts, but we did choose to size up for comfort. The fabric is soft and light, which makes a big difference if you hate being hot on the trail or prefer not to have fabric next to your skin. These shorts are short, so they don’t feel restrictive. They’re technically running shorts and are great for trail runs and hikes where you want something light that won’t bother you and won’t cause chaffing.
Durability
Durability-wise, we were pleasantly surprised by how well the Janji AFO shorts held up. We rubbed them against rocks, trekked through brush, and washed them several times a week, and the fabric showed minimal signs of wear. These shorts come at a high price point, and we can see why. They are made well. While the material is soft, it didn’t tear or fray, though we did wonder if the lightweight feel might make it more prone to damage long-term. So far, they’ve proven solid.
Features
The features are minimal but surprisingly functional. Most running shorts have baseline features like just a place for a key or card. But these shorts have an incredibly cool built-in pocket big enough for a phone. The small internal pocket fits a card or key, while the exterior zipper pocket is larger. The phone in the zip pocket can feel a bit awkward when hiking as it bumps against the body, but if you aren’t running or hiking fast, it’s a nice touch to be able to hike hands-free. The pocket hangs lower than the hip, so it doesn’t interfere with a pack hipbelt. The internal drawcord provides a secure fit, so if you put your phone in the pocket, your shorts won’t fall down.
Dry Time
The Janji shorts dry quickly. They are not the fastest driers, but they dried fast enough that we never had issues hiking with them wet, even after getting soaked. They didn’t cling uncomfortably and stayed breathable.
Weight & Packed Size
These shorts are impressively light. They pack down super tiny and are among the best in the lineup. Their smallness made them easy to stash in our packs when we needed a change of clothes or were heading out for a multi-day trip. Despite their small size, they didn’t lose their shape after being stuffed in a backpack, and they stuff and roll easily, so you can fit them in any shaped space.
Should You Buy the Janji 3″ AFO middle Trails?
The Janji AFO Middle Shorts are a great fit for hikers looking for lightweight, breathable shorts that are basically invisible on your body and perform well in hot weather. If you prioritize minimal weight, comfort, and packability, these shorts are perfect. They are ideal for long hikes, backpacking trips, or casual day hikes in warm conditions. Their eco-friendly materials are also a bonus for those looking to make a conscious purchase.
However, if you need shorts with more substantial pockets or extra protection for rugged, cold-weather conditions, these might not be your best option. The minimal storage space and thin fabric are designed more for speed and light activity than heavy-duty use. Overall, the Janji AFO Middle Shorts are a solid value for hikers and trail runners who want lightweight, eco-friendly shorts that are light, fast, and super comfortable.
What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?
If you’re considering alternatives to the Janji AFO Middle Shorts, here are a few other top-performing options.
Patagonia Multi Trails Review: For more pocket space, check out these ultra-light and soft shorts with zippered pockets and a key loop.
Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda: The Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda are ideal if comfort and soft fabrics are a priority, but you want more coverage and want to use it for multiple sports.
Nike Dri-FIT Tempo: The Nike Dri-FIT Tempo is a great choice for those who prioritize breathability and lightweight comfort but want to spend less cash on hiking shorts.
