Bottom Line
The Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts are a solid choice for hikers who want technical shorts with in-town style. They stand out for their lightweight and stretchy fabric. They dry super fast and are so comfortable we forgot about them while testing for miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. They have cool features: an internal drawcord for keeping the shorts securely in place if you’re in between sizes, a loop for your keys, and a flat button closure that won’t press on your skin. The quick dry fabric holds up well.
The only downside is a subjective taste in style. It’s either for you, or it’s not! These shorts offer good value for those who want a comfortable technical fabric but in shorts that look more like streetwear. They’re a great option if you’re looking for a reliable, stylish pair that balances function with a casual look. For more top picks in women’s hiking shorts, check out our guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.
Quick Specs
Women’s Patagonia Quandary
Durable Hiking Shorts with a Mid-Rise Fit
CleverHiker Rating: 83/100
Price: $75
Weight: 5.5 oz.
Inseam: 5 in, 7 in
UPF Rating: –
Fabric: Stretch-woven 96% NetPlus® / 4% spandex plain weave
Pros
- Comfy
- Durable
- Good value
- Stretchy
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Four pockets
Cons
- Simple style
- Better for shorter hikes
Comfort
The Patagonia Quandary Shorts excel in comfort for both urban and trail settings. During our testing, we barely felt them on even during sweaty and intense hikes, thanks to their well-considered fit and the useful internal drawcord. Forgetting about your clothing is always a good sign to us that it’s functioning well in the backcountry.
The length is just right, though they do have a tendency to ride up on longer hikes, which might be annoying for some people. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and flexible, preventing chafing even when sweating. However, the material’s snug fit could become uncomfortable over time, particularly if you prefer a looser fit while hiking. Compared to previous models, these shorts offer a more standard fit and are true to size. They balance comfort with function, making them suitable for extended wear but potentially less ideal for those who prefer a short design with less skin-on-skin contact.
Durability
This pair holds up remarkably well under rough conditions. We subjected them to rigorous testing, including rubbing against rocks and thick brush. Despite accumulating dirt, climbing chalk, and looking like they needed a wash fairly quickly, the fabric showed no signs of tearing or excessive wear. They managed to withstand countless miles of hiking and frequent washing without looking like they were wearing down. Their durability is impressive for their weight, making them a reliable choice. They offer good longevity and can handle challenging environments. They remain a solid investment.
Features
The Quandary Shorts are equipped with four pockets – two deep front pockets and a back pocket. While the back pockets are somewhat decorative and less functional, the front pockets and a small key loop provide more useful storage options. The belt loops, though not particularly stylish, allow you to add a belt if you need it. They already have an internal drawcord, handy for keeping the shorts in place, especially if they don’t fit perfectly or if you’re carrying a heavy backpack. Though we want slightly more functional back pockets, overall, the features are practical.
Dry Time
The Patagonia Quandary Shorts shine in their quick-drying performance. They have a DWR coating that effectively beads away water and dries rapidly, often within minutes, making them ideal for unpredictable weather or wet conditions. They’re your trusted friend if you get caught in a downpour. When we soaked them fully, though, the shorts dried out quickly and were among the fastest to dry in our lineup.
Weight & Packed Size
These shorts are impressively compact and lightweight. They fold easily and pack down well, making them ideal for stashing in a backpack or suitcase. Despite their lightweight design, which contributes to a comfortable experience, they rank in the mid-range for weight compared to others. The fabric makes them feel lighter than they are. While they won’t weigh you down, they don’t match the ultralight options available in weight, but they are certainly good enough.
Should You Buy the Patagonia Quandary Shorts?
The Women’s Patagonia Quandary Shorts are a great fit for hikers who want a technical short that looks like streetwear. Designed for day hikes and casual wear, these shorts offer a blend of softness, are lightweight, have good stretch, and are made from a long-lasting fabric. They’re ideal for those who want a versatile option that doesn’t sacrifice style for function. The quick-drying fabric and thoughtful features like the internal drawcord and multiple pockets are handy. They also have the Quandary in a 7″ inseam if you’re looking for more coverage.
What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?
PrAna Halle II: These shorts are perfect for those who want a blend of style and durability for day hikes and urban outings and want something less technical than the Quandary.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: A top choice for overall hiking performance, the Ferrosi shorts are decently lightweight but do not cling to the body. They look good on just about anyone and have handy zip pockets. They have a robust elastic waistband and are a great all-rounder.
Houdini Wadi Shorts Review: The Wadi has an even softer, ultralight, breathable fabric and is excellent for hot, humid conditions. However, it has better pockets and more coverage. It offers a barely-there feel and impressive comfort but may lack features like built-in UPF protection.
