Bottom Line
Take it up a notch with the REI Flash Shorts, perfect for the summer heat, no matter the activity. These nabbed our Editor’s Choice award for their excellent comfort, low weight, and reliable durability. In a lineup full of great shorts options, the REI Flash is one of our favorites.
Striking a balance between running shorts and everyday outdoor wear, the REI Flash is versatile and at home in a variety of settings. Technical enough for days on the trail, but not so techy that they’ll stand out at the brewery, we love the stylish yet practical design of these shorts.
The REI Flash is notable for its comfortable waistband. It stays secure under a backpack without digging in and is highly elastic. The athletic cut, combined with stretchy material, allows for a full range of motion on steep climbs or clambering across boulder fields.
The REI Flash also packs down easily and weighs less than 6 ounces, making it a great choice for backpacking or travel when weight and packability matter. Whether traveling, hiking, or hitting town after a long day outside, the REI Flash is a reliable companion at an attainable price point.
Quick Specs
Men’s REI Flash Shorts
Most Versatile Hiking Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $70
Weight: 5.6 oz.
Inseam: 7 in.
Pros
- Breathable waist band
- Stretchy
- Good pockets
- Many different sizes
Cons
- Rides up in the thighs
- Not as comfortable with heavy items in the pockets
Comfort
Upon first sliding on the REI Flash, we immediately noticed how light and mobile they feel. With no button, belt, or zipper, the shorts are light and streamlined. The waistband is exceptionally comfortable. It is thin enough not to cause any rubbing under a backpack, and the elastic material moves with you throughout the day. REI’s Swiftland Grid material used in the waistband is breathable and quickly wicks sweat. A simple drawstring keeps the shorts secure.
With a 7-inch inseam and an athletic cut, these shorts are trim and work well for slender legs. However, sturdier thighs may find the thin legs a little restricting. Thanks to REI’s inclusive sizing, there’s something to fit most body types. Whether sitting on an airplane or hiking for hours, we were comfortable in these shorts no matter the setting.
Durability
After three months of use and multiple rounds of washing and drying, the REI Flash shows no signs of wear. While not the thickest material in our lineup, the nylon-and-spandex blend has held up well against scratches and abrasions. These might not be the shorts we reach for if we know we will frequently be encountering rocks and brush. But they have served us well, and we know they will continue to do so for many miles to come.
Features
These shorts continue the REI Flash line of products, dedicated to streamlined performance with simple yet well-thought-out features. UPF 50+ sun protection helps save you from the sun, and a DWR coating sheds light moisture.
The shorts come equipped with three pockets: two hand pockets and one thigh pocket. The right hand pocket has an internal stow pocket, perfect for a car key or credit card, keeping important items closer to the body for less bounce. The right thigh pocket is streamlined and secure, though it can sag when overloaded. While not the most heavily featured shorts in our lineup, the REI Flash’s simplicity is balanced by well-designed features that enhance performance.
Dry Time
For a slightly heavier pair of shorts, the REI Flash impressed us with how quickly they dried. Both the waistband and crotch gusset feature Swiftland Grid, one of REI’s most breathable and moisture-wicking materials. That also equated to fast drying in these areas.
While it takes longer to dry than some of the running shorts in our lineup, the REI Flash still dries faster than other, heavier hiking shorts in our lineup. Drying slightly faster than average, these might not be the best for swim trunks, but they work great for drying quickly on the go.
Weight & Packability
Weighing in at 5.6 ounces, only a few pairs of shorts are lighter than the REI Flash. While all those others are running shorts we also trust for hiking, the REI Flash is the lightest pair of dedicated hiking shorts in our lineup.
When not in use, they disappeared into our pack. Balling up to about the size of an orange, these shorts are very packable. We took them on a week-long road trip and loved how small they got when crammed into our backpack.
Should You Buy the REI Flash Shorts?
The REI Flash hits a sweet spot: technical enough to perform on any outing, yet not overly techy for running to the grocery store or hanging out at the brewery after your adventure. We love its balance of functional performance and smart design. The stretchy material is one of the most comfortable in our lineup, and the athletic cut makes these perfect for high steps or other awkward movements. While thicker thighs may have a harder time with the cut, REI is intentional about making a range of inclusive sizes to fit all body types. For one pair of shorts to do it all well, look no further than the REI Flash.
What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?
Check all of our favorite shorts in our full gear guide.
Patagonia Quandary Review: Our top pick, the Quandary is another excellent choice for its comfort and durability.
Patagonia Strider Pro Review: If you’re looking for something lighter for faster travel, it’s hard to beat the Strider Pro.
Kuhl Renegade Rock Shorts Review: If mobility is your priority, the Renegade Rock Shorts are another top pick.
