Bottom Line
The REI Trailmade Shorts are an excellent all-around functional pair of hiking shorts with superior quick-drying capabilities. Even better, you’re pulling these on at a relatively low price point. Our gear analyst hiked in these shorts in the coastal forests of Occidental, CA, to see if they should make it on our guide to the best hiking shorts for women.
The UPF 50+ material, DWR finish, elastic waistband, and 2-way stretch all combine to create a comfy, high-performing, and durable product. For the most part, we loved the six pockets, including the deep hand pockets and convenient envelope-style thigh pockets. The only gripe is that the thinner material sags with the weight of a phone and other heavier items.
Overall, we recommend the Trailmade Shorts for being a packable, durable, and quick-drying option for backcountry adventures, day hikes, and even watersports. This is an excellent value short that ranks high in every category with only minor suggestions for improvement. Those looking for options beyond the 5” length will need to keep shopping (the Trailmade only sells at 5”).
How We Tested
We field-tested these shorts hiking in the Northern California coastal forests. We hiked up and down steep terrain, through shade and sun, and also jumped into a lake to submerge the shorts and see how they felt (spoiler alert, they did great). On the trail, we tested their DWR finish, quick-drying capabilities, and comfort.
Quick Specs
Women’s REI Trailmade Shorts
Best Women’s Hiking Shorts Overall & Fastest Drying
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $50
Weight: 5.7 oz.
Inseam: 5 in
UPF Rating: 50+
Fabric: 96% nylon, 6% spandex
Pockets: 6
Pros
- Stretchy, soft & lightweight
- Super quick to dry
- Effective DWR finish
- 6 pockets
- UPF 50+
- Works for hiking and boating
- Nice colorways
Cons
- Phone doesn't feel good in the pocket
- Front cinch on waistband sticks out and can't be tucked in
- Only one length option
Comfort
The REI Trailmade Hiking Shorts are exceptionally comfortable and stretchy with their 2-way stretch breathable nylon and spandex material. The fabric feels soft against the skin and never caused any chafing or discomfort when we were high-stepping, squatting, or bending on the trail.
The waistband sits comfortably without pinching or riding up on strenuous hikes. However, the bungee adjustment on the front of the waistband does stick out a bit and cannot be tucked away inside the shorts. While this did not directly affect comfort, the bungee was noticeable when wearing tight shirts over the shorts, which made it less flattering.
Durability
Even with their relatively low price point, thinner and lightweight material, the Trailmade shorts are surprisingly durable. The material held up well in all kinds of terrain that we hiked in, including rocky scrambles, bushy trails, and wet climates.
The DWR finish gives it an impressive performance, and the shorts also do not stain easily, even when exposed to dirt and mud. After field testing, we did not notice any wear and tear on the shorts, and the fabric maintained its shape even after alternating between being wet and dry.
These shorts are also straightforward to care for, by just machine washing on cold and tumble drying low.
Features
These Trailmade Shorts are extremely functional and offer a lot of beneficial features. With six pockets, including two in the back, two hand pockets, and two envelope thigh pockets, these shorts can carry all your smaller essential items.
The front hand pockets are incredibly deep, reaching down the full 5” length of the shorts. However, the lightweight and stretchy material isn’t good for carrying heavier items in the pockets, such as a phone. They sag, feel heavy, and cause some discomfort, so while you “can” load them, we don’t suggest it. With that being said, they are still excellent for lighter and smaller items such as keys, a quick snack, and chapstick. There is also a small cord loop at the waistband where you can hang sunglasses or clip on keys.
Another feature of these shorts includes their UPF 50+ rated material, which offers extra sun protection when hiking in hot or exposed climates.
Dry Time
The DWR finish on these shorts is working so far, though we know this will fade over time. We wore these shorts on a hike to a lake, noting their comfort before and after jumping into the water. We appreciated that the shorts didn’t cling to her body after getting submerged and dried within 15-20 minutes of hitting the trail.
If the Trailmade shorts just get splashed, the DWR finish effectively repels any moisture, with water beading off the material without reaching the skin. When dry time is a priority, these shorts would be an excellent option to have in your outdoor gear wardrobe.
Weight & Packed Size
At 5.7 oz, the REI Trailmade shorts are relatively lightweight for the price and use case. They have a relaxed fit, but aren’t bulky or baggy. The thin material folds easily, and these shorts can be rolled up or stuffed away in a pinch. While there are lighter shorts out there, we wouldn’t hesitate to take on a backpacking trip. We can also easily wear a pair of hiking pants over the Trailmade shorts.
Should You Buy the REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts?
The REI Trailmade shorts are an excellent value with their high rankings in comfort, durability, dry-time, functionality and packability. Anyone looking for a mid-length short with pockets, UPF rating, and water-resistant coating can look no further. We like them best for day hikes and water sports.
However, those looking for a different length other than 5” will need to look elsewhere since the Trailmade only comes in one length option. Hikers who prefer to carry their larger phone in their pocket while on the trail will also want to consider other hiking shorts. The material of the Trailmade sags and pulls when carrying heavier items like phones.
What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?
While the REI Trailmade Hiking Shorts are a highly recommended option, we have tested numerous other hiking shorts from a wide variety of top-tier brands in the industry. To compare the REI Trailmade shorts to other similar, yet highly rated products, check out our best hiking shorts for women gear guide.
Patagonia Baggies Review: These shorts have fewer pockets and features and slightly stiffer material. However, they have a simple and convenient elastic waistband (no front bungee), are quick-drying, and come in a couple of different lengths.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: A fan favorite, these shorts have similar features to the Trailmade, such as UPF 50, longer length, stretchy material, and quick drying. However, they have a slightly baggier fit, and the belt on the waistband makes them feel bulkier.
Patagonia Multi Trails Review: These hiking shorts are renowned for their ultralight weight at just 3.8 ounces. While they feature similar properties to the REI Trailmade, they do include an inner liner in the shorts, which may or may not be desired depending on personal preference.
