Best Men’s Hiking Shorts
Are you an active adventurer who loves being outdoors and looking for the perfect pair of shorts? Then you know exactly how important it is to have the right apparel in order to make your expedition a success.
Are you an active adventurer who loves being outdoors and looking for the perfect pair of shorts?
Then you know exactly how important it is to have the right apparel in order to make your expedition a success. Even on those cooler days when you may wear hiking pants, shorts can be great for range of motion and ultimate comfort when out exploring. And with our list of men’s hiking shorts, you’ll get that plus added protection from rocks, scree, or foliage!
With stretchy fabric and lightweight construction to provide maximum breathability and flexibility, you will be able to make the hike without having to fuss with your clothing. Whether it’s trekking through lush green trails or climbing up steep rocky paths to hanging out at camp – these are the best hiking shorts for all your outdoor adventures. Discover the difference the right outdoor gear, including your best hiking shorts ever, can make.
Get ready to take on nature's elements and make it all look easy with some of the best of the best hiking shorts. Summer is coming!
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Hiking Shorts
Men's hiking shorts are an essential piece of hiking gear, providing protection and comfort during any hike or trek while hot weather hiking. The best hiking shorts are made from lightweight and breathable materials, such as nylon or polyester, allowing for maximum air circulation and ventilation in the hot summer months.
They offer features like belt loops, removable belts, hand pockets, and extra zippered rear pockets, to store important items securely. In addition, many hiking shorts come with a gusseted crotch that allows for ease of movement when navigating obstacles on the trails. Furthermore, water-resistant fabrics keep you dry in light rain or wet conditions.
The best men's hiking shorts provide a blend of comfort and protection – offering durable fabric that won't tear easily, as well as UPF 50+ sun protection from harmful UV rays. Whether you're hitting the trails and embarking on a mountain adventure or rallying in town after a day in the peaks, quality men's trail shorts give you peace of mind knowing that you will be comfortable and secure throughout your journey.
Features to Consider
Hiking shorts offer a perfect combination of comfort, flexibility, and protection from the elements. They are designed to keep you cool during hot weather hikes and provide ample coverage in colder temperatures. For ultimate durability, many hiking shorts are constructed with lightweight yet rugged materials like nylon, polyester, and Lycra. These fabrics are often treated to be water-resistant and quick-drying, making them great for outdoor activities such as backpacking trips or river rafting.
Hiking shorts come with features that make them ideal for outdoor exploration. Cargo pockets provide plenty of storage space for essential items like maps, snacks, and flashlights. Many models feature a zippered cargo pocket for added security when trekking through rough terrain. The Elastic waistband coupled with adjustable belt loops ensures a snug fit so your shorts don't slide down during strenuous climbs or scramble up steep trails. And gusseted crotches provide added mobility for maximum comfort, ensuring you can reach new heights on your adventures.
For those seeking extra sun protection, many brands now offer lightweight hiking shorts made with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) fabrics that provide added defense against harmful UV rays while still breathable enough to keep you cool in warm to hot weather hiking and conditions. Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts are lightweight and durable enough to take on any terrain while providing UPF 50+ sun protection; Prana Stretch Zion II Shorts offer four-way stretch fabric for a superior range of motion; Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts feature abrasion-resistant fabric that provides both wind and water resistance; Rolling Sun Shorts have an integrated belt system so you can adjust the fit without fear of slipping down; And Patagonia Baggies feature mesh lined pockets for convenient storage without losing breathability.
Overall, hiking shorts offer incredible comfort and performance benefits perfect for any outdoor activity from warm weather day hikes, to backpacking trips along the Pacific Crest Trail to the Appalachian Trail. With their unique blend of style, protection and versatility, it's easy to see why hikers choose these as their go-to piece of gear time after time.
How We Choose Men’s Hiking Shorts
Hiking shorts are perfect for summer days and warm weather adventures but can be difficult to find a quality pair, that is both comfortable and protects your legs from scratches, UV rays and other outdoor hazards.
It can be hard to find the perfect hiking short because you want something that is comfortable and provides protection against outdoor hazards. You don't want anything too tight or restricting, but you also need some level of protection against rocks, scree, and foliage from a good pair of rugged hiking shorts.
Outdoor Verified offers the information you need to make the most informed decision you can. With our 40 years of outdoor experience and extensive research, we have put together a list of the best men's hiking shorts available on Amazon today. We've done the work, so you don't have to. Take a look!
Keep in mind, we consider the use of the product with features and benefits and THEN price when recommending the best value. We do NOT simply find the least-expensive item out there and suggest it is a good value. The purpose being accomplished reasonably well is always first and foremost.
What we like
Give your wardrobe the advantage with the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts. This trusted long-time award winner and best seller will take you on your most daring rock, trail, and water adventures in style. With improved, stretchy fabrics throughout, it’ll keep up with all your crazy ideas as you conquer nature.
Its abrasion resistance and weather protection also mean it won’t wear out easily. The 46% recycled material means that you can look good while doing your bit for nature too. As you discover new trails and scenery, these shorts will hold up to whatever you can throw at them.
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Crafted with bluesign® approved 86% Nylon (46% Recycled) and 14% Spandex 90D Stretch Woven Ripstop, these Outdoor Research Ferrosi shorts offer complete protection against the rain, wind, and sun. Just because they're tough doesn't mean they don't keep it light: at only 7.7oz/218g, take off on any adventure without being weighed down. More than one inseam length means maximum movement-mirroring stretch so that wherever you go, your shorts will follow!
With a harness-compatible waist, metal shank button closure, brushed tricot-lined waistband and internal drawstring waist make sure to keep your stuff where it needs to be even if it moving too fast for you to do it yourself. Not to mention four pockets: drop-in hand pockets, right hip security zip mesh pocket plus two more on the backside so you won't have to leave anything behind no matter how much ground you cover. They offer enough protection from Mother Nature to get you through even her worst days.
What we like
Don't let rainy weather put a damper on your adventures. Eddie Bauer Men's Rainier shorts are here to help you take the outdoors head-on and in maximum comfort as a classic pair of shorts. Crafted with an ultra-stretchy 2-way stretch nylon and spandex blend, these shorts keep you flexible for whatever challenge lies ahead.
Plus, they come treated with a durable water-repellent finish that prevents you from getting soaked from sudden rain showers. With UPF sun protection and proudly bluesign® approved production practices, these shorts give you every advantage when looking for your next outdoor adventure.
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Made from bluesign certified fabric, these Eddie Bauer Men's Rainier shorts are sustainably produced, ensuring that you can explore without leaving a trace. Our Flexion Stretch Woven Technology gives two-way stretch so you can move however your heart desires.
Meanwhile, StormRepel DWR finish repels moisture - because nobody likes a soggy pair of shorts. And when the great outdoors calls for shade, rely on FreeShade 50+ sun protection to take care of you. Best of all, Polygiene Odor Control in Waistband helps keep them fresh between outings, making these shorts ready for anything. With two front hand pockets and two rear pockets, these shorts are a solid all-around hiking short.
What we like
Adventurers, it’s time to meet your new sidekick in these Arcteryx Gamma Quick Dry Shorts. If you are ready to level up when it comes to hitting the trail, Prepare for multi-day backpacking trips and ambitious hikes with ease with this top-of-the-line, quick-dry pair of shorts.
You can count on the state-of-the-art TerraTex™ stretch nylon material for maximum wind resistance, durability, and fast drying time. Plus, the trim fit with its articulated patterning allows you to move freely, while the adjustable integrated belt provides much-needed comfort under a pack.
And, what better way to store all your hiking goodies than with five secure and accessible zippered pocket pockets? For the performance-minded hiker, the Gamma Quick Dry short gives an experience in nature as you've never had before.
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Combining superior breathability to keep you cool, along with its flexible four-way stretch material that is both durable and highly resistant to abrasion, you are ready to conquer whatever your adventurous spirit throws at you.
Ideal for hiking, trekking, trail running, and other backcountry endeavors, these state-of-the-art shorts designed by experts uses quick drying fabric that allows moisture vapor to escape so your body temperature can stay regulated throughout!
No more chafing or feeling uncomfortable when on a multi-day hike or backpacking trip. Take on the great outdoors with confidence and performance in mind and give these a shot.
What we like
Ready for your next big adventure? We invite you to check out The North Face Pull-On Adventure Shorts. These shorts are lightweight and durable, making them perfect for hot summer days - and nights! They're made from recycled nylon fabric that's truly good enough to hike, camp, kayak, or raft in.
FlashDry-XD technology wicks away moisture while offering superior moisture management and dry-time benefits. The fit is generous and designed to follow an unrestricted range of motion. In short (pun intended!), these shorts can handle whatever fun your own personal adventure has in store.
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The North Face Pull-On Adventure Shorts are built with a slim fit and lightweight feel. These shorts may quickly become your go-to for any adventurous outing! They’re perfect for the weekend hiker, camper, or backpacker who wants top-quality and dependable performance.
But don’t worry—they’re still comfortable hanging around the house too. Plus, two slash hand pockets let you access frequently-used items in a jiffy, while a secure zipper pocket keeps things like phones, wallets, and other small valuables right where they should be: safely tucked away in functional pockets. Even though these have only one zippered pocket, this zippered pocket is a feature not found often in shorts that are great for water activities making these some of the best lightweight hiking shorts.
What we like
The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are made for the daring adventurer that may not want to spend over $100 on shorts. Made entirely of 100% nylon and Columbia’s signature ripstop fabric, these lightweight, durable cargo shorts also feature a recycled polyester lining that keeps your legs cool and sweat-free - ideal for those hot summer months.
Plus, these amazing cargo shorts are also equipped with UPF 50 protection to ensure your skin is shielded from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. When it comes to taking on Mother Nature, nothing beats Columbia’s men’s apparel; superior materials, great value, and expert craftsmanship that make these shorts one of a kind!
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just enjoying the great outdoors –you shouldn’t compromise on quality.
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These sleek Columbia Silver Ridge cargo shorts are made from a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric that works hard to keep you cool and dry no matter where your journey takes you. Offering ultimate convenience and security, they come complete with a zip-closure security pocket, side cargo pockets with hook and loop closure, and mesh pocket bags. Plus, they offer a classic fit that provides ultimate comfort whether you're bouldering or rafting.
Whether hiking or camping in summer or cooler weather, get ready to stock your wardrobe with an essential while keeping some cash left in your wallet!
What we like
Introducing the Hiauspor Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts—the perfect adventurous shorts for any guy willing to try new products out. These rugged hiking shorts really have got you covered. With their 4-way stretch, skin-friendly lightweight fabric, UPF50+ sun protection, and quick dry capability you can go wild without worrying about what happens to your clothing.
Plus they’ve got you securely carrying important items with their four thigh zipper pockets large enough for phones and wallets, as well as two slant pockets on the left thigh and right thigh. Whether your are off on a hiking adventure or just relaxing in the park, the Hiauspor Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts have got all bases covered - with the added bonus of an elastic waistband plus belt loops and hook and loop closures to keep you comfortable with its waist tightening systems that act as a built in belt while looking stylish.
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With water-resistant thin fabric that is durable, lycra stitching and zipper closure, you can rest assured your hikes won’t be ruined by any surprise storms or downpours. And the best part? The adjustable elastic waistband with belt loops ensures that you’re always perfectly comfortable.
Whether you’re scaling steep terrain, exploring deep forests, or trekking through unknown lands, these shorts are sure to come in handy. So go ahead: take the plunge and explore a new entrant into the market and let adventure commence.
FAQs For Men's Hiking Shorts
Hiking shorts are great for movement but it can be tough to make sure the hiking shorts that you buy actually fit the bill for your needs.
It's hard enough just getting up the trail to the summit! Worrying about shorts bunching up or getting soggy from sweat will not help you accomplish your goals.
Outdoor Verified offers solutions for hiking shorts with reviews you can depend on for your new outdoor gear for this coming up season. We have also put together an FAQ section to help answer some more common questions to help you along the way.
What shorts to wear for hiking?
When it comes to selecting the best material for a pair of hiking shorts, it is usually recommended to go with either nylon or a polyester-spandex blend. This blend allows the fabric to stretch and move with your body, providing more comfort and flexibility during your hikes. Below is a full breakdown of all the most common materials used in hiking shorts: Nylon: Nylon is an excellent choice for fabric because it's lightweight, breathable, durable, and quite affordable. It also offers good wind resistance and its quick-drying nature makes it great for those who tend to sweat more during their hikes. It is possible to wear even athletic shorts as hiking short depending on personal preference, but the loose-fitting pockets will likely drive you crazy if you put items in them. Much better to have zippered pockets. Hiking shorts often have standard belt loops that give another option for a custom fit.
Is hiking in shorts a good idea?
Shorts provide unparalleled comfort and freedom and are way cooler than constricting pants, making them a great choice for any low-altitude summer hike. Plus, you can't beat the breezy feeling of a nice pair of shorts! So if you're planning an outdoor adventure this summer, make sure to pack some shorts in your bag—you won't regret it!
What should you not wear during a hike?
While hitting the trails, you should always remember to avoid wearing cotton clothing at all costs; it does not function well in outdoors and will leave you feeling uncomfortable and sticky. You might get away with a cotton blend with synthetic fabrics. Shoes that are not designed for activities such as hiking or backpacking can increase your risk of getting injured, so opt for a good pair of quality hiking shoes instead. Backpacks that are too heavy will slow you down and cause unnecessary strain on your body. Likewise, backpacks that are not made for backpacking won't be able to provide enough support and can weigh heavily on your shoulders during long treks. Make sure to wear clothing that is water
Should I hike in hiking pants or shorts?
For hiking, long pants are the most reliable and safest option to be prepared for any location, though running shorts also may be more comfortable during the warmer months. After surveying hikers, it's clear that while most women opt to wear leggings and long shirts, most males prefer hiking shorts or full-length pants, either of which can have integrated belts. Ultimately, it's important to remember that what you wear on a hike really depends on the particular weather conditions as well as the terrain of the trail you're looking to explore. Some people choose to wear convertible pants since they can be turned into hiking pants or shorts. Then there are those that are in great shape and accustomed to the terrain like trail runners that may even wear running shorts.
Is hiking a cheap hobby?
Hiking is one of the most affordable activities you can do, as it doesn't require expensive or fancy gear. All you need are some comfortable clothes and shoes (hiking shoes or boots are great for more challenging trails), your hike essentials (like a first aid kit, trail snacks, and a water bottle), and an adventurous spirit! With that combination, you'll be ready to hit the trails for an enjoyable day hike.
Does hiking make you fit?
Hiking is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping and provide a great cardio workout! Plus, like most other cardio exercises, it can help reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, and various types of cancer. Additionally, since it's a weight-bearing exercise it helps build muscle strength and even helps prevent osteoporosis - so don't forget the trail mix!
What are some other name brands of hiking pants and shorts?
Many different manufacturers make hiking shorts for men, including popular outdoor brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, and Arc'teryx. Patagonia's shorts are made of lightweight nylon and feature breathable fabric to ensure comfort on long hikes; like the Patagonia Quandary shorts. The North Face's collection of hiking shorts offers durable construction with zip pockets for secure storage of your essentials. Columbia's Omni-Shield technology offers moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable even in warm weather with the best lightweight hiking shorts. Fjallraven Abisko shorts like the Vuori ripstop shorts are also popular and up-and-coming. Lastly, Arc'teryx's hiking shorts are designed to provide protection from the elements with water-resistant fabric and UPF sun protection. All of these companies also offer a variety of colors, styles, and sizes so you can find exactly what is best suited for your needs.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a truly comfortable and movement-enabling wardrobe piece for your outdoor excursions, then mens hiking shorts may just be the one for you. They offer freedom of motion and allow us to stay cool when taking on the trails. Depending on how well crafted they are, these shorts can protect us from accidental contact with sharp edges or sticky foliage.
With the right pair of shorts, you can be sure that your hikes and trips will always remain enjoyable. In addition to finding a good fit, make sure to check out features like water resistance and UPF sun protection when shopping for hiking shorts! This a great option to look into if you want a comfy garment that can take on any terrain. So what are you waiting for? Tap on the buttons below the products to check current pricing and availability - your hiking partner awaits!
Happy trails!
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~ Ron
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