The best hiking shorts for women-Detailed review
The right pieces can inspire you to get moving. Although hiking shorts have historically been designed for function, not fashion, times are changing.
We looked for the best pair of versatile hiking shorts that were comfortable enough to lounge in at the house, fashionable enough to sport around town, and functional enough to hike through rugged terrain.
These hiking shorts are perfect for throwing on before heading out the door. They’re light, durable, and they dry quickly so you don’t need to worry about carrying anything else. Plus, each pair has multiple pockets where you can stash your hiking essentials.
When hiking during the summertime, choose what to wear carefully so you don’t end up sweating profusely and feeling uncomfortable. Have a pair of hiking shorts for the hottest summer hikes. Unlike the wintertime when you wear hiking leggings to keep you warm and protected.
Hiking shorts are designed to keep your legs cool without restricting your movements. We’ve put together this list of the best hiking shorts for girls to help you pick out a couple that fit your needs. In order to stay refreshed we recommend you check our article about the best hiking sandales for women.
Choosing the Best Hiking Shorts for Women
Breathability
We think that one of the most important things when buying women’s outdoor clothing is ensuring that they’re comfortable enough for long hikes. If you don’t want your legs to feel wet after a hike, then you need to ensure that your shorts are designed so that there’s plenty of ventilation.
When selecting the best hiking shorts for women, we recommend avoiding all cotton fabric and opting for a material that boasts “sweating” or “moisture-wearing” properties.
Stretch
Another important trait of a good woman’s walking short is comfort. A comfortable short should fit snugly enough so that they won’t slip off your feet during strenuous activity, yet not too tight that they cause blisters. They also need to be flexible enough to allow for easy foot motion. For example, if you’re doing a lot of climbing, you’ll probably want a short that provides a little extra support. On the other hand, if you’re just out for a leisurely stroll through the park, you might want something that feels loose and airy.
Durability
You’ve found a great set of women’s shorts that are comfortable and durable. They’re perfect for your next hike! Next, you’ll have to find out how they fit. Women’s shorts come in various sizes, so make sure you know what size fits you best before buying them.
Comfort, Fit, & Style
When buying hiking shorts, comfort, fitness, and aesthetics should be top priorities. You shouldn’t just buy any pair of shorts because they’re cheap; you should buy them if they feel good on your body and look nice with your preferred aesthetic.
What to look for when buying the best hiking shorts for women?
Waistband
Experts recommend choosing shorts with a flat, wider waist band for even weight distribution.
“You also need to take into account the fact that the button will be uncomfortable for you when you’re wearing a backpack.”
Water and wind resistance/proofing
If you plan on going for a hike in rainy or windy weather, you might want to consider wearing waterproof and windproof clothes. However, the experts suggest that in most situations, you’d be better off with rain-resistant and wind-resistance clothes.
Van Waes says that waterproof and windproof clothing which is also breathable often comes at a higher price point and cheaper options may not be able to provide adequate ventilation. She explains that in non-breatheable waterproof apparel, you might get so hot that you’d end up just as wet from sweating as if you were out in the rain.
Color
Experts say that if you’re hiking through tick territory, wear light colors so you can see them easily. Also, lighter clothes tend to absorb less sunlight than dark ones.
Pockets
Van Waes says whether you carry a pocket or not depends on your preferences. However, carrying a pocket can be useful if you’re going for a hike or camping trip where you might have to carry things like cameras, maps, or binoculars.
It’s important to keep your belongings safe when you’re out walking. Hikers who wear waterproof pants or hike shorts with a pocket or zipper in the waist or back may be able to keep their valuables safe from thieves.
Skirts/shorts
If you don’t want to wear shorts, many hiking equipment manufacturers now offer skirted options for women. Dr. Lane usually wears a skirt or skort when hiking.
For more informations about women’s hiking clothes. Please check out our article about the best 13 hiking clothes for women.
Best hiking shorts for women
Columbia Anytime Outdoor Women Drawstring Shorts
Columbia is one of the best brands for outdoor gear, and these anytime outdoor short are a TFG readers’ top pick!
These women’ s drawstring shorts hit the briefs perfectly, with a more tailored shape and a mid-rise waist. However, some reviewers say that if you want more legroom, these may not be for you.
Readers rave with enthusiasm for these lightweight shorts from Columbia. One reader says, “I love my Columbia Anytime shorts,” and another writes, “Love my Columbia Anytime short.”
Buy here the Columbia Anytime Outdoor Women Drawstring Shorts
Columbia Saturday Trail II Knee Shorts Women’s
The Columbia Saturday knee pants are made of durable nylon and elastic and are lightweight for whatever activities you have in mind. They offer UPF 50 protection against UVA and UVB rays. Their 18″ inseams provide plenty of coverage and allow you to move freely without restriction.
One TFG user says, “These stretchy short women’s styles hold their shapes very well — no elephant knees at the end.” They’re light weight but offer more coverage than traditional short skirts without being too hot.
Buy here the Columbia Saturday Trail II Knee Shorts Women’s
Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro Flex Hiker Shorts
These Eddie Bauer hiking pants are perfect for any woman who loves hiking. They’re made from durable nylon/spandex fabric, so they won’t stretch out after repeated wearings. They feature an elasticized waistband, which makes them easy to put on and take off. And they have a zipper and button closure at the back, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
They’re also light weight, have a great fit, are water repellant, and have UPF sunscreen protection. Get them in a neutral gray or natural green olive women’s swimsuit.
Eddie Bauer Pro Flex Shorts: They’re awesome! I have a few pairs. Very comfy!
Buy here the Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro Flex Hiker Shorts
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Outdoor Shorts Womens
These Mountain Hardware Dynama walking short are comfortable enough to wear during walks, yet they’re stylish enough to wear out at night. They feature UPF protection, which means they protect against harmful UV rays, and they have delicious deep pocket options.
Readers recommend these women’s hiking pants from Mountain Hardwear. They’re super comfortable and feature four large front zippered compartments. However, they don’t close securely and don’t include any pocket dividers.
Buy here the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Outdoor Shorts Womens
Lands’ End 5″ Colorful Shorts For Women
We were inspired by our reader who recommended Lands End women’s short shorts as an ideal hiking pant, so we thought we’d share their suggestion with you. They’re perfect for a hot summer day when you want to take a break from walking but don’t want to be too far away from a place to cool off. And because they’re made out of lightweight fabric, they won’t weigh you down even if you’ve been walking for hours.
These women’s board shorts are made from quick drying, stretchable material so they’ll be comfortable enough to wear even when you’re out in the water. Plus, they’re available in regular, petite and plus size options.
These Lands’ End short pants fit well. They’re comfortable, have functional pockets, come in different colors, and they look good too.
Buy here the Lands’ End 5″ Colorful Shorts For Women
Columbia Women’s Anytime Outdoor Long Short
If you’re seeking a longer hiking short with added protection and a longer fit than the one above, this option from Columbia may be your best bet. These shorts feature two-ways stretch fabric which provides comfort during movement and wicks moisture away from the skin, making them ideal for any activity.
These shorts also come with built-ins for protecting against the elements, including UV rays, which means they’re better at keeping you warm than most hiking shorts. And unlike some hiking shorts, these also provide long-lasting wear.
They’re made from stretchy material so they offer a tighter, more comfortable feel.
They’re made from durable cotton canvas material with two hand pockets in the fronts and one zippered back compartment for holding valuables.
Buy here the Columbia Women’s Anytime Outdoor Long Short
What to look for when buying the best hiking shorts for women?
Waistband
Experts recommend choosing shorts with a flat, wider waist band for even weight distribution.
“You also need to take into account the fact that the button will be uncomfortable for you when you’re wearing a backpack.”
Water and wind resistance/proofing
If you plan on going for a hike in rainy or windy weather, you might want to consider wearing waterproof and windproof clothes. However, the experts suggest that in most situations, you’d be better off with rain-resistant and wind-resistance clothes.
Van Waes says that waterproof and windproof clothing which is also breathable often comes at a higher price point and cheaper options may not be able to provide adequate ventilation. She explains that in non-breatheable waterproof apparel, you might get so hot that you’d end up just as wet from sweating as if you were out in the rain.
Color
Experts say that if you’re hiking through tick territory, wear light colors so you can see them easily. Also, lighter clothes tend to absorb less sunlight than dark ones.
Pockets
Van Waes says whether you carry a pocket or not depends on your preferences. However, carrying a pocket can be useful if you’re going for a hike or camping trip where you might have to carry things like cameras, maps, or binoculars.
It’s important to keep your belongings safe when you’re out walking. Hikers who wear waterproof pants or hike shorts with a pocket or zipper in the waist or back may be able to keep their valuables safe from thieves.
Skirts/shorts
If you don’t want to wear shorts, many hiking equipment manufacturers now offer skirted options for women. Dr. Lane usually wears a skirt or skort when hiking.
