6 Best Hiking Shorts For Women (Tried and Tested!!)

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Are you interested in finding the best hiking shorts for women that are both functional and stylish? These are some of my favorites I’ve discovered over the years.

Finding women’s hiking shorts can be challenging. I’ve been hiking for over 10 years, and I realized there are many subpar shorts available for women.

Luckily, I’ve been able to discover a few favorites that I always reach for. Whether it’s a long, grueling hike or an easy hike to a waterfall, all of these shorts have my seal of approval.

1. REI Trailmade Shorts

Coming in at number one are the REI Trailmade Shorts because they are just that good. I received a pair of these from REI a few years ago, and they quickly became my go-to pair of shorts.

I’ve taken these hiking in Norway, Italy, and all over the Southeastern United States. They’ve withstood every type of weather and climate, making them the option that I reach for the most.

This year, I decided to buy a second pair with my stipend, and I’m so glad I did. They’re just the right length, lightweight, and I love the adjustable waist.

Pros

• Come in a variety of colors
• Easy to clean
• Quick-drying
• Flattering
• Synch tie waist

Cons

• The newer version is a little tighter in the thighs than the previous, but just barely
• Thinner material, which can be a plus in the super warm months, but not quite as durable

2. Outdoor Voices Rektrek Shorts (zip off)

I purchased these pants over a year ago and didn’t realize how obsessed I would become with them. The shorts on these zip-off pants are ones I often reach for because they fit so well, but they’re also super functional (hello, pants!).

If I’m going on a trip that requires flying, these are almost always the first option I reach for because it’s essentially a 2-for-1. I don’t like to overpack or pay for extra baggage fees (I mean, seriously, who does).

These are also an amazing option for a lightweight backpacking trip or a hiking trip that has highly variable weather. I’ve zipped off the pants multiple times on a long hike that starts at 55 degrees Fahrenheit and is blazing hot at noon.

I really enjoy the number of pockets with clasps and zippers on the RekTrek’s as well, because I am that person who constantly drops things.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Numerous compartments for things
• Multi-purpose (zip-offs)
• Adjustable at the ankles
• Stretchy

Cons

• On the pricier side because you’re buying both pants and shorts
• Pants may be too long for shorter queens
• Most pockets are on the pants portion, so you don’t have a ton of pockets when wearing the shorts portion (just normal front pockets). This is never an issue for me because I put most things in my hiking pack, but it’s something to be aware of.
• Need to be more mindful when laundering (I always launder separately on gentle and hang to dry)

3. Patagonia Outdoor Everyday Shorts

I own multiple pairs of these, and I can confidently say that the newest version is the best. My first pair was thrifted, and although I love it, the strap isn’t a buckle style, which means they only loosen a little. This isn’t the greatest when you have wide hips and a smaller waist.

The newest version has accommodated for this with a buckle strap for adjusting the waist. Plus it has a zipper and a button, which the original version did not.

If you have a smaller waist and larger thighs/hips, these are GREAT. Especially if you prefer a little looser fit in the thighs, as I often do. I give props to Patagonia for clearly listening to customer feedback!

I love wearing these with a cute hiking tank top, and the colors are all so good. Patagonia’s products always stand out to me for their quality, but the brand is also dedicated to protecting our planet, something I think is so important if you tout yourself as an outdoor brand.

Patagonia has a fantastic product policy and will work with you to either repair or replace an item that has been damaged. They also have a recycled clothing website called Worn Wear that I have purchased numerous items from.

Pros

• New buckle feature
• Great for larger thighs/hips
• Durable material
• Amazing color choices (as always, thanks Patagonia!)

Cons

• If you buy or thrift an older version, these may not be as easy to get on or adjust
• They are a loose fit in the thighs, which may not be ideal for some people

4. Beyond Yoga Biker Shorts

If you prefer more of a yoga pant style short than a true hiker short, these are the best option for you! I’ve tried my fair share of biker shorts over the years, and these are by far the comfiest.

Beyond Yoga is known for its buttery soft material, and these are no exception. The shorts hug your body, and I’ve never experienced any chafing in them. I know many friends/women who prefer something like this to a traditional short for this exact reason.

I think these run true to size, but they do have some nice stretch in the butt and thigh area. The waistband is thick, but not restricting.

Pros

• Buttery soft material
• High waisted

Cons

• Not as affordable as some other options
• No pockets

5. Prana Stretch Zion 3in Cargo Short

When I tell you these fit like a glove, I’m not kidding. The first time I put these on, I was like DAMMNNN, girl, you look good. Not only do they look good, but they also perform super well.

The Prana Zion Cargo Short is on the thicker, more durable short compared to some of the others on this list. I wouldn’t be surprised if they also performed well in other activities that are a bit more involved.

The shorts do hug the thighs, so if you don’t like that, I recommend one of the other options on this list. On the flip side, they are incredibly flattering, and the material is comfortable, which you often don’t find in shorts like this.

When I recently wore this with my friend who just got into hiking, she asked me for the link! There’s no better compliment than that.

Pros

• Stretchy yet high-quality material
• Plenty of pockets
• High waisted

Cons

• Only a few color options
• Tighter fit that may be a turn-off for some people

6. Half Days Rosalie Trail Short

I learned about Half Days from an Instagram ad (yes, the algorithm has clearly dialed me in). They piqued my interest, so I ordered them during a sale at Backcountry, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint.

The first time I ever wore these, I got asked about them no fewer than 5 times. So many women wanted to know where they were from because they are both functional and flattering.

These have a similar vibe to the REI Trailmade shorts but are marginally thicker and a tiny bit shorter. The front pockets include a zipper to secure your items, which I think is so practical if you like to use your pockets while hiking!

Pros

• Adjustable Waist
• Very Flattering
• Numerous zipper pockets for your items

Cons

• I don’t think these are the best choice if you have large thighs. I would lean more towards the Patagonia Everyday Outdoor Short for this
• Expensive

Bonus: Water Shorts!

If you love being out on the water in the summer just as much as you love hiking, then this section is for you. I’ve recently become a big fan of my inflatable paddle board and spend quite a lot of time near and around water in the hotter months.

Nani Swimwear Uinta Shorts

If I’m breaking out the paddleboard but I don’t want to just paddle with a bathing suit on, these are the first pair of shorts I reach for. I love them because they’re quick drying, lightweight, and not too long (which I don’t love when I’m on the board).

Patagonia Baggies 5-inch

Patagonia Baggies are iconic for a reason, and I love wearing them for any water activity. I don’t personally wear them for hiking because I feel like they are more apt to cause chafing than other, similar shorts that I own.

The material is great for putting over a swimsuit, and I do feel like they are relatively fast drying. I prefer to get the longer version and then roll them if I want them to be shorter.

Wrap-Up: Best Hiking Shorts For Women

Hiking is best when you have a great pair of shorts to wear! Shorts can be so tricky, but I know one of these will be just right for you.

My number one choice for you is REI Trailmade Shorts, but if you want to look less granola, the Prana Stretch Zion 3in Cargo Short is the perfect choice.

Read More:

Outdoorsy Gifts For Women

Best Ladies Hiking Pants

Best Unique Gifts for Campers