Best Hiking Shorts For Men
Embarking on an outdoor adventure requires not just stamina and determination but also the right gear, especially when it comes to choosing the best hiking shorts for men. These essential pieces of outdoor apparel blend functionality with comfort, ensuring that every step you take is supported by durability, flexibility, and breathability. Whether you’re scaling steep hills, navigating rugged terrain, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk in nature, finding the best hiking shorts for men can significantly enhance your experience. In this guide, we’ve curated a selection of top-tier options that stand out in the vast wilderness of choices, ensuring that your focus remains on the journey ahead, backed by the confidence that you’re wearing the very best.
These shorts are highly rated for their lightweight, water-resistant, and quick-drying features, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
These shorts are designed for hiking, tactical, camping, and travel. They come with 6 pockets, providing ample storage for your essentials while on the go. They are praised for their quick-dry and lightweight stretchy fabric.
These shorts are suitable for travel, golf, camping, and casual wear. They come with 5 zipper pockets, offering practical storage solutions. Customers appreciate their lightweight design and the convenience of the zipper pockets.
These shorts are made from abrasion-resistant Stretch Zion fabric, making them incredibly durable against rough terrains. They also feature quick-drying and stretchable fabric for enhanced comfort and mobility. Despite having fewer pockets than some other options, the prAna Stretch Zion shorts are highly regarded for their durability and suitability for hikers and backpackers.
A classic cargo hiking short, the Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts offer quick-drying material, sun protection, and plenty of pocket space. These shorts are well-loved for their fit, comfort, and functionality, making them a solid choice for hikers who prefer cargo shorts.
These are hybrid hiking shorts that work well for both city and trail use. Made from the durable Stretch Zion fabric, they offer the perfect balance between urban style and trail functionality.
These shorts are highly regarded for their versatility, durability, and comfort. Made from a softshell fabric, the Ferrosi Shorts are both stretchy and durable, offering excellent mobility and resistance to abrasion, which makes them ideal for hiking and climbing. They feature a water-resistant finish that helps keep you dry in light rain. The design includes multiple pockets for convenience, and the lightweight material ensures you stay cool during warm weather activities. Outdoor Research is known for producing high-quality outdoor gear, and the Ferrosi Shorts are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for their blend of performance and comfort.
These shorts are designed for versatility and durability, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and casual wear. The AP Shorts are made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and elastane, which provides a good balance of comfort, breathability, and stretch. This combination ensures they are comfortable to wear all day while also being durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
essie Kidden Men's Outdoor Shorts
Description
Essie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Shorts are designed for the avid adventurer who demands both style and functionality in their outdoor apparel. Crafted with the modern hiker in mind, these shorts blend high-performance materials with practical design features, ensuring they meet the needs of various outdoor activities. Whether you’re embarking on a challenging hike, enjoying a day at the lake, or exploring urban landscapes, Essie Kidden’s shorts offer the versatility, durability, and comfort needed for all-day wear. Featuring lightweight, quick-drying fabrics, these shorts are ideal for navigating through varying weather conditions, while their UV protection ensures you’re shielded from the sun’s harmful rays.
Customer Review
“I recently took my Essie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Shorts on a week-long hiking trip, and they exceeded all my expectations. The material is incredibly durable yet surprisingly lightweight, making them a pleasure to wear even on the most demanding trails. They dried quickly after a rain shower, and the UV protection came in handy during long days under the sun. The pockets were perfectly placed and secure, which was great for keeping my essentials accessible. Overall, I’m thoroughly impressed with the quality and thoughtfulness that went into these shorts. They’ve become a staple in my outdoor wardrobe.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight Fabric: Ensures comfort and ease of movement during any activity.
- Quick-Drying: Ideal for wet conditions or water activities.
- Durable Construction: Withstands the rigors of outdoor use without compromising on comfort.
- UV Protection: Offers added safety from sun exposure during outdoor adventures.
- Functional Pockets: Secure and well-placed pockets for convenient storage of essentials.
Cons:
- Fit: Some users may find the sizing to be off, with recommendations to check the size chart carefully.
- Limited Color Options: While functional, some may desire a wider range of color choices to match personal style preferences.
Essie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Shorts stand out for their combination of performance, comfort, and durability. Tailored for the outdoors, yet stylish enough for casual wear, they are an excellent choice for men who value quality and functionality in their outdoor gear.
XKTTAC Men's Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts
Description
XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts are designed to meet the high demands of outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize mobility, comfort, and durability in their gear. These shorts are crafted from a lightweight, stretchy fabric that not only offers excellent freedom of movement but also features quick-dry technology, making them perfect for hiking, climbing, or any activity where conditions can change rapidly. The material is breathable, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable even during intense exertion, while the UV protection shields you from the sun’s harmful rays. With a focus on practicality, these shorts include multiple zippered pockets to securely store your essentials, making them the ideal companion for your next adventure.
Customer Review
“I’ve been using the XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Shorts for several months now, and they’ve quickly become my go-to for all my hiking trips. The stretchy material is a game-changer, providing unparalleled comfort and flexibility on the trails. They’re incredibly lightweight, which is a huge plus on long hikes, and they dry so fast that I no longer worry about getting wet. The added UV protection is a thoughtful feature, giving me peace of mind during sunny day hikes. The pockets are just the right size and placement for easy access to my gear. Definitely a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stretchy and Comfortable: Enhances mobility and flexibility during outdoor activities.
- Quick-Drying Fabric: Keeps you dry and comfortable, no matter the weather.
- Lightweight: Ideal for long hikes and minimizing fatigue.
- UV Protection: Protects against sun exposure during outdoor activities.
- Functional Pockets: Secure zippered pockets for safe storage of personal items.
Cons:
- Durability Concerns: While the fabric is lightweight and stretchy, some users may question its long-term durability in rugged conditions.
- Fit and Sizing: As with many online apparel purchases, finding the perfect fit can be challenging, and users should carefully consult the sizing chart.
XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts strike an excellent balance between functionality and comfort, making them an outstanding choice for outdoor adventurers. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, crossing streams, or simply enjoying a day out in nature, these shorts are built to enhance your outdoor experience with their thoughtful design and innovative features.
Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" Lightweight Outdoor Work Shorts
Description
The Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 9″ Lightweight Outdoor Work Shorts are the epitome of versatility and functionality for the modern outdoorsman. Designed with the rugged demands of the great outdoors in mind, these shorts blend durability, comfort, and practicality. Constructed from a lightweight yet robust fabric, they offer the perfect balance between ease of movement and resistance to wear and tear. The 9-inch inseam provides ample coverage while ensuring freedom of movement, making them ideal for hiking, camping, or any outdoor work. Equipped with multiple cargo pockets, these shorts offer generous storage options for all your essentials, ensuring they’re always within reach. The breathable material ensures you stay cool and dry, even on the warmest days, making them a must-have for any outdoor adventure.
Customer Review
“I’ve worn these Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts on several camping trips and outdoor projects, and they’ve quickly become a staple in my outdoor wardrobe. The lightweight material is surprisingly durable, handling everything from brushes with rough terrain to repeated washings without showing signs of wear. The cargo pockets are incredibly handy, allowing me to keep my tools and essentials easily accessible. The fit is comfortable, providing enough room for movement without being too baggy. These shorts have withstood the test of time and elements, proving to be a reliable choice for any outdoor enthusiast.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and Durable: Ideal for outdoor activities without sacrificing durability.
- Ample Storage: Multiple cargo pockets provide plenty of room for essentials.
- Comfortable Fit: Designed to offer comfort and mobility throughout the day.
- Breathable Material: Keeps you cool and dry in warm weather.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for hiking, outdoor work, or casual wear.
Cons:
- Pocket Security: While ample, the pockets may not offer enough security for valuable items, lacking zippered closures.
- Style: The utilitarian design may not appeal to those looking for a more modern or slim-fit look.
Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 9″ Lightweight Outdoor Work Shorts offer the perfect blend of functionality, durability, and comfort for any outdoor activity. With their thoughtful design and practical features, they are an essential addition to the wardrobe of any man who loves the outdoors, providing the versatility to tackle any adventure that comes your way.
prAna Stretch Zion Short
Description
The prAna Stretch Zion Short is a pinnacle of outdoor wear, combining unmatched durability with exceptional flexibility and comfort. Crafted from prAna’s signature Stretch Zion fabric, these shorts are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities while ensuring you move freely and comfortably. The fabric is quick-drying and water-resistant, making it perfect for adventures in variable weather conditions. Featuring a streamlined fit that’s not too tight nor too loose, these shorts include an adjustable waistband for a custom fit and UPF 50+ protection to shield you from harmful UV rays. Practicality is enhanced with ample pocket space, including a secure zip pocket for valuables. Whether you’re climbing, hiking, or engaging in any outdoor activity, the prAna Stretch Zion Short is built to enhance your performance and comfort.
Customer Review
“I’ve been an avid hiker for years and have tried countless brands and styles of shorts, but the prAna Stretch Zion Shorts are by far the best. The stretch in these shorts is incredible, allowing for complete freedom of movement without any restriction. They’ve been through dense forests, rocky climbs, and everything in between, and still look as good as new. The quick-dry feature has been invaluable on multi-day treks, and the UPF 50+ protection gives me peace of mind in the sun. The adjustable waistband ensures a perfect fit every time. I can’t recommend these shorts enough to anyone looking for durable, comfortable, and functional outdoor wear.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Durability and Flexibility: Built to last and move with you.
- Quick-Drying and Water-Resistant: Keeps you comfortable in all conditions.
- UPF 50+ Protection: Offers excellent protection against harmful UV rays.
- Adjustable Waistband: Ensures a perfect, comfortable fit.
- Secure Storage: Ample pockets with secure options for valuables.
Cons:
- Price Point: Higher than some alternatives, but reflective of quality and durability.
- Styling: The functional design may not appeal to those seeking more fashion-forward outdoor apparel.
The prAna Stretch Zion Short stands out for its superior construction, versatility, and commitment to sustainable practices. Ideal for the environmentally conscious adventurer, these shorts offer the perfect combination of performance, comfort, and durability, making them a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on quality and ethical standards.
Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts
Description
Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts are expertly designed for the outdoor enthusiast who values comfort, durability, and protection in their gear. These shorts are made from a high-quality, lightweight fabric that provides excellent breathability and moisture-wicking properties, ensuring you stay cool and dry in hot conditions. The inclusion of Omni-Shade technology offers UPF 50 sun protection, guarding against harmful UV rays during prolonged exposure outdoors. For added convenience, the Silver Ridge Shorts feature a cargo pocket design, providing ample storage for your essentials while on the move. The integrated belt ensures a secure and adjustable fit, making these shorts an ideal choice for hiking, camping, or any outdoor adventure.
Customer Review
“After searching for the perfect pair of shorts for my summer hiking trips, I finally found the Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts. They have been an absolute game-changer for me. The lightweight material is incredibly comfortable and does an excellent job at wicking away sweat, keeping me dry even on the hottest days. The UPF 50 protection is a significant plus, giving me confidence during long days in the sun. The pockets are spacious and practical, and the adjustable belt ensures a perfect fit every time. I’ve put these shorts through some tough conditions, and they’ve held up remarkably well. Highly recommend to any outdoor enthusiast!”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and Breathable: Ideal for hot weather and strenuous activities.
- Moisture-Wicking Fabric: Keeps you dry by efficiently managing sweat.
- UPF 50 Sun Protection: Offers excellent defense against UV radiation.
- Ample Storage: Cargo pockets provide convenient storage for essentials.
- Adjustable Fit: Integrated belt allows for a customizable fit.
Cons:
- Style Versatility: The functional design may not transition well to casual urban wear.
- Pocket Security: While spacious, the pockets may lack the security features (like zippers) desired by some users for safeguarding valuables.
Columbia Silver Ridge Shorts are a solid choice for anyone looking for high-performance outdoor wear. Their combination of comfort, functionality, and protection makes them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re trekking through the backcountry or enjoying a casual day out, these shorts are designed to meet the demands of the adventurous spirit while ensuring you remain protected and comfortable throughout your journey.
prAna Brion Shorts
Description
prAna Brion Shorts embody the perfect blend of casual style and outdoor functionality, making them a versatile addition to any adventurer’s wardrobe. Crafted from prAna’s original Stretch Zion fabric, these shorts are not only durable and resistant to wear and tear but also offer exceptional stretch and mobility for unrestricted movement. The fabric is quick-drying and water-resistant, ideal for unpredictable weather or water-based activities. Despite their ruggedness, the Brion Shorts boast a sleek, minimalist design that transitions effortlessly from trail to town. They feature a standard fit that flatters without restricting, making them suitable for a wide range of activities. Additionally, the material provides UPF 50+ protection, shielding you from harmful UV rays during outdoor adventures.
Customer Review
“I recently purchased the prAna Brion Shorts for a multi-day hiking trip and was thoroughly impressed with their performance. The Stretch Zion fabric lived up to its reputation, offering incredible flexibility and comfort throughout the trip. They dried quickly after a rain shower, and the UPF 50+ protection was reassuring under the blazing sun. What I love most is how they seamlessly fit into my daily wardrobe, looking just as good in the city as they do on the trail. The slim fit and clean design make them highly versatile, and they’ve become a staple in my outdoor and casual wear collection.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly Durable and Stretchable: Ideal for challenging outdoor activities.
- Quick-Drying and Water-Resistant: Keeps you comfortable in varying weather conditions.
- UPF 50+ Protection: Offers excellent sun protection.
- Versatile Design: Suitable for both outdoor adventures and casual wear.
- Comfortable Fit: Provides mobility without being too loose or tight.
Cons:
- Price: May be considered pricey compared to some alternatives, but justified by quality and versatility.
- Limited Pocket Options: While functional, some may prefer more or different pocket configurations for outdoor activities.
The prAna Brion Shorts are a testament to prAna’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and versatility. They are an excellent investment for anyone who values apparel that performs well in the outdoors but is stylish enough for everyday wear. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, crossing a stream, or heading to a casual dinner, the Brion Shorts are designed to keep up with your active lifestyle while ensuring you look great doing it.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts
Description
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts are the epitome of outdoor versatility and durability, designed to cater to the needs of the most adventurous spirits. These shorts are crafted from a highly durable, yet incredibly lightweight and breathable Ferrosi fabric, which is known for its stretchability and resistance to abrasions, making it perfect for activities ranging from hiking to rock climbing. The material also boasts quick-drying properties and offers excellent wind and water resistance, ensuring comfort in a variety of weather conditions. The Ferrosi Shorts feature a standard fit that is both functional and flattering, providing ample mobility without being too loose or bulky. Additionally, they are equipped with multiple pockets for convenient storage, including a zippered thigh pocket for securing valuable items. With UPF 50+ sun protection, these shorts are designed to protect against harmful UV rays, making them a reliable companion for all your outdoor adventures.
Customer Review
“I’ve been a fan of Outdoor Research for a while, but the Ferrosi Shorts have taken my appreciation to a new level. They’re incredibly versatile – I’ve worn them hiking, climbing, and even kayaking, and they’ve performed flawlessly in every scenario. The stretch is fantastic, allowing full range of motion without any restriction. They’re durable enough to handle rough terrain but lightweight enough that I hardly notice I’m wearing them. The quick-dry feature has come in handy more times than I can count, and the UPF 50+ protection is a big plus for long days in the sun. Definitely a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Durability and Stretch: Ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities.
- Lightweight and Breathable: Ensures comfort even on the hottest days.
- Quick-Drying with Wind and Water Resistance: Provides adaptability in changing weather conditions.
- Functional Design: Includes multiple pockets for secure storage of essentials.
- UPF 50+ Sun Protection: Offers significant protection against UV rays.
Cons:
- Fit: While the standard fit is generally positive, some users may prefer a more tailored or relaxed fit depending on their body type and personal preference.
- Price Point: Can be on the higher side, reflecting the quality and technology of the fabric and design but may not fit all budgets.
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts stand out for their superior construction, material quality, and thoughtful design, making them an excellent choice for anyone serious about their outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re climbing rugged peaks, trekking through dense forests, or enjoying a casual day outdoors, these shorts promise to deliver comfort, protection, and durability, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.
Mountain Hardwear AP Short
Description
The Mountain Hardwear AP Short is a testament to the fusion of durability, comfort, and style, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and urban adventurers alike. These shorts are crafted from a unique blend of cotton, nylon, and elastane, offering a perfect balance between natural comfort and technical performance. The AP Short is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities while maintaining a clean, stylish look that transitions seamlessly to casual, everyday wear. The fabric’s stretch properties ensure a full range of motion, while its durability protects against abrasions and wear. Featuring a performance fit that is both functional and flattering, these shorts include numerous pockets for practical storage options, including a zippered security pocket for valuables. The Mountain Hardwear AP Short also boasts a UPF rating, providing sun protection during outdoor excursions.
Customer Review
“I’ve always struggled to find a pair of shorts that can handle outdoor activities and still look good enough for daily wear, but the Mountain Hardwear AP Shorts hit the mark perfectly. They’re incredibly comfortable for long hikes, thanks to the stretch in the fabric, and they’ve held up against everything I’ve thrown at them. The zippered pocket is a great feature for when I’m on the move and need to secure my keys or wallet. Plus, they look great; I’ve received several compliments when wearing them out in the city. Highly versatile and durable, I’d recommend these shorts to anyone.”
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile Design: Suitable for both outdoor activities and casual urban wear.
- Durable Fabric with Stretch: Offers comfort and resilience in various conditions.
- Practical Storage Options: Includes multiple pockets, with a zippered option for security.
- Sun Protection: Provides UPF rating for added outdoor utility.
Cons:
- Fit: Some users might find the performance fit to be too snug or too loose, depending on their body type.
- Material Blend: While offering durability and stretch, the cotton blend might not be as quick-drying as some purely synthetic alternatives.
Mountain Hardwear AP Shorts are an excellent investment for those who value versatility, durability, and style in their outdoor apparel. These shorts deliver on all fronts, providing the functionality needed for challenging adventures without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal for everyday wear. Whether you’re exploring rugged trails or navigating the urban jungle, the AP Shorts are designed to keep you comfortable, protected, and looking sharp.