Best Backpacking Shorts
Discover the best backpacking shorts designed for comfort and durability on your outdoor adventures. Crafted from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics, these shorts provide breathability and quick-drying capabilities, ensuring you stay cool and dry on the trail. With features like multiple pockets for storage and adjustable waistbands for a secure fit, these shorts are perfect for any hiking enthusiast. Enjoy freedom of movement and protection from the elements as you explore the great outdoors. Gear up for your next adventure with the ultimate in functionality and style.
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Fjallraven Men's Abisko Hike Short
$119.95
Great light weight hiking shorts ... I am tall at 6ft 3in and I really like the length of these shorts. ... The quality and comfort were well worth it. ... They are more of a snug fit and enough pockets to carry all your
5
DanM
Love these shorts. Overall, fit is perfect and true to size. The material and construction is excellent. I am tall at 6ft 3in and I really like the length of these shorts. I ended up ordering a second pair after I received the first pair. Highly recommend.
5
Skisumo
Super stretchy hiking shorts with built in belt. I like the addition of the belt and a little longer than the average shorts. Would buy them again.
5
SteelCurtain
These shorts are pricy but well worth the price. The quality and comfort were well worth it. They are more of a snug fit and enough pockets to carry all your needs. Even though I can ’ t pronounce the name of the manufacturer I will be buying more pairs in the future.
5
Sueb
Great shorts very comfortable and cool. Have several colors definitely recommend
5
Runner
[ I purchased these shorts exclusively for a hiking trip to Colorado. Very happy with the fit and material.
The North Face Men's Wander 2.0 Shorts
$27.97-$55.00
WAS: $55.00*
Great shorts, comfortable, lots of options for colors. ... North Face always makes great stiffy ... Very well air flow, quick drying material, not very stretchy more
5
uvahoos
Great shorts with some stretch and ventilated pockets. Love the blue color
5
Drp77
Bought these shirts on clearance. Couldn ’ t pass up the great deal. Quality is awesome as usual. They are like swimming suite material so good for all occasions.
5
cwtx12
These are my favorite shorts, I have them in 3 colors and want more. Go- to shorts on the weekend. The 7inch inseam is the perfect length for me, not too short and not too long. Buy these!
5
JG1502
My husband bought a pair of these about 6 months ago and has been wearing them nonstop, so I got him 2 more pairs. The style and length are perfect and the color options are great! I think these will be his go- to shorts.
5
NYMountain Hiker
Good quality material and affordable price. Found as nice and comfortable.
Nike Men's ACG Hike Shorts
$40.97-$57.97
WAS: $100.00*
Best shorts I ’ ve ever bought so comfortable and they fit perfectly how I like them not long and not too short I would buy more ... Light, stretchy material makes for a comfortable
5
Iswaldo50462170
Best shorts I ’ ve ever bought so comfortable and they fit perfectly how I like them not long and not too short I would buy more
5
MorganM48201794
My favorite shorts. Wear them hiking, swimming, and literally all conditions! The most versatile shorts I own.
5
twjaynes
Love these shorts. I normally wear xl for the leg room but large fits perfect. Only downside is one back pocket on the right side. No love for left handed people Bought 5 pairs. Highly recommend them
5
Chimemeka
When I tell you these shorts are perfect. Can wear these casually or when I ’ m out running. Perfect pants
5
AllenOw
These are great- fitting shorts for outdoor activities. Light, stretchy material makes for a comfortable fit. There is plenty of room, so pay attention to sizing.
Ten Thousand Men's Tactical 7'' Unlined Set Shorts
$50.97-$68.00
WAS: $68.00*
They are true to size and fit perfectly, but the best part is that they move with you when training and hold up to tough workouts. ... The Best Shorts ... Great pair of versatile shorts that can go from the gym to the pool and everywhere
5
Paddymcd
They are true to size and fit perfectly, but the best part is that they move with you when training and hold up to tough workouts.
5
SalutationsBB
Great pair of versatile shorts that can go from the gym to the pool and everywhere inbetween. Lightweight and quick drying.
Fjallraven Men's High Coast Pack Shorts
$105.00
The loop on the waistband that you can hang hats or keys or other equipment on is a nice added touch. ... I also love the extra ventilation that the mesh pockets
4
Nate Nate 617
Quality shorts, with amazing features. Love the fit. I also love the extra ventilation that the mesh pockets afford. The loop on the waistband that you can hang hats or keys or other equipment on is a nice added touch. I do wish the elastic in the back of shorts would give more. It doesn ’ t seem to stretch that much and the fit is a little too stiff for my level of movement. More colors to pick from would be nice as well. Really impressed by these shorts
Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Utility Cargo Shorts
$55.00
The men's silver ridge utility cargo shorts fit my husband perfectly. ... These shorts fit perfectly and is comfortable to wear. ... Very light and perfect for Florida weather, like the pockets
5
Carlos
Very light and perfect for Florida weather, like the pockets also.
5
Bill
They 're a perfect fit and just what I wanted... I 'm a decades- long fan of Columbia!
5
Spinner
Comfortable and light weight. This cargo short fits well. I have better options for the included belt.
5
Kent
Just bought these shorts and they are perfect. I have tried many other brands and Columbia fits exactly right. Not too big in the butt, the right length for average sized men, and with the comfort waist they are so comfortable. The material is light enough for very hot weather and they shed water as well. Will keep buying Columbia shorts.
5
K. Puccia
These shorts fit perfectly and is comfortable to wear. It also has good pocket space for me to carry what I need to.
SmartWool Men's Hike Shorts
$70.00
They fit perfectly, and the material is soft and smooth. ... Smart to wear wool ... No problem! ... [ Love their socks, expanded into shorts in the heat of the
5
Outdoor Bob
[ I may have to get more of these terrific shorts. They fit perfectly, and the material is soft and smooth. I didn ’ t even know Smartwool made shorts!
5
Sweet dad
[ Love their socks, expanded into shorts in the heat of the summer. No problem! Not sure what I may explore next but will search on for it on mooseejaw
The North Face Men's Packable Shorts
$85.00
They are expensive but you get what you pay for and they feel worth every bit of the penny when you put these shorts on. ... I would buy this product
5
80
They are expensive but you get what you pay for and they feel worth every bit of the penny when you put these shorts on. They feel rich, and they look expensive and they are not your everyday shorts you find at the store.
Patagonia Women's 5” Baggies Shorts
$69.00-$75.00
WAS: $75.00*
Best shorts on the planet ... Best shorts ever ... They are so soft and so comfortable and the perfect length! ... [ I am going to be spending my summer in Lisbon, Portugal as well as at a camp where I am a counselor, so I wanted some shorts that were very...
5
hsensenbrenner
[ I absolutely love these shorts. I have 2 pairs and I am looking to buy a third! They are so soft and so comfortable and the perfect length! Highly recommend!
5
JenJen
[ I absolutely love these shorts. They are so comfortable. They are the first shorts I ’ ve had that ride up the inside of my thighs when I walk. They are great for just hanging out on a summer day, or for going out kayaking and swimming in the river/lake. They dry pretty quickly which is a big plus, and I love all the colors and patterns.
5
horselover
[ These worked great at summer camp. They are super comfortable and have lasted me multiple summers. I would teccomend them to anyone looking for baggies
5
Regalicious
[ When the shorts came in the mail they were even better than I expected! I could not wait to put them on! They fit super well and I love wearing them!
5
Shanhasbrook
[ I am going to be spending my summer in Lisbon, Portugal as well as at a camp where I am a counselor, so I wanted some shorts that were very convenient as well as comfy, and, of course, cute!! Ultimately, these are the perfect shorts!! They are not too short, or too long and the colors are so happy. I have gotten many compliments!
Patagonia Men's Multi Trails Shorts
$85.00
I enjoy the pocket space. ... My husband bought these shorts for our recent cruise and they were super comfy and durable! ... very lightweight and the built in liner shorts are great additional
5
Walker511
A gift for my son. He said they fit well and are very comfortable. Score for Mom!
5
Chuck
Bought this shorts not knowing what to expect and after getting them, my favorite pair. Only downside is I wish it had an extra zipper pocket.
5
Ann Arbor Shopper
I purchased these fro my husband as he loves this style for biking and other outdoor activities. The pockets are much appreciated and used.
5
DnD17
My husband bought these shorts for our recent cruise and they were super comfy and durable!
5
Feetcomfortmatters
These are great shorts. I am very satisfied with the purchase and look forward to wearing them for a long time!
SmartWool Women's Merino Sport Lined Shorts
$60.00
Best! ... The fabric was amazing and unexpected by me given they are wool, the only bummer is that I am in between xs and small so I had to return. ... They 're a trim fit without feeling constricting and I have n't had any chafing issues, even when they 're totally
5
Kelley
[ The shorts were beyond my expectations! The fabric was amazing and unexpected by me given they are wool, the only bummer is that I am in between xs and small so I had to return.
5
Jules
[ Great: style, fit, material, design. The liner is not tight like ALL OTHER women ’s shorts- no show liner! The zipper in the back is perfect for chapstick and a key. I have many of these shorts, my go- to for any run 5 to 50 miles.
5
salishfrog
[ These are so comfortable- I just bought another pair! They 're a trim fit without feeling constricting and I have n't had any chafing issues, even when they 're totally wet. I like that they dry fast so I can rinse and repeat. The 2 pockets feel secure, too. I 've had my first pair for a year and they look new so I think these will last a long time.
SmartWool Women's Merino Sport Hike Shorts
$60.00
Best shorts ever! ... Good lightweight for backpacking! ... Love the non- bulky waistband and lightweight material for backpacking that would dry quickly. ... Lightweight, great material, deep pockets and so
5
kh311
[ I love these shorts — I find it almost impossible to find shorts that fit me( narrow waist, curvy through butt and thighs), but these fit perfectly. The material is light, comfortable, dries quickly, and seems to resist odors better than other athletic shorts I have. The little zippered pocket is a nice touch, too. I only wish they came up a little higher on my waist! 5 ’ 5 ” 120 lbs, ordered size XS.
5
Sknight
[ Surprised how comfortable these short are. Very high quality. I like the fit alot, not to short not to long. I will be using these for hiking. Worn about 7 times now and still loving them.
5
Allison
[ These are my first pair of wool shorts so I was n't sure what to expect. They are fantastic! I thought that they would attract dog hair( I have 4 pups), and they have n't at all! My only problem is that I 'm kind of a hard fit right now and I did n't want them to be too small so they are a bit too big. But that's completely my fault. Very happy with these and I 'm sure I 'll be buying more.
5
HikeHappy27
[ I bought these shorts over the summer before a big camping trip in the Rockies and Tetons and they held up perfectly. Finally shorts that do n't ride up with any sort of movement and they kept me cool and wicked sweat. The length is perfect in the sense they are not too long or too short. I bought three more colors and these will be the only shorts I will wear now.
5
Teachpam
[ Excellent shorts! Light weight and so comfy. Quality all the way. Snap closure and moisture wicking. Side pockets. Perfect for hiking or any other outdoor adventure. You will love them. Just do it!
Fjallraven Men's Abisko Lite Short
$109.95
Great, comfortable pants. ... Super stretchy but tough material. ... They are light, breathable and stretch. ... Great but use caution around fire ... [ These have become more then technical outdoor pants, I now wear them around the house( office), and not just
5
Ashley V.
After wearing these shorts for a short period of time, they quickly became my husbands number 1 pair of shorts. When asked what he likes most about them he pointed out that they are incredibly stretchy and flexible but have a nice sturdy feel to them. He prefers a trimmer fit to his shorts with longer inseams and these were perfect! They also have cargo short style storage while still looking much cleaner and sleeker. He does wish there was a second pocket on the rear.
5
Eric H.
Wear these shorts all summer long and never be disappointed. Stretch material is so comfortable you barely notice these are even on. I roll these up and bring them in pack every trip, they 're great for when I get to camp and start to chill, they work as swim shorts and dry quick, they work if it's really a hot day and the trail is n't too rugged. Only thing is the pockets can be uncomfortable if they 're loaded up too much. I rarely use them.
5
Stephen D.
I have these shorts and my swimsuit, and that is it. Pretty straight- forward shorts that look great and feel great!
5
Eric M
I bought these shorts in a larger size but exchanged them for a smaller size-- that was the best thing I 've done! They fit great and I I love the material-- very durable and comfortable.
5
MFrench
This is my second pair of these shorts because they have become my favorite hiking shorts. They fit snugly in the waist, but loose in the seat and legs. The pockets are the right number and in the right places. They do n't show wear at all.
Mountain Hardwear Men's Basin Trek Shorts
$75.00
The best at either inseam ... Great shorts for hiking or climbing. ... They look good enough for everyday wear, and are light enough to be my go to for any outdoor
5
DanH
Perfect shorts. Love the material... nice and cool for summer activities and the fit is great. Also really well made.
5
Chad A
Love these shorts! I bought all the colors. They are lightweight, fit well, slightly stretchy, and dry quickly if wetted. They go well with a standard tee or a dressy shirt
5
Ken
I have both the regular and long inseam, and these are now my favorite shorts and( almost) as good as the discontinued Yucca Canyon shorts I loved and have every color. Get these shorts- fit is fine and look terrific.
5
KK
Have the regular and the long inseam- both are terrific. Love everything about these shorts, versatile, wrinkle free, great on a hike or golf or casual.
5
wearer of clothes
they may change your life and might possibly make you more attractive. great stretch with moment and feel bullet proof( not actually tested).
Mountain Hardwear Men's Stryder™ Shorts
$70.00
Solid and Comfortable ... Fits well, and well made, expecting a long life like other MWH gear I 've had. ... Just bought a pair today and am very pleased so
5
JD
Just bought a pair today and am very pleased so far. Fits well, and well made, expecting a long life like other MWH gear I 've had. But I 'm having a hard time finding that' hidden cell phone pocket'. Any hints?
Mountain Hardwear Men's Shade Lite™ Shorts
$59.00
good fabric, perfect light shorts for gym, errands, or a swim ... Was looking for some lounging shorts- and these are near perfect. ... Will use them for camping/ hiking/ swim combo this summer for
5
REW
Was looking for some lounging shorts- and these are near perfect. I have not been able to find that mesh pocket on the center back... nor did my pair have the Nut logo on the right rear thigh. These are n't deal breakers to me, but descriptive accuracy is lacking.
5
m_bur
I travel quit a bit and wanted a pair of shorts that I could work out in, trail run, swim in, etc. Also wanted something that would dry quickly. These are great for that. I generally wear a shorter inseam specifically or trail running, but this inseam was a more modest and `` everyday comfortable '' approach. Got the shorts with the AirShell Hoody and together they 're a great combo. Would recommend as a all purpose trail short.
5
HikeMarker
[ Employee of mountainhardwear] I 've been wearing for a few weeks. These are turning into my workout shorts. Have done done a few base training runs and they 're comfortable and feel great. I 'm not sure I would wear them on a really long run but did 90min run in them and they were great. Will use them for camping/ hiking/ swim combo this summer for sure. I 'm a 33 '' waste and the L fits great.
5
John G
Super lightweight and comfortable. Have to two front pockets, with they had one in the back so you can wear them as everyday shorts if you needed.
5
chicofuzz
good fabric, perfect light shorts for gym, errands, or a swim
Mountain Hardwear Men's AP Active Shorts
$79.00
I really like these shorts, they fit well and feel
prAna Men's Stretch Zion Shorts
$69.00
Best shorts I ’ ve ever owned ... Best shorts around ... Trying them on they are very comfortable and have a good fit. ... I 've worn Prana Stretch Zion shorts for several years and have yet to find better all- around
5
Barry in Idaho
I 've worn Prana Stretch Zion shorts for several years and have yet to find better all- around shorts. They 're very comfortable, light, and durable, and most importantly for me, come in a 12 '' length. I 'm 6'4 '', so my only suggestion for improvement would be to add a 14 '' option. The pockets are good- sized; the zippered thigh pocket is great for keeping keys in during water activities. The Charcoal color looks great with nearly any shirt.
5
J.S
Great shorts, water resistant and stretchy. I have thick thighs and these fit nice and relaxed. The side pocket is not big enough to zip closed with an iPhone 11 sized phone.
5
Terry
These are my very favorite shorts. They have all the right pockets, some open and some secure. They stretch so there is nice give when I bend or sit. And, they do n't need a belt. I keep looking for new colors!
5
JDG - Palm Springs, CA
I bought two pair( khaki and gray) in 2013 and wore them almost daily for three years... hiking, rock climbing, road trips, and every- day activities. When they FINALLY started showing wear( seriously, they wear like iron!), I ordered four more( gray, black, khaki and olive). When I recently ripped one pair — my fault, not the shorts — there was no question, I just immediately bought a replacement. And when I saw that camo was now an option, I ordered that, too. So yeah... I now own six pairs of these amazing shorts. They ’ re that good. I ’ ve gotten rid of all other shorts in my wardrobe... because from going out in the evening to biking to mowing the lawn, the Zion shorts move with me perfectly... and the side pocket has held my iPhone( 5, 8, and 11) perfectly. I love these shorts. You will too.
5
HG
I wear these shorts every day. They are so comfortable and stylish.
Halfdays Women's Rosalie Trail Shorts
$52.50
WAS: $75.00*
Best summer short! ... The adjustable belt is great and gets you to the perfect fit! ... I love the adjustable waist! ... The fit is so good and flattering, the material is breathable and I would have them in every color if I
5
JennyCerritos
I love my new shorts. I got them in the tan brown color and I love the fit. Not too short, still modest but not too outdated. I love the buckle.
5
EGal
I bought these for a trip where I 'd be kayaking leisurely. I loved them so much! They are cute, functional, fit well, fast- drying, and comfortable! The fabric is so soft yet feels so durable.
5
Jason in Pa
Wasn ’ t familiar with this brand but have bought several items and it ’s a solid brand.
5
Jason in Pa
I bought these for my daughter. I had never heard of the brand, but this seems like a quality company.
5
Bailee
Absolutely so comfy for my hike! Would purchase in all colors
adidas Men's Terrex Multi Hiking Shorts
$45.00
Best material and quality I ’ ve experienced. ... Best material and quality I ’ ve ever felt ... This shorts offer an excellent fit and the perfect length, combining comfort with a modern, stylish
5
Sigi
[ My son loves them so much, that refuses take them out.
5
Rxtofu
Very roomy, key loop is convenient. Quality is fantastic and so is the material.
5
Tofu
I wear shorts 90% of the time and these blew my mind. The quality is so different from all the others I ’ ve tried. Lots of thigh room for making leaps or stretching legs far apart. Key loop is a game changer and the branding holds up in the dryer. Highly recommend.
5
TAFB
The fit and length of these shorts are great. I like how short and high above the knee they are. Keep in mind they are kind of high waisted, otherwise you 'll feel the shorts pulling funny while you walk.
5
Alexla626
Quality all day everyday!!!! Comfortable and durable
On this page...
- What features should I look for in the best backpacking shorts?
- What materials are commonly used in high-quality backpacking shorts?
- Are there specific styles of backpacking shorts that are better for different climates?
- How do I determine the right fit for backpacking shorts?
- What are the benefits of wearing backpacking shorts compared to pants?
- Can I use backpacking shorts for activities other than hiking?
Frequently Asked Questions For Best Backpacking Shorts
When selecting the best backpacking shorts, consider features such as moisture-wicking fabric, quick-drying capabilities, and breathability. Look for shorts with a comfortable fit that allows for a full range of motion, as well as pockets for convenience. Additionally, consider shorts with UV protection and durability to withstand various outdoor conditions.
High-quality backpacking shorts are often made from lightweight synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, which offer durability and quick-drying properties. Some may also include spandex for added stretch and comfort. It's important to choose materials that are breathable and can handle moisture to keep you comfortable during your hikes.
Yes, certain styles of backpacking shorts are better suited for different climates. For warmer weather, lightweight and breathable shorts are ideal, while in cooler climates, you might prefer longer shorts or those that can be layered. Additionally, consider features like insulation or water resistance if you expect to encounter varying weather conditions.
To determine the right fit for backpacking shorts, consider both your waist size and the length that suits your comfort. Look for shorts with adjustable features, such as drawstrings or elastic waistbands, to ensure a secure fit. It's also beneficial to try on different styles to see which cut and length provide the best range of motion for your activities.
Backpacking shorts offer several benefits over pants, especially in warm weather. They provide increased ventilation and freedom of movement, which can enhance comfort during hikes. Additionally, shorts are generally lighter and take up less space in your pack, making them a practical choice for backpacking trips.
Absolutely! Backpacking shorts are versatile and can be used for various outdoor activities such as camping, climbing, and even casual outings. Their comfortable fit and durable materials make them suitable for a range of adventures, allowing you to transition easily from the trail to other activities without needing to change.
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