15 Most Comfortable Women's Hiking Shorts of 2021
Outdoor enthusiasts swear by these women's hiking shorts.
Hiking clothing is a must for the outdoors. You want breathable shorts that are comfy, stretchy, and most of all, shorts that won't chafe. A good pair of shorts for the backcountry will make you wonder why you haven't invested in one of your favorite hobbies earlier.
Not all shorts are made the same. Your workout shorts might not be lightweight enough or offer UV protection. These hiking shorts for women meet every standard for hiking. See which pair (or two) you'll wear for your next outdoor adventure.
Best Hiking Shorts for Women
1. Columbia Women's Saturday Trail™ Shorts
Like the rest of their apparel, Columbia puts comfort first in women's hiking shorts. These women's hiking shorts are their go-to hiking shorts. They offer UPF 50 sun protection and have an active fit. The mid-rise and 2-way comfort stretch will come in handy on the trail! With nearly 140 positive reviews, you can't go wrong.
A customer gave them a five-star rating and wrote, "These are my favorite shorts for all the things I do regularly. Whether I'm running, walking, hiking, cleaning, or just hanging out, these are my go-to shorts. Please make more! I can't find them anywhere and I am wearing mine out. Please and thank you!"
2. Mountain Hardwear AP Short - Women's
Mountain Hardwear's shorts are another A+ pair of shorts. The breathability of these shorts is fantastic, and the durability is also unmatched, thanks to the synthetic fibers.
I love a good cotton blend! These shorts are going to be extra comfy for hikers.
3. Arcteryx Women's Creston 4.5 Inch Short
Here's your pick for hot weather days on the trail. These shorts have a low profile waist design with belt loops.
A customer gave them five stars and wrote, "I absolutely love these shorts. I work in the outdoors both on land and water. I wear these shorts over my bathing suit when kayaking and doing river adventures - they dry fast and are comfortable. Best shorts ever!"
4. Outdoor Research Women's Zendo 5 Inch Short
Outdoor Research has a great line of hiking apparel. I recommend these shorts to women who want less of the typical bermuda short look and something more modern and stylish. They're abrasion-resistant, breathable, and of course, water and wind-resistant.
They're the perfect shorts to have on in case you get caught in the rain. They're 94% Nylon and 6% spandex woven ripstop.
5. Patagonia Women's Dirt Craft Bike Shorts Summer 2017
Patagonia's versatile shorts exceed expectations for outdoor shorts. These biking shorts feature a durable padded liner and an adjustable outer short that doubles as hiking shorts. These DWR (durable water-repellent) shorts are a bit pricey, but they're worth it.
They're equipped with drop-in pockets, so feel free to bring your phone along!