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!
6. Prana Women's Olivia 5IN Short
Prana's warm-weather shorts have a moisture-wicking finish, which is exactly what you should be looking for in hiking shorts.
A customer wrote, "I bought these shorts for a hiking trip and they were perfect. Lightweight and incredibly comfortable, the shorts were perfect for long hiking trails."
7. The North Face Women's Class V Hike Short
The North Face's shorts are perfect for anyone loyal to their brand. They're comfy, lightweight, and have deep pockets for your essentials.
8. Marmot Women's Delaney Shorts
I love the fit on these shorts. They're not too long and not too short. Plus, they offer UPF 40 sun protection. Of course, put on sunscreen as well!
They offer the comfort you need to help you stay out on the trail for hours. They're made from 66% cotton, 30% nylon, and 4% elastane.
9. Libin Women's Lightweight Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Cargo Shorts Summer Travel Fishing Golf Shorts Outdoor Water Resistant
Have a budget under $40? Consider Libin's hiking shorts. These quick-drying shorts are breathable, water-resistant, and offer UV sun protection. The specs are incredible, but the style is a plus if you want shorts that aren't too tight and sit just above the knees.
A customer wrote, "I really like these shorts. They are light weight, cool, have lots of pockets for phone, sunglasses, etc, elastic in waist at back. I ordered a 12/large. The elastic makes them fit in the waist but I'm not a huge fan of elastic, so while they fit they are a little snugger in the waist than I like. However I kept both pair. The pros outweigh the one con."
10. Eddie Bauer Women's Guide Pro Shorts
Eddie Bauer's Guide Pro Shorts are stylish, lightweight, and also have a DWP finish. They come in a variety of sizes for women of all shapes! Check out this awesome review.
11. Jessie Kidden Women's Stretch Cargo Shorts, Quick Dry 7" Inseam Outdoor Hiking Travel Shorts
These cargo shorts are incredibly budget-friendly. The moisture-wicking technology will regulate temperature and keep you nice and cool. (For under $22.)
12. Mountain Hardwear Women's Dynama Short for Trekking, Bouldering, and Everyday, Flexible, Water-Repellant, Breathable - Black - X-Small 6
Mountain Hardwear's Dynama shorts are ideal for just about any outdoor activity. They look like they'll fit a little snug but will still offer comfort and stretch.
They're pretty stylish! If you can't resist a few Instagram pictures out hiking, then these are for you.
13. Patagonia Baggies Board Short - Women's
Style is important to some, so I had to include these Patagonia shorts. These summer shorts are too cute! They're perfect for hiking, days at the beach, and more. Use the adjustable drawstring for the perfect fit.
14. KUHL Trekr 8 Short - Women's
Kuhl's shorts are perfect for you if accessibility is everything. There are plenty of roomy pockets for your phone, keys, and more.
15. Willit Women's Yoga Lounge Shorts Hiking Active Running Sweat Shorts Comfy Casual Shorts with Pockets 2.5"
For $20, you can keep it casual with Willit's active shorts. They come in over 10 different colors and have nearly 1,000 perfect ratings. Check out this review from a happy customer.
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