Proper hiking shorts are essential when you’re out on the hills. When picking camping gear, it’s necessary to ensure it’s comfortable, breathable, long-lasting, and able to handle different types of weather. We break down the best hiking shorts of 2024 into various categories, with the best shorts for each need and taste.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts: Best Hiking Shorts

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts are the best hiking shorts of 2024. Because they are so durable, comfortable, and valuable in many situations, these shorts are great for rough terrain or casual walks. The light, stretchy fabric lets you move freely and effectively blocks wind and water. You can hike in these shorts whether it’s warm or light rain. They keep you dry and comfy. They are our top pick for all-around performance because they are well-made and well-thought-out.

image of Hiking Rafting Shorts

Important features:

 – Made of stretchy, long-lasting soft shell fabric

– Waterproof and windproof

– UV protection of 50+

– Many pockets for storage 

Best Value for Money: Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts 

The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are good hiking shorts that won’t break the bank. The quick-drying fabric, ventilation, and comfortable fit of these cheap shorts make them a great deal. Also, the Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts have a lot of storage space, with many pockets to keep your essential things sorted while you’re on the go. They’re great for hikers who want a cheap but reliable choice.

 Important Features:

Made of Omni-WickTM fabric

Dries quickly

pockets for storage;

Protects against UV rays up to 50+

Kuhl Renegade Short 

The Kuhl Renegade Short is an excellent choice if you care about benefits. The high-performance cloth, adjustable waistband, and reinforced stitching make these shorts comfortable and long-lasting. Because the fabric doesn’t absorb water and is stretchy, these pants are great for long hikes or other strenuous outdoor activities. Also, the Renegade Shorts have a lot of safe pockets, including one that is secret and zippered for your valuables. 

Important Features:

Made of a nylon and spandex blend 

water-resistant finish 

stretchy and durable 

pockets for storage

What We Do to Test Hiking Shorts 

We tried each pair of hiking shorts on several different criteria to find the best ones:

We tested how each pair felt on long walks, looking at how flexible they were, how comfortable the waistband was, and how well they fit.

Breathability: We checked how well the shorts let air flow, which keeps the wearer cool during strenuous exercise.

Weather Resistance: We checked how well the shorts worked in light rain, hot sun, and other types of weather.

Dry Time: We wrote down how fast the shorts dried after being wet or sweaty.

Durability: We checked how well each pair held up against everyday wear and tear, such as cuts from rough roads or rocks. 

Why Should You Trust GearLab?

For reviews of outdoor gear, you can trust GearLab. The people on our team are avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who try each product in the real world. Instead of believing what the manufacturer says, we try each item ourselves to see how it holds up over time. We use data to back up our reviews and try to give you honest, fair advice to help you pick out the best gear for your needs. 

Results of the Tests and Analysis 

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts were the clear winners in a long list of tests because they are comfortable, last a long time, and don’t get wet. On the other hand, other types are better at certain things, like having a fabric that dries quickly or being affordable. Below is a quick list of the best competitors in each group:

1. The Patagonia Baggies 5” are the lightest shorts we tested. They’re great for hot weather and keep you feeling airy and light.

2. Patagonia Baggies 5” are the best quick-drying pants because their fabric dries quickly, so you can stay relaxed even after crossing streams or sweating a lot.

3. The Kuhl Renegade Short has the best stretch. The high-stretch fabric in these shorts lets you move freely, which makes them great for camping and climbing.

4. Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are the best for hot weather. These shorts keep you cool in the heat with mesh side panels and fabric that wicks away sweat.

5. The Kuhl Renegade Short is the best cargo hiking shorts because it has a lot of deep, secure pockets. These shorts are great for hikers who like to bring extra stuff.

6. Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are the best cheap hiking shorts because they don’t skimp on comfort or performance. 

What’s the Best Value? 

Many hikers think the Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are the best deal. For a fair price, you can get a pair of shorts that will last, are comfortable, and work well in various situations. They have the essential features for a good hiking experience without costing a lot: quick-dry cloth, UPF protection, and pockets. 

Comfort and Easy Movement 

It should be easy to move around in hiking shorts. The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts and the Kuhl Renegade Shorts are great options for this group because they are stretchy and comfortable. Because these shorts don’t get in the way, you can wear them hiking or scrambling on rougher ground.

Features

Pockets for storage

Water-resistant 

Robust stitching 

Style and Versatility

Shorts for hiking need to be able to handle many different outdoor activities. In this case, the Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts shine. These shorts have features that make them suitable for both hiking and running. This makes them an excellent choice for people who like to switch between sports outside. The style is also good enough to wear off the road. 

Ventilation and airflow

If it’s hot out on the road, you need shorts that let air flow and dry quickly. The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts work well here because they keep you cool and dry with mesh-lined pockets and moisture-wicking fabric.

Temperature Resistance and Dry Time

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts are good at keeping out light rain and drying quickly after getting wet. Because of this, they are an excellent choice for hikers who go through changing weather because they will stay dry and comfy even when wet.

image of Hiking Rafting Shorts

Conclusion

Which hiking shorts are best depends on what you need and what you expect the weather to be like. The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Shorts are best for most walkers because they are comfortable, last long, and don’t get wet. But the Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are a great choice if you’re on a tight budget. On the other hand, the Kuhl Renegade Shorts are the best choice for those who want a durable pair with many features.

How to Pick the Perfect Shorts for You: Shopping Tips

When picking out camping shorts, keep these things in mind:

1. Fit: Hiking shorts should be loose around the waist so you can move around quickly. Shorts that are tight enough or loose are best to stay away from.

2. Substance: Pick a material that lets air flow, pulls wetness away, and is strong enough for outdoor activities.

3. Weather: Think about the weather when you go hiking. When it’s hot, fabrics that are light and airy are best. When the weather is uncertain, fabrics that don’t get wet or dry quickly are best.

 How should hiking shorts fit? 

When hiking, your shorts should fit well around your hips and waist. Find a pair that doesn’t make moving hard, especially around the legs. If the shorts fit well, you can move around without any problems. For a perfect fit, waistbands that can be adjusted are a great feature.

FAQ

Can I do other things outside while wearing hiking shorts?

Many hiking shorts can be worn for trail runs, camping, or hanging out.

Are cargo pockets necessary?

They are instrumental if you like to take extra things. If you want something lighter and more sleek, you could choose shorts without as many pockets.

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