Ever felt your legs overheat on a long hike, wishing for something lighter and cooler? Choosing the perfect backpacking shorts can feel like a real puzzle. You need something tough enough for trails, light enough for long miles, and comfortable when sweat pours down. Many shorts snag, chafe, or just don’t dry fast enough when you cross that unexpected stream.
Don’t let the wrong shorts ruin your next adventure! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great pair of backpacking shorts. You will learn about the best fabrics, the perfect inseam lengths, and features that truly matter on the trail. Get ready to discover the shorts that will keep you comfortable from the first step to the final campsite.
Top Backpacking Shorts Recommendations
- Lightweight Running Shorts: Quick drying, moisture wicking and lightweight sports fabric wicks sweat from the skin to help you stay comfortable and dry.
- Three zipper pockets, athletic shorts with three deep zippered pockets for storage while exercising.
- Adjustable elatic waist , drawstring closure with elastic waistband for improved comfort and fit.
- 7 inch inseam quick dry shorts. Not include lining, near skin without friction and irritation. Machine wash or hand wash.
- 【6 Pockets & Reflective Design】The hiking shorts has 6 pockets which includs 4 big and deep side zipper pockets, 2 front pockets. The reflective strips help ensure your safety when you hiking in the early morning or late evening.
- 【Good Fit】The elastic and adjustable waistband of the shorts would hug your waist better, help this shorts nicely in place.
- 【Breathable & Quick Dry】The breathable fabrics help your shorts keep dry and it has certain water-resistance ability. UPF 50+ protects you from UV ray.
- 【Lightweight & Durable】These shorts use lightweight and stretchable material which can offer more comfortability of movement to you.
- 【PERFORMANCE FABRIC】The men's work shorts are made of 65% cotton,33% polyester and 2% elastane,and it is crafted with quick-dry and lightweight material,which ensures the best comfort and flexibility. And they are suitable for harsh environments.
- 【WATERPROOF & COMFORTABLE】 The men's hiking shorts treated with surface layer water repellent treatment,fast dry,and breathable.The powerful moisture-wicking system keeps you dry and cool all day.And the men's tactical shorts made of comfortable fabric,enhanced tactical movement without sense of restraint.pockets with snaps. multi colors and multi size for choose.
- 【MULTI-POCKETS】The tactical shorts for men including 2 slash pockets, 2 flat pockets, and 2 back pockets.All the deep zipper pockets allows for secure storage of valuables like wallets cell phone,keys and ourdoor tools.
- 【EXPANDABLE WAIST】Our men's cargo shorts are designed with a elastic back waistband, which allows to fit you perfectly.And it offers a security support to ensure you move-freely and bends easily.
- 5 Zipper Pockets Hiking Shorts: Including 2 slash pockets, 2 flat pockets, and a back pocket. All the deep zipper pockets allows for secure storage of valuables like wallets cell phone and keys.
- Lightweight Moisture Wicking Fabric: Lightweight cargo shorts are made of breathable fabric, features moisture wicking and quick drying, keep you comfortable and cool in summer outdoor activities.
- Expandable Waist Cargo Shorts: Designed with a elastic back waistband, button closure with zip fly and 2'' belt loop for a personalized fit, offers a security support to ensure you move-freely and bends easily.
- Sun Protection & Water Repellent: Durable UPF 50+ sun protection helps to block harmful UV rays when you are hike, play or relax outdoors. Added durable water repellent finish to repel light moisture and dirt.
- Stretch, ultra-Soft and lightweight fabric wicks moisture away from your skin, keeping you from getting damp and chilled while lounging or hiking
- Comfy, wide waistband stays put to ensure all-day comfort; Adjustable drawcord for a custom fit
- Hand pockets hold small essentials like a key, card or cash
- Flatlock stitching reduces chafing, provide next-to-skin softness and chafe-free comfort
- Lightweight & Breathability: Men's athletic hiking Shorts are made quality 4-Way Stretch/breathable and quick-drying fabric helps to wick away moisture and dry quickly keep you cool A synthetic of polyester and spandex can be very durable, abrasion-resistant, and stretchy enough to allow for better mobility
- UNIQUE: Exercise cool Shorts have stylish casual breathable holes on both sides, designed exclusively by NORTHYARD Soft Elastic waistband/ built-in adjustable drawstring for custom fit, flatlock seams reduce chafe for additional comfort and ease of movementTwo stylish reflective strips at the front and back allow you to improve safety in low-light situations
- 3 Zipper Pockets: Men's athleisure unlined Shorts feature conveniently placed and easily accessible pockets so that you can quickly store and retrieve your items The 2 side and 1 back pockets with zipper offer easy storage for your essentials and are also deep enough to prevent the items from falling out during activities
- Sunprotection & Cool: UPF 50+ Fabric let you move comfortably and provide great UV protection(No belt loops)-pocket cloth made of mesh fabric, very refreshing and breathable for your all-day comfort
- US size, Men's shorts with partial elastic waist for comfort fit, equipped with a belt, Suitable for most people and body shape. Elastic wear, water repellent, wear-resisting, breathe freely, comfortable.
- Mens casual shorts using high performance wicking fabric for outdoor sports, Lightweight short features Advanced moisture-wicking technology that pulls moisture away to keep you cool and dry, Suitable for most men, boys or teens.
- Advanced UPF 50 sun protection technology men's hiking shorts for maximum protection against the sun, reduces your exposure to harmful UVA/UVB radiation. High-performance wicking fabric, high quality fabric for outdoor sports.
- Cargo Shorts For Men: Multi pockets men's shorts features 2 front slash pockets,2 back pockets, plus 2 thigh pockets with zipper closure for your belongings.
- Ligtweight & Quick Dry Fabric: The womens hiking shorts crafted of lightweight, quick dry, breathable and water-resistant fabric helps to repel light moisture to keep you cool and fresh all day.
- Elastic Waistband: The Santiny womens cargo shorts have a 360-degree elastic waist with adjustable drawstring to prevent pressure marks on the tummy and offers a custom fit during hiking.
- Multi Pockets: 2 Zipper side pockets and 2 zipper cargo pockets are deep enough to store your cellphone, keys, wallets and other essentials without falling out when golf or athletic.
- Sun Protection: The lightweight bermuda shorts made with stretch-woven fabric which build-in UPF 50+ to provide great protection against harmful ultraviolet rays during outdoor activities.
Finding Your Perfect Trail Companion: A Backpacking Shorts Buying Guide
Choosing the right backpacking shorts makes a huge difference on the trail. Good shorts keep you comfortable, dry, and ready for adventure. Bad shorts? They can cause chafing and misery. This guide helps you pick the best pair for your next hike.
Key Features to Look For
1. Quick-Drying Ability
When you sweat a lot or cross a stream, you need shorts that dry fast. Look for features like “moisture-wicking.” This fabric pulls sweat away from your skin quickly. Fast drying prevents chafing and keeps you cooler.
2. Pocket Configuration and Security
You need pockets for snacks, maps, or your phone. Check how many pockets the shorts have. Are they zippered? Zippered pockets are best for securing valuables. Deep pockets are good, but make sure they don’t sag when full.
3. Mobility and Stretch
Backpacking involves climbing over logs and taking big steps. The shorts must move with you. Look for fabric with some built-in stretch or gusseted crotches (extra fabric panels in the inner thigh area). This stops the shorts from pulling uncomfortably during movement.
4. Inseam Length
Inseam is the measurement from the crotch seam down to the leg hem. Shorter inseams (around 5-7 inches) offer maximum airflow and mobility. Longer inseams (8-10 inches) offer more protection from sun and bugs. Choose based on your comfort level and the environment you hike in.
Important Materials Matter
The material dictates how the shorts perform. Always check the tag!
- Nylon: This is the most popular choice. Nylon is strong, lightweight, and dries very quickly. It handles rough use well.
- Polyester: Similar to nylon, polyester resists wrinkles and holds its shape. It often feels softer than pure nylon.
- Spandex/Elastane Blends: These materials add stretch. A small percentage of spandex mixed with nylon makes the shorts much more comfortable for active hiking.
- Avoid 100% Cotton: Cotton absorbs water, dries slowly, and gets heavy when wet. Cotton is a poor choice for serious backpacking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish: This coating makes water bead up and roll off the fabric surface.
- Reinforced Seams: Double-stitching or bar-tacking (extra stitching at stress points) makes the shorts last longer.
- Ventilation Panels: Mesh panels in high-sweat areas help hot air escape.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Zippers: Cheap plastic zippers break easily. Metal zippers are usually better.
- Too Many Seams: While some seams add structure, too many seams can create uncomfortable rubbing points, leading to chafing.
- Lack of UV Protection: If you hike in intense sun, look for a UPF rating (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).
User Experience and Use Cases
Backpacking shorts need to be versatile. You might wear them while scrambling up rocks, sitting by a campfire, or wading through a shallow river.
High-Intensity Hiking: For steep ascents or long-mile days, prioritize lightweight material and excellent stretch. You want minimal fabric weight.
Hot, Humid Climates: Choose the shortest inseam you are comfortable with. Look for maximum mesh ventilation. Quick-drying time is crucial here.
Variable Weather: If temperatures drop quickly, you might prefer a slightly longer inseam or shorts that zip off into convertible pants. Convertible shorts offer great flexibility.
Backpacking Shorts FAQ
Q: How short is too short for backpacking shorts?
A: This depends on personal comfort and bug/sun exposure. Most hikers find 5 to 7-inch inseams balance airflow and coverage well. If bugs are bad, consider longer shorts or leggings.
Q: Do I need waterproof shorts?
A: True waterproof shorts are rare and often feel clammy. Instead, look for water-resistant (DWR treated) and quick-drying shorts. They shed light rain and dry fast after crossing water.
Q: What is the difference between hiking shorts and running shorts?
A: Running shorts are usually extremely light and focus only on unrestricted movement. Hiking shorts are tougher, feature more durable fabric, and have more secure pockets for gear.
Q: Should I wear underwear with backpacking shorts?
A: Many modern hiking shorts have built-in mesh liners. If they have a liner, you usually do not need underwear, which reduces the layers that can cause chafing.
Q: How do I wash my technical shorts?
A: Wash them gently with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners because they clog the pores of the fabric, which reduces the material’s ability to wick sweat.
Q: Are dark or light colors better?
A: Light colors reflect sunlight, keeping you cooler in direct sun. Dark colors hide dirt better, which is helpful on long trips.
Q: Can I use these shorts for casual wear?
A: Yes! Most modern backpacking shorts look good enough for casual outings, travel, or yard work because they are designed to be comfortable and stylish.
Q: What is a gusseted crotch?
A: It is an extra diamond-shaped piece of fabric sewn into the area where the legs meet. This feature allows you to lift your knees high without stressing the seams of the shorts.
Q: Should I size up for layering underneath?
A: Generally, no. Buy your normal size. If you plan to wear thermal tights underneath in cold weather, you might try one size up, but usually, the shorts are designed to fit over base layers.
Q: How important is UPF rating?
A: If you hike above the tree line or in very sunny deserts, UPF is important. It acts like sunscreen built into the fabric, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.
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