The Best Women’s Hiking Shorts

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What makes the perfect pair of hiking shorts?

This question is going to be very different depending on who you ask. For me, I prefer the tighter biker short style, as long as there is one pocket on the side, usually for my phone, I’m happy. Some factors that would influence the type of shorts I would choose include: length of the hike, weather conditions, bugs and insect protection and how quickly can they dry? Also, as I do not have a thigh gap, chafing protection is going to be a major factor. Typically I would not choose to wear anything with less than a 5” inseam or my inner thighs are going to pay the price. You might prefer a shorter inseam to have more mobility, or the cargo style shorts to store things in the pockets. Depending on the length of hike you might choose a different style of shorts. For a day hike I wouldn’t be too concerned about having shorts with a high percentage of nylon to be washable and quick-drying but comfort would be the most important. If you are between sizes or have a hard time finding shorts that fit in both the waist and hips, you might want a pair with a belt for maximum customization. It is also important to me to show brands that have extended sizes, show true inclusivity and demonstrate sustainability. Here are my top recommendations.

1) Roots Restore Bike Shorts 7-inch

As mentioned in my “Best Women’s Hiking Pants” article, I was shocked when I went into Roots and felt the activewear. The activewear is super, super soft, has lots of stretch and comes in extended sizes. The Restore Bike Shorts 7” ($58 CAD) have a longer inseam to protect against thigh chafing, and spandex for lots of stretch. These shorts come in several cute colors and have extended sizing from an XS - 4X. In my opinion these shorts would be perfect for a day hike, they are moisture wicking and have minimal seams, but they are a heavier fabric that wouldn’t dry super quickly if they got wet or if you gave them a quick rinse, they may not be dry by the morning.

Pros:

• Buttery soft fabric

• Extended sizing XS-4X

• High waisted and minimal seams

• Comes in both 7” and 9” inseam

Cons:

• Heavier fabric so may not be the best option for multiday hikes

2) Alder Apparel Take A Hike Shorts

Alder Apparel is a Canadian women’s clothing brand that emphasizes true inclusivity. This is demonstrated by the sizing options offered from an XS -6X, proving that hiking is for everyone no matter your size. The Take a Hike Shorts 4.0 ($135 CAD) are packed full of features including seven pockets, snaps and zippers on the pockets for security, an interior pocket, a detachable belt, and water-resistant fabric. They have truly upped the shorts game! These shorts are high rise, include spandex for stretch and have an elastic waistband. One drawback is that you will only find these shorts available in one color at the moment.

Pros:

• Truly inclusive sizing XS-6X

• Great functionality with belt and multiple pockets

• Made from recycled fabrics and in ethical factories

• Built to be durable

Cons:

• Limited color options

• Inseam information unavailable on the website

• Expensive at $135 CAD

3) Patagonia Quandry Shorts 7-inch

Would any hiking clothing list be complete without Patagonia? Honestly, Patagonia offers a ton of different styles of shorts from baggy to bike shorts on their website and in stores, so it was hard to choose just one. In trying to offer a variety of different styles I chose the Quandry Shorts 7” ($99 CAD), which are also offered in 5” inseam. These shorts are made from 96% recycled nylon with 4% spandex for some stretch. That means these shorts are super light and perfect for multiday hikes. For example, they could be rinsed in river because you spilled dinner on them and be dry the next morning (definitely didnt happen to me). Other features include the fabric being coated in an environmentally friendly water repellant coating, multiple pockets, and a drawstring on the waistband for the perfect fit.

Pros:

• Made from an extremely high percentage of recycled fabric (96%)

• Extended sizing 0-22 and multiple inseams 7” & 5”

• Lightweight, quick drying fabric

• Pockets with zippers

Cons:

• Sizing can run small

4) MEC Wanderall Shorts 5-inch

Show me a pair of shorts with a thick waistband and you can just take my money. I have a bit of a tummy and I like to feel secured but not squeezed or pinched. These MEC Wanderall shorts have a nice cushy waistband with a drawstring, so your shorts aren’t going to fall down while you’re trudging up the trail. These are one the cheapest options at $59.95 CAD and come with two pockets and water-repellant coating. These no-frills shorts are made from lightweight nylon and a bit of spandex for stretch. These shorts only go up to a size XL, which is a little disappointing for a big brand like MEC.

Pros:

• More budget friendly at $60 CAD

• Thick waistband with drawstring

• Made from quick-drying nylon

Cons:

• Sizing only goes from XS-XL

5) Athleta Trekkie North Midrise Bermuda Shorts 9”

I really enjoy a lot of Athleta’s clothing, I find their clothing to be good quality and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The Trekkie North Midrise Bermuda Shorts ($79 CAD) come in a wide variety of sizes (0-26) and this iteration has a 9” inseam. The Trekkie North shorts also come in a 3.5” inseam if you want something shorter. The Bermuda short style is nice to prevent any thigh chafing and offer more protection from the elements while still looking cool. These shorts have zipper pockets and a nice thick waistband for some tummy compression. Made mostly from nylon and a bit of spandex means they will be quick drying while still having a bit of stretch.

Pros:

• 9” inseam for more protection against thigh chafing, and 3.5” inseam for shorter fit

• Lightweight and quick drying being made from 95% nylon

• Extended sizing 0-26

• Thick compression waistband for secure fit

Cons:

• Only two color options

6) Lululemon Wunder Training Highrise 8” Shorts

Another biker short offering is from Lululemon in the Wunder Train High-rise Short 8” ($64 CAD). These shorts are offered in 2”, 4”, 6” and 8” inseams so you will definitely find your perfect fit. A true high-rise fit with a very thick waistband with a drawstring will make your core feel nice and secure. The “Everlux” fabric is breathable and quick drying, so these shorts would perform great on both day hikes and multiday hikes. Lululemon sizing ranges from 0-20, but it would be great to see the sizing extended even more. One drawback is that there is only one pocket hidden in the waistband, so your snacks will have to stay in your bag.

Pros:

• Offered in multiple inseams 2”, 4”, 6” and 8”

• Quick drying and breathable fabric

• Thick waistband with waist drawcord

• Minimalist, sleek design

Cons:

• Only one waistband pocket

• Could offer more extended sizes 20+

As we hit the trails, it's crucial to feel comfortable, and confident in the clothing that we choose. Ideally, you don’t want to be thinking about your clothing at all, that means it's doing it’s job! That's why I've made it my priority to explore brands that emphasize inclusivity and sustainability, ensuring that every hiker, regardless of size or background, can find their perfect pair of shorts. There were definitely brands I could have included but they just didn’t have the size offerings I needed to see. I hope I have provided a nice cross section of the variety of women’s hiking shorts. Whether you prefer pockets galore, moisture-wicking fabrics, or a flattering fit, the right pair of shorts can make all the difference on the trail. So, as you embark on your next outdoor adventure, remember to choose gear that not only supports you but also the planet and the communities around you. Let's hike together, embracing inclusivity, sustainability, and the joy of exploration every step of the way.