Best Hiking Shorts for Men

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, finding the right pair of hiking shorts is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best hiking shorts for men⁚

Material and Durability

The material of your hiking shorts is important for both comfort and durability. Look for shorts made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that will keep you cool and comfortable on the trail. Nylon and polyester are both good options, as they are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and durable. If you’re expecting to do a lot of hiking in wet or muddy conditions, you may want to consider shorts made from a waterproof or water-resistant material.

The durability of your hiking shorts is also important, especially if you’re planning on doing any off-trail hiking or scrambling. Look for shorts with reinforced seams and durable fabrics that can withstand abrasion and tearing. Cordura nylon is a good option for durable hiking shorts, as it is resistant to tears and abrasions.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing the material of your hiking shorts⁚

• Breathability⁚ Look for shorts made from a breathable fabric that will allow air to circulate and keep you cool and comfortable.
• Moisture-wicking⁚ Moisture-wicking fabrics help to draw sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable.
• Quick-drying⁚ Quick-drying fabrics are ideal for hiking in wet or humid conditions, as they will dry quickly after being wet.
• UPF protection⁚ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protection helps to block the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for shorts with a UPF rating of 30 or higher for good sun protection.

By considering these factors, you can choose a pair of hiking shorts that will be comfortable, durable, and protective on your next hiking adventure.

Fit and Comfort

The fit and comfort of your hiking shorts are essential for a enjoyable hiking experience. Shorts that are too tight will restrict your movement and cause chafing, while shorts that are too loose will be uncomfortable and may get in the way.

Here are some tips for finding hiking shorts that fit and feel great⁚

• Choose the right size⁚ The best way to ensure a good fit is to try on several different sizes and choose the pair that fits you most comfortably.
• Look for shorts with an adjustable waistband⁚ An adjustable waistband allows you to customize the fit of your shorts, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
• Consider the length of the shorts⁚ Hiking shorts come in a variety of lengths, from short to long. Choose a length that is comfortable for you and that provides adequate coverage.
• Look for shorts with a gusseted crotch⁚ A gusseted crotch allows for greater freedom of movement, which is important for hiking.
• Try on the shorts with the gear you’ll be wearing⁚ If you’ll be wearing a backpack or other gear while hiking, be sure to try on the shorts with the gear to ensure that they fit comfortably.

By following these tips, you can find a pair of hiking shorts that fit and feel great, allowing you to hike comfortably and confidently.

In addition to the fit and comfort features listed above, here are some other factors to consider⁚

• Breathability⁚ Choose shorts made from a breathable fabric that will keep you cool and comfortable on the trail.
• Moisture-wicking⁚ Moisture-wicking fabrics help to draw sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable.
• Quick-drying⁚ Quick-drying fabrics are ideal for hiking in wet or humid conditions, as they will dry quickly after being wet.

By considering these factors, you can choose a pair of hiking shorts that will be comfortable, durable, and protective on your next hiking adventure.

Pockets and Storage

Pockets are an essential feature of any hiking shorts, as they allow you to store your belongings securely and conveniently. When choosing hiking shorts, consider the number, size, and location of the pockets.

Here are some tips for choosing hiking shorts with the right pockets and storage features⁚

• Multiple pockets⁚ Look for shorts with multiple pockets of various sizes. This will allow you to store a variety of items, from small essentials like keys and snacks to larger items like maps and guidebooks.
• Zippered pockets⁚ Zippered pockets are essential for securing valuables like your phone, wallet, and keys; Look for shorts with at least one zippered pocket.
• Cargo pockets⁚ Cargo pockets are large, bellows-style pockets that are perfect for storing bulky items like snacks, maps, and extra layers of clothing.
• Internal security pocket⁚ Some hiking shorts have an internal security pocket that is designed to keep your valuables safe and secure. This is a great feature for storing items like your passport or credit cards.
• Mesh pockets⁚ Mesh pockets are great for storing wet or sweaty items, as they allow air to circulate and help them to dry quickly.

In addition to the pockets listed above, some hiking shorts also have other storage features, such as loops or D-rings for attaching gear. Consider your storage needs and choose shorts with the features that are most important to you.

By choosing hiking shorts with the right pockets and storage features, you can keep your belongings organized and secure while you’re on the trail.

Length and Coverage

The length and coverage of your hiking shorts is an important consideration, as it can affect your comfort and protection on the trail. Hiking shorts come in a variety of lengths, from short and sporty to long and loose.

Here are some tips for choosing the right length and coverage for your hiking shorts⁚

• Short shorts⁚ Short shorts are great for hot weather hiking, as they provide plenty of ventilation and freedom of movement. However, they may not provide enough coverage for cold or wet weather.
• Mid-length shorts⁚ Mid-length shorts are a good compromise between short and long shorts. They provide more coverage than short shorts, but they are still lightweight and breathable.
• Long shorts⁚ Long shorts are ideal for cold or wet weather hiking, as they provide more coverage and protection from the elements. However, they can be less breathable than shorter shorts.
• Convertible shorts⁚ Convertible shorts are a great option if you want the versatility of both short and long shorts. These shorts have zip-off legs that can be removed to create short shorts, or zipped on to create long shorts.

In addition to the length, you should also consider the coverage of your hiking shorts. Some shorts have a more relaxed fit, while others are more fitted. Choose shorts that fit comfortably and provide the coverage you need for your hiking activities.

By choosing the right length and coverage for your hiking shorts, you can ensure that you are comfortable and protected on the trail.

Features and Accessories

In addition to the material, fit, comfort, length, and coverage, there are a number of other features and accessories that you may want to consider when choosing hiking shorts. These features can add convenience, comfort, and style to your hiking experience.

Here are some of the most common features and accessories found on hiking shorts⁚

• Pockets⁚ Hiking shorts typically have multiple pockets, including zippered pockets, cargo pockets, and mesh pockets. These pockets can be used to store a variety of items, such as your phone, keys, wallet, snacks, and other essentials.
• Belt loops⁚ Belt loops allow you to add a belt to your shorts, which can help to keep them in place and prevent them from falling down.
• Drawcord waistband⁚ A drawcord waistband allows you to adjust the fit of your shorts, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit;
• UPF protection⁚ UPF protection helps to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Look for hiking shorts with a UPF rating of 30 or higher.
• Water-resistant finish⁚ A water-resistant finish can help to keep you dry in light rain or mist.
• Vents⁚ Vents can help to increase airflow and keep you cool on hot days.
• Reflective accents⁚ Reflective accents can help to increase your visibility in low-light conditions.

By choosing hiking shorts with the right features and accessories, you can enhance your comfort, convenience, and safety on the trail.