It doesn’t matter if your hike is a quick stroll from your RV to catch the sunrise… or a full-blown adventure in search of the summit or sweeping views. The right pair of hiking shorts for women can make or break the journey. Because, let’s face it, any hike (or stroll) can quickly diminish if you’re tugging at your waistband, adjusting your hem, or wishing your shorts were just a little looser or breezier.
For those of us who enjoy a good hike, walk, scramble, or wander through the woods, comfort is a non-negotiable. And when you add in the confines of RV living, you know every piece of clothing better earn its keep. That means a quality pair of hiking shorts for women that offers freedom of movement, all-day durability, and the ability to fit easily into small spaces. A good pair of hiking shorts that breathe easily, move with you, don’t chaff, and dry out in no time? Now, that’s road trip magic.
It all starts with knowing what to look for—whether you’re chasing waterfalls, seeking summits, or just walking the dog after dinner.
What to Look for in the Best Hiking Shorts for Women
When it comes to the best hiking shorts, personal preference plays a big role. That said, there are a few features that just about every great pair has in common. Here’s what to look for when choosing shorts that hold up to the trail—and your lifestyle.
Fit that Moves with You:
Good hiking shorts should feel like they were made for your body in motion. Look for:
- Stretchy fabrics or built-in spandex for ease of movement.
- Gusseted crotches or articulated designs that don’t bunch or pull near sensitive areas yet still look fitted and comfortable.
- Waistband comfort that allows you to bend and twist without discomfort. Look for elastic, drawstring, or adjustable tabs to easily make adjustments on the trail.
High-rise or mid-rise? That all depends on your preference and body type. However, for many women, a higher rise can offer extra support and will stay put even if you’re carrying a pack.
Breathable, Quick-Drying Fabrics:
Synthetic blends like nylon, polyester, and spandex dominate trail options—for good reason. They’re lightweight, wick sweat, and dry fast. But don’t count out natural fibers or blends entirely.
- Hemp, linen, or cotton blends offer softness, breathability, and a lower environmental footprint.
- Tencel (lyocell) is another natural performance fiber that’s lightweight, smooth, and moisture-wicking.
Keep in mind that while natural blends can be super comfy, they may not dry as quickly or hold up as well to rugged hikes. That said, they are still a fantastic option for the campsite and casual strolls.
Pocket Power:
Phones, keys, lip balm… You need a place to carry them—along with, perhaps, a quick snack like a bar or trail mix. So, make sure your shorts can keep up with you without pulling you down.
- Deep front pockets—shouldn’t every item of clothing have deep pockets?
- Zippered side or back pockets to secure your valuables. (Losing your RV keys on the trail is never a good time!)
- Low-profile designs to prevent getting caught on a brush or tree limb.
Some shorts even include a stealth phone pocket, so it won’t jostle as you move and will remain safely in place. (You don’t want to drop your phone either!)
Just the Right Length:
The perfect inseam depends on your comfort and trail type:
- 5-inch shorts are a breezy option that’s great for hot days.
- 7 to 9 inches offer more coverage. So they’re better for scrambles or sitting on rough terrain. They may also help prevent your thighs from rubbing against each other, which can lead to chaffing in hot weather.
- Bermuda-style hiking shorts or skorts are great if you don’t want to show as much leg or are looking forward to a meal or beverage in town after your hike.
Built Tough for the Trail:
From rocky outcrops to muddy switchbacks, you want shorts that last. Look for:
- Abrasion-resistant materials.
- Reinforced seams.
- Fade resistance for sun-exposed hikes to help them last season after season.
Bonus Features:
Often, it’s the littlest features that have the biggest benefits. For even higher performance, look for:
- UPF protection to guard against sunburns.
- Water-resistance or DWR coatings for unpredictable changes to the forecast.
- Roll-up tabs or convertible lengths, so you can easily adjust the amount of coverage for greater comfort.
- Sustainable materials to help protect the adventurous places you love for future generations.
Top Picks: Best Hiking Shorts for Women
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to dive into shorts that can deliver on comfort, durability, and of course, style:
- Patagonia Quandry Shorts are one of the best choices. These lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly shorts are made with a stretch woven fabric and 50+ UPF protection—designed to move with you and hold up to even the most rugged trails.
- prAna Halle II Shorts offer a super comfortable fit that’s soft and stretchy as well as flattering and adventure-ready. If you’re looking for shorts that can handle both trail time and post-hike hangs with ease, these won’t disappoint.
- Columbia Saturday Trail Shorts are a top option for when the temperatures rise. With their Omni-Shield and Omni-Shade tech, they can take on the sun and water. Plus, they’re lightweight and affordable.
- REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts are well-priced without sacrificing quality. These are designed for both weekend hikes and casual strolls around the campground. In addition, their simple design and inclusive sizing make them a great option for just about any body.
- Toad&Co Earthworks Camp Shorts are crafted from organic cotton with a hint of stretch, providing a breathable, sustainable, and trail-tough option designed to hit the trails in style.
- Outdoor Voices RecTrek Zip-Off Paint – Shorts: Sometimes, versatility is the name of the game. Cooler mornings may require longer pants. But once the noonday sun is blazing, it’s time for shorts! Made with four-way stretch, wind- and water-resistant RecTrek fabric, the zip-off legs transform from pants to capris to shorts in seconds. They also feature a built-in belt, multiple pockets, and cinchable cuffs—perfect not only for unpredictable weather but for stylish options on and off the trail.
- Athlete Salutation Stash High-Rise Shorts are made for fans of the bike-short silhouette. If that snug, supportive, and minimal style appeals to you, these shorts hit the mark. They’re lightweight, buttery-soft, and quick-wicking. Better yet, they’re rated UPF 50+ and have bonded side stash pockets to hold your essentials.
Your Trail, Your Shorts, Your Adventure
The right hiking shorts keep you cool, comfortable, and ready for whatever the trail—or the RV park—throws your way. From sleek and sporty to relaxed and rugged, or even casually stylish, there’s a pair out there that fits your stride and your lifestyle. Isn’t it time to hit the trail?
