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Many women find hiking shorts advertised as quick-dry and lightweight, but the real test is whether they fit well and keep phone and keys from falling out on the trail.
The difference between a short that works and one that frustrates often comes down to sizing consistency and pocket design – two factors that aren’t obvious from product descriptions.
This guide focuses on shorts that balance these real-world priorities, helping you choose based on what matters during a hike, not just the spec sheet.
Best for All-Around Hiking
SANTINY Cargo Shorts
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 5,7,9 in
- Pockets: 4 zippered
- Fabric: Quick-dry nylon/spandex
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $
The SANTINY cargo shorts deliver a fit that works for most body shapes thanks to the multiple inseam lengths and a soft waistband that doesn’t ride up. The fabric dries quickly after stream crossings or sweat, and the two zippered cargo pockets hold a phone and keys securely without bulk. While some shorts prioritize pocket count, these focus on pocket usability and consistent sizing.
These are a solid match for hikers and travelers who want reliable pocket security and quick-dry performance without breaking the bank. The waistband can run snug for some body types, especially if you are between sizes – ordering one size up resolves that. They are less suited to those wanting a very slim, tailored cut or for plus-size women who may find the waistband constrictive.
Pros
- Soft waistband that stays in place during active movement
- Deep zippered cargo pockets that secure a phone and valuables
- Lightweight fabric that dries quickly after getting wet
Cons
- Waistband may feel tight for certain body shapes; sizing up is recommended
For hikers who want secure pockets and a comfortable fit in a range of inseams, these shorts are a straightforward buy – just check your waist measurement and order up if needed.
Best for Gear-Heavy Hikes
Hugut Cargo Shorts
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 9 in
- Pockets: 5 zippered
- Fabric: Quick-dry water-resistant nylon
- Waistband: Elastic with drawstring
- Price: $
With five zippered pockets, the Hugut cargo shorts provide more secure storage than the leading option in this category — including a rare rear zippered pocket for valuables. The quick-dry fabric keeps you comfortable on warm hikes and holds up well to washing. But the 9-inch inseam runs long for women under 5’2", and fit can vary between colors and sizes, so ordering with a return policy is wise. Best suited for gear-heavy hikers who prioritize pocket count over a tailored fit.
Pros
- Five zippered pockets keep phone, keys, and wallet secure on the trail.
- Lightweight nylon fabric stays cool and comfortable in hot weather.
- Quick-dry material handles sweat and creek crossings with ease.
Cons
- Fit can be baggy or run small depending on the color and size, especially in plus sizes.
Offers the most zippered pockets in its price range, but sizing inconsistencies mean it’s best for hikers who can order multiple sizes.
Best for Sporty Athletic Look
CRZ YOGA 4" Hiking Shorts
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 4 in
- Pockets: 2 angled zippered
- Fabric: Stretchy moisture-wicking
- Waistband: Elastic mid-rise
- Price: $$
This short delivers the same stretchy, shaping fabric as premium athletic brands but at a mid-range price. The 4-inch inseam and mid-rise cut give a flattering athletic look suited for summer hikes, trail running, or outdoor travel. Ideal for women who want a form-fitting short without inner thigh chafe — the soft waistband and stretch fabric help prevent rubbing. However, the 4-inch inseam may leave chafe-prone hikers wanting more coverage; those needing longer lengths should consider options with a 7-inch or longer inseam. Petite women may find the waist runs slightly large, but sizing down can address that.
Pros
- Flattering mid-rise fit that stays true to size for most body types.
- Soft, stretchy waistband reduces inner thigh chafing even on sweaty hikes.
- Fabric feels smooth and moisture-wicking, comparable to high-end athletic wear.
Cons
- 4-inch inseam offers less coverage than many prefer — better suited for shorter hikes or those without chafing issues.
For hikers who want a sporty, form-fitting short with premium fabric at a mid-range price, this is a strong alternative to the top pick and the Eddie Bauer — just confirm the 4-inch inseam works for your build and trail style.
Best for Full Coverage
baleaf 15" Bermuda
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 15,17 in
- Pockets: Zippered side and back
- Fabric: Quick-dry woven
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $
The baleaf 15” Bermuda shorts offer the longest inseam in its class — 15 or 17 inches — giving knee-length or longer coverage ideal for sun-conscious hikers and anyone who prefers modesty on the trail. The quick-dry fabric feels lightweight and breathable in heat, and the zippered pockets hold a phone securely without puckering. This pair suits plus-size women and those seeking all-day coverage, but the sizing runs small (plan to order up) and lighter colors may show through under direct sun.
Pros
- Knee-length or longer inseam for superior sun protection and modesty.
- Deep zippered pockets that hold a phone without bulging.
Cons
- Light-colored fabric may be see-through in bright sunlight.
- Sizing can run small, especially in larger sizes, so ordering up is often needed.
If full coverage and sun protection are your top priorities, these shorts deliver — just choose a dark color and go up a size.
Best for Budget Day Hikes
MAGCOMSEN 8" Shorts
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 8 in
- Pockets: 3 zippered
- Fabric: Quick-dry water-resistant
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $
At around $15, these shorts deliver quick-dry, water-resistant fabric with three zippered pockets and an 8-inch inseam — functional basics for light hiking. The material feels thin and can appear slightly sheer, and the pocket openings are narrow, so this pair suits hikers who prioritize low cost and lightweight feel over premium fabric or heavy-duty storage.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price for a hiking short with quick-dry fabric and zippered pockets.
- Comfortable and cool on hot days with a light, fast-drying build.
- 8-inch inseam offers moderate coverage for modest hikers.
Cons
- Fabric feels thin and may appear slightly sheer in bright light — a tradeoff for the low weight.
- Pocket openings are narrow, limiting access for larger items like phones or snacks.
A functional, affordable choice for light day hikes when price is the top priority — but expect thinner fabric and tighter pockets.
Best for Premium Durability
Eddie Bauer Rainier
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 7 in
- Pockets: Multiple zippered
- Fabric: Stretch woven UPF 50+
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $$$
Eddie Bauer’s Rainier Short delivers UPF 50+ sun protection and wrinkle-resistant stretch woven fabric, leaning on the brand’s outdoor heritage. The 7-inch inseam offers modest coverage, and the slight stretch keeps it comfortable on warm trails.
This short suits hikers who prioritize durable build quality and quick-dry performance over smartphone storage. Side pockets are slim — large phones may not fit securely — and sizing can run large, so size down if between sizes.
Pros
- Premium materials hold up to repeated wear and washing
- Comfortable stretch fit with a flattering cut for warmer weather
- Quick-dry and wrinkle-resistant fabric ideal for travel
Cons
- Side pockets are tight and may not hold larger smartphones
- Sizing runs generous; some colors fit differently
A travel-ready hiking short with solid build quality, held back by pocket depth — best for hikers who carry small essentials and value a trusted brand.
Best for Cleaner Look
Willit Cargo 5/7"
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 5,7 in
- Pockets: 4 zippered
- Fabric: Quick-dry nylon
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $$
The Willit shorts use zippered pockets that lie flat when filled, giving them a sleeker profile than traditional cargo shorts. They dry quickly and resist wrinkles. However, sizing can be inconsistent, and at a mid-range price they don’t offer a clear advantage over the more consistent top pick.
Pros
- Zippered pockets lie flat when filled, reducing bulk on the trail.
- Quick-dry fabric handles sweat and water well.
Cons
- Sizing can be inconsistent; check the size chart carefully before ordering.
A good option for those who prioritize a non-bulky cargo short, but check sizing carefully and consider the top pick for more predictable fit.
Best for Extreme Budget
Rrosseyz Cargo Shorts
Key Features
- Pockets: 2 cargo with zipper/velcro
- Fabric: Quick-dry nylon
- Waistband: Elastic with drawstring
- Price: $
These shorts offer impressive value with cargo pockets and quick-dry nylon fabric, comfortable for warm-weather hikes. The length above the knee helps reduce chafing. The main tradeoff is sizing: expect to order a size larger than usual, as fit can be inconsistent. That keeps the price low, but if sizing reliability matters more than cost, a more consistent option like the SANTINY is worth the extra spend.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price with quick-dry fabric and cargo pockets.
- Comfortable and breathable for summer hiking with good length above the knee.
Cons
- Sizing can run small, often requiring a size larger than usual.
For hikers on a tight budget who don’t mind ordering a size up, these shorts deliver solid features at a low cost.
Best for Size Consistency
zsenoxaxi Cargo Shorts
Key Features
- Pockets: 2 deep zippered cargo
- Fabric: Quick-dry breathable nylon
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $
True-to-size fit with deep zippered pockets that hold large phones makes these shorts a dependable budget choice for warm-weather hiking. The quick-dry fabric keeps you comfortable. Limited color options and no back pockets restrict appeal to function-focused hikers who don’t need extra storage or style variety.
Pros
- Comfortable and breathable fabric for hot days.
- Deep zippered pockets securely hold large smartphones.
Cons
- No back pockets and limited color options may not suit hikers who need extra storage or variety.
Best for budget hikers who prioritize secure phone storage and a consistent fit over back pockets or color selection.
Best for Skort Design
MIVEI Cargo Skort
Key Features
- Inseam Length: N/A (skort)
- Pockets: 4 total
- Fabric: Quick-dry polyester/spandex
- Waistband: High-waisted elastic
- Price: $$
The MIVEI Skort gives hikers a flattering skirt silhouette with built-in shorts underneath for coverage and mobility. Four zippered pockets (two on the skirt, two on the shorts) hold a large phone and trail essentials securely. The skirt portion measures about 13 inches, which may feel short for those wanting more coverage — best suited for women who prefer a skort over traditional hiking shorts and don’t mind a shorter hem.
Pros
- Built-in shorts allow active movement without revealing skin.
- Four zippered pockets can hold a large phone on both sides.
Cons
- Skirt portion may feel too short for hikers wanting fuller leg coverage.
A good match for women who want a skort with functional pockets and don’t mind a shorter skirt; skip it if you prefer full-coverage hiking shorts.
Best for Curvy Plus-Size
baleaf 9/11" Bermuda
Key Features
- Inseam Length: 9,11 in
- Pockets: Zippered cargo and side
- Fabric: Quick-dry stretch woven
- Waistband: Elastic
- Price: $$
The stretch fabric and knee-length inseams give curvy plus-size hikers the coverage and quick-dry performance they need. However, it costs more than other baleaf shorts and sizing can run small in larger sizes, sometimes requiring two size ups, so test fit before a hike.
Pros
- Stretchy fabric fits curvy body types comfortably.
- Knee-length inseam provides sun protection and coverage.
Cons
- Sizing runs small, especially in larger sizes, and some may need to go up two sizes.
Best for curvy hikers who value stretch and coverage, but only after verifying size with a tape measure.
How to Choose
The key to a great pair of hiking shorts lies not in the brand or price, but in how well the inseam, pockets, and fabric work for your specific body and trail needs.
Inseam Length
Inseam determines both coverage and chafe risk. A 7-inch inseam is the sweet spot for most women: long enough to prevent inner-thigh rubbing, short enough to stay cool in summer heat.
Shorter inseams (4-5 inches) work well for those who don’t chafe or prefer a sporty look, but they offer less sun protection. Longer inseams (9-15 inches) provide full coverage and are ideal for sun-sensitive hikers or those who want knee-length shorts, though they can feel restrictive on steep climbs.
Pockets
Zippered pockets are non-negotiable on the trail. Open pockets let your phone or keys slip out during a scramble or when sitting on a log. The trade-off: more zippered pockets often add bulk or stiffen the fabric.
Look for at least two zippered pockets large enough for a modern smartphone. Deep cargo pockets with zippers are best for gear-heavy hikes, while flat zippered side pockets keep a clean silhouette for casual use.
Fabric
Quick-dry nylon or polyester blends are standard, but fabric weight matters. Thin fabrics (under 5 oz) feel airy and dry fast, but can be see-through in light colors and less durable against brush. Heavier woven materials (5-7 oz) hold up better and offer more opacity.
Stretch content (spandex or elastane) improves mobility and fit, especially for curvy body types. Water-resistant coatings help in light rain but wear off over time – they are not a substitute for rain pants in sustained downpours.
Waistband Design
An elastic waistband with a drawstring provides the best adjustability, letting you fine-tune the fit without a belt. Flat-front elastic bands distribute pressure evenly and reduce digging, while high-rise cuts stay put during bending.
The trade-off: elastics can lose stretch over time, especially with repeated heat drying. A drawstring adds security but can loosen during the day if not tied properly. For plus-size bodies, look for brands that offer stretch panels or wider bands to avoid pinching.
FAQ
Why do my hiking shorts feel too tight in the waist even though I ordered my usual size?
Sizing inconsistency is common across brands, and even within a single brand different colors can fit differently. The best approach is to read recent reviews from women with a similar body shape and consider sizing up if multiple reviews mention a tight waistband.
How long should women’s hiking shorts be to prevent chafing?
A 7-inch inseam is the most versatile length for preventing inner-thigh chafing while keeping you cool. Shorter inseams (4-5 inches) work if you don’t chafe, and longer inseams (9+ inches) provide extra coverage for those prone to rubbing or wanting sun protection.
Are skorts a good alternative to shorts for hiking?
Yes, skorts combine the modesty of a skirt with the functionality of built-in shorts, and many have ample zippered pockets. The main downside is that the skirt portion can feel short for some women, and the double layer can be warmer. They are best for women who prefer a feminine look on the trail.
Can I machine dry quick-dry hiking shorts or will it damage them?
Most quick-dry shorts are safe on low or no heat cycles, but high heat can degrade elastic waistbands and shrink nylon blends. Check the care tag – when in doubt, air drying preserves fit and extends lifespan, especially for budget models with thinner fabrics.