When it comes to hiking shorts, you need an airy and comfortable pair at the same time. The last thing you need while hiking on a hot summer day is a pair of shorts that are restrictive and not moisture-wicking. Coupled with several other critical features, the hunt for the perfect hiking shorts is never as easy as it seems.

Not only do you have to make sure you get one made from a durable material that is also flexible, but you also need to ensure that it is breathable and quick drying. Not to mention that it needs to be lightweight while having a ton of pockets to hold your phone, car keys, and other items while you walk.

Here are the best hiking shorts for women in the market currently.

Top 5 Hiking Shorts for Women of 2021

  1. Columbia Women’s Plus-Size Sandy River Cargo Short
  2. Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail II Knee Pant
  3. VAYAGER Women’s Lightweight Cargo Short for Hiking
  4. Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro-Flex Shorts
  5. prAna Women’s Olivia Short 7″ Inseam

Columbia Women’s Plus-Size Sandy River Cargo Short

Columbia Women's Plus-Size Sandy River Cargo Short

These women’s cargo shorts feature Columbia’s custom UPF 30 fabric that offers protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Omni-Shade blocks the harmful rays to help prevent sunburns and long-term skin damage.

The fabric is also breathable, quick-drying, and machine washable. The shorts have a button closure and a partial elastic waist for fit adjustability. They also come with a belt for extra comfort while hiking.

The shorts also feature one zip-closure security pocket and two side pockets to secure your smaller items. They have a classic fit with a mid-rise waist for increased comfort.

Features

  • 100% Nylon
  • Button closure
  • Quick-dry fabric
  • One zip-closure security pocket
  • Two side pockets
  • Partial elastic waist
  • Omni-shade

Pros

  • Machine Washable
  • Resistant to UVA and UVB rays
  • Breathable
  • Durable

Cons

  • The material is very light
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Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail II Knee Pant

Columbia Women's Saturday Trail II Knee Pant

The Columbia women’s hiking shorts feature UPF 50 sun protection that helps shield you from UVA and UVB rays during long days in the sun. They are made from a custom water and stain repellent fabric. Which offers protection against harsh stains and liquids, keeping you clean and dry.

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The shorts are made from a nylon and Elastane blend that produces a 2-way stretch fabric, which offers increased flexibility. The material used is durable and lightweight at the same time.

They also feature a partial elastic waist and articulated knees for added comfort. The shorts have a classic fit. And they have two front pockets, a zippered side pocket, and two back pockets with hook and loop closure.

Features

  • 96% Nylon, 4% Elastane
  • Button closure
  • Two side pockets
  • Two back pockets
  • Partial elastic waist
  • 2-way stretch fabric
  • Articulated knees
  • Omni-Shield

Pros

  • Machine Washable
  • Water and stain repellent fabric
  • UPF 50 sun protection

Cons

  • They pill after a few wears
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VAYAGER Women’s Lightweight Cargo Short for Hiking

VAYAGER Women's Lightweight Cargo Short for Hiking

These shorts are made from a 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex fabric blend with a water-repellent finish. The fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, and breathable. It is also stretchy, making it more convenient to wear while hiking, rafting, or performing any other outdoor activities. They use a Zip fly and metal button closure.

The shorts have two hand pockets in front, two side pockets (one zipper pocket for secret things and one flap pocket), and two open pockets at the back. They also have an elastic side waist with 2″ wide belt loops. They also have an adjustable waistband featuring elastic bands on both sides of the waist.

Features

  • 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex
  • Button closure
  • Two front hand pockets
  • Two side pockets
  • Two open back pockets
  • 7-inch inseam
  • High Waist
  • Zip fly
  • Metal button closure
  • Elastic side waist
  • 2″ wide belt loops

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Sun protection
  • Quick-drying
  • Durable
  • water-repellant finish
  • Breathable
  • Adjustable Waistband

Cons

  • Loose hip fit
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Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro-Flex Shorts

Eddie Bauer Women's Guide Pro-Flex Shorts

These Slate Green shorts feature an elastic closure and are designed for active outdoor activities such as hiking and rock climbing. They have a pull-on style with an adjustable drawstring waist. They are made from a nylon and spandex fabric blend that is stretchy for increased mobility.

They are lightweight, easy-packing, water-repellant, and have UPF sun protection. They are available in a wide range of sizes. Be sure to use the size chart to confirm your size before ordering. They are also highly durable and easy to clean. The fabric used is also quick-drying, making them perfect for an overnight camping and hiking trip.

Features

  • Size: 16
  • Elastic closure
  • Elastic/drawstring waist
  • Nylon/spandex
  • Stretch comfort
  • Pull-on style
  • UPF sun protection

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Easy-packing
  • Lightweight
  • Water-repellant

Cons

  • They are relatively short.
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prAna Women’s Olivia Short 7″ Inseam

prAna Women's Olivia Short 7 Inseam

The prAna Women’s shorts have a regular fit that offers a comfortable range of motion. They are made from a 97% nylon, 3% Elastane fabric blend known as the Zion fabric. The fabric uses a hardy nylon weave that offers a highly durable performance for cross-season wear. It also has a durable water repellent finish that provides water-resistant protection.

The stretch weave improves the range of motion. The shorts deliver quick-dry performance that keeps moisture on the fabric surface for speedier evaporation. The shorts have UPF 50 sun protection that blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays.

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The mid-rise shorts have a fixed waist. They also feature a zip fly with button closure, front hand pockets, and rear welted pockets.

Features

  • 97% Nylon, 3% Spandex
  • Button closure
  • Fit: regular
  • Length: mid-thigh
  • Inseam: [size 4] 5in
  • Cross-season wear
  • Stretch weave
  • Mid-rise shorts
  • Tumble dry
  • Front hand pockets
  • Rear welted pockets

Pros

  • Highly durable
  • Quick-drying
  • UPF 50 protection
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Not ideal for wide-hipped individuals
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Conclusion

The best hiking shorts for women should be quick-drying, breathable, lightweight, and durable. They should also include handy features like zippered pockets, a soft waistband, and a water-resistant coating. They should also be stretchy and UV resistant, and easy to pack.