Best Hiking Shorts for Women
Let’s be real: finding the perfect pair of hiking shorts as a woman feels like an impossible quest. They ride up. They chafe. They’re too short to be practical or too long to be flattering. They dig into your stomach when you’re trying to enjoy a summit snack. And don’t even get me started on the lack of usable pockets.
Despite all this, I have found a few solid go-tos over the years… shorts that have kept up with me on everything from quick jaunts up Runyon Canyon to sweaty Eastern Sierra backcountry pushes. While I definitely haven’t cracked the code (I’m still on the hunt for the perfect pair), this is the lineup I currently have on rotation. And since gear evolves, as well as bodies and preferences, this list will keep evolving too.
Personally, I generally prefer a biker short style when I hike. As someone with thicker thighs (thanks to 16+ years of club soccer), regular hiking shorts often feel too tight, or they just get swallowed up mid-hike. Biker shorts tend to stay put, reduce chafing, and feel the most supportive on long climbs or technical scrambles. That said, I’ve included a couple traditional-style shorts in here too that have impressed me more than most.
Here are my current faves:
1. Mountain Hardwear Yuba Trail Short
These are one of my top biker-style picks for hiking. The fabric is lightweight, quick-drying, and has just the right amount of compression to feel supportive without being tight. The high-rise waistband actually stays put, and there’s an internal drawcord if you want to cinch it in.
Bonus: mesh hip pockets and a clever pass-through pocket in the back for stashing small essentials. If you’re looking for a comfy, no-fuss short that can keep up—these are a win.
Product Details:
Price: $59.73 $80.00*
Fabric: Performance jersey 78% recycled polyester/22% elastane
Quick Drying: Yes
Best Use: Hiking, Running
Pants Rise: High
2. Arc'teryx Essent High-Rise 8" Shorts
These are great for long, rugged hikes. They’re durable, super stretchy, and hold up on everything from steep climbs to rocky scrambles. The 8" inseam gives solid coverage, and the wide waistband actually stays put without rolling or digging in.
I love the low-profile thigh pockets—they don’t get in the way and can still fit snacks or my phone. Pricey, yes (have you met Arc’teryx?) but they’ve totally earned their spot in my rotation. And sometimes they go on sale!
Product Details:
Price: $55.73 $70.00*
Fabric: Chira 6.5 oz. (220 gsm) stretch nylon interlock (71% nylon/29% elastane) (bluesign approved material)
Moisture Wicking: Yes
Best Use: Trail Running, Hiking
Pants Rise: High
3. REI Co-op Trailmade Shorts
These are a classic in many hiking drawers. Super easy to throw on, super breathable, and they dry fast, which makes them perfect for warm-weather hikes. The fit is relaxed but not baggy, and the elastic waistband with the bungee adjustment means no digging or fussing.
They’ve also got a ton of pockets — six total — which is honestly a game-changer when you want to keep snacks, your phone, and chapstick handy without digging into your pack. If you want something low-maintenance and functional that works with pretty much any trail day, these are a solid staple.
Product Details:
Price: $49.95
Fabric: 94% nylon/6% spandex (bluesign approved)
Sun-Protective Fabric: Yes
Quick Drying: Yes
Best Use: Hiking
Pants Rise: Mid
4. REI Co-op Swiftland 6" Running Short Tights
These are my lighter-weight biker short pick for hotter days or faster-paced hikes. They’re super stretchy, breathable, and stay put without riding up—which is a must when you’re logging miles in the sun.
The 6" inseam gives just enough coverage without feeling too long, and the pockets are actually usable. I’ll stash my phone, a gel, or a dog treat or two in there with no problem. They’re simple, comfy, and affordable. Great for days when I want to move quick and keep it light.
Product Details:
Price: $54.95 (some colors currently on sale)
Fabric: 71% nylon/29% spandex (bluesign approved)
Moisture Wicking: Yes
Best Use: Running, Trail Running, Fitness
Pants Rise: High
5. Stio Goodwin Short
These have more of that classic hiking short vibe, but the fit and feel are way better than most. The fabric’s durable but not stiff, and they dry fast which is perfect for long days on trail or when the weather’s doing its thing.
I love the high-rise fit and built-in belt, which makes them super easy to adjust (similar to the popular Pinedale pants), especially with a pack on. And the 5" inseam hits that sweet spot… not too short, not too long. If you like a more traditional short that still feels modern and functional, these are a great pick.
Product Details:
Price: $59.00
Fabric: ReGuster™, Crinkled Nylon Oversized Ripstop, 55% Recycled Nylon, 45% Nylon, 125 g/m2 with PFC Free DWR and Anti-Color Migration Finish
Moisture Wicking: Yes
Best Use: Hiking
Pants Rise: High
I’ll keep updating this list as I try new styles and find more favorites, because the search continues. Got a pair you swear by? I’d love to hear what’s working for you!
