The best hiking shorts of 2023 are essential for hiking in summer since they offer comfort and a sense of relaxation. While hiking shorts will limit your scope of hiking options, they are the best for summer since they are light and stylish.
Hiking shorts are the best when hiking for long distances because they catch less dirt, and you can also have more extras in the backpack because they occupy less space.
Most men prefer hiking in shorts to trousers as long as the weather and hiking environment allow. However, there are some critical factors that you must consider when getting the best hiking shorts of 2023. All shorts are different, and you can never compromise on your comfort when hiking, whether it is a day or thru-hike.
Critical Factors to Consider when going out with the Best Hiking Shorts of 2023
Breathability
A man hiking up a massive rock
The best hiking shorts of 2023 must be breathable and well-ventilated to prevent heat and sweat from accumulating on the skin. Hiking involves walking for long periods, sometimes under the scorching.
Sweat accumulation will cause discomfort and put you at risk of skin chaffing. To prevent this, do not go hiking with any other shorts in your closet unless they are well-ventilated.
The best and breathable hiking shorts will keep you comfortable during the trek and allow you to enjoy the journey. You will also manage to walk faster and for longer distances.
Material
The best hiking shorts of 2023 are convenient for long-distance hiking
The best hiking shorts of 2023 are made from high-quality materials. These materials are favorable to outdoor life because they offer abundant comfort.
Nylon and polyester top the list of materials that are mostly used to make hiking shorts. A percentage of spandex makes the shorts to be stretchy and more comfortable. You can move around comfortably, climb on rocks, and jump over obstacles without tearing the shorts.
The material has to be durable since you will encounter many obstacles on the trails. You get scratched by twigs, sit on rough surfaces, and even get rained on. The ideal hiking short material should dry faster and have the best moisture-wicking capacity.
The right material for hiking shorts should also be lightweight so that the weight of your luggage is manageable.
Fit
The best hiking shorts fit perfectly
Walking around with hiking shorts that are too tight or too loose is uncomfortable. You will keep trying to adjust them and hold them up if the waistline is not well-fastened.
Getting hiking shorts that fit perfectly has always been challenging, but now most manufacturers have introduced stretchy fabrics and adjustable waistbands to fit a range of users. They have considered that people have different body types even when they wear the same size of clothes.
You will find hiking shorts with different waistbands ranging from elastic to belt loops, and it is up to you to decide what will give you maximum comfort.
Length
The most common length for hiking shorts is above the knee
The length of the short is determined by personal preference and comfort requirements. However, longer shorts are the best since they protect the lower part of your legs.
Short hiking shorts that are cut above the knee have an advantage in that they offer more flexibility and freedom.
Durability
The ideal hiking shorts should last you several hikes
Your hiking shorts must be durable, which explains why you cannot go hiking with any shorts from your closet. The wild can get rough, and you must be well-prepared for any eventuality. Your shorts must be sturdy such that they do not get torn easily.
The choice of material plays a major role in determining the quality of hiking shorts, with polyester and nylon topping the list of the best materials for making hiking shorts.
Elasticity also improves the durability of the hiking shorts since they will stretch out under duress and not tear. Remember to check out the seams and ensure they are sewn to perfection. Hiking shorts can embarrass you when they tear in the middle.
Extra Features
The best hiking shorts of 2023 should have pockets for keeping small items.
The best hiking shorts of 2023 should offer convenience on the trail, especially when walking long distances. You need extra storage for your small items, such as phones, earphones, keys, and cash. These items cannot stay in the backpack since they are small and can get lost in the luggage, and you also need easy access to them.
Zippered pockets are the best to keep your items safe when walking. Hiking involves a lot of jumping over boulders, bending while navigating narrow trails, and even falling sometimes. With functional zippers, your items will be safely secured in the pockets, and you won't need to keep holding them in place.
Some hiking shorts have reflective stripes, making them ideal for hiking at dawn. You might not plan to be on the trail when night falls, but things do not always go as planned. In such an eventuality, the reflective stripes on the shorts and the ones on the hiking jacket and backpack will keep you visible.
Water Resistance and Quick Drying
Water resistance is critical for all hiking gear, including shorts, since hikers interact with water along the trails differently. It could start drizzling, or you could find a river that you must cross to continue the journey.
Wetness is uncomfortable and can cause chaffing and respiratory problems when left unattended. Water-resistant shorts will prevent water from getting through to your skin. Some brands are naturally water resistant, but you could also apply DWR for extra protection.
Some materials might not be water resistant, but they are fast-drying, especially during summer. You could dip in a random lake along the way and bask for a few minutes for the shorts to dry.
Nylon fabric, to be specific, is a light material that is ideal for summer hiking shorts coupled with mesh pockets and a thin waistline.
Style and Personal Preference
A man in grey hiking shorts
You cannot overlook your preference when getting hiking shorts because, what is the point of wearing something that you do not like? You need to be comfortable on the trail, which is directly proportional to feeling good about your appearance.
There are many amazing brands of hiking shorts that also come in different shapes, lengths, and colors. There is nothing special about these features besides personal preference. Some people prefer their shorts to be at knee level; for others, the shorter, the better.
Product Reviews
Hiaspor Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts
Hiauspor Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Stretch MTB Shorts for Golf Fishing Tactical Outdoor Casual Shorts
These amazing hiking shorts are made from 92% polyester, 6% Spandex, and 2% PVC. These shorts are perfect for hiking since they are lightweight and convenient, especially for summer wear. They come in different sizes and colors, and the stretchy waistband also has an allowance for a belt.
XKTTAC Men’s Outdoor Hiking Shorts
XKTTAC Men's Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretchy Shorts for Hiking, Tactical, Camping, Travel with 6 Pockets
As one of the best hiking shorts of 2023, these shorts tick most of the boxes. They are the ideal hiking shorts because they are lightweight and durable; hence, you are guaranteed to get to your destination without the embarrassment of torn shorts.
Wrangler Authentics Men’s Cargo Shorts
Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short
Wrangler’s Authentics Men's Cargo Shorts are the game changer for hiking shorts. They are strong and durable yet still comfortable against the skin. These shorts are the best option if you intend to relax and enjoy your time on the trail.
Northland Men’s Athletic Running and Hiking shorts
NORTHYARD Men's Athletic Running Shorts Quick Dry Workout Shorts 7"/ 5"/ 9" Lightweight Sports Gym Basketball Shorts Hiking
These are some of the best hiking shorts of 2023 because they are comfortable and dry pretty fast. If you want hiking shorts that will give you an easy time on the trail, you are home. Here are some pros and cons that will help you make informed decisions.
TBMPOY Men’s Running and Hiking Shorts
TBMPOY Men's 7'' Running Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Athletic Gym Outdoor Sports Short Zipper Pockets
This brand of hiking shorts comes in vibrant colors and a range of sizes for all summer hikers. The synthetic fabric of 92% polyester and 8% spandex is the perfect mix for comfort and quality. Every hiker needs to have a pair of these shorts because of the amazing benefits.
Conclusion
This information will help you choose the best hiking shorts of 2023 as you plan for your outdoor adventures. Hiking in shorts is more comfortable, especially during the hot seasons, since you can regulate the heat much better. You could, however, get bug bites or sunburns in the parts of the legs that remain exposed.
From these options, the best hiking shorts of 2023 are the Wrangler Authentics Men’s Cargo Shorts, which, besides being breathable, are also durable and versatile for all outdoor activities. You can get different pairs of the same shorts since they come in various colors.
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