Our readers keep the lights on and my morning glass full of iced black tea. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.7 Best Backpacking Shorts | Built for Miles, Not Just Looks

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The Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Cargo Short checks every box for a full-day pack carry. The fabric is a lightweight ripstop nylon that breathes exceptionally well in direct sun, yet feels substantial enough to resist tearing against sharp granite edges. The 10-inch inseam lands just above the knee on most builds, providing adequate coverage to prevent pack strap chafe while still allowing full range of motion for step-ups. The gusseted crotch is a subtle but critical feature — it removes the tension point that normally pulls at the hips during high steps or squats to pick up a pack.

Pocket layout is where this short truly differentiates itself. Two deep side hand pockets sit at a natural angle, a large cargo pocket on the left thigh uses a vertical zip for easy hipbelt access, and the back right pocket includes a hidden zippered security compartment. The integrated webbing belt is simple and effective, eliminating the bulk of a traditional buckle while still allowing micro-adjustments. Multiple reviewers noted the belt is lightweight but holds tension well during high-motion activities like trail running sections. The Omni-Shade UPF 50 rating means you can skip sunscreen on your thighs for shorter trips without risking burn-through.

Some users report the shorts run slightly long if you prefer a cut above the knee, and the included belt can feel flimsy compared to a dedicated hiking belt. A few also mentioned the fabric can feel slightly stiff fresh out of the package, though it softens significantly after one wash. That minor break-in period is a small trade-off for the all-day comfort and pocket security this short delivers on varied terrain.

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Convertible pants are often dismissed as a compromise that does neither job well, but the Silver Ridge Utility Convertible Pant bucks that reputation. The zip-off mechanism uses a red zipper pull on the left leg and a matching zipper on the right, a simple visual cue that eliminates confusion when reattaching the lower legs in fading light. The fabric is the same ripstop nylon blend used in the cargo short version, meaning quick-dry performance and breathability remain intact whether worn as pants or shorts. Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch keep the fabric from binding during high-steps even with the legs on.

Pocket configuration is generous and thoughtfully spaced: two front hand pockets, a vertical zippered cargo pocket on the left thigh, a back flap pocket, and an additional back pocket without a flap. The waistband includes an integrated webbing belt with buckle, adding security when carrying heavier loads. Reviewers consistently highlight the durability after multiple wears in abrasive environments — no fraying or thread separation reported after four-day hikes in heat above 90°F. The Omni-Shade UPF 50 is baked into the fabric, not a topical coating, so it won’t wash out.

The trade-off for versatility is bulk. The zippered lower legs add a bit of weight and packable volume compared to dedicated shorts, and the pants can feel slightly baggy through the thigh when worn as shorts if you have lean legs. A few users also mentioned the waist runs a little snug, so sizing up may be necessary for those between sizes. If your route includes alpine starts and afternoon heat in the same day, the versatility more than compensates for these minor fit quirks.

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The FlipBelt Compression Shorts solve the biggest frustration of trail running and fast packing: gear that bounces. Instead of relying on traditional pockets that allow items to sway independently, these shorts use a continuous 360-degree tube belt integrated into the waistband. A phone, keys, gels, and even a 500ml soft flask fit inside the tube without any vertical movement. The compression fit keeps the shorts locked to your thighs, eliminating fabric rub and skin chafe that can occur on longer runs where traditional shorts shift with each stride.

The fabric is a four-way stretch polyester-spandex blend that provides muscle support similar to dedicated base layers, wicks sweat effectively, and dries rapidly if you hit a water crossing. Multiple access points in the tube belt allow you to pull items from the front, side, or back without breaking stride. Reviewers with fast-packing experience noted the ability to carry seven gels plus a phone and a 500ml flask without visible bulk or hip discomfort. The inseam stops above the knee, exposing the quadriceps for freedom of movement during high-cadence running sections.

Fit can be tricky. The drawstring is internal, meaning tightening it puts pressure directly on the stomach — some users prefer an external drawstring design to adjust tension without compressing the abdomen. The side pockets, while great for soft flasks, could be slightly deeper to prevent a full 500ml bottle from shifting upward. Limited color options also disappoint some buyers. For anyone carrying more than just a phone and wanting zero bounce, this is the most effective storage system in this category.

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MudGear built the Freestyle Shorts for obstacle course racing, and that pedigree translates directly to backpacking scenarios involving river crossings, rain, or swampy sections. The outer shell is a lightweight, swimsuit-like fabric that sheds water on contact — mud and grit slide off rather than soaking in. Underneath, an integrated compression liner provides chafe protection and support without the need for separate base layers. The 7-inch inseam hits the sweet spot between coverage and freedom, allowing unrestricted knee lift for scrambling over wet logs or climbing up muddy banks.

A single rear zippered pocket fits an iPhone 8-sized phone securely, and the front pockets are cut to reduce bounce during jogging sections. The waistband uses a flat drawstring that stays tied even under tension. Multiple reviewers reported using these shorts for Spartan Races and Tough Mudders, noting they remain comfortable through hours of wet, abrasive activity with no fabric failure or liner ride-up. The quick-dry performance is exceptional — hang them for 20 minutes in moderate sun and they are ready to wear again.

The trade-off for that performance is a minimalist pocket layout. If you need to carry a map, a folding knife, and snacks, you will quickly run out of space. The inner liner works well for most body types but some users found it slightly restrictive and chose to wear performance briefs underneath instead. The shorts also run small, so ordering one size up is recommended unless you prefer a skin-tight fit. For water-heavy routes where every other short would stay wet for hours, the MudGear is the specialist choice.

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Eddie Bauer’s Rainier Short has been a consistent performer for hikers who want reliable performance without stepping into premium price territory. The fabric is a nylon-spandex blend that offers a subtle four-way stretch — enough to allow comfortable leg movement on uneven terrain, but not so elastic that the shorts lose their shape after repeated wears. The athletic cut provides a trim fit through the seat and thigh, reducing the billowy look that cheap cargo shorts often suffer from, while still leaving room for a base layer underneath if the temperature drops.

The pocket arrangement is straightforward but effective. Two standard hand pockets with zippered closures keep a phone and wallet secure during active movement, and the cargo pockets sit flat against the leg to reduce flapping. Users consistently praised the shorts for maintaining their structural integrity after a full year of hiking, workouts, and daily wear — no frayed seams or faded color. The quick-dry performance is solid; the shorts go from soaked in a stream crossing to trail-wearable in under 30 minutes in moderate conditions. The waistband uses a fixed waist design with belt loops, so you can swap in a preferred hiking belt if needed.

One common criticism is that the shorts have only a slight stretch, so deep squats or high knee raises can stress the seams — this is not a short for scrambling-focused days. The older version of the Rainier had an adjustable waistband, but the current model omits that feature, which may be a dealbreaker for hikers who fluctuate in weight between seasons. The inseam also runs slightly shorter than some buyers expect, landing around a 9-inch cut on average, so taller hikers may find them too brief. For standard day hikes with moderate activity, however, the Rainier delivers dependable performance at a budget-friendly price point.

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The Little Donkey Andy hiking shorts prove that you do not need to spend a lot to get functional trail gear. The fabric is a lightweight polyester-spandex blend that packs down to almost nothing — perfect for fast-and-light trips where pack weight matters. The material feels similar to swim trunks in weight and texture but looks sharp enough for camp wear or a post-hike stop at a brewery. Two zippered side pockets keep a phone and keys secure, and the Velcro-secured cargo pocket on the thigh offers additional storage for snacks or a headlamp.

Comfort is surprisingly good given the price tier. The waistband uses a soft elastic with an inner drawstring, allowing a custom fit without the stiffness of a webbing belt. Reviewers routinely mention buying multiple pairs after the first, praising the shorts for packing tight, drying fast, and surviving beach-side biking, casual hikes, and travel use. The built-in stretch allows a decent range of motion for moderate terrain, and the fabric cuts through sweat well in humid conditions. At this price point, you can afford to beat them up on rough routes without worrying about wear.

The aesthetic is the most divisive aspect. Multiple reviewers describe the shorts as functional but unattractive — the proportions and pocket layout can look a bit bulky on slimmer builds. Additionally, the Velcro closure on the cargo pocket can collect lint and lose grip over heavy use, though the zippered main pockets remain secure. The synthetic fabric can also feel slightly clammy against bare skin in high-humidity conditions compared to the more breathable nylon blends used in premium models. For budget-conscious hikers who prioritize function over form, these shorts are an undeniable value.

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Eddie Bauer adapted their proven Rainier platform with a women-specific cut that solves a common problem: where to put your phone. The right-side utility pocket sits low on the thigh, allowing you to carry a phone without sitting on it inside a hip pocket or having it bounce against your knee. This single design choice makes a noticeable difference during all-day wear — no numbness or hard pressure points when you sit on a log or a rock. The regular fit is roomy enough for layering thin base tights underneath without feeling restrictive, while still maintaining a clean silhouette.

The fabric is a lightweight woven nylon that resists wrinkles, sheds light precipitation, and dries quickly after hand-washing in a stream. Multiple reviewers at a 5’2″ to 5’3″ height range confirmed the inseam lands at a comfortable mid-thigh length, avoiding the “too long” look that many cargo shorts produce on shorter frames. The waistband lies flat against the skin and does not gap at the small back — a common fit failure in unisex shorts. The dark colors hold their richness through repeated washes without fading or pilling, and the material holds up well against brush and seatbelt abrasion.

The primary downside is that the pockets, while well-placed, are not as deep as some users prefer for larger phones with cases. The main hand pockets are also relatively shallow, so items can work their way out while sitting if not secured with a carabiner. The shorts lack a zippered security pocket, which means valuables need to go into the side utility pocket that is less accessible while a pack hipbelt is fastened. For women looking for a true hiking-specific short that fits a female frame without compromise, the Rainier is the best option available in this list.