Choosing the right hiking shorts can make or break a day on the trail. Fit, fabric, storage and sun protection all matter — whether you're on a long summer hike, a rainy scramble, or a weekend of travel. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, comparative analysis, and user feedback to help you pick the best pair for your needs.
How we tested and evaluated
Real-world testing: We put each short through typical outdoor conditions — hot sunny days, light rain, scrambling, and multi-hour hikes — to evaluate comfort, moisture management, and durability.
Expert input & consumer feedback: We compared construction details (seams, zippers, waistband design) against field reports and verified customer reviews to identify recurring strengths or issues.
Key considerations:
- Fit & mobility: Inseam, rise, and stretch determine chafing, coverage, and freedom of movement.
- Fabric performance: Quick-dry, breathability, water resistance, and UPF protection.
- Storage: Number, placement, and security of pockets (zippers, velcro, drop pockets).
- Construction & details: Waistband design, closures, reinforced seams, and functional extras (drawcords, buckles).
- Value: Feature set versus price for real-world use.
These factors guided our rankings and final picks.
Quick-Dry Cargo Shorts
Lightweight quick-dry cargo shorts with four secure zipper pockets and multiple inseam options. Comfortable elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring make these a budget-friendly choice for hikes, travel, and everyday active use — a practical, no-frills option for summer adventures.
Why we picked it as the Best Budget Pick
Enaisyl's hiking shorts deliver the essentials at a very low price. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric wicks moisture well and the water-resistant finish handles light showers. What sets these apart for the price are the four secure zipper pockets and the choice of 5", 7" or 9" inseams, so you can pick coverage that suits your activity. The elastic waistband with drawstring provides a secure fit but lacks the premium stretch and finish of higher-end models. Expect good everyday performance for hiking, biking, and travel if you want functionality on a tight budget.
Pros: Excellent pocket security, multiple inseam options, very affordable. Cons: Material and fit are basic compared with higher-priced alternatives.
G Gradual 7" Hiking
A higher-end 7" hiking short with quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric, UPF sun protection and multiple zip cargo pockets. The elastic waist, belt loops and 4-way stretch make it comfortable for active days while offering a refined fit and durable construction.
Why this is our Premium Choice
G Gradual's 7" hiking shorts strike a balance between technical performance and refined fit. The fabric is quick-dry and moisture-wicking, and the built-in UPF protection helps guard against prolonged sun exposure. The shorts include zippered cargo pockets plus deep hand pockets for secure storage, and the hybrid waist (button/zip with elastic sections and belt loops) delivers a snug, customizable fit. The 4-way stretch lets you climb and lunge comfortably without restriction. These are a great pick if you want higher-quality materials, better construction, and a tailored feel for regular outdoor use.
Pros: Solid sun protection, secure pockets, comfortable stretch fit. Cons: Slightly higher price than simple budget models.
5-Inch Hiking Shorts
Balanced 5" inseam shorts offering quick-dry performance, UPF 50+ protection, and water resistance. Three zipper pockets and an elastic waistband with inner drawstring make these reliable, versatile shorts that deliver strong features for a sensible price.
Why this is the Best Value for Money
The MAGCOMSEN 5" shorts combine the most useful technical features at a mid-range price. The fabric provides UPF 50+ sun protection, quick-dry wicking and light water resistance. Storage includes two front zipper pockets and a rear zipper pocket, keeping essentials secure on the move. The elastic waistband with an inner drawstring balances comfort and fit without bulky hardware. For hikers who want dependable protection, secure pockets, and a moderate inseam for active movement, these shorts represent a smart compromise between cost and capability.
Pros: Strong sun protection, secure pockets, good all-around specs for the price. Cons: Simpler construction compared to premium options (fewer style/fit refinements).
CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking
High-performance stretch hiking shorts with 4-way stretch, water resistance and five functional pockets (including zip). The 3" inseam and high-rise design favor freedom of movement and a secure fit — a top pick for active hikers who prioritize mobility and premium construction.
Why this is our Editors' Choice
CRZ YOGA's stretch hiking shorts deliver the strongest overall performance for active hikers. The 4-way stretch fabric and woven texture balance durability with excellent mobility; the material also offers water resistance for light moisture protection. A high-rise fit and shockcord waist keep the shorts comfortable and secure during technical movement. Storage is thoughtfully executed with five functional pockets, including zippered compartments to keep valuables safe. The 3" inseam favors runners and trail hikers who want minimal restriction and a close, athletic fit. Overall, these feel like a higher-grade technical short built for serious activity.
Pros: Outstanding mobility, excellent pocket configuration, well-constructed. Cons: Shorter inseam may not suit users seeking more coverage.
Comparison at a glance
- Editors' Choice — CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking: Best overall for active hikers who prioritize mobility and a secure, technical fit (4-way stretch, water resistance, 5 pockets).
- Premium Choice — G Gradual 7" Hiking: Premium-feel option with UPF protection, zip cargo pockets, and a comfortable hybrid waist for frequent outdoor use.
- Best Value for Money — MAGCOMSEN 5" Shorts: Best mix of sun protection (UPF 50+), water resistance, and secure pockets at a mid-range price.
- Best Budget Pick — Enaisyl Quick-Dry Cargo: Most affordable; offers multiple inseam options and four zipper pockets for basic outdoor needs.
Key differences summarized:
- Coverage: CRZ YOGA (3") < MAGCOMSEN (5") < G Gradual (7") < Enaisyl (available 5/7/9).
- Sun protection: MAGCOMSEN and G Gradual offer UPF-rated fabrics.
- Pocket security: Enaisyl and Enaisyl-like budget models often use multiple zip pockets; CRZ YOGA and G Gradual combine zip and cargo storage.
- Price-to-feature: MAGCOMSEN and Enaisyl offer the strongest value; CRZ YOGA and G Gradual target performance and finish.
Best overall: CRZ YOGA for hikers who want technical performance and mobility. If you need more sun coverage and a longer inseam, choose G Gradual. If budget is the primary concern, Enaisyl delivers basic technical features at low cost. For the best balance of protection and price, MAGCOMSEN is the most well-rounded pick.
Final recommendation
After hands-on testing, field comparisons, and reviewing user feedback, our top pick for most hikers is the CRZ YOGA Stretch Hiking shorts for their superior mobility, practical pocket layout, and durable construction. If you spend long hours in strong sun and prefer more coverage, the G Gradual 7" pair is an excellent premium alternative with UPF protection. For budget-focused shoppers, Enaisyl is the most affordable functional option, while MAGCOMSEN represents the best value if you want UPF protection and secure pockets without a premium price tag.
Choosing the right short depends on your priorities: go with CRZ YOGA for technical performance, G Gradual for sun protection and a polished fit, MAGCOMSEN for balanced value, or Enaisyl for basic, wallet-friendly functionality. All recommendations are based on comparative testing, fabric and construction review, and aggregated consumer feedback to help you pick the best pair for your hikes.