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 | Durable Shorts That Won’t Chafe

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Columbia’s Silver Ridge has been a staple in the outdoor industry for years, and the Utility Cargo update keeps the same breathable Omni-Wick fabric that pulls sweat away during humid climbs. The 10-inch inseam hits mid-knee on most 6-foot builds, which gives plenty of coverage for sun protection and still clears a standard hip belt when sized correctly. Multiple pockets — including a secure back wallet slot — keep your trail essentials organized without adding bulk.

Reviewers note the fabric is lightweight yet handles repeated washes without pilling or fading. The included belt is functional but flimsy; many swap it for a dedicated ultralight belt. The fit runs a bit long and lean, so sizing up one notch ensures knee-length coverage without restricting movement during high steps or rock scrambles.

Best suited for hikers who want a durable, do-it-all short from a reliable brand. The Omni-Wick technology really shines in humid climates where cotton gear stays soaked. For overnighters with significant sun exposure, this is the most proven option in this list.

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The Rainier short uses a stretch-woven fabric that moves with you during lunges, high steps, and long striding descents. The 7-inch inseam sits cleanly above a hip belt, reducing pressure points on long carries. Reviewers consistently call these the most comfortable shorts they own for active wear — the fabric has enough flex to avoid binding but enough structure to hold shape after a full day on the trail.

The material is cooling and quick-drying, though it lacks the hard-face abrasion resistance of heavier-duty nylon ripstop. Pockets are well-placed but shallow — a large phone may peek out when you sit. Some users mention the waistband fits slightly small, so consider ordering one size up for a relaxed feel over a base layer.

These are ideal for three-season backpackers who value unrestricted movement. The stretch paneling makes them particularly strong on routes with lots of scrambling or creek crossings where a rigid short would bind.

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For less than many brands charge for a single pair, XKTTAC delivers six zippered pockets on a lightweight, stretchy chassis. The waistband combines elastic with Velcro adjustment tabs, so you can fine-tune the fit without a belt. Reviewers highlight the deep front pockets that reach into the thigh rather than sitting on the surface — a design that keeps a phone stable during active movement.

The fabric is a soft synthetic that dries in under an hour and resists stains from sunscreen and pine tar. The abrasion resistance is surprisingly good for the price point, standing up to brush and rock contact on multi-day trips. The Velcro waist closure is secure but can loosen over heavy use. Taller users note the inseam runs just under 8 inches, which may interfere with some hip belts.

Best for budget-conscious backpackers who need a reliable, pocket-heavy short for moderate trails. The value-to-performance ratio here is hard to beat for weekend warriors.

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CQR uses a lightweight ripstop weave that breathes exceptionally well in high heat and humidity. The material dries fast and the stretch paneling prevents binding during deep strides. Reviewers consistently cite the comfort factor — the shorts feel nearly weightless and the elastic waistband with belt loops provides a secure hold without digging in.

The pocket layout includes deep front pockets, Velcro-closure rear pockets, and cargo pockets on the legs. The belt loops are wide and include D-rings for hanging a carabiner or small accessory. A few users note the sizing can be inconsistent; the manufacturer’s own size chart should be checked, not Amazon’s suggested fit. The fabric is thin enough to be transparent when soaked, so consider darker colors for river crossings.

An excellent choice for summer trips to the desert or humid east coast trails. The ripstop construction adds a layer of durability that straight nylon shorts lack.

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MudGear designed these shorts for obstacle course racing, which means they’re built to survive mud, water, barbed wire, and repeated abuse. The fabric is a lightweight, flexible nylon that sheds water and dries in minutes. An inner mesh liner provides built-in support, and the 7-inch inseam keeps the hems above the knee for unrestricted climbing and crawling.

A small back zippered pocket fits a phone or key, and the front pockets are cut to minimize bounce during trail runs. Reviewers note the shorts run slightly small — sizing up one step is a common tip. The inner lining can feel constrictive for some; wearing a compression layer underneath solves that without sacrificing comfort. The drawstring waist is functional but long, so a quick knot solves the extra length.

Perfect for runners and fast-packers who want a stripped-down, durable short that performs in wet, technical conditions. The swimsuit-like fabric makes it a strong candidate for water-heavy routes.

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FlipBelt takes a completely different approach: a compression short with a continuous waistband storage tube that swallows a phone, gels, keys, and even a small flask without any bounce. There are no traditional pockets — the stretch tube distributes weight evenly around your waist, eliminating the shift and slap you get with loose running shorts. The compression fabric supports the quads and hamstrings during long days on the trail.

Reviewers rave about the storage capacity for a short that weighs nearly nothing. The interior drawstring is functional but presses against the stomach on some body shapes; an external string adjustment would be an improvement. Limited color options are a minor complaint, and the side pockets could be deeper for larger flasks. The compression fit also means you’ll need accurate waist and inseam measurements — these are not a casual cargo alternative.

Best for ultra-runners and fast-packers who want to carry nutrition and a phone in a tight, no-bounce system. Not a replacement for general-purpose hiking shorts, but a specialized tool for long, unsupported days.

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Eddie Bauer’s Rainier short for women shares the same stretch-woven fabric as the men’s version but with a shorter 5-inch inseam that accommodates a narrower range of leg heights. The standout feature here is the lower side pocket designed to hold a phone without bumping against the hip bone — a clever solution that women hikers have been asking for. The fabric is lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and packs small inside a stuff sack or daypack.

Reviewers around 5’2” to 5’4” report the mid-thigh length is flattering and practical. The waistband lays flat against the skin without gaping, and the material does not pill after multiple wash cycles. The color holds well. The elastic waistband isn’t adjustable, so a proper fit is critical — there’s no built-in belt or drawstring to dial it in if you lose or gain a few pounds on the trail.

A solid women’s option for day hikes and shorter backpacking trips. The phone pocket placement alone justifies the price for anyone tired of stuffing a phone into a standard front pocket.