Top 6 best hiking shorts for men
1. Most breathable: GALIBIER SHORT
Who is it for? Hikers prioritising mobility and coolness with a cut that sits well above the knee. Ideal for warm weather and steep climbs, giving complete freedom of movement and maximum natural ventilation. Made from 3D-FLEX fabric, it is stretchy, breathable, and highly durable.
- Key feature: Unrivalled freedom of movement and ultra-fast drying—essential for treks where keeping pack weight down is key.
- Best for: Summer hiking, travel, active walking.
2. Most versatile: GALIBIER MEDIUM
Who is it for? Anyone seeking the quintessential "standard" shorts with a classic leg length. The most balanced model in the range. It packs all of Cimalp's technical expertise (stretch, UV protection, water repellency) into a versatile cut that works everywhere, from steep trails to café terraces.
- Key feature: Absolute versatility. It strikes the perfect balance between protection and freedom of movement.
- Best for: All-distance hiking, trekking, outdoor activities.
3. Maximum coverage: GALIBIER LONG
Who is it for? Hikers looking to protect their thighs from the sun or trailside vegetation. These shorts hit right at the knee. They are particularly favoured by those who want extra coverage without the weight of three-quarter pants.
- Key feature: Enhanced protection against abrasion and the elements, while retaining the lightweight flexibility of 3D-FLEX fibres.
- Best for: Long-distance hiking, overgrown trails.
4. Most built-to-last: ROCK COURT
Who is it for? Those taking on technical, rocky terrain who prefer a shorter cut. The Rock Court is built for demanding routes. It pairs the agility of a short cut with ultra-durable reinforcements in high-wear areas. It is the go-to short for summer mountaineering.
- Key feature: Outstanding durability. The reinforcements let you scramble against rock or cross scree fields without fearing tears.
- Best for: Alpine hiking, approach, via ferrata.
5. Most durable: ROCK MEDIUM
Who is it for? Demanding hikers looking for maximum protection with a classic cut. It shares the technical DNA of the Rock Court with a mid-length fit. Designed to withstand the toughest mountain conditions season after season.
- Key feature: The addition of functional zipped pockets and targeted reinforcements makes these a true piece of protective gear for rugged treks.
- Best for: Trekking, alpine mountaineering, rugged terrain.
6. The lightest: FAST SHORT
Who is it for? Fast-hiking enthusiasts where every gram counts. As the name suggests, these shorts are built for speed. Made from ultra-lightweight stretch fabric, they feel virtually weightless. The minimalist elastic waistband provides a secure, distraction-free fit.
- Key feature: Featherlight feel and outstanding moisture-wicking capacity. Dries in minutes after a downpour or river crossing.
- Best for: Fast hiking, trail running, high-intensity hiking in hot weather.
Top 5 best hiking shorts for women
For female hikers, the ideal shorts must deliver freedom of movement, abrasion resistance, and thermal comfort. Here is our curated selection for every type of walker.
1. Most versatile: AERRA
Who is it for? Female hikers looking for classic, built-to-last, ultra-stretch shorts. The best-seller of the range. Crafted from CIMAFLEX® fabric, it delivers maximum stretch that tracks every move, whether on flat paths or scree slopes.
- Key feature: Its DWR water-repellent finish and UPF 40+ UV protection. An all-terrain short that dries in a flash and provides reliable protection against the elements.
- Best for: Classic hiking, trekking, travel.
2. Most dynamic: AERRA SHORT
Who is it for? Those who prefer a shorter cut for total freedom of movement (or better tan lines!). It retains all the technical features of the AERRA (stretch fabric, quick drying, multiple zipped pockets) with a shorter inseam.
- Key feature: Enhanced lightweight feel and maximum airflow on scorching days. Its modern cut never compromises on technical performance.
- Best for: Summer hiking, Nordic walking.
3. Most protective: ARAVIS (Capri Pants)
Who is it for? Those wanting to protect their knees or looking for extra coverage while travelling. Technically, the ARAVIS is a pair of stretch capri pants. The perfect middle ground between shorts and trousers, offering the same breathability as the AERRA line with added leg protection.
- Key feature: Exceptional comfort thanks to stretch fabric, combined with serious protection against rough contact (brambles, rock).
- Best for: Hiking, Nordic walking, travel, and trekking.
4. Most feminine: ACACIA (Skort)
Who is it for? Female hikers who refuse to compromise between feminine style and technical performance. This skort is deceptive: beneath the sleek skirt lies an integrated stretch mesh boxer. It lets you walk, scramble, or sit comfortably without chafing or restriction.
- Key feature: The perfect blend of style and function. The integrated boxer liner stops inner-thigh chafing, a common nuisance on long summer walks.
- Best for: Leisure hiking, summer outings, travel.
5. The lightest: RESTONICA (2-in-1)
Who is it for? Fans of "fast hiking" or anyone who also does trail running and wants a single pair of shorts. Straight from our trail range, the RESTONICA is an ultra-lightweight short with integrated inner tights. It is designed to wick away sweat at record speed while providing light muscle support.
- Key feature: Clever multi-pocket waistband that lets you carry keys, a phone, or energy bars without needing a backpack.
- Best for: Fast hiking and trail.
How to choose your hiking shorts?
Beyond looks, a great pair of hiking shorts should feel completely unnoticeable. To ensure you make the right choice before hitting the trail, here are three key technical criteria to check.
1. Fabrics: stretch and quick-drying
Forget cotton—it holds moisture, gets heavy, and takes hours to dry. Technical shorts should be:
- Stretch: Look for technologies like 3D-FLEX or CIMAFLEX. A stretch fabric follows your movements on high steps or rocky terrain without ever holding you back.
- Breathable and water-repellent: Synthetic fibres wick sweat away effortlessly. Enhanced with a DWR treatment, it sheds light rain so you stay dry through passing showers.
- Built-to-last: For high-altitude mountaineering or off-trail adventures, opt for models with ripstop reinforcements on high-abrasion zones (seat, thighs).
2. Carrying capacity: why pockets matter
The right number of pockets depends on how you organise your gear:
- Zipped pockets: Essential for keeping your keys, cards, or phone secure.
- Cargo pockets: Handy for keeping a trail map or a beanie within easy reach without opening your backpack.
- Multi-pocket waistband: Typically found on trail-focused models, it distributes the weight of small essentials evenly around your waist to eliminate bounce.
3. Length: protection vs ventilation
It often comes down to personal preference, but each length serves a clear purpose:
- Short cut: Delivers maximum ventilation and total freedom of movement. The top choice for fast-paced hikers and trail runners.
- Mid-length cut: Delivers optimal protection against friction and the sun without sacrificing the ventilation needed during intense effort.
- Long cut (or cropped trousers): Recommended if you hike through brush, brambles, or have sun-sensitive skin. It also prevents direct skin contact with rocks when sitting down.
