Hiking shorts are an essential piece of kit for summer hikes. Thanks to their ergonomic cut, they guarantee great freedom of movement while keeping you cool on the trails. But with lightweight, durable, and multi-functional models to choose from, it can be hard to decide. Check out our tips to find the right shorts for hiking.
Key takeaways:
- Shorts should adapt to hiking — a lightweight model for a day out, and a more durable one for a trek.
- Comfort and freedom of movement are key factors when choosing hiking shorts.
- Shorts should adapt to the weather conditions, offering protection from sun, rain, or tropical environments.
- Convertible designs are ideal for hikes in changeable weather.
Which shorts should you choose for a day hike?
For a hike of a few hours or a full day, hiking shorts should be lightweight and breathable. We recommend opting for models made from synthetic fabrics such as nylon or polyester. These have the advantage of efficiently wicking moisture and drying quickly, making them particularly well-suited to active outings.
For freedom of movement, choose a stretch design. Cimalp uses Cimaflex technology in its hiking shorts for optimal stretch. UV protection is also essential for summer outings, particularly at altitude. Choose a fabric with a UPF rating of at least 30.
In terms of fit, your hiking shorts should be well-fitted without being too tight — this helps prevent chafing against the skin. A cut above the knee offers a good balance between protection and freedom of movement. Finally, women looking for a more feminine look can opt for a skort.
Which shorts should you choose for a multi-day hiking trip?
For a trek or multi-day hiking trip, you need to choose your shorts more carefully than for a casual walk. Whether you are choosing hiking socks, footwear or your three layers, everything needs to be more durable. On longer outings, clothing is more likely to snag and wear out.
To make sure your shorts are tough enough, look for a model with reinforcements. These feature panels on the areas most exposed to friction or abrasion, such as the seat or inner thighs. The only downside is the weight, which is greater than that of standard hiking shorts.
As with day hikes, shorts for multi-day trips need to be breathable and stretchy enough for sustained activity. High sun protection and a water-repellent treatment for sudden bad weather are also recommended.
For a long hike in a tropical climate, choose shorts treated against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Cimalp uses EULAN treatment, a powerful repellent that is harmless to people. Explore our full range of clothing for hot and humid climates.
The compromise of 2-in-1 trousers
Hikers know that temperatures and weather change frequently in the mountains, especially at altitude. Even on a summer hike, a sudden shower or gusts of wind can catch you out. To adapt without packing a whole range of clothes, choose convertible hiking trousers or shorts.
Their practical design means you can convert them into shorts in seconds. Keep them as trousers when the weather turns. When the sun returns, simply undo the fastenings to turn them into shorts, without even taking off your shoes. They are a useful option for mountain hikes.
To complete your hiking outfit, choose the right upper layers as well as shorts suited to your activity. If you are wondering which hiking jacket to choose for changeable weather, a waterproof jacket can make all the difference.
As you can see, choosing the right hiking shorts isn't all that complicated. Each model suits different preferences. For an active outing, a lightweight and breathable model is ideal. For a trek, go for a durable option. And for changeable weather, a convertible trouser is a great all-round solution. Whatever you choose, don't forget to protect your legs from the sun on every outing.
