Hiking shorts and cropped trousers

Hiking shorts: why they're a must from the first warm days

The hiking short is the most heavily used piece of summer outdoor kit. Once temperatures exceed 20°C, it offers a ventilation that trousers simply cannot match, and superior freedom of movement on traverses, rocky terrain scrambles or steep ascents. Unlike a casual short, a technical hiking short is designed to absorb and wick away moisture quickly, resist abrasion from vegetation and rocks, and adapt to changing weather conditions thanks to lightweight, fast-drying fabrics. For any summer outing lasting more than an hour, it is a fully-fledged piece of technical equipment.

Hiking short or cropped trousers: which to choose?

The Cimalp collection offers two complementary formats depending on conditions and terrain:

• Hiking short: knee-length, ideal in intense heat on marked trails and at low altitude, it maximises ventilation and reduces thermal stress during hard ascents
• Hiking cropped trousers: mid-calf length, it covers the shins without adding weight, protects against scratches in woodland and dense vegetation, and is better suited to high-altitude treks where temperatures can remain cool in the evenings

The choice depends on terrain, altitude and expected weather conditions. For multi-day treks in varied conditions, cropped trousers are often the more versatile option.

The technical criteria for a good hiking short

Not all shorts are equal for outdoor use. Key features to assess:

• Stretch fabric: four-way stretch is essential for technical passages and extended movements with poles
• Quick-drying: the fabric must dry out quickly after intense sweating or a rain shower, to avoid discomfort and chafing
• Abrasion resistance: high-wear zones (thighs, pockets) must withstand contact with vegetation, rocks and the pack
• Secure pockets: at least one zipped pocket for essentials, accessible without removing the pack
• Elastic adjustable waistband: for a secure fit under the pack without compression points

How to choose your short based on terrain and activity?

The right hiking short depends as much on the user's profile as on the terrain conditions. For low and mid-mountain hikes in warm weather, a lightweight short in breathable synthetic fabric is sufficient. For high-mountain or multi-day treks, a more fabric-heavy cropped trouser is recommended for added protection and climate versatility. For technical outings on rocky trails, a reinforced fabric at wear zones provides increased durability. Those sensitive to UV exposure will appreciate models featuring UV-protection treatment on the most exposed areas.

Cimalp shorts and cropped trousers: a range for every profile

The range of Cimalp hiking shorts and cropped trousers is designed for those who refuse to compromise between comfort, technical performance and durability. The cuts are engineered to remain functional with a loaded pack, without creating friction points on the hips. The models men and women feature specific anatomical adjustments for better hold on the trail. The range covers day hiking as well as long-distance trekking, with formats and fabric weights suited to every use and every summer season.