Hiking shorts and cropped trousers

How do you choose hiking shorts?

There are different types of shorts to suit every need. To choose comfortable shorts suited to your activity, it is essential to consider several criteria, including the climate, the duration of the hiking trip and the type of terrain. Here are some tips to guide your choice:

• Treks in warm climates : For treks in warm climates, opt for our models specifically designed for these conditions, in lightweight fabric and breathable material. These shorts offer great functionality with numerous practical pockets to store your small items, superior UV protection to shield you from the sun's harmful rays, and an odourless mosquito-repellent treatment to avoid insect bites. This treatment is an insecticide*, recognised as effective against most mosquito species. (Aedes including Aedes albopictus known as the "tiger mosquito", Culex and Anopheles).
• Short or less demanding hikes : For shorter or less demanding hikes out in nature, go for a stretch and stretchy model featuring CimaFlex® technology. This type of lightweight shorts offers optimal comfort throughout the effort thanks to its flexible material that follows your every move. They are also highly breathable, making them perfect for intense activities in the heat.
• Difficult terrain : If you plan to hike on more challenging terrain, consider shorts with Kevlar reinforcements. Kevlar is an extremely abrasion- and wear-resistant material, making it an ideal choice for hiking on rocky trails or in conditions where your kit is put to the test. These shorts will deliver performance, extra protection and enhanced durability.

Is it better to hike in shorts or trousers?

The choice between trekking shorts and hiking trousers largely depends on the weather conditions, the terrain and your personal preferences. A technical shorts will obviously be particularly well suited to warm days, but bear in mind that temperatures can be low at altitude even in the height of summer, especially if you find yourself in the shade of a forest. Hiking shorts and cropped trousers also have the advantage of offering great freedom of movement for better comfort. Also check out our collection of versatile jackets for hiking and trekking to stay warm and dry.

When conditions get tough — wind, rain and cool temperatures — trousers become your best ally. Go for technical models that deliver lightweight performance, breathability and resistance. Choosing a convertible shorts into 2-in-1 trousers can be the ideal compromise as needed without having to change clothing during your adventure.

Elegant and stylish, CimAlp mountain shorts and cropped trousers offer their wearers great comfort thanks to the stretch fabric that allows excellent freedom of movement. Explore more with the collection women's hiking shorts and men's hiking shorts.

Pros and cons of hiking shorts

Advantages:

•  Freedom of movement : Trekking shorts offer superior freedom of movement compared to full-length trousers. They allow you to move more easily and without restriction.
• Ventilation : A breathable shorts is ideal for staying cool and for better ventilation on warm days. Air circulation is maximised, helping to regulate body temperature, while also enabling quick-drying.
• Lightweight : A sports shorts is lighter than trousers, a quality that makes them perfect for less demanding hikes or in warm weather. You'll feel less fatigue from the weight of your clothing.

Disadvantages:

• Reduced protection : Shorts offer less protection against natural elements such as bushes, insects and the sun. You are more likely to graze yourself or get stung during your hiking.
• Not suited to demanding conditions : Shorts are less suited for hiking on difficult terrain or in adverse weather conditions where full-length trousers would offer better protection against cold, wind and rain.

 How do you care for hiking shorts?

Caring for trekking shorts properly helps extend their lifespan. Here are the key steps to follow for cleaning:

Washing :

• Wash it in cold or lukewarm water (maximum 30°C), preferably on a gentle cycle.
• Use a gentle detergent, without fabric softener or bleach, as these products can damage the technical fibres and breathability of the fabric.
• Turn the shorts inside out before washing to protect surface treatments (such as water-repellent coating or UV protection).

Drying :

• Opt for a air drying, in the shade if possible.
• If the shorts feature a water-repellent treatment, a tumble dry on a low heat setting can help reactivate this property (check the care label first).

Specific care :

• If the water-repellent treatment loses its effectiveness, you can re-impregnate using a dedicated spray or wash-in product.
• Remember to regularly check the condition of the seams, closures and zips, and repair them if necessary

How do you choose the right size and length of shorts, skirt or cropped trousers?

To choose the right size and length of shorts, skirt or cropped trousers for the mountains, here are a few tips. The simplest approach is to consult the size guide available on our product pages. At the same time, you can take your measurements — your waist and hip circumference, for example. For length, this will depend on your personal preferences. It is important to choose hiking shorts, a skirt or cropped trousers that allow you to move freely while remaining comfortable. If you have any doubts about size or length, don't hesitate to contact the Cimalp customer service team by email. You also benefit from a free exchange or return within 30 days. Free delivery on orders over £65.

To complete your outdoor sports outfit, you can find the following in store or on our online shop:

• Our telescopic hiking poles
• Our waterproof jackets
• Our men's trekking trousers
• Our women's trekking trousers
• Our hiking and trekking shoes

* The mosquito repellent treatment is a biocidal product with permethrin as the active ingredient. It may cause a risk of skin sensitisation.