Hiking shorts and cropped trousers

How do you choose hiking shorts?

Different types of shorts exist for every need. To choose comfortable shorts suited to your activity, it's essential to consider several criteria, including climate, hike duration and terrain type. Here are a few tips to guide your choice:

• Treks in warm climates : For treks in warm climates, opt for our models designed specifically for these conditions, in lightweight fabric with a breathable construction. These shorts offer great functionality with numerous practical pockets to store your small items, superior UV protection to shield you from harmful sun rays, and an odourless mosquito repellent treatment to keep insects at bay. 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 in the great outdoors, opt for a stretchy and extensible model with CimaFlex® technology. This type of lightweight shorts offers optimal comfort throughout the effort thanks to its flexible material that moves with you. They are also highly breathable, making them perfect for intense activities in the heat.
• Demanding terrain : If you're planning to hike on more demanding 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 gear is put to the test. These shorts will offer you performance, extra protection and increased durability.

Is it better to hike in shorts or trousers?

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

When conditions get tough — wind, rain and cool temperatures — trousers are your best ally. Go for technical models that combine lightweight performance, breathability and resistance. The choice of a shorts convertible 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 great comfort thanks to 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 the hiking shorts

Benefits:

•  Freedom of movement : A 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, which helps regulate body temperature while allowing quick-drying.
• Lightweight : Sports shorts are more lightweight 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.

Drawbacks:

• Reduced protection : Shorts offer less protection against natural elements such as bushes, insects and the sun. You're more likely to get scratched or bitten during your hike.
• Not suited to demanding conditions : Shorts are less suited to hikes 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 trek shorts properly helps extend their lifespan. Here are the essential steps to follow for cleaning:

Washing :

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

Drying :

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

Specific care :

• If the water-repellent treatment loses its effectiveness, you can re-impregnate using a specialist spray or wash-in product.
• Remember to regularly check the condition of the seams, fastenings 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. You can also take your measurements — your waist and hip circumference, for example. As for length, that will depend on your personal preferences. It's important to choose hiking shorts, a skirt or cropped trousers that allow you to move freely while being comfortable. If you have any doubts about size or length, don't hesitate to contact Cimalp customer service by email. You also benefit from free exchanges or returns 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 trek shoes

* The mosquito repellent treatment is a biocidal product containing permethrin as its active substance. It may cause a risk of skin sensitisation.