What's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof hiking pants?

Water-resistant means the fabric repels light rain and moisture and dries quickly — great for most day hikes and unexpected drizzle. Waterproof means the fabric is fully sealed and keeps water out even in heavy rain, which is more important for serious backcountry hiking or wet climates. For most casual and beginner hikers, water-resistant or quick-dry fabric is more than enough, and it tends to be more breathable and comfortable than fully waterproof fabric.

Are hiking poles worth buying for a mom and daughter who are just starting out?

Absolutely — and it doesn't have to cost much. A pair like the Cascade Mountain Tech Cork Grip Aluminum poles at under $30 is a great starting point for a family just getting into hiking. They're adjustable across a wide height range, so both a mom and a growing teenager can use them. Starting with an affordable pair also means you're not out much if you decide poles aren't your thing — though most people find they love having them once they try them on a real trail.

How often should I check and replace items in my hiking first aid kit?

It's a good idea to go through your kit at least once a year — ideally at the start of hiking season. Check for expired medications, used or damaged supplies, and items you might want to add after your experiences from the previous season. Any time you use something from your kit on the trail, replace it before your next hike so you're never caught short.

What is the difference between Gore-Tex and other waterproof membranes like Omni-Tech or M Select DRY?

Gore-Tex is the most well-known waterproof membrane and has the longest track record in outdoor gear — it's often called the gold standard. Brand-specific membranes like Columbia's Omni-Tech and Merrell's M Select DRY work on the same principle: they block water from getting in while letting sweat vapor escape. In real-world hiking conditions, especially at casual to moderate trail levels, the practical difference between Gore-Tex and a quality brand membrane is minimal. Gore-Tex tends to appear on higher-end boots and may offer an edge in extreme conditions, but for most everyday hikers the brand membranes perform very well.

Do I really need ankle support hiking boots, or will low-cut boots work?

It depends on where you're hiking. Low-cut hiking boots (which look more like trail sneakers) are lighter and more comfortable right away, and they work well on flat, well-maintained trails. Mid-cut boots that rise above the ankle give you a bit more structure on rocky or uneven terrain, which is helpful if you're new to trail hiking and not used to the surface changes. If you're unsure, go with a mid-cut — it's the safer starting point for beginners.

Should I choose hiking shorts with a built-in liner or without?

This comes down to personal preference. A built-in liner means you can wear the shorts without underwear underneath — similar to swim trunks or running shorts. Some women love the simplicity; others find liners uncomfortable or prefer to wear their own athletic underwear. If you already have a go-to pair of athletic shorts you wear under leggings, you might prefer a linerless option like the CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts. Check the product description before buying so you know what's included.

What size hiking backpack do I need for a day hike?

For most day hikes, a 15–25 liter pack is the sweet spot. That's enough room for water, snacks, a light jacket, sunscreen, and your phone without weighing you down. If you're bringing a hydration reservoir instead of just a bottle, look for a pack that specifically says it's hydration compatible — it'll have a built-in sleeve for the reservoir and a port for the drinking tube.

How do I know what size to order in hiking sandals?

Sandal sizing can run a little differently from your regular shoe size, so it's worth checking each brand's size guide before ordering. A good general tip: if you're between sizes, go half a size up. When the sandal fits correctly, your heel should sit flat in the footbed and your toes shouldn't hang over the front edge. Reading recent buyer reviews about fit can also help — shoppers often note if a sandal runs large or small.

Are these insulated bottles safe for kids to use?

Yes — most major brands including Stanley, Hydro Flask, YETI, and Iron Flask make kid-friendly sizes that are lighter and easier for smaller hands to hold. The YETI Rambler Jr. in this guide is a great example. Look for stainless steel options without BPA in the lid or seals, which is standard across all the bottles listed here. Always check the product listing for age recommendations if you're buying for a young child.

The Best Camping Air Mattress: Comfortable Inflatable Beds for Outdoor Adventures

Finding the right pair of hiking shorts sounds simple — until you're standing in the store (or scrolling Amazon at midnight) trying to figure out why there are seventeen different options and what any of it means. This guide is here to make that easier. We've pulled together the best hiking shorts for women right now, ranked by real sales data, buyer trends, and search popularity — so you're getting what's actually working for hikers, not just whatever looks pretty in a product photo.

Whether you're planning your first nature trail with the kids, tackling longer weekend hikes, or just want a comfortable pair of shorts that can handle sweat, stream crossings, and a few granola bars stuffed in your pocket, there's something here for you. We cover everything from quick dry fabrics and inseam lengths to pockets (yes, real pockets) and built-in liners. No gear jargon — or if we use a term, we explain it right away.

Our picks range from under $25 to just under $45, so there's a fit for every budget. We update this guide regularly as new products earn their spot. Ready? Let's find your next favorite pair of shorts.

Our top pick

CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3" — At just $28, these high-waisted split shorts from CRZ YOGA top our list thanks to their sleek fit, active-friendly design, and strong Amazon sales ranking. They're a great starting point for hikers who want something lightweight and comfortable without spending a lot.

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Why the right hiking shorts make a real difference

You might be thinking — shorts are shorts, right? But anyone who's shown up to a trail in cotton gym shorts and ended up soaked, chafed, or pocketless knows that's not quite true. Hiking shorts are designed for movement, moisture, and the outdoors. They dry fast when you sweat or splash through a creek. They're cut to let you step over rocks and roots without pulling or bunching. And the good ones have pockets — zippered ones — so your car keys and snacks don't end up on the forest floor.

For beginners especially, having comfortable gear removes one more thing to worry about on the trail. When your shorts feel good, you can focus on the hike itself — the views, the fresh air, keeping up with (or keeping track of) your kids. A pair that chafes or falls down or soaks through with sweat is just a distraction. Good hiking shorts should feel like you're barely wearing them.

And it's not just about comfort. Features like UPF sun protection (basically SPF for fabric), quick-dry materials, and built-in liners can genuinely make a longer hike more enjoyable. If you're also shopping for bottoms for cooler weather or longer trips, check out our guide to hiking pants — they pair perfectly with a good pair of trail-ready boots, too (see our hiking boots guide for that).

The three tiers: budget, mid-range, and premium

Not everyone needs to spend the same amount — a casual weekend hiker and someone hitting the trail three times a week have different needs. Here's how our picks break down by price so you can find the right fit for your budget and how often you'll actually use them.

Budget · under $25

CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Biker Shorts 6"

$24

Not yet rated

A soft, stretchy biker-style short at a price that's easy to say yes to. The 6" inseam hits mid-thigh for good coverage on the trail, and the buttery fabric feels comfortable for long stretches of walking. A solid first pair if you're just getting started with hiking.

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Best value · $25–$35

CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3"

$28

Not yet rated

Our overall top pick lands right in the sweet spot for value. High-waisted for a secure fit and split hem for extra mobility, these are great for active hikers who want a little more range of motion. The price is reasonable and the design is versatile enough for the trail or a gym visit.

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Premium · $35+

BALEAF Quick Dry Hiking Pants

$38.99

Not yet rated

BALEAF is a go-to brand for serious trail gear, and this quick-dry option justifies the higher price tag with performance-focused features. Great for hikers who want reliable moisture management and a more outdoorsy fit. Worth the upgrade if you hike regularly or tackle longer routes.

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Top features to look for in hiking shorts

Inseam length: 3", 5", 7", or longer

The inseam is how long the shorts are from the crotch down the inner leg — and it matters more than most people think. A 3" inseam is very short, sitting high on the upper thigh. It's great for warm weather, maximum movement, and runners — but on a rocky trail with brush, some hikers prefer more coverage. A 5" inseam is the middle ground: enough coverage for most trails without feeling restrictive. It's the most popular choice. A 7" inseam hits closer to mid-thigh and gives you more coverage and sun protection — better for longer hikes or if you're self-conscious about chafing. Anything 9" or longer starts to feel more like board shorts and works best for casual, flat hikes or water-adjacent activities. When in doubt, 5" or 6" is a safe starting point for most hikers.

Quick-dry fabric

This is a big one. Regular cotton shorts soak up sweat and stay wet — which gets uncomfortable fast on a long hike. Quick-dry fabrics (usually polyester or nylon blends) pull moisture away from your skin and dry in minutes, not hours. This matters even more if you cross a stream, get caught in a light rain, or just sweat a lot. Most of the shorts in this guide use some form of quick-dry fabric, and it's one of the first things to look for on any product page.

Pockets — especially zippered ones

Pockets on hiking shorts aren't just a nice-to-have — they're genuinely useful. You need somewhere to stash your phone, a snack, your car key, or a trail map. Zippered pockets are ideal because they keep things from falling out when you bend down, scramble over a boulder, or lean forward on a steep climb. Side hand pockets are fine for quick access, but if you're carrying anything valuable, a zip pocket is worth seeking out.

Built-in liner vs. no liner

Some hiking shorts have a built-in brief liner sewn inside — similar to what you'd find in swim trunks or running shorts. The liner adds support and eliminates the need for separate underwear underneath. Some women love this; others find liners uncomfortable or prefer to wear their own athletic underwear. There's no right answer — it's entirely a personal preference. Check the product description before buying so you know what you're getting. The CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts are an example of a no-liner option if that's your preference.

UPF sun protection

UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor — it's basically SPF for clothing. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks over 98% of UV rays. This is especially useful on exposed ridgelines, high-altitude hikes, or long summer days on the trail. Not every hiking short has a UPF rating, but if you hike often in sunny conditions, it's a great bonus to look for. The Willit UPF 50+ Straight Fit Hiking Pants in our comparison list are built around this feature.

Fit and waistband style

High-waisted shorts have become popular for good reason — they stay put during active movement and feel more secure on steep terrain. An elastic or drawstring waistband lets you adjust the fit, which is helpful if you're between sizes. Look for a waistband that doesn't dig in when you bend or sit. Biker-style shorts (like several CRZ YOGA options in this guide) use compression fabric that hugs the leg, which some hikers love for chafe prevention. It comes down to what feels comfortable on your body.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

Rank	Product	Price	Rating	Best For
1	CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts 3"	$28.00	Not yet rated	Best overall value pick
2	CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Biker Shorts 6"	$24.00	Not yet rated	Best budget pick
3	BALEAF Quick Dry Hiking Pants	$38.99	Not yet rated	Best premium pick
4	CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Biker Shorts 4"	$24.00	Not yet rated	Short inseam biker style
5	CRZ YOGA Secretsculpt Biker Shorts 4"	$26.00	Not yet rated	Sculpting biker short
6	CRZ YOGA Dolphin Athletic Shorts 3"	$28.00	Not yet rated	Active dolphin-hem style
7	CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts 5"	$28.00	Not yet rated	No-liner preference
8	Willit UPF 50+ Straight Fit Hiking Pants	$42.99	Not yet rated	UPF sun protection

How to choose the right hiking shorts for you

The most important question to ask yourself before buying is: what kind of hiking am I doing? A leisurely walk on a paved nature path has different demands than a 10-mile mountain trail. For easy, casual hikes, almost any comfortable short will do. For longer or more demanding trails, you'll want to pay closer attention to fabric, fit, and features.

Start with inseam length

This is the number one question most women have, and it's worth getting right before anything else. If you run warm or live somewhere hot, a 3" or 5" inseam keeps things cool and airy. If you want more coverage — maybe you're hiking through brush, carrying a toddler on your back, or just prefer more fabric — go with a 7" or longer. The sweet spot for most hikers is 5" to 6". Biker-style shorts like several of the CRZ YOGA options in this guide tend to run 4" to 6" and hug the leg more closely, which many women find reduces inner-thigh chafing on longer walks.

Think about where and when you hike

If you mostly hike in summer heat, quick-dry fabric is non-negotiable — you'll appreciate it within the first mile. If you hike in sunny, exposed areas like beaches or high-altitude trails, UPF protection is worth prioritizing. Hiking near water? A quick-dry short doubles as something you could wade in without much fuss. Cooler weather or fall hikes might call for something with a bit more coverage or the option to layer — our hiking pants guide covers those options well.

Decide on liner vs. no liner

This is genuinely personal. If you typically wear athletic underwear, you might find a built-in liner redundant or uncomfortable. If you'd rather go without a separate layer underneath, a liner saves you the extra step. Read the product description carefully — it should tell you whether a liner is included. The CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts 5" is explicitly labeled for those who prefer no liner.

Don't overlook pockets

Check the pocket situation before you buy. At minimum, you want at least one secure pocket for your phone or key. Zippered pockets are best for anything you can't afford to lose. Many athletic and biker-style shorts have smaller or fewer pockets than traditional hiking shorts — something to keep in mind if you carry a lot of trail essentials. If heavy pocket use is a priority, look at options like the BALEAF Quick Dry Hiking Pants, which tend to offer more storage.

Sizing tips

CRZ YOGA tends to run true to size but is cut for an athletic, fitted silhouette. If you're between sizes or prefer a relaxed fit, sizing up is a safe bet. BALEAF and Willit both offer more traditional outdoor fits. When in doubt, check the size chart on the product page — most Amazon listings have one. And remember: a high-waisted short will feel different than a mid-rise one even in the same size, so factor in your preference for waistband placement.

Ready to hit the trail?

The good news is that finding a great pair of hiking shorts doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you're grabbing the CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Biker Shorts for a budget-friendly first pair, going with our overall top pick for the best blend of price and performance, or investing in the BALEAF quick-dry option for more serious trail use — there's a solid option at every price point. The key things to keep in mind: pick an inseam length you'll actually be comfortable in, make sure the fabric dries fast, and don't settle for shorts without real pockets. Everything else is a bonus.

We update this guide regularly as new products earn their way onto the list and as prices shift, so bookmark it and check back before your next gear purchase. And if you're building out your full hiking kit, don't miss our guides to hiking pants and hiking boots — they'll help you put together a head-to-toe setup you'll actually enjoy wearing on the trail. Ready to start? Our top pick is a great place to begin: check the CRZ YOGA High Waisted Split Running Shorts on Amazon and see if they're the right fit for you.

What's the difference between water-resistant and waterproof hiking pants?
Water-resistant means the fabric repels light rain and moisture and dries quickly — great for most day hikes and unexpected drizzle. Waterproof means the fabric is fully sealed and keeps water out even in heavy rain, which is more important for serious backcountry hiking or wet climates. For most casual and beginner hikers, water-resistant or quick-dry fabric is more than enough, and it tends to be more breathable and comfortable than fully waterproof fabric.
Are hiking poles worth buying for a mom and daughter who are just starting out?
Absolutely — and it doesn't have to cost much. A pair like the Cascade Mountain Tech Cork Grip Aluminum poles at under $30 is a great starting point for a family just getting into hiking. They're adjustable across a wide height range, so both a mom and a growing teenager can use them. Starting with an affordable pair also means you're not out much if you decide poles aren't your thing — though most people find they love having them once they try them on a real trail.
How often should I check and replace items in my hiking first aid kit?
It's a good idea to go through your kit at least once a year — ideally at the start of hiking season. Check for expired medications, used or damaged supplies, and items you might want to add after your experiences from the previous season. Any time you use something from your kit on the trail, replace it before your next hike so you're never caught short.
What is the difference between Gore-Tex and other waterproof membranes like Omni-Tech or M Select DRY?
Gore-Tex is the most well-known waterproof membrane and has the longest track record in outdoor gear — it's often called the gold standard. Brand-specific membranes like Columbia's Omni-Tech and Merrell's M Select DRY work on the same principle: they block water from getting in while letting sweat vapor escape. In real-world hiking conditions, especially at casual to moderate trail levels, the practical difference between Gore-Tex and a quality brand membrane is minimal. Gore-Tex tends to appear on higher-end boots and may offer an edge in extreme conditions, but for most everyday hikers the brand membranes perform very well.
Do I really need ankle support hiking boots, or will low-cut boots work?
It depends on where you're hiking. Low-cut hiking boots (which look more like trail sneakers) are lighter and more comfortable right away, and they work well on flat, well-maintained trails. Mid-cut boots that rise above the ankle give you a bit more structure on rocky or uneven terrain, which is helpful if you're new to trail hiking and not used to the surface changes. If you're unsure, go with a mid-cut — it's the safer starting point for beginners.
Should I choose hiking shorts with a built-in liner or without?
This comes down to personal preference. A built-in liner means you can wear the shorts without underwear underneath — similar to swim trunks or running shorts. Some women love the simplicity; others find liners uncomfortable or prefer to wear their own athletic underwear. If you already have a go-to pair of athletic shorts you wear under leggings, you might prefer a linerless option like the CRZ YOGA Linerless Workout Shorts. Check the product description before buying so you know what's included.
What size hiking backpack do I need for a day hike?
For most day hikes, a 15–25 liter pack is the sweet spot. That's enough room for water, snacks, a light jacket, sunscreen, and your phone without weighing you down. If you're bringing a hydration reservoir instead of just a bottle, look for a pack that specifically says it's hydration compatible — it'll have a built-in sleeve for the reservoir and a port for the drinking tube.
How do I know what size to order in hiking sandals?
Sandal sizing can run a little differently from your regular shoe size, so it's worth checking each brand's size guide before ordering. A good general tip: if you're between sizes, go half a size up. When the sandal fits correctly, your heel should sit flat in the footbed and your toes shouldn't hang over the front edge. Reading recent buyer reviews about fit can also help — shoppers often note if a sandal runs large or small.
Are these insulated bottles safe for kids to use?
Yes — most major brands including Stanley, Hydro Flask, YETI, and Iron Flask make kid-friendly sizes that are lighter and easier for smaller hands to hold. The YETI Rambler Jr. in this guide is a great example. Look for stainless steel options without BPA in the lid or seals, which is standard across all the bottles listed here. Always check the product listing for age recommendations if you're buying for a young child.