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The problem with most backpacking shorts is simple: they are either tough enough to handle a scratch from a trail-side branch but feel like wearing a wet sail, or they are airy and light but rip the first time you sit on a rock. You need a pair that dries fast when you cross a creek, holds your phone and snacks without pulling your waistband down, and still looks decent when you stop for lunch at a trailhead café. That balance is harder to find than it sounds.
I’m Min — the founder and writer behind Gadgets Feed. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
Whether you are planning a weekend thru-hike or just want one pair of do-everything summer shorts that can handle a wet morning and a dusty afternoon, this roundup of the best backpacking shorts will help you find the right fit without wasting money on fabric that doesn’t work.
Quick Picks
- Eddie Bauer Mens Rainier Short — Best Overall
- Hugut Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Travel Shorts with Multi Pockets — Pocket King
- Columbia Sandy River™ Shorts II — Versatile All-Rounder
- TACVASEN Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 10″ Quick Dry Lightweight Stretch Dress Shorts — Secure Trail Partner
- Little Donkey Andy Men’s Lightweight Quick Dry Hiking Shorts — Ultralight Packer
- CRYSULLY Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts Outdoor Summer Lightweight Quick Dry Work Casual Shorts with 5 Zipper Pockets — Budget Champion
How To Choose The Best Backpacking Shorts
Backpacking shorts live in a weird middle ground between swim trunks and hiking pants. You need them to handle water, dirt, sun, and chafing, all while carrying your trail essentials in pockets that don’t dump everything on the ground when you sit down. Here is what separates the good ones from the ones you will toss in a drawer after one trip.
Fabric and Drying Speed
The fabric is the foundation of every pair of backpacking shorts. Nylon and spandex blends (often listed as 90% nylon and 10% spandex) are the gold standard here because nylon dries fast and resists abrasion, while spandex gives you the stretch to step over a log without ripping a seam. Cotton holds water like a sponge and stays wet for hours, which can lead to chafing and that cold, clammy feeling on a breezy ridge. The best quick-dry shorts will feel damp for maybe 20 minutes after a river crossing — not the rest of the afternoon.
Pocket Design and Security
Pockets on backpacking shorts serve a different purpose than they do on casual shorts. You need zippered or Velcro-closed pockets to keep a phone, keys, or a snack bar from bouncing out when you scramble over rocks. Deep cargo pockets are great for holding a map or a handful of trail mix, but they also catch on branches and add weight. Look for at least one secure zippered pocket for valuables, and cargo pockets that lie flat when empty so they do not billow out and snag.
Sun Protection (UPF Rating)
If you are hiking above tree line or on exposed desert trails, your legs will get direct sun for hours. A UPF 50+ rating (the maximum standard) blocks about 98% of UV radiation, which is the difference between a good hike and a week of peeling sunburn on your thighs. If you hike mostly in shaded forests, a UPF 30 rating is adequate. Check the label, because most fabric without a UPF rating lets through more UV than you might expect.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Fabric | Pockets | UPF Rating | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eddie Bauer Rainier Short | Multi-day Alpine Trips | Nylon-Spandex with Flexion Stretch | 5 (incl. zippered cargo) | 50+ | from $36.00Amazon |
| Hugut Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts | Pocket Heavy Loads | 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex | 8 | 50+ | from $32.99Amazon |
| Columbia Sandy River™ Shorts II | All-Day Comfort & Versatility | Quick-Dry Nylon | 2 | 30 | $30.60Amazon |
| TACVASEN Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 10″ | Secure Trail Carry | 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex | 5 (incl. zippered) | — | $32.98Amazon |
| Little Donkey Andy Men’s Hiking Shorts | Ultra-Light Packing | Quick-Dry Fabric | 5 (incl. zippered) | — | $29.99$36.98Amazon |
| CRYSULLY Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts | Budget Friendly Value | Quick-Dry Fabric | 5 (zippered) | — | $24.99$32.98Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Eddie Bauer Mens Rainier Short
The alpine-tested pair that handles a week on the trail without smelling like a gym bag.
This is the pair you reach for when your backpacking trip involves real elevation gain, multi-day packs, and the kind of weather that changes from sun to drizzle in an hour. The fabric is a bluesign certified nylon-spandex blend with Flexion two-way stretch technology, which means you can scramble over boulders and step over fallen logs without feeling any resistance at the seams. It also carries a StormRepel DWR finish (a durable water repellent coating) to shed light rain, and a FreeShade UPF 50+ rating to block harmful UV rays during long exposed sections above tree line — a feature that matters when your legs are baking for hours.
The five-pocket layout includes a low-profile zippered cargo pocket that keeps a phone or passport secure without the floppy cargo pocket look. The waistband uses Polygiene odor-control technology (a treatment that stops the growth of odor-causing bacteria), which one reviewer noted kept them fresh through multiple days of use on the trail. The fit is described as an Active Fit — close to the body but not restrictive — though some buyers report the waistband runs slightly snug compared to other brands, so if you are between sizes, consider sizing up for a more relaxed feel.
Trail-Ready Strengths
- UPF 50+ and DWR finish handle sun and light rain in one layer
- Polygiene odor control keeps them fresh on multi-day trips
- Stretchy, durable fabric holds up to scrambling and alpine use
Honest Limitations
- Active Fit runs slightly snug — size up for a looser feel
- Waistband is not adjustable; no drawstring option
Your best trail partner: If you plan to be on exposed ridgelines or multi-day treks where sun protection and odor resistance are real assets, these are the pair to buy.
Watch the fit: The non-adjustable waistband means you need to get the size right the first time — no drawstring to tighten if you lose trail weight mid-trip.
2. Hugut Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Travel Shorts with Multi Pockets
Eight pockets and UPF 50+ coverage — a cargo loadout for the gear-heavy hiker.
If your daypack is already full and you need to distribute phone, keys, snacks, a map, and a multitool across your shorts, the Hugut is the right call. It packs 8 multi-pockets (2 front, 2 thigh 2-in-1 cargo pockets, 1 back zipper pocket, and 1 straight pocket) into a 90% nylon and 10% spandex fabric with a water repellent treatment and UPF 50+ sun protection. One buyer mentioned using them for tennis because the cargo pockets are big enough to hold several balls at a time, which gives you a sense of how spacious the layout really is.
The trade-off is the pocket security. Unlike the TACVASEN or the Eddie Bauer, the Hugut’s main cargo pockets close with a Velcro flap rather than a zipper. One reviewer flagged this as a reason to look elsewhere for technical hiking, since Velcro can eventually wear out or pop open during a scramble. The elastic waist with a button closure and zip fly includes a 2-inch belt loop for a custom fit, and the colorful reflective logo enhances visibility on low-light trails. A buyer with thick thighs specifically praised the fit, calling them comfortable and ordering several more pairs.
What You Get
- UPF 50+ fabric offers the highest sun protection rating available
- 8 pockets give you more storage than any other pair here
- Four-way stretch fabric moves with you during active scrambling
The Catch
- Velcro cargo pocket closure is less secure than a zipper for hiking
- Some owners mention sizing runs large; a belt is often needed
Reach for this if: You carry a lot of small gear and want to access it without rummaging through a backpack — the 8-pocket layout lets you keep everything organized at your waist.
Look elsewhere if: You rely on zippered security for trail runs or technical terrain where Velcro can fail mid-scramble.
3. Columbia Sandy River™ Shorts II
A quick-dry nylon short that looks good at the trailhead and the lunch spot alike.
Columbia built the Sandy River Shorts II as a do-everything pair that sits comfortably between active hiking wear and casual summer shorts. The quick-dry nylon fabric is lightweight and durable, treated with a rain-and-stain-resistant finish that handles a sudden drizzle without soaking through, plus UPF 30 sun protection that blocks about 97% of UV rays — adequate for most tree-covered trails though not as high as the UPF 50+ on the Eddie Bauer or Hugut.
The regular fit is slightly oversized, which one reviewer appreciated for hiking because it allows good airflow and freedom of movement. A family hiker gave them 5 stars, noting they are “much more affordable than Patagonia” but still look great. The elastic waistband with drawstring makes them easy to adjust on the fly, and the extended sizing (including petite sizes) is a plus for hikers with slimmer builds. The main trade-off is the limited pocket count — two standard hand pockets, no zippered or cargo options, so you will need a backpack or a secure belt pouch for your phone and wallet.
What Stands Out
- Rain-and-stain resistant finish sheds moisture and trail dust
- Lightweight nylon is quick-drying and breathable for humid hikes
- Drawstring elastic waist lets you dial in the fit without a belt
The Trade-Off
- Only two hand pockets — no secure storage for phone or keys
- UPF 30 is lower than the premium options in this list
Best for casual-to-moderate hikers: If your backpacking style is family-friendly trails and you want one pair that works for hiking and stopping at a café, these deliver solid value.
Skip if you need secure pockets: Without a zipper or cargo pocket, you cannot safely stow a phone or wallet during a steep scramble.
4. TACVASEN Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 10″ Quick Dry Lightweight Stretch Dress Shorts
Zippered pockets and a stretchy nylon build that dries fast when the rain catches you.
The TACVASEN 10-inch shorts are built around a 90% nylon and 10% spandex fabric that provides a comfortable stretch, making them a strong pick for hikers who need mobility for stepping over obstacles on the trail. Unlike the Hugut’s Velcro flaps, the TACVASEN uses zippered cargo pockets for secure storage — a detail one owner reported after being caught in a light rain shower: “the fabric dried up completely by the time I walked back to my truck.” The fabric is also described as wrinkle resistant and breathable, which matters on humid summer mornings when you are sweating before the climb starts.
The five-pocket layout includes zippered side pockets for valuables, and the 10-inch inseam hits right at the knee for a classic hiking short length. Some customers note the fabric is thicker than expected — one customer observed it is heavier than a thin canvas cargo short, which is good for durability against low-hanging branches but means these are not the lightest option for ultralight packing. A plastic snap closure at the waist has drawn mixed feedback; one reviewer worried about long-term durability, though three separate buyers reported these are their second or third pair, which suggests the snap holds up to regular use.
The Real Strengths
- Zippered side pockets keep valuables secure while hiking
- Nylon-spandex fabric stretches and breathes well in hot weather
- 10-inch inseam provides full coverage without riding up
Where It Compromises
- Fabric is heavier than some ultralight competitors
- Plastic snap fly closure may wear out over time
Great for hikers who value pocket security: The combination of zippered pockets and stretch fabric makes these a safe bet for active trail days.
Not for weight weenies: If every gram in your pack matters, the denser fabric adds noticeable heft compared to ultra-light options.
5. Little Donkey Andy Men’s Lightweight Quick Dry Hiking Shorts
A featherweight pair that packs down small enough to vanish in your carry-on.
The Little Donkey Andy shorts are designed for the hiker who values packability above all else. The quick-dry fabric is lightweight enough to stuff into the corner of a backpack without adding noticeable bulk — one user highlighted they packed “really tight in my carry-on bag.” Despite the light feel, the build quality impresses: a buyer living in the tropics gave the fabric a 5-star rating and noted the zippers are all great quality.
Five zippered pockets (a design that keeps your phone and wallet from bouncing out on a trail run) are a clear upgrade over the Columbia Sandy River’s standard hand pockets. The elastic waistband with a Velcro-style belt provides easy adjustability without adding weight or bulk. Some reviewers point out the shorts have a slight resemblance to swim trunks, so they are not the most polished look for a post-hike dinner, but they work well for beach biking and trail walking alike. The manufacturer, LDA, keeps the product description minimal, but the recurring buyer enthusiasm (multiple people say they bought 2-3 more pairs) suggests the fabric holds up over time.
The Lightweight Edge
- Packs down very small — ideal for carry-on or a small daypack
- Five zippered pockets offer secure, trail-ready storage
- Velcro-style belt provides a secure, adjustable fit
Consider This
- Style leans toward swim trunks, not a sharp casual look
- No UPF rating stated in the data so check the tag if you hike in exposed sun
Your go-to for fast-and-light trips: If you prioritize pack weight and need a pair that disappears into a stuff sack, this is the obvious choice.
Watch out for sun exposure: Without a stated UPF rating, you will want to apply sunscreen on exposed ridges or bring a pair with built-in sun protection.
6. CRYSULLY Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts Outdoor Summer Lightweight Quick Dry Work Casual Shorts with 5 Zipper Pockets
Zippered security and comfortable fabric at a price that leaves room for another gear purchase.
The CRYSULLY is the entry-level pick that punches above its weight. It comes with five zippered pockets, including cargo pockets, which means your phone, wallet, and keys stay put whether you are fording a stream or scrambling up a steep section.
The self-described “Totally worth the price” reviewer was “honestly shocked they are so good for the price” and planned to order more. However, a buyer who bought a second pair pointed out that the pocket count is not always symmetrical between colors — the photo of one color shows a cargo pocket on only one leg, so check the images carefully before buying if you need mirrored pockets. Another buyer said “the quality seems really good but I’ve only had them a month so I can’t give a long-term evaluation,” so the durability through a full season of backpacking is still an open question.
Strong Value Highlights
- Five zippered pockets provide secure storage at a budget price
- Quick-dry fabric handles sweat and light rain well
- Elastic side panels improve comfort and fit range
Know Before You Buy
- Pocket configuration can vary by color — check photos carefully
- Long-term durability is unproven beyond a few weeks of use
The smart budget play: If you want a pair of zippered-pocket hiking shorts without paying premium prices, the CRYSULLY delivers the essential features for much less money.
The durability caveat: Early reviews are strong, but there is no evidence yet of these surviving a second season of heavy use — treat them as a solid entry-level buy.
Understanding the Specs
UPF Rating
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks approximately 98% of the sun’s UV radiation, which is the maximum standard for clothing. If you plan to hike above the tree line, across exposed ridgelines, or on desert trails for hours at a time, a UPF 50+ short like the Eddie Bauer or Hugut is a real asset. A UPF 30 rating, like the Columbia Sandy River, blocks about 97%, which is fine for shaded forest trails but less ideal for full-sun exposure. If you buy a pair without a stated UPF rating (like the TACVASEN or Little Donkey Andy), you will need to apply sunscreen to your legs during long, sunny hikes.
Quick-Dry Fabric
A quick-dry fabric is designed to wick moisture away from your skin and dry rapidly after getting wet. The industry standard for backpacking shorts is a nylon-spandex blend (often 90% nylon and 10% spandex) because nylon dries fast and resists abrasion from branches and rocks, while spandex provides the stretch you need for high-stepping over logs and boulders. A good pair of quick-dry shorts will feel damp for about 20 minutes after a stream crossing, not the rest of the afternoon. Cotton holds water like a sponge and dries very slowly, which leads to chafing and discomfort on a windy day — avoid it for any trip where you might get wet.
FAQ
Can I wear these shorts for swimming?
How many pockets do I really need for backpacking?
What is the difference between water resistant and waterproof in shorts?
Will these shorts fit if I have thick thighs?
How do I care for quick-dry hiking shorts?
What inseam length is best for hiking shorts?
Can I use these shorts for running or biking?
Do these shorts have built-in liners or do I need to wear underwear?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
If you want one dependable pick, the best backpacking shorts winner is the Eddie Bauer Mens Rainier Short because it combines UPF 50+ sun protection, odor control, and a durable stretch fabric in a single pair that handles everything from alpine scrambles to casual camp evenings. If you prioritize pocket capacity and sun protection above all else, grab the Hugut Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts. And for the shopper who wants secure zippered storage without a premium price tag, the standout is the TACVASEN Men’s Hiking Cargo Shorts 10″.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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