10 Best Mens Hiking Shorts 2025 in the United States

The Pudolla Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts stand out due to their practical design and functionality. Made from a blend of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, these shorts are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. The moisture-wicking fabric ensures you stay comfortable and cool during summer activities like hiking, golf, and camping.

The shorts feature a 9-inch inseam, providing a balanced length that offers good coverage without restricting movement. The elastic back waistband and 2-inch belt loops, along with the button closure and zip fly, provide a comfortable and secure fit that adjusts to your body as you move. One of the main highlights is the five zipper pockets, including two slash pockets, two flat pockets, and one back pocket, which offer ample and secure storage for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys.

Additionally, the shorts are designed with UPF 50+ sun protection and a water-repellent finish, helping to block harmful UV rays and resist light moisture and dirt. However, a potential drawback is the low-rise style, which might not be preferred by all users, especially those who favor a higher rise for added comfort and coverage. Despite this, the Pudolla Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts are versatile and suitable for a variety of outdoor activities and casual wear, making them a good choice for active men looking for practical and durable shorts.

The Jessie Kidden Men's Outdoor Casual Expandable Waist Lightweight Water Resistant Quick Dry Fishing Hiking Shorts (model #6222) offer a variety of features that make them well-suited for outdoor activities. Made from a blend of 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex, these shorts are both lightweight and stretchy, providing comfort and flexibility. The material is water-repellent and uses advanced moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable during strenuous activities. Additionally, the shorts offer UPF 50 sun protection, which is a significant advantage for those spending extended periods outdoors.

The fit is designed with a partial elastic waist and includes a belt, making it adaptable to most body shapes and sizes. They are mid to high rise with 3D cutting, which tends to enhance comfort and mobility. The shorts are equipped with multiple pockets: two front slash pockets, two back pockets, and two thigh pockets with zipper closures, providing ample storage for your belongings. However, some users might find the number of pockets excessive or the zippers cumbersome.

They are suitable for various activities including hiking, fishing, camping, and biking. On the downside, the machine wash care instructions might be seen as a convenience, but it could also lead to wear over time if not handled properly. These shorts offer a blend of durability, comfort, and practicality, making them a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The CANGHPGIN 2 Pack Mens Workout Athletic Shorts offer a solid option for those seeking lightweight, versatile hiking shorts with a sporty feel. Made from a blend of 90% nylon and 10% spandex, the material is soft, breathable, and designed to wick sweat away quickly, which helps keep you comfortable during outdoor activities or workouts. These shorts have a 7-inch inseam, providing moderate coverage that’s good for unrestricted movement. The regular fit with an elastic waistband and adjustable drawstring ensures a customizable and comfortable fit for most body types.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of three zippered pockets. This is highly practical for hiking or running, as it keeps your phone, cards, or other valuables secure and prevents them from falling out during movement. The V-cut leg design adds extra space and freedom for your legs, making the shorts suitable for dynamic sports or active hiking. The reflective strip on the front adds a safety element for low-light conditions, which is a nice touch for outdoor enthusiasts.

Some considerations include that while the material dries quickly and maintains its shape and color after washes, the regular fit may be less tailored compared to slim-fit options, depending on personal preference. The 7-inch inseam is a good middle ground but might feel a bit short for those who prefer longer shorts for hiking. Care instructions recommend cold machine wash and low tumble dry, which is fairly standard. These shorts are versatile enough for hiking, running, gym workouts, or casual wear, and the UPF 50+ fabric provides some sun protection, making them a practical choice for men looking for reliable and comfortable hiking shorts with secure storage options.