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 Wrangler Authentics Men's Performance Comfort Flex Cargo Short, in Earth Green and size 32, is built for comfort and utility, making it suitable for a variety of activities. The material, consisting of 96% Nylon and 4% Spandex, ensures flexibility and a comfortable fit. The relaxed fit, combined with a 10-inch inseam, allows for ease of movement and all-day wear, which is essential for hiking and other active pursuits.

The comfort flex waistband is a notable feature, as it adapts to your movements, enhancing the comfort. A significant advantage is the quick-drying fabric, which is ideal for dealing with unexpected weather conditions or morning dew during hikes. The classic cargo style of these shorts provides a timeless look, while the multiple pockets (two cargo zip pockets, two back pockets, and two slash pockets) offer ample storage for essentials like cell phones, wallets, and small gear. This makes the shorts both practical and functional.

However, there could be some drawbacks. The fabric blend, while flexible, may not be as durable as other materials over long-term heavy use. Additionally, the button closure might not be as convenient as other modern fastening options like zippers or snaps. While the shorts are versatile, users looking for a lighter material might find these slightly heavier. In summary, these cargo shorts are well-suited for individuals seeking comfort, flexibility, and storage options for hiking and other outdoor activities, though they may not be the best choice for extreme durability or those preferring lighter fabrics.

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.