10 best hiking shorts for women UK 2023, including trekking and walking designs
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PLANNING your next summer expedition? The best hiking shorts for women will keep you cool and comfy as you explore the great outdoors.
A good pair of walking shorts is an essential on a long hike, whether your trail is taking you on an established route or off the beaten track.
Fabrics that are quick-drying and water-repellent are a must, while you can also opt for additional features like insect-repelling tech, sun protection and plenty of pockets to stash your essentials.
Alongside all that comfort and functionality, hiking shorts that look stylish will be a hit in your seasonal wardobe, working seamlessly from the trail to general everyday walks and errands.
Take a look below at our round-up of the best hiking shorts for women, where we've chosen a great variety of styles, colours and lengths for every taste.
Best hiking shorts for women at a glance:
- Best waterproof:
- Best with inner shorts:
- Best long pair:
- Best for style:
- Best all-rounder:
Columbia Women's Titan Pass Lightweight Walking Shorts
- Columbia Women's Titan Pass Lightweight Walking Shorts, £70 from Columbia -
Length: Mid-thigh; Special features: Water and stain repellency, leg hem cinches; Size range: XS-XXL; Colours available: One colours; Fabric: 94% Nylon, 6% Elastane
Columbia's Titan Pass shorts feature water and stain repellency, making them 'quick drying in case of rainy showers or muddy trails'.
The fabric is super lightweight, comfortable and has Omni-Shield advanced repellency which stops water and stains from absorbing into the fabric.
They have a stretchy elasticated waistband and leg hem cinches; both of which are features that any hiker will appreciate.
We don't have anything negative to say about these shorts, although if you want slightly more coverage, you may want to opt for the size up as these are short shorts.
Fancy matching with your male counterpart? We tested out these in our best men's hiking shorts article, too.
Madison DTE Women's 3-Layer Waterproof Shorts
- Madison DTE Women's 3-Layer Waterproof Shorts, £89.99 from Freewheel -
Length: Knee-length; Special features: 100% waterproof, breathable; Size range: 8-16; Colours available: One colour; Fabric: 76% Polyamide / 24% Polyurethane, coated with C6 DWR
Looking for a pair of high-quality waterproof hiking shorts? Look no further.
This pair from Freewheel has been designed to keep you dry no matter the weather.
They're made from a 3-layer fabric and have fully taped seams, a 20k/20k waterproof/breathable rating, waterproof pockets and triple needling stitching - basically, no water is getting in.
They're high-waisted and the length of the shorts comes over the knee, offering more protection if you're hiking through the shrubbery.
They feel and look durable and could be worn cycling as well as hiking or walking.
Plus as an added bonus they come with a limited lifetime warranty.
READ MORE:
- Best walking leggings
- Best waterproof jackets for women
- Best hiking boots for women
- Best leggings for women
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Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Short
Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Short, from at Amazon -
Length: Mid-thigh; Special features: Water-repellent and stain-resistant, UPF 50 UV protection; Size range: W2-W18; Colours available: Four colours; Fabric: 96% Nylon, 4% Elastane
This versatile pair of women's hiking shorts will keep you comfy on walks, trail runs, climbs and even when sightseeing around a city.
With four handy pockets and water-repellent properties, these shorts are also stain-resistant and boast Omni-Shade technology and UPF 50 UV sun protection, to keep your skin protected on hot and sunny days.
These have an extensive fan club in the reviews, who insist they're ideal for working outdoors, and enjoy their stretchiness.
Sweaty Betty On Your Marks 4" Running Shorts
- On Your Marks 4” Running Shorts £60.00 at Sweaty Betty -
Length: Mid-thigh; Special features: Supportive inner short sweat-wicking Power fabric; Size range: XXS-XXL; Colours available: Four colours; Fabric: Main - 86% Polyester. 14% Elastane. Inner short - 68% Polyamide, 38% Elastane
Those who like to turn their hike into a run shouldn't be without Sweaty Betty's Challenge running shorts, which have a lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric and sculpting inner short to prevent thigh friction.
There's a zipped back pocket and wide waistband with adjustable cord.
The general consensus amongst runners? "These are the best running shorts I’ve ever owned". High praise indeed.
Girlfriend Collective High Waisted Bike Short
- High Waisted Bike Short, £43 from Girlfriend Collective -
Length: Above knee; Special features: Compressive fabric, ride-up resistant; Size range: XS-XXL; Colours available: Seven colours; Fabric:
Eco-conscious sportswear brand Girlfriend Collective recycle old plastic water bottles to create its activewear, which is then treated with eco-friendly dye to create the amazing colours you see online.
These bike shorts are cut high on the waist for a supportive, compressed fit, with reviewers praising the shorts for their quality and comfort.
A must-have, whether you're cycling or hitting the squats.
Jessie Kidden Women's Stretch Hiking Cargo Shorts
- Jessie Kidden Cargo Shorts, from at Amazon -
Length: Below-knee; Special features: UPF sun protection; Size range: 4-26; Colours available: Six colours; Fabric: 96% Nylon,4% Spandex
These below-knee-length women's hikers have a selection of pockets so you can leave the rucksack at home. They include two side pockets, two thigh pockets and a back pocket (all zipped) providing plenty of space for your phone, keys, wallet and snacks.
In addition to Omni-Shield, Omni-Shade and Omni-Wick technology, these have an adjustable leg hem and come with a handy belt.
BAM Enduro Side Pocket Sports Shorts
- BAM Enduro Side Pocket Sports Shorts, £36 from BAM -
Length: Mid-thigh; Special features: Pockets on both sides with a small welt over the top; Size range: 8-16; Colours available: Six colours; Fabric: 64% Bamboo Viscose, 24% Organic Cotton, 12% Elastane
Promising to be supportive, non-see-through and body-responsive, BAM's Enduro Side Pocket Sports Shorts are backed with strong customer reviews — one customer reported that they're "Lovely shorts. Feel great for gym and fit well."
The heavyweight jersey fabric of these shorts is crafted from a bamboo-blend, which may surprise some. However, bamboo is known for its sweat-wicking and temperature-controlling qualities, so has become an increasingly popular choice for sustainable activewear.
They promise not to ride up or slide down for ultimate comfort and they come in an array of gorgeous colours and designs.
And if the brand's shorts are anything like the leggings we've tried, these are sure to fit like a glove and feel ultra-soft and sturdy.
Quechua Women's Country Walking Shorts
- Quechua Women's Country Walking Shorts, £15.99 from Decathlon -
Length: Mid-thigh; Special features: Five pockets; Size range: 4-20; Colours available: Three colours; Fabric: Main fabric 98% Cotton, 2% Elastane. Lining 65% Polyester, 35% Cotton
If you're looking for a simple pair of walking shorts that are cheap and look great, you can't go wrong with these hiking shorts by Decathlon.
Crafted from a stretchy cotton, the lightly tapered shape is ultra-flattering, while the belt detail gives this pair more of a dressy feel — perfect for hitting the country pub after your walk.
There are also five pockets, including a zipped key pocket, keeping these shorts nice and practical for any outdoor activity.
There are three colours to choose from, too, including khaki, grey and baby blue.
Craghoppers Nosilife Briar Short
- Nosilife Briar Short, £25.99 at Trek Inn -
Length: Above-knee; Special features: Odour control, drying loops, three pockets including one hidden zipped; Size range: 8-20; Colours available: One colour; Fabric: Main: 94% polyamide, 6% elastane. Trim : 100% polyester
These stretch shorts are a fab addition to your summer wardrobe since they look as good teamed with sandals as they do with hiking boots.
The stretch fabric design incorporates an anti-insect treatment as well as odour control, and has three pockets, including one zipped pocket.
The shorts come with a plaited belt and also come in a trendy dark navy.
Mountain Warehouse Coast Stretch Women's Shorts
- Mountain Warehouse Coast Stretch Women's Shorts, £19.99 (on offer) at Mountain Warehouse -
Length: Above-knee; Special features: 4-Way-Stretch fabric; Size range: 8-22; Colours available: Six colours; Fabric: 98% cotton and 2% spandex
These walking shorts from Mountain Warehouse are a cheap and cheerful all-rounder, and are a perfect addition to your casual summer wardrobe.
Pull on for walks around the city, parks, beach or country; they're versatile and super-comfortable.
They come in beige, grey, khaki, lilac, mustard or navy, so are a good staple item and are 98% cotton for breathability, flexibility and comfort.
They're machine-washable, too, and at £19.99 they're a bargain.
Can I wear hiking boots with shorts?
Absolutely! You can wear hiking boots with hiking, climbing and walking shorts.
We recommend you also wear a pair of thick, sweat-resistant and comfortable socks though - suitable for your outdoor adventures.
What should I look for in hiking shorts?
Hiking shorts should be versatile to suit all of your outdoor needs. As a rule of thumb they should be sweat and water-resistant, as well as super-comfortable and lightweight to chuck in your backpack.
They come in a variety of lengths and materials, suitable for all kinds of activities, from cycling and trail-running to climbing and walking.
Where to buy walking shorts for women
Your high-street sports and outdoor shop will stock a variety of walking shorts for women, but your best bet is to shop online according to your budget.
We'd recommend looking at the following retailers:
How much do women's walking shorts cost?
Prices vary, but in our search, we found some decent all-rounder pairs for between £17.99 and up to £30.
Meanwhile for more technical pairs packed with features, you can expect to pay prices upwards of £70.
Are women's hiking shorts waterproof?
Not necessarily: like any garment, features vary.
Most hiking shorts are made from moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics, as you'll of course be building up a sweat as you walk and climb and will want something to keep you cool and dry.
If you're likely to be wading through water on your trail, then you'll definitely want to opt for something waterproof. Check out the in our selection – they have a 20k/20k waterproof/breathable rating.
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