Even though this last year was well, different; we are so thankful to all of our team members and customers who helped us make it through to 2021! To kick off the start of a new year we want to highlight our wonderful stores and communities who help keep us doing what we love! 

This week we are headed to Florence, Alabama (also known as Flo Town) to chat with our store manager Carla Mann! Our Florence store opened its doors in the historic Rogers Building in downtown Florence in August 2012 but has been a part of the Florence community since 1999.

Let’s check it out!

How long have you worked at AO and what interested you about working here?

I have worked at the Florence AO for 7 years now. I was interested to work here because of my love of the outdoors and everything this company stood for.
-Carla Mann

What we love about Florence

If you have not been to Florence or “The Shoals” yet, start marking your 2021 bucket list calendar with this must-visit town! The Shoals is the area of northwestern Alabama that includes Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield. The Shoals (most notably, Muscle Shoals) is most famous for their music scene and the musical legends that have recorded and played there over the decades. This is no Hollywood though, The Shoals will make you feel right at home.

University of North Alabama is also located in Florence which has given us tremendous opportunities to get involved with the community and the students. We definitely have Lion Pride! Fun fact: the University has a real lion den where African Lion, Leo III, basks in his state-of-the-art habitat home. Our in-store Florence Marketing Manager, Hannah Johnson, has so much passion for connecting with the community and takes her time to put together welcome bags for the students each year! When you schedule your Northern Alabama getaway, make sure to make a quick stop to say hi to Leo III, and us, of course!

One event we always look forward to is First Fridays. The first Friday of the month from March through December, head to historic downtown Florence to really experience the vivacious and talented community. This is a family-friendly event with artisans, cafes, and live music- it is so much fun!

“The city of Florence and community is great, it is cozy with a hometown feel”. – Carla Mann 

Which Alabama Outdoors core value resonates with you the most?

Our purpose is the core value that resonates with me. I love that we are here to influence people to get outside and building loyalty while making connections.
-Carla Mann

Our staff is full of passionate and knowledgeable team members who truly live our purpose day-to-day. At Alabama Outdoors, we believe that everyone should experience life in the great outdoors. We are the trusted resource in products and services to enhance your adventures. Whether you shop with us in-store or online, you will receive 5-star customer service with team members that love to share their experiences and knowledge. Come in and say hi and see what we are all about- we would love to help you!

Our favorite places to explore around Florence

There are many great places to explore near Florence. Wildwood Park is one that is very close and has so much to offer! It has mountain bike trails, walking/hiking trails, and runs alongside Cypress Creek which is perfect for canoeing and kayaking. We as a store also participate in many clean-ups at this park throughout the year to help maintain its natural beauty.

McFarland Park is another great park nearby that has a nice disc golf course. The park itself runs alongside the Tennessee River and home to many events year-round.

Is hiking more your speed?  There is a really great place for hiking in the Tuscumbia area called Cane Creek Canyon Preserve. Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve is a 700-acre private nature preserve that has over 15 miles of hiking trails and even a waterfall! This spot is definitely a staff favorite!

Looking for a longer adventure? We recommend hitting the road and trails to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Florence’s own, Jennifer Melhiser, talks about new family adventures on the parkway during last year’s quarantine. Check out her blog as she tells us the best places to go on this scenic getaway!

Some of our favorite things at AO

My current favorite brand is Vuori mainly because of the quality and feel of their products. Another staff favorite brand is Free Fly because of the feel of their clothing. Have you felt them? They are SO soft! Patagonia is another huge favorite at the Florence store because of their awesome quality. Also, I must mention Hoka One One shoes. These shoes have absolutely fixed and saved my feet!
-Carla Mann

What is your favorite way to enjoy the outdoors?

Our team here in Florence has many different ways to enjoy the outdoors, hiking, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and there are lots of great areas around Florence to do all of these fun things.

We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Alabama Outdoors – Inverness Team

Thank you for helping us this #GivingTuesday by giving the gift of warmth!

To kick off the ‘Season of Giving’ and recognize Giving Tuesday on December 1st, we launched our Annual Alabama Outdoors Jacket Drive. When you donated your gently used jacket during our Jacket Drive, you not only received 15% off of a new jacket or pullover as a thank you and to get yourself a new jacket, but you provided someone in need with a free jacket- and that’s wonderful.

Thanks to your generous donations, this season you helped us give the gift of warmth to several men, women, and children in our communities. In total, you donated over 70 jackets in just 6 days! From our loyal customers to our very own team members, you went above and beyond and donated more than just one jacket. You donated multiple jackets out of kindness as well as multiple bags of clothes to give to others. THANK YOU!

Even though some donation centers are not taking donations at this time due to the pandemic, we know that this season, it is more important than ever to donate to those in need as Covid-19 has caused additional hardships for our families, businesses, and communities. That said, our team members have worked closely with donation centers to ensure every jacket donated is cleaned and steamed/sanitized so we can get these jackets to those who need them this winter. 

Once we receive the donations, we pass the torch to some outstanding organizations in each of our communities who then deliver the jackets to those who need them most, all for free.

This year we were delighted to partner with the following organizations and non-profits in our communities:

• Homewood – First Light

First Light’s mission is to work with homeless women and their children to create hospitality in a safe and nurturing community, to encourage them to maintain dignity, to find hope, to seek opportunity, and to grow spiritually, thereby achieving their full potential.

• Florence, Alabama – Salvation Army of Florence

The Salvation Army assists approximately 25 million Americans annually. They have over 1.5 million members

consisting of officers, soldiers, and adherents. The Salvation Army helps with Anti-Human Trafficking, Combatting Addiction, Disaster Relief, Holiday Assistance, Music & Arts, Serving Veterans, Social Services & Youth Programs.

• Trussville, Alabama – T.E.A.M. (Trussville Ecumenical Assistive Ministry)

TEAM is a non-profit ministry providing food and clothing to those in need. They are located on Chalkville Road in Trussville, Alabama.

• Inverness, Alabama – YWCA Central Alabama

YWCA Central Alabama is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. YWCA Central Alabama’s vision is to create a more caring community. We work every day to make a positive change in the lives of individuals and in the community. They provide shelter, dignity, hope, and a strong foundation as they help those they serve find the strength to rebuild their lives.

• Mobile, Alabama – Dwell Mobile

Dwell Mobile exists to provide opportunities for refugees to thrive by raising awareness, removing obstacles, and restoring relationships. We envision our city as a place where refugees find their home.

Did you miss the jacket drive this year? That is okay! Contact any of the locations above to schedule a drop off of your own and continue to give to others all year long. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to be informed next year about our Annual Jacket Drive! Interested in getting involved this #GivingTuesday? GivingTuesday.org has multiple ideas for you on how to get involved and give back!

‘Tis The Season Of Giving! Check out our holiday gift guides to help you find the perfect gifts for the ones on your list. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Please note: due to local and state guidelines surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, some information below may not be accurate. Before you travel and plan your next adventure, make sure to check each business/park/campsite for any closures or guidelines and for the most up to date information. Enjoy your next Alabama family backpacking adventure!

 

Adventure awaits in the great outdoors for grownups and kids alike. Children love the chance to explore someplace new, and the woods are the perfect place to do so. It takes a little extra planning to go backpacking with the kids in tow, but it will be worth it to see their eyes glitter at the sight of a waterfall, their cheeks flushed with excitement, and their imaginations running wild.

The options are limitless. Play hide and seek among boulders. Climb trees that grow wild and untamed. Take a dip in a cool pool at the base of a waterfall. Wake up on a crisp morning and watch the sunrise while the children sleep warmly in their tents. All of this—and more—is possible at the following Birmingham-area destinations. Choose one of these locations and make your next family backpacking trip nothing short of memorable.

1. Oak Mountain State Park

For a place that is frequented by families of all sizes and ages, Oak Mountain State Park is one of the best places for family backpacking that you can find anywhere. Covering 9,940 acres, it’s no surprise that this is the largest state park in Alabama. There is much to see, particularly Peavine Falls, named for its twisting nature resembling a “peavine”. There are a number of hiking trails that lead to this little treasure, many of which are navigated easily by children of all ages. And there are plenty of backcountry campsites ($6 a night), primitive campsites ($18 a night) and designated RV and car camping sites ($30 a night).

Directions to Oak Mountain State Park.

2. DeSoto State Park

 

For the ultimate family backpacking trip, try DeSoto State Park. Walking trails varying in difficulty, hidden waterfalls, and boulders scattered throughout the park will keep the whole family busy, sunup to sundown. Take a peaceful riverside nap at DeSoto Falls and allow the sound of rushing water to lull little ones to sleep in the warm sun. This park is also a two-in-one win, because it is only a few miles from picturesque Little River Canyon. Pick your way around trails that parallel Little River Falls to view it from various different angles, and let the little ones (and big ones, for that matter) play around on the unique, rocky terrain.

Directions to DeSoto Falls State Park.

3. Noccalula Falls Park

You won’t be disappointed going to a park that is built around a giant waterfall. Noccalula Falls is a 90-foot cascade, with a cavern behind it, just begging to be explored. Although this park has popular features such as a petting zoo and mini-golf course, it also has its fair share of secluded places perfect for backpacking with a family. Pet-friendly with a pool and playground, Noccalula Park offers primitive campsites with water and electrical hookups, perfect for beginner campers. And though it’s about an hour and half from Birmingham’s city center, it’s worth the drive.

Directions to Noccalula Falls Park.

4. Brushy Lake Campground

The Brushy Lake Campground is perhaps the most primitive backpacking/camping destination on this list. Lacking the polished shine of a state park, Brushy Lake gives backpackers a more organic experience, while at the same time not being too remote for any discomfort. Brushy Lake Campground is considered a base camp for the Sipsey Wildnerness —a gorgeous area within the Bankhead National Forest. With a pristine lake, rushing waterfall, and miles of trails to explore, Brushy Lake’s raw beauty is the perfect choice for a backpacking family that isn’t afraid to venture off the beaten path.

Directions to Brushy Lake Campground.

5. Cheaha State Park

Take your family backpacking to Cheaha State Park, and you’ll be able to see some of the state’s highest mountains, most picturesque scenery, and popular hiking trails. Rock outcroppings, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails galore will keep the family wide-eyed with awe. This park provides easy access to the Pinhoti Trail, popular for hiking and backpacking (as well as mountain biking), as well as to the Chinnabee Silent Trail and the Skyway Trail. Cheaha is pet-friendly and has a gem mine for the kids to try their hand at mining. It also offers a lake with beach access that’s great for lounging and swimming, and it includes a nice playground and picnic area as well. This park is a great place to scale boulders, traverse ridgelines, and find photo ops that you won’t get anywhere else. It will leave the whole family begging to return.

Directions to Cheaha State Park.

Find your favorite Fall gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Gulf State Park is the home of arguably the most popular campground in the state.

Please note: due to local and state guidelines surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, some information below may not be accurate. Before you travel and plan your next adventure, make sure to check each business/park/campsite for any closures or guidelines and for the most up to date information. Enjoy your next Alabama camping adventure!

Find what you need for your camping adventure here! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Featured image provided by Stephanie Pluscht

Many students will go “ back to school” virtually this fall, joining the scores of people who continue to work from home. Whether you need a WFH wardrobe refresh or some back-to-school (virtually) clothes that are functional and fashionable, athleisure is the way to go.  

At a time when so many are staying close to home, hybrid clothing referred to as athleisure has never been more relevant and perfect for our daily lives. Read on to find our favorite athleisure items!

Leggings

Leggings are comfortable, versatile, and ideal for transitional weather. Try pairing leggings with a cute top or a simple tunic for a fancier look.

Shorts 

Athletic shorts, with elastic waists and breathable fabrics, now come in a variety of cute prints and colors, for kids and adults alike. For instance, Free Fly’s Men’s Breeze shorts have a drawstring waistband and a bamboo blend material. Patagonia’s Women’s Baggies feature a drawcord and Supplex nylon. You can pair these shorts with a t-shirt, an athletic top, or something nicer.

Running Shoes

They are comfortable and safe for walking, running, or even hiking. They can also be paired with just about anything, from athletic shorts to casual dresses. Kids can pair running shoes with jeans or leggings and a simple top for school.

Slip-Ons

Slip-on sneakers are casual, comfortable, and ideal for the relaxed dress codes that come with remote working or learning. The Ilse Jacobsen Tulip, for instance, can be worn with leggings, shorts, or a skirt.

Sandals

Sandals are easy on the feet, and the best ones are also designed with safety in mind. They’re also fashionable enough to pair with nicer outfits. Birkenstocks, for instance, feature an anatomically shaped footbed. Chacos have adjustable straps that custom-fit to your foot and a rubber outsole designed to grip surfaces. And Teva’s outsole design gives greater traction while its midsole provides cushioning for every step.

When you need to refresh your child’s wardrobe or your own, consider investing in the comfort, versatility, and reliability of athleisure. 

Find your favorite back-to-school apparel and gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

By Natalie Ferguson

(With a background in retail and a love for wellness, travel, and the outdoors, Natalie Ferguson joined Alabama Outdoors in 2016.)

Happy National Forest week! I’m not sure about you, but I look forward to and enjoy funny “holidays” like National Hamburger Day and National Take Your Dog to Work Day. I am pretty sure there are five national coffee days but, hey, sometimes we need a fun reason to celebrate something.

This week, however, is the best week of them all. It is National Forest Week. Yes, all week! As if we needed an excuse to go explore the great wonders of being in the woods; we didn’t. But, this gives us even more motivation to strap on our Chacos, throw on our backpack, and go out and relish in our magnificent national forests. 

Did you know that we have 668,000 acres of national forests in Alabama? Our national forests stretch across 17 counties and include some of the most diverse landscapes, species, and recreational activities.

Alabama’s national forests

William B. Bankhead National Forest is in northwest Alabama near Double Springs. Bankhead National Forest covers 181,230 acres and is home to one of three wilderness areas in Alabama, the Sipsey Wilderness. The Sipsey Wilderness is also known as the “Land of 1,000 Waterfalls.” Don’t-miss spots in Bankhead National Forest are: Kinlock Falls, Sipsey River Trail, Caney Creek Falls, and the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies.

Conecuh National Forest in Escambia County, near Andalusia and Florala, is the southernmost national forest in Alabama. It covers 84,000 acres along the Alabama and Florida border. One of the most popular trails, the Conecuh Trail, covers 20 miles of trail along the coastal plain. The national forest also has the Open Pond Recreation area, where you can enjoy your time bicycling, fishing, camping, and more. 

Talladega National Forest in Central/Eastern Alabama near Sylacauga and Talladega covers 392,000 acres, making it the largest national forest in Alabama. Talladega National Forest is also home to Cheaha Mountain, the highest point in Alabama at 2,411 feet, in Cheaha State Park. Bald Rock and Pulpit Rock also offer stunning panoramic views of the forest.

Tuskegee National Forest in east Alabama is the smallest national forest in Alabama and smallest in the United States, coming in at a mere 11,252 acres. Roots Rated said it best: “What Tuskegee lacks in acreage, it makes up for in history, recreational opportunities, and off-the-beaten-path solitude.”  While you are there, spend some time hiking the Bartram National Recreational Trail, mountain-biking on Pleasant Hill, and then call it a day at one of the park’s primitive campsites. 

National Forest Week activities

To honor National Forest Week, the National Forest Foundation is hosting virtual events and Instagram photo contests all week long. Check out the list of events below and remember to take only memories and leave only footprints when you go adventure in our beautiful forests this week! Click here for more information on all events listed below. 

• Wednesday, July 15, 4 p.m. CST  Naturalist Chat with Keenan Adams from the U.S. Forest Service
• Thursday, July 16, 11 a.m. CST  Live Forest Meditation with Jess Blackmun
• Friday, July 17, 4:30 p.m. CST  National Forest Foundation Happy Hour
• Saturday, July 18, 5 p.m. CST  Gourmet S’mores Cook Along with Endangered Species Chocolate
• Sunday, July 19, 3 p.m. CST  Q&A with Chuck Leavell, Rolling Stone, author, conservationist, and owner of an award-winning tree farm in Georgia!

Find the best day hike gear at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

By Natalie Ferguson

(With a background in retail and a love for wellness, travel, and the outdoors, Natalie Ferguson joined Alabama Outdoors in 2016. )

A national coalition launched earlier this year in Washington state wants to help you enjoy the outdoors responsibly as the nation grapples with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Recreate Responsibly coalition of nonprofits, outdoor businesses, and land managers is focused on developing, sharing, and amplifying common-sense guidance about getting outside during COVID-19.

“The overall RecreateResponsibly message remains simple: We all have a role to play in keeping people, places, and communities safe as we enjoy the outdoors this summer and beyond.”

Recreate Responsibly guidelines

• Know before you go: Check the status of the place you want to visit. If it is closed, don’t go. If it’s crowded, have a backup plan.
• Plan ahead: Prepare for facilities to be closed, pack lunch, and bring essentials like hand sanitizer and a face covering.
• Explore locally: Limit long-distance travel and make use of local parks, trails, and public spaces. Be mindful of your impact on the communities you visit.
• Practice physical distancing: Keep your group size small. Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth and give others space. If you are sick, stay home.
• Play it safe: Slow down and choose lower-risk activities to reduce your risk of injury. Search and rescue operations and health care resources are both strained.
• Leave no trace: Respect public lands and waters, as well as native and local communities. Take all your garbage with you.
• Build an inclusive outdoors: Be an active part of making the outdoors safe and welcoming for all identities and abilities

A lot of these steps may seem similar to the “Leave No Trace”  principles. However, if you aren’t familiar with those principles, check out our blog to learn about them. 

We are all in this together

I see this two ways: Recreate Responsibly and re-create responsibility. We need to be responsible for our health and actions as we partake in recreational activities around others, both indoors and outdoors.

However, we are also re-creating what it means to be responsible as we do enjoy these areas. Every day, our communities are recreating new ways for us to work, live, and be healthy, and we need to duplicate those efforts individually as we explore.

As you continue to #BeOutdoors, whether it be at one of our remarkable national forests, a park, or even your backyard, we encourage you to keep in mind the  Leave No Trace principles as well as the Recreate Responsibly guidelines. We are all in this together.

Find all your summer essentials at Alabama Outdoors. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time.  Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup  #BeOutdoors

Many outdoor enthusiasts look forward to the long days of summer and all the activities you can enjoy in warm weather.

But when triple-digit heat indexes start making regular appearances in the weather forecast, hiking in Oak Mountain, kayaking down Cypress Creek, and even lounging on Orange Beach can suddenly seem less appealing.

Older adults and the very young are most at risk for heat-related illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But even young and healthy people can be affected if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather, the CDC says.

There are ways to beat the heat and still enjoy the outdoors without endangering your health. Here are five tips for staying cool and getting your outdoor fix.

1. Stay cool by picking the right clothing

   If you have an outdoor activity, pick clothing that is lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting. Look for clothing made out of fabric that breathes and wicks away moisture.

   Fabrics used in activewear such as cotton, nylon, and polyester are soft and durable. Some brands, like Freefly, for instance, use bamboo blends because bamboo not only feels buttery soft, it also wicks away moisture and dries quickly. Others, like Vuori, incorporate Coolmax technology in their clothing to help manage moisture.

2. Stay hydrated to beat summer heat

   When temperatures are soaring like they are now, don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink water. A good rule of thumb: Try to drink at least a half-liter of water per hour if you are doing moderate activity outdoors. Increase the amount you drink as the intensity and temperatures rise. Also take into account any health conditions that may require you to drink more water, like diabetes or heart disease.

   Another way to figure out how much water you need: Weigh yourself before and after a run, a hike, or a strenuous walk. Drink an additional pint of water for every pound of sweat you lose.
   
   When you go for a run, a hike, or some other outdoor adventure, be sure to bring along a well-stocked cooler with water, electrolyte-replenishing drinks, and healthy snacks so you can stay ahead of the thirst. Throw a small wet towel or neckband in the cooler as well. When you need a quick cool down, place the cold towel around your neck or on your head for relief.

3. Schedule activities based on the weather

   If you absolutely can’t stomach the idea of scaling back your running regimen, schedule activities around the hottest parts of the day. Plan exercise, yard work, and other outdoor activities during the early morning and late evening hours.

4. Pace yourself

   When hiking, running, or doing another strenuous activity in the summer heat, be sure to pay attention to your body cues. Take breaks, be sure to drink water, check on your companions, whether they are human or canine, and eat healthy snacks like fruit to help keep you hydrated.

   Also, be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms include muscle spasms or cramps in the abdomen or legs, clammy, pale skin, and nausea. If you think you may be suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, seek medical attention.

5. Protect yourself from the elements

   The summer sun can be draining and damaging, so make sure to protect yourself. Wear a hat to shield your face and scalp, invest in UV-protection clothing and quality sunscreen to protect your skin.

   And remember to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. It’s easy to forget when you are outside and having fun, but reapplying sunscreen will ensure you can enjoy more time outdoors.

Need to refresh your summer style? We can help! Alabama Outdoors wants everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors

Wherever your summer adventures take you, from our beautiful state park trails to the South Alabama coastline, we know that comfort and style are essential, especially when it comes to women’s shorts.

So how do you know if the shorts you’ve chosen are ideal for you? Well, they need to be functional and flattering so you can feel comfortable and enjoy your activities, not fuss with your clothing.

We selected our favorite shorts for popular summertime activities to help you narrow the list when you shop.

Best hiking shorts

Hiking in the summer in the Southeast demands apparel that can handle humidity and your trek. Out top hike shorts will give you all-day comfort, moisture-wicking abilities, and *sigh* breathability.  Style any of these shorts and be trail-ready with Keen’s Terradora II Mid Waterproof Boot. 

Patagonia Women’s Quandary Shorts

• Lightweight shorts with all the stretch and a DWR ( durable water repellent)  finish 
• Belt loops and a hidden drawcord for a better fit
• Two front pockets, two back pockets, and a back right zip pocket to keep items secure
• Gusset for even more mobility on the tougher trails and climbs. 
• 5-inch inseam

Kuhl Women’s Trekr Shorts

• Mid Rise waistband with button, belt loops, and an internal drawcord
• Two front drop-in pockets and two back snap pockets
• Poly/nylon woven fabric with built-in stretch for comfort and mobility that won’t lose shape 
• 5.5-inch inseam

The North Face Women’s Paramount Active Short

• FlashDry technology making these shorts quick-dry
• UPF 50 sun protection
• Built-in adjustable waist belt for convenience, comfort, and best fit
• Two front drop-in pockets and a back waist secure zip-pocket
• 5.5-inch inseam

Best active shorts

Our top two picks would suit walkers, runners, cyclists, and any other activity that demands a cool, lightweight short. Style any of these shorts with our favorite active shoe: On Running Women’s Cloud 

Vuori Women’s Rhythm Shorts

Bicycle shorts are the new yoga legging for the summer. High-waisted and moisture-wicking, these performance stretch knit shorts are great for an active lifestyle. From a bike ride in the summer sun to lounging around, you will be hanging out in style and comfort. 

• 7-inch inseam
• Interior waistband pocket
• Side leg pocket

Free Fly Women’s Bamboo Lined Breeze Shorts

Yes, these shorts have a bamboo lining, which means they are remarkably soft and comfortable to wear. A polyester and spandex outer layer give these shorts the stretch and moisture-wicking capabilities tailored for summer adventures. On the water or around town, the Breeze short will be your go-to summer short. 

• Anti-bacterial and naturally odor-resistant
• Wide comfort waistband
• UPF 50 sun protection
• Back waistband zip quick-stash pocket to keep your items secure
• 4-inch inseam

Best casual shorts

Sometimes style and comfort take precedence over function.  When you are looking for shorts for lounging, cookouts, and trips to the park,  technical features aren’t a requirement. Fun, fashionable comfort is.  Style any of these shorts with our favorite summer sandal: Teva Women’s Flatform Universal Sandals

Patagonia Women’s Garden Island Shorts

Flowy and fashionable. Made from a lightweight hemp-Tencel blend that will keep you comfortable and cool during the hot summer days. 

• Regular rise pull-on lightweight short
• Flat waistband ties in the front with a comfortable elastic back waistband
• Two patch back pockets finished with coconut buttons
• 4-inch inseam

Arc’teryx Women’s Kyla Short 4 Inch Inseam

Technical outdoor functionality with the comfort and style of an everyday short. A perfect weekend getaway short!

• Gusseted crotch for comfort and freedom of movement (great for the trail)
• Fixed waistband with belt loops
• Two open front pockets and two open back pockets
• 4-inch inseam
• Quick-dry 

Best water adventure shorts

Every summer, the desire to be near water — a lake, a pool, or Mobile Bay — grows as the temperature rises. These shorts will keep you cool and comfortable and will dry in no time, wherever your adventure takes you. Pairs well with: Chaco Women’s Z/Cloud 2 Sandals.

Patagonia Women’s Baggies

• Lightweight 100% recycled nylon with a DWR finish
• Pull-on style with elastic waistband and drawcord
• Hidden side seam pockets with polyester mesh for drainage
• Back yoke for an even better fit
• 5-inch inseam

Five-inch inseam not for you? Try out Barely Baggies! Same great fabric and function but with a lower rise and 2.5-inch inseam. The Barely Baggies also have an elastic key loop on the right front pocket and side slits on each leg.

The North Face Women’s Class V Shorts

• Standard fit pull-on short with drawcord and elastic waistband
• Moisture-wicking, FlashDry technology
• 100% recycled nylon woven fabric
• UPF 50 sun protection
• Front side seam pockets and one back right zip-pocket
• 4-inch inseam

The Class V shorts also come in a mini! Once again, the same great fabric and UPF 50. With a 2.5″ inseam and a curved hem for a fun and flirty style. 

Need to refresh your summer style? We can help! Alabama Outdoors wants everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores or take advantage of our shipping or curbside pickup! #BeOutdoors