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