12 Comfortable Hiking Shorts Under $50 for Summer

To be properly prepared for a hike, you must first build a wardrobe that’s well-suited for anything the day might throw your way, starting with shorts. A good pair of hiking shorts should allow you a full range of motion for scrambling, climbing, and taking on the incline, plus they will ideally be breathable, lightweight, and above all, comfortable. 

Because hiking clothes can be pricey, we scoured both REI and Amazon to find the best deals on comfy shorts hiding in plain sight that will be valuable additions to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. With picks from favorite brands like Outdoor Voices, Columbia, The North Face, and more, keep scrolling to find the 12 hiking shorts you’ll be happy to have in your arsenal. And, we’ve saved the best news for last: Everything is under $50.

prAna Halle 5-inch Shorts

These unassuming hiking shorts are functional for both lengthy treks and days out running errands: They’re made of breathable recycled nylon fabric that’s moisture-wicking and offers complete UPF 50+ sun protection. Vents along the side seams of the shorts make them breezy and will keep you cool while hiking in the summer heat, and they’re even designed with a flattering mid-rise cut that shouldn’t dig into your leg or cause discomfort. From difficult hikes to lighter treks, these shorts are a superb selection.

Outdoor Voices RecTrek 4-inch Shorts

The elastic waistband on these lightweight shorts is crucial for remaining comfortable while taking on the trails, and the breezy fit and handy zippered pockets also add to their charm. Made with a durable nylon and spandex fabric, these shorts are built with hiking in mind, but they’re also plain enough to be worn while running around town or embarking on a lengthy road trip. They’re a top-rated choice at REI, and are even on sale for 31 percent off right now.

REI Co-op Trailmade Skort

Add feminine flair to your trailwear with this reliable REI Co-op skort. It may appear to be a normal skirt, but it actually features built-in shorts underneath. The elastic waistband is fitted with an adjustable strap for a perfectly snug pull-on fit, and the shorts are even crafted with a quick-drying material to keep you comfortable even if you wind up drenched in sweat. The exterior of the skirt is designed with ripstop UPF 50+ fabric that’s functional and sleek, and yes, it has pockets.

Columbia Pfg Tidal Light Lined Shorts

You can always trust that outdoor gear from Columbia will be top of the line, and these bright and eye-catching shorts are no exception — and they’re the perfect budget-friendly find for your next hiking trip. Now on sale for just $35 in cotton candy pink, these lightweight shorts will soon be your favorite packing essential, whether you’re exploring the trails or hopping into the river for some white water rafting adventures. They’re made with a built-in lining for complete coverage while you’re on the go, and a drop-in phone pocket is an added bonus to their functionality.

Marmot Elda 4-inch Shorts

These highly-rated shorts add a stunning pop of color to your hiking wardrobe this summer, and at 30 percent off, they’re practically a steal. They’re made from a flowy and forgiving fabric that allows for extensive movement without feeling restricted, and a zippered pocket at the back of the shorts is the ideal place to store your keys if you’re going on a trail run without carrying a pack. Best of all, they’re so lightweight that you’ll hardly feel like you’re wearing anything as the temperatures continue to rise.

The North Face Sunriser 4-inch Shorts

If you’re looking for a pair of hiking shorts that are truly flattering, functional, and packable, these Sunriser shorts fit the bill — and they’re on sale for just $38 in a neutral black. These shorts are built with maximum performance in mind which is evidenced by a sweat-wicking waistband, built-in liner, and even a zippered pocket at the back. Taking it up another notch, they also feature anti-odor technology that will keep you feeling (and smelling) fresh even on the sweatiest days.

Willit Women’s Hiking Shorts

These casual, comfy hiking shorts are well-suited for strenuous activities and sightseeing days alike, and at $24, you don’t have to stop yourself from buying them in more than one color. A construction of nylon and spandex allows for supreme stretch and freedom of movement no matter what the trails have in store, and an adjustable elastic waistband will keep them firmly in place without sliding down or riding up. The lightweight fabric is designed to wick away sweat in order to keep you cool and dry, and they’re even thoughtfully crafted with flat stitching around the seams to limit chafing.

Columbia Women’s Sandy River Cargo Shorts

Cargo shorts are always going to be an unbeatable selection for hikes, and at 42 percent off, this longline pair from Columbia is a winner in our books. The pull-on design is further secured with a built-in belt which will keep them firmly in place for all of your favorite activities, and the longer inseam is ideal for keeping chafing and other skin irritation at bay. They’re quick drying, feature UVA and UVB protection, and, above all, are supremely comfortable.

The Gym People Women’s High-waisted Running Shorts

From the gym to the trails, these loose-fitting, high-waisted shorts are an excellent selection to add to your arsenal, especially thanks to the built-in mesh liner and accompanying zippered pocket at the back. The longer waistband is incredibly flattering on a wide range of body types, while the breezy cut of the shorts will surely keep you cool and feeling confident no matter what’s on the agenda for the day. Whether you’re an avid trail runner, a new hiker, or a peak-bagging fiend, these shorts belong in your wardrobe this summer.

Bmjl Women’s Running Shorts

A thick elastic waistband and conveniently placed pockets make these a clear choice for your next hiking trip, and at $20, you’ll have no trouble stocking up with 40 bold and neutral colors to choose from. While they may boast a looser fit, these shorts are designed with built-in underwear to keep you fully covered while simultaneously wicking away sweat. Plus, the “tulip cut” hem of these shorts allows for a full range of movement without being restricted by rigid material. They’re breathable, flattering, and certainly some of the most comfortable hiking shorts on the market.

Baleaf Women’s Biker Shorts

If you’re not partial to flowy shorts for long hikes, you can never go wrong with a park of bike shorts to avoid chafing thanks to their lengthy inseam. These Amazon’s Choice shorts have earned more than 61,000 five-star ratings, securing their spot as a must-have for active travels, and at $20 they’ll hardly make a dent in your budget. The high-waisted cut is supremely flattering on a wide array of body types, and two deep side pockets provide the optimal location to store your phone and keys while you’re out and about. In short, they’re a hiker’s dream.

Nathan Crossover Shorts 2.0

A criss-crossed waistband is one of the most flattering options, so if you’re on the hunt for a pair of shorts that allow you to look as good as hiking makes you feel, this spandex and polyester pair from Nathan is exactly what you’ve been looking for. The flat seams won’t rub or irritate skin even when you’re heading out to rack up miles, and the moisture-wicking fabric also dries quickly for maximum comfort. To top it all off, these highly-rated shorts are designed with reflective material at the back in order to keep you safe if you’re hiking or running at night.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.