When the weather is hot, the question of the most suitable clothing for walking often comes up. When temperatures soar, as they frequently do during the summer season, many people opt for a pair of hiking shorts. Whether it’s a short outing or a multi-day trek, they make this choice knowing it plays a key role in their enjoyment of being outdoors. A pair of hiking shorts or bermuda shorts must therefore be comfortable and durable enough for use in natural environments. To help you find the right model for your needs, we’ve put together a few insights that should help you make the right choice.
Key factors to consider when choosing your attire
Material: performance and moisture management
The first rule is to avoid fabrics that don’t breathe well. For example, cotton shorts retain moisture, dry slowly, and can cause irritation. In contrast, hiking shorts made from synthetic fibres, such as polyester or polyamide, dry much faster and offer excellent regulation of your body temperature. Synthetic materials are currently the most commonly used in hiking clothing. Some also come with built-in UV protection treatment. This protective barrier is a real asset for reducing the risk of sunburn.
Fit: freedom and ease
To make the most of every day spent outdoors, it’s essential to choose hiking shorts that provide plenty of freedom of movement. Elastane, which is often woven into the fabric, offers the stretch needed to move freely and comfortably. An adjustable or elasticated waistband also adds to the comfort, particularly when carrying a backpack that needs to sit securely around the hips.
Hiking bermuda shorts are longer than regular shorts. They provide extra protection for your thighs against scratches from certain plants and bushes. Indeed, some trails may require you to pass through thorny undergrowth, which can easily cause scratches. Both shorts and bermudas promote breathability and lightness. While your choice may be influenced by your usual clothing preferences, it should also take into account the type of terrain you’ll be walking on, the vegetation you might encounter, your sensitivity to the sun, and so on.
What type of shorts should you wear for hillwalking?
The ideal shorts for walking on trails on hot days should be technical, comfortable, and suited to your activity. They mustn’t restrict your movements, and they should withstand abrasion while allowing sweat to evaporate.
For demanding or athletic hikes, it’s best to opt for a model specifically designed for outdoor use, made from stretch fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying. This helps keep you dry even during intense hikes, while reducing the risk of irritation caused by friction.
For those navigating rugged terrain or areas with dense vegetation, slightly longer shorts, such as bermuda-style ones, offer better protection for the skin while remaining comfortable to wear. These models are especially suitable for long-distance outings or mountain treks.
Shorts with pockets
Zipped or flap pockets, well positioned at the sides, are a bonus: they allow you to keep your essentials within easy reach, without hindering your movement or creating pressure points under a backpack.
A pair of hiking shorts tailored to your body shape—whether designed for men or women—ensures maximum comfort while hiking. A flexible or adjustable waistband, a fit that suits the thighs, and reinforced panels at the seat are all details that make a real difference out on the trails.
Shorts and bermuda shorts for women
Women’s hiking shorts, as well as bermuda styles, generally feature a more defined waist and a fit tailored to their body shape. They are worn slightly closer to the body without being tight, unlike hiking leggings, which are form-fitting. These shorts offer good breathability and a comfortable fit. Some models sit higher on the thighs, while others extend down towards the knees, similar to capris, providing additional sun protection. The key is to ensure ease of movement while avoiding friction points that could result from repetitive motion. On the subject of comfort, there are also hiking skirts, which are a great alternative to shorts for those who embrace their feminine side and, above all, combine comfort and style beautifully.
Shorts and bermuda shorts for men
Men’s styles focus on freedom of movement and durability. Often, men’s hiking shorts are bermudas made from reinforced fabric and featuring multiple pockets. They’re ideal for long-distance hikers or enthusiasts of technical terrain. These shorts provide more protection against the elements while still offering a high level of comfort.
Convertible trousers: for a versatile outfit
For those heading out early or hiking at higher altitudes, the morning chill can be off-putting. A smart solution is to choose a pair of hiking trousers with a modular design. Thanks to zips at the thighs, you can remove the lower leg sections and turn the trousers into bermuda shorts or regular shorts as soon as the temperature rises.
This type of versatile clothing is especially popular in summer and during the shoulder-season, whether for short breaks or longer treks. Truly a 2-in-1 garment, it saves you from having to pack multiple outfits. The zips are accessible from the outside and are generally not in direct contact with the thighs, so they don’t cause discomfort for users who are sensitive in that area.
Is it better to hike in shorts or leggings?
While hiking shorts remain a reliable choice for summer walks, leggings also have their place in the world of outdoor activities. But how can you tell which is better? Since there’s no definitive answer to this question, let’s take a closer look at the advantages of each.
The benefits of shorts or bermudas
In the heat, nothing beats the feeling of lightness and ventilation that short clothing provides. It allows air to circulate, reducing the risk of overheating and helping sweat evaporate quickly. On the downside, it exposes your skin to the sun’s rays—so wearing sun cream becomes essential to be protected from UV radiation.
The advantages of leggings
Technical leggings are becoming increasingly popular with some hikers. Their snug fit minimises chafing and offers full-leg coverage. In forests or on narrow trails, they protect against scratches from thorny plants. Their stretch fabric moves with you and wraps comfortably around the legs. On the flip side, when the temperature rises, they can feel stifling—especially on exposed paths in full sun. Additionally, leggings rarely come with pockets, which can be seen as a drawback by some hikers.
Can I wear running shorts for hiking?
While you can wear running shorts for hiking, they’re not always the most suitable choice depending on the terrain and duration of your hike. Running shorts are typically designed with minimal weight and maximum breathability in mind, making them comfortable for short, easy trails in warm weather. However, they often lack features that hiking shorts provide, such as zippered pockets, belt loops, reinforced seams, or a gusseted crotch for better mobility. Hiking shorts are also generally made from more durable, moisture-wicking materials that offer greater protection against rough vegetation and changing weather. If you're heading out for a longer hike or venturing into more rugged environments, a proper pair of moisture-wicking hiking shorts—designed with versatility, sun protection, and weather resistance in mind—will likely serve you better in the long run.
The best clothes for hiking in hot weather
Choosing your gear carefully allows you to focus on what really matters: the joy of being in nature, of moving, exploring... Shorts—whether they’re bermudas, shorter styles, classic designs, or convertible trousers—are a key part of the summer hiking outfit for many walkers. Provided you select the right fabric and a comfortable fit, this piece of clothing can accompany you in total comfort on countless outings in warm and sunny weather. It’s a smart choice of gear to help make every hike a success, no matter the distance or intensity.
As you finalise your choice, remember that the best pair of hiking shorts is the one that suits your needs, your environment, and your body type. Breathable fabrics like recycled polyester or cotton-linen blends provide comfort and sun protection, while features such as zippered pockets, belt loops, drawstrings, or an elastic waistband can add practicality on the trail. Though hiking trousers and hiking pants remain essential for certain conditions, a reliable pair of shorts offers unbeatable freedom of movement and lightweight comfort in warmer weather. Consider natural or eco-friendly materials to reduce environmental impact, and think about the trade-off between durability and weight. Whether you prefer a pair with a short inseam or a bit of stretch around the legs, the key is to find versatile shorts that balance moisture-wicking performance with all-day wearability. Let your personal preference guide you—after all, your next adventure deserves the right gear.
