How to Choose Women's Hiking Shorts for Summer Trails
By Outdoor Apparel, Footwear & Equipment | JACK WOLFSKIN | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: Buying Guides
Find the right women's hiking shorts for summer trails: compare trail shorts vs skort, consider fabric, fit, and pockets. Get practical advice for hot-weather hikes.
Quick answer
For summer hiking, choose either traditional trail shorts for rugged durability and pocket space, or a skort for a lighter, more versatile feel that works on and off the trail. Your choice depends on the terrain, activity intensity, and personal comfort.
Trail shorts vs skort: key differences
Trail shorts typically offer a longer, Bermuda-length cut with durable fabrics and multiple pockets, making them ideal for technical hikes where you need to carry essentials like a phone or map. Skorts combine the look of a skirt with built-in shorts underneath, offering more freedom of movement and a lighter feel, often with moisture-wicking fabrics for hot days.
Fabric technology matters for hot weather
Look for shorts with moisture-wicking or quick-dry technology to stay comfortable on sweaty climbs. Wind protection can be a bonus for exposed ridges, but breathability is more critical for summer heat. Always check the fabric blend and any special treatments like TEXASHIELD or TEXADRI.
How to choose women's hiking shorts for summer trails
- Consider your terrain: For rocky, uneven trails with lots of brush, choose durable trail shorts with a longer inseam (like Bermuda length) to protect your legs. For smooth, well-maintained paths, a skort offers more freedom.
- Match fabric to activity level: If you sweat heavily or hike in high humidity, prioritize moisture-wicking fabric (like TEXADRI). If you hike in windy, exposed areas, look for wind-resistant fabric (like TEXASHIELD) that still breathes. Check the fabric technology label before buying.
- Pocket placement matters: Trail shorts often have zip pockets on the thigh for secure phone storage. Skorts may have fewer or smaller pockets. Decide if you need to carry items hands-free or prefer a small pack.
- Try the fit: Shorts should sit comfortably at your waist without gaping. Skorts should allow full leg movement without riding up. If possible, test the range of motion: squat, bend, and step over a log. A good fit prevents chafing on long hikes.
Product facts
- PICO TRAIL SHORTS W: The PICO TRAIL SHORTS W feature a longer Bermuda-length fit and durable double weave TEXASHIELD CORE fabric that offers wind protection and breathable comfort. This makes them a rugged choice for summer hikes where you need both durability and pocket access for your phone, without sacrificing ventilation.
PICO TRAIL SHORTS W - DESERT SKORT W: The DESERT SKORT W uses TEXADRI technology to quickly divert moisture, and includes built-in shorts for extra comfort and stretch. This skort is ideal for high-intensity activities or casual summer outings where you want a lightweight, airy feel with the security of built-in shorts.
DESERT SKORT W
Who should choose which?
Best for
- Hikers who need durable shorts with lots of pockets for technical trails
- Women who prefer a lighter, more versatile option that works for hiking and casual wear
Not for
- Hikers who need maximum leg coverage (choose pants or capris instead)
- Those who dislike built-in shorts or prefer a traditional short silhouette
