Things You'll Need:
- Desert Hiking Pants
- Outdoor Pants
- Shorts
- Waterproof Pants
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Step 1
Shop around. Inexpensive, quality outdoor shorts abound. This is one piece of gear you don't have to pay a fortune for.
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Step 2
Look for synthetic materials or natural fibers blended with synthetic material. These will pack light and dry fast.
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Step 3
Avoid denim shorts. These may look good and feel durable, but they're also heavy, slow-drying and not very breathable.
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Step 4
Look for shorts with pockets, preferably large enough to hold a few frequently used items - your sunglasses case, lip balm or sunscreen - for easy access.
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Step 5
Consider the benefits of particular colors. Light-colored shorts will be cooler in the hot sun; dark-colored shorts will look cleaner on long treks; bright-colored shorts may attract bugs, but will make you easier to spot if lost or injured.
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Step 6
Look for shorts that fit loosely and breathe well if hiking in hot climates, but be sure they're not so baggy that they'll easily snag on brush.
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Step 7
Consider purchasing lightweight pants with zip-off legs that convert to shorts. These are ideal for desert hiking and bushwhacking.
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Step 8
Consider buying a pair of long shorts if you'll be backpacking internationally in regions where modesty is appropriate for local culture.
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Step 9
Double-check the stitching in the seams, but don't worry about paying extra for reinforced stitching in the crotch unless you're planning to use the shorts for climbing. Your shorts are more likely to wear first in the seat from sitting on rough surfaces, and last in the crotch from overstretching.
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Step 10
Try your shorts on with your outdoor pants or raingear to make sure you can layer easily.
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Step 11
Find materials that are easy to care for, meaning machine-washable and, preferably, dryable.
