Hillwalking shorts

Shorts to suit all budgets

UP TO £50

Shorts in this price band are perfectly good for hillwalking and backpacking. Pockets will allow easy access to maps or guidebooks while wearing a rucksack, and zipped pockets will provide security. Fabrics in this price range include durable nylon options that are also fast drying. Belt loops will generally be present on the waist and in some cases a belt may be provided. There may be some elastication in the waistband for more comfort. You may also be able to find stretch fabrics. However, in general at this price these more practical features may be more difficult to find compared to higher-priced options.

FROM £51 TO £70

In this price band it is relatively easy to find very good shorts that boast all the main features you need. Expect to find tough nylon fabrics that are fast- drying and durable. Stretch materials are also more common in this price band. You can often get a plethora of pockets and these will include OS map-sized pockets as well as zipped security pockets. The waist may benefit from elastication, a belt and a brushed lining for more comfort. You may also get additional durability from double layers of material on the seat to make these shorts even more hardwearing when resting on the trail, which is great for more regular users.

FROM £71

Shorts at this price can have everything you can want for more regular, harder backpacking and hillwalking. They may be constructed with far more stretchy as well as more durable material. The waistband may have extra tailoring so it sits higher at the back and will have a more comfortable lining too. It will likely also come with some stretch so this area is more comfortable, while a belt may or may not be provided. The pockets may be more elaborately designed and there may be more pockets so you have easier access to OS maps or other items on the move. Hidden zipped security pockets are often provided.