Buying guide · 10 min read · Updated October 2, 2026

6 Best Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather in 2026: A Practical Camping Guide

Best men's hiking shorts for hot weather: quick-dry, UPF 50+ cargo and athletic shorts compared for breathability, pockets and inseam length.

By Danny WalkerCamping Editor at RV Gear Lab6 products comparedSpec-sheet researched

At a glance

Our top picks

At a glance · 6 picks

01
Best Overall Pudolla Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" with 5 Zipper Pockets ↓ See why we picked it
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02
Best Reflective Pockets XKTTAC Men's Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretch Cargo Shorts for Hiking ↓ See why we picked it
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03
Best Stretch Durability Hiauspor Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts: Quick Dry Lightweight Dark Grey 38 ↓ See why we picked it
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04
Best Simple Cargo CRYSULLY Mens Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" Quick Dry Breathable Workout Black L ↓ See why we picked it
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05
Best Light Athletic Short Rdruko Men's Quick Dry Hiking Shorts Lightweight Running Workout Gym Active Shorts with Zipper Pockets ↓ See why we picked it
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06
Best Lowest Price MOHEM Mens Hiking Cargo Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Athletic Running Workout Shorts with Zip Pockets ↓ See why we picked it
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In real heat, shorts are judged by how fast they dry, how little they cling and where the phone goes. Weight, fabric and inseam matter more than pocket count.

These six men's shorts run from a 6-pocket tactical cargo to a bare-bones 7 inch athletic short with no liner. They are ordered by how complete the hot-weather package is, with price and simplicity noted along the way.

RV Gear Lab field notes

The Campsite Fit Check

Start with the job: Pudolla Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" with 5 Zipper Pockets leads this shortlist for Full-day sun hikes needing pockets. Use that fit as a reference point, then compare the alternatives against your own space and workload.
Specs that separate the picks: The first details to compare are 9 inch inseam, 5 zipper pockets, 6 pockets, reflective strips, Six zipper pockets, UPF 50+. Confirm the exact model and included components before ordering.
Trade-off to plan for: Nine inch inseam holds more heat on thighs

Before you buy

What Matters When Comparing Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather

Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.

01
Fabric and dry time
Nylon and polyester blends with a little spandex pull sweat away and dry in minutes after a splash. Heavy cotton holds sweat and rubs. Look for nylon, polyester or quick-dry wording and a stated blend.
02
UPF rating
UPF 50+ is a standard rating that means the fabric blocks about 98 percent of UV. Without a rating, you rely on sunscreen alone on covered skin. Look for UPF 50+ in the title or bullets, not just sun protection.
03
Inseam length
A short inseam keeps you cooler and a longer one covers more skin from the sun and brush. Seven inches is light and nine covers the knee area. Check the inseam in the title.
04
Pocket security
Zipper pockets keep a phone safe on scrambles, while open cargo pockets can spill. Too many pockets add weight. Look for zipper pocket wording and count.
05
Waist and liner
An elastic waist with a drawstring adapts as you eat and sweat, and a belt-loop waist adds structure for a pack hip belt. A built-in liner adds heat, and unlined shorts breathe. Check for lined or unlined wording.

Our standards

Why You Can Trust RV Gear Lab

At RV Gear Lab, we compare products based on campsite fit, verified specifications, usability, setup requirements, weight, durability, and real-world trade-offs. We do not rank products purely on marketing claims or commission rates.

We have not personally tested every product listed. Where hands-on testing is not available, recommendations are based on verified manufacturer specifications, product documentation, use-case fit, and comparative research.

How we review camping gear →

Detailed reviews

The 6 best hiking shorts for hot weather, explained

Best Overall · 1 of 6

Pudolla Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" with 5 Zipper Pockets

9 inch inseam, 5 zipper pockets
UPF 50+, moisture wicking
Durable water repellent finish

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Best for: Full-day sun hikes needing pockets

Our take

The most complete hot-weather short here. Long, protected and pocket-rich.

Why it made the shortlist

The Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch is a 9 inch inseam hiking short with five zipper pockets, a moisture-wicking quick-dry fabric and UPF 50+ sun protection. The listing adds a durable water repellent finish and an expandable back elastic waistband with a button, zip fly and belt loops.

Against the CRYSULLY Cargo, it has more zipper pockets and a repellent finish. Compared with the XKTTAC Tactical, it offers a longer inseam and a cleaner, less tactical look.

It suits hikers who want longer, sun-covering shorts with secure storage. The zip fly and button give a trouser-like feel.

What works

Five zipper pockets secure valuables
UPF 50+ sun protection
Back elastic waist with belt loops
Repellent finish sheds light rain

Watch out for

Nine inch inseam holds more heat on thighs

The catch: The longer 9 inch cut covers more leg and traps a little more heat.

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Best Reflective Pockets · 2 of 6

XKTTAC Men's Outdoor Quick Dry Lightweight Stretch Cargo Shorts for Hiking

6 pockets, reflective strips
UPF 50+, breathable quick dry
Elastic adjustable waist

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Best for: Gear-heavy and low-light hikes

Our take

The most storage and visibility in one short. A good fit for early starts.

Why it made the shortlist

The XKTTAC Tactical is a stretchable, lightweight cargo short with six pockets, including four large side zipper pockets. The listing describes UPF 50+, breathable quick-dry fabric, an elastic adjustable waist and reflective strips for visibility.

Compared with the Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch, it adds reflective strips and two more zipper pockets. Next to the Hiauspor Cargo, it has a more tactical look and a slightly higher price.

It suits hikers who carry more gear or hike at dawn and dusk. The stretch fabric moves freely on climbs.

What works

Four deep zipper side pockets
Reflective strips aid visibility
Stretch fabric moves freely
UPF 50+ sun protection

Watch out for

Tactical styling is bold

The catch: It is the priciest option and has a tactical look.

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Best Stretch Durability · 3 of 6

Hiauspor Men's Hiking Cargo Shorts: Quick Dry Lightweight Dark Grey 38

Six zipper pockets, UPF 50+
4-way stretch, abrasion resistant
Water repellent, button waist

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Best for: Scrambling and rough trails

Our take

A tough, stretchy short for scrambling. Good value for the pocket count.

Why it made the shortlist

The Hiauspor Cargo is a hiking cargo short with six zipper pockets, a breathable moisture-wicking fabric and UPF 50+ protection. The listing describes four-way stretch that resists abrasions, tears and scuffs, plus a water repellent finish.

Against the CRYSULLY Cargo, it adds UPF 50+ and a more durable fabric. Compared with the Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch, it has a similar pocket count and a button waist with belt loops.

It suits hikers who scramble, kneel and brush against rock. The strong belt loops hold a belt for added hold.

What works

Four-way stretch moves freely
Abrasion resistant against scuffs
Six deep zipper pockets
UPF 50+ with water repellent finish

Watch out for

Brand is lesser known
Many pockets add bulk

The catch: Six pockets add weight and bulk.

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Best Simple Cargo · 4 of 6

CRYSULLY Mens Hiking Cargo Shorts 9" Quick Dry Breathable Workout Black L

90% nylon, 10% spandex
9 inch inseam, 5 pockets
Quick-dry, side elastic waist

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Best for: Hot day hikes without frills

Our take

A plain, stretchy nylon short that dries fast. A solid middle choice.

Why it made the shortlist

The CRYSULLY Cargo is a 9 inch hiking cargo short made from 90% nylon and 10% spandex. The listing describes quick moisture evaporation and five pockets, with an elastic waistband at the sides.

Next to the Hiauspor Cargo, it is simpler, with no UPF or water repellent claim on the listing. Compared with the MOHEM Cargo, it adds a longer inseam and more pockets.

It suits hikers who want a classic nylon short without extras. The stretchy nylon moves easily on steps.

What works

Nylon and spandex stretch
Quick moisture evaporation
Five pockets for storage
Classic, plain look

Watch out for

No repellent finish named

The catch: No sun protection rating is stated on the listing.

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Best Light Athletic Short · 5 of 6

Rdruko Men's Quick Dry Hiking Shorts Lightweight Running Workout Gym Active Shorts with Zipper Pockets

7 inch inseam, quick dry
3 deep zipper pockets
Unlined, drawstring waist

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Best for: Fast, hot trail days

Our take

A light, simple athletic short that dries quickly. Good for trail runs and fast hikes.

Why it made the shortlist

The Rdruko Active is a 7 inch inseam athletic short with quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric and three deep zippered pockets. It is unlined, with an adjustable elastic waist and drawstring.

Compared with the MOHEM Cargo, it has deeper zipper pockets and a longer inseam.

It suits hikers and runners who want the lightest shorts for fast, hot days. Machine or hand washing is both allowed.

What works

Light and cool for fast days
Three deep zipper pockets
Unlined, no friction from a liner

Watch out for

Little durability for scrambling

The catch: It lacks a UPF rating and rugged fabric.

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Best Lowest Price · 6 of 6

MOHEM Mens Hiking Cargo Shorts Lightweight Quick Dry Athletic Running Workout Shorts with Zip Pockets

UPF 50+, quick dry
2 side zip, 2 cargo pockets
Stretch waist, inner drawstring

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Best for: Budget-friendly hot-weather shorts

Our take

The cheapest UPF-rated short in the group. Good for casual hikes.

Why it made the shortlist

The MOHEM Cargo is a lightweight quick-dry cargo short with UPF 50+ sun protection, two side zip pockets and two cargo pockets. The stretch waistband has an adjustable inner drawstring.

Compared with the Rdruko Active, it adds UPF 50+ and cargo pockets for the same price range.

It suits hikers who want the lowest cost UPF-rated short. The listing mentions spring and windy weather use too.

What works

UPF 50+ sun protection
Four pockets for storage
Inner drawstring holds the waist

Watch out for

Plain build with little detail
Durability unclear for rough use

The catch: The listing gives few fabric details and no inseam length.

Check price on Amazon

Methodology

How We Built This Shortlist

Each pick was assessed across 5 criteria weighted for real-world use.

Dry time

Quick-dry and moisture-wicking wording were compared.

Sun protection

UPF 50+ claims were noted where stated.

Coverage

Inseams from 7 to 9 inch were compared.

Storage

Pocket count and closures were weighed.

Durability

Stretch and abrasion claims were compared.

Decision guide

Match Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather to Your Camp Setup

By Hot-Weather Hike

Your situation	Recommended pick	Why
Long sun-exposed day hikes	Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch	Longer, UPF-rated, secure pockets.
Dawn starts and heavy gear	XKTTAC Tactical	Reflective strips and 6 pockets.
Scrambles and rough rock	Hiauspor Cargo	Abrasion-resistant stretch.
Simple everyday hikes	CRYSULLY Cargo	Plain nylon stretch.
Fast, light hikes and runs	Rdruko Active	Unlined, light and short.

By Budget

Budget	Recommended pick
$0 to $20	MOHEM Cargo or Rdruko Active
$20 to $30	Hiauspor Cargo or CRYSULLY Cargo
$20 to $30	Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch or XKTTAC Tactical

Cargo vs Athletic

Cargo

More pockets and a longer cut, with a bit more heat. Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch, XKTTAC Tactical, Hiauspor Cargo, CRYSULLY Cargo and MOHEM Cargo.

Athletic

Lighter, shorter and unlined, with fewer pockets. Rdruko Active.

Most hikers should choose the Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch, and runners the Rdruko Active.

By Budget

Budget	Recommended pick
Lowest cost UPF	MOHEM Cargo
Low cost athletic	Rdruko Active
Mid-priced plain nylon	CRYSULLY Cargo
Mid-priced durable	Hiauspor Cargo
Premium storage	XKTTAC Tactical

For Hot Desert Hikes Specifically

Look for

UPF 50+, quick-dry fabric and a longer inseam for sun cover.

In this comparison

The Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch pairs UPF 50+ with a 9 inch inseam, and the MOHEM Cargo gives UPF cover at the lowest cost.

When to Spend More

Spend more if

Spend more on the Pudolla Cargo 9 Inch or XKTTAC Tactical if you want sun cover, secure pockets and a well-built short.

Save if

Save with the MOHEM Cargo or Rdruko Active if your hikes are short and you do not need many pockets.

FAQ

Before You Bring One Home

Are longer shorts hotter?

Slightly, since there is more fabric, though they shade skin from sun. Light fabric makes the difference.

What do hikers get wrong in hot weather?

Wearing cotton or lined shorts. Both hold sweat and heat, so pick quick-dry, unlined fabric.

Is UPF 50+ worth paying for?

If you hike in direct sun, yes. The MOHEM Cargo shows it need not cost much.

How do I size shorts for a pack hip belt?

Choose a waist that sits just above the pack belt and has flat seams. Elastic waists with drawstrings are comfortable under a belt.

How do I wash quick-dry shorts?

Wash cold and hang dry. Skip fabric softener, which can clog wicking fabric.

Bottom line

The short version

Browse more hiking shorts for hot weather on Amazon →

About the author

Danny Walker

Camping Editor at RV Gear Lab

Danny covers camping gear, campsite setup, outdoor power, sleep systems and practical camping advice, with a focus on helping campers make better gear decisions.

6 Best Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather in 2026: A Practical Camping Guide

Our top picks

The Campsite Fit Check

What Matters When Comparing Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather

Fabric and dry time

UPF rating

Inseam length

Pocket security

Waist and liner

Why You Can Trust RV Gear Lab

The 6 best hiking shorts for hot weather, explained

How We Built This Shortlist

Dry time

Sun protection

Coverage

Storage

Durability

Match Hiking Shorts For Hot Weather to Your Camp Setup

By Hot-Weather Hike

By Budget

Cargo vs Athletic

By Budget

For Hot Desert Hikes Specifically

When to Spend More

Before You Bring One Home

Are longer shorts hotter?

What do hikers get wrong in hot weather?

Is UPF 50+ worth paying for?

How do I size shorts for a pack hip belt?

How do I wash quick-dry shorts?

The short version

Danny Walker

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