6 Best Men S Shorts For Thru Hiking in 2026: A Practical Camping Guide

The NORTHYARD is a 9-inch cargo short with seven pockets, 4-way stretch fabric and an elastic side waistband with a zip fly and belt loops. The listing names UPF 50+ sun protection, a water-repellent finish and flatlock seams to reduce chafing.

Seven pockets give it the most storage of the group, ahead of the Pudolla Cargo 9-Inch with five zippers and the Libin Cargo with five. Flatlock seams are a detail the Jessie Kidden Expandable and Boonlight Cargo do not list.

It suits a hiker who wants one short for the whole trail, with a place for every small item and sun cover for open ridgelines. The 9-inch cut sits at a sensible length for most legs.

The Jessie Kidden is a lightweight cargo short with a partly elastic waist and an included belt, built from wicking fabric with UPF 50 sun protection. Six pockets are listed, two front slash, two back and two zippered thigh pockets.

It has more pockets than the Boonlight Cargo, and the zippered thigh pockets hold a phone more securely than open flaps.

It fits a hiker who likes a belted waist for a heavy pack and wants wicking fabric with a water-repellent finish. It also works for town stops after a resupply.

The Pudolla is a 9-inch hiking cargo short with five deep zipper pockets, UPF 50+ fabric and a durable water-repellent finish. The back of the waistband is elastic, with a button closure, zip fly and 2-inch belt loops.

Compared with the Jessie Kidden Expandable it has an elastic back waist that gives more flex.

It is a strong match for a hiker who wants to keep a phone, a wallet and a key from bouncing out on scrambles. Zipped pockets let you move fast.

The Libin is a 10-inch inseam cargo short in light, slightly stretchy fabric with UPF 50+ protection and water-resistant behavior. Five pockets include two side zippers, two flap cargo pockets with hook-and-loop and a back zipper pocket.

At 10 inches it is the longest short here, so it covers more of the thigh than the Pudolla Cargo 9-Inch and the NORTHYARD. A wide elastic waistband with an inner drawstring gives a softer feel than the Jessie Kidden Expandable.

It suits a hiker with sun-prone legs or someone who dislikes short cuts. The long length also helps against brush on overgrown trail.

The Boonlight is a relaxed-fit cargo short in lightweight, quick-dry, breathable fabric with a flexible waistband. The listing describes multiple pockets for a phone, keys and a wallet, and says it is machine washable.

It is simpler than the NORTHYARD Cargo 9-Inch and the Pudolla Cargo 9-Inch, with a looser cut that gives more air flow on a hot climb. It is also easier on the budget than the Jessie Kidden Expandable.

It is a decent choice for a hiker who values comfort and a baggy cut over technical detail. It works for camp, work and travel as well as the trail.

The MOHEM is a lightweight, quick-dry cargo short with UPF 50+ fabric, two side zipper pockets and two cargo pockets. A stretch waistband with an adjustable inner drawstring keeps it in place during activity.

It suits a hiker who wants a cheap, light backup short or a first pair to try before spending more. The stretch waist keeps it comfortable on long days.