Best Hiking Shorts for Curvy Women: My Trail-Tested Favorites
Finding the best hiking shorts for curvy women can be surprisingly difficult.
I want shorts that stay put, move with me, and don’t leave me adjusting my waistband every few minutes.
I’ve tried a lot of hiking shorts over the years, and I’ve learned exactly what works for me. These are my favorite hiking shorts for curvy women, all tested on actual hikes and adventures. And not just picked from a list of popular products.
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Quick Picks: The Best Hiking Shorts For Curvy Women
Best Overall: Patagonia Multi Trail Shorts
Best Lightweight: Patagonia Terrebonne Shorts
Best Casual Short: Vuori Villa Shorts
Best for Preventing Chafing: Patagonia Maipo Shorts
Best Hiking Skort: Patagonia Maipo Skort
Fit note: I’m sharing how these shorts fit my own curvy body, so use my experience as a starting point rather than a guarantee that they’ll fit everyone the same way.
How I Chose the Best Hiking Shorts for Curvy Women
Every pair of shorts (and the skort) in this guide is a piece I actually own. I’ve worn them on hikes, while traveling, backpacking, biking, and for everyday summer adventures.
As a curvy woman, I know how frustrating it can be to find hiking clothes that actually move with your body. I don’t want to spend a hike pulling up my waistband, adjusting my shorts, or dealing with fabric that digs into my thighs.
I also don’t recommend a product simply because it’s popular. These are the shorts I genuinely reach for and would recommend to another curvy woman based on how they fit and perform for me.
You’ll notice that several of my favorites are from Patagonia. That’s simply because I have found their clothes to work well for my body, and I appreciate the company’s approach to making durable outdoor gear.
What I Look For in Hiking Shorts for Curvy Women
- Stretchy waistband: Does it stay comfortable and secure without digging in?
- Curvy fit: Is there enough room through the hips and butt without creating a large waist gap?
- Mobility: Can I hike, squat, climb, and scramble without feeling restricted?
- Pockets: Are they large enough and positioned well enough to actually use?
- Fabric: Is it comfortable, breathable, and stretchy enough for movement?
- Durability: Can the fabric handle real trail use?
- Inseam: Does the length work for hiking without riding up or causing chafing?
- Performance on the trail: Most importantly, how do the shorts actually behave after several miles of hiking?
Hiking in the Maze of Canyonlands National Park
1. Patagonia Multi Trail Shorts (Best Overall)
Why I Like Them
I’ve worn these shorts backpacking in New Zealand, hiking in Moab, and I wear them on rotation pretty much every week in the summer. They’re the pair I reach for when I want shorts I know I can comfortably hike in all day.
The pockets are one of my favorite features. They zip closed, which is especially useful on the trail when you don’t want your phone, keys, or other small items falling out. The 5.5-inch inseam is also a great length for long hikes, and these shorts don’t tend to ride up while I’m moving.
What Makes Them Good For Curvy Women
The stretchy waistband with a drawstring hits at a comfortable spot on my waist and stays put even when I don’t tie the drawstring.
The roomier cut is another reason I like these for a curvy fit. They don’t feel tight around my hips or butt, and I don’t get the dreaded gap between my waist and the back of the shorts.
For me, that’s a big deal. A pair of hiking shorts can have great fabric and pockets, but if I’m constantly pulling them up or adjusting the waistband, I’m not going to wear them.
What I Don’t Love
The fabric on both of my pairs of Multi Trail Shorts is starting to pill in areas that experience a lot of friction. It doesn’t bother me enough to stop wearing them, but it’s worth mentioning because pilling can eventually affect the appearance and durability of the fabric.
Best For:
- Long hikes
- Backpacking
- Everyday wear
Specs
- Inseam: 5.5”
- Fabric: 90% polyester/10% spandex
- Rise: Mid-rise
- Liner: Yes
- Pockets: 3, including 2 zippered pockets
- Waistband: Stretchy with drawstring
- Available sizes: XS – XXL
These are also the only shorts on this list with a built-in liner. Personally, I’m pretty indifferent to it. I don’t find it particularly helpful or bothersome, but it’s worth knowing if you prefer lined shorts.
Exploring Mary Jane Slot Canyon
2. Patagonia Terrebonne Shorts
Why I Like Them
These shorts are a bit shorter than the Multi Trail Shorts, but the 4-inch inseam is still long enough to prevent rubbing for me. They’re incredibly lightweight, especially compared to the Multi Trail Shorts, since they don’t have a built-in liner.
I also love that Patagonia managed to include a useful zippered pocket on such a lightweight pair of shorts. It’s the perfect size for keeping small essentials secure while I’m hiking.
What Makes Them Good For Curvy Women
The waistband is comfortable, and the lightweight fabric has plenty of room to move.
Even though Patagonia describes these as a “slim fit,” I had no issues wearing my usual size. The fabric doesn’t feel tight around my hips or butt, which is something I pay close attention to when choosing hiking shorts.
What I Don’t Love
The waistband is my biggest complaint with these shorts. It’s fairly thick and can sometimes roll over or twist while I’m wearing them.
The elastic also doesn’t seem to be sewn directly to the outer fabric. Instead, it sits loosely inside the fabric waistband, which can make the waistband feel a little floppy rather than structured.
It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but I prefer the waistband on the Multi Trail Shorts.
Best For:
- Long hikes
- Backpacking
- Everyday wear
- Hot weather
Specs
- Inseam: 4”
- Fabric: 90% recycled polyester/10% spandex
- Rise: Mid-rise
- Liner: No
- Pockets: 3, including 1 zippered pocket
- Waistband: Stretchy with drawstring
- Available sizes: XS – XXL
3. Vouri Villa Shorts
Why I Like Them
The Villa Shorts are my pick when I want something that can take me from a quick hike straight into town. They’re more casual than the Patagonia shorts, so I don’t reach for them for an all-day adventure, but they’re comfortable for a few miles on the trail.
The shorter inseam also makes them feel more like an everyday short than a traditional hiking short, which is exactly why I like them for travel.
What Makes Them Good For Curvy Women
The flowy design and high-rise waistband are comfortable on a curvy frame without feeling restrictive around my thighs. I actually sized-down to get the perfect fit in the Villa Shorts.
These are also a great option if you want one pair of shorts that can do more than just hiking. I can wear them on the trail, around town, or while traveling without feeling like I’m wearing technical outdoor clothing.
What I Don’t Love
The biggest issue I’ve found is the lack of a drawstring. When I put my phone in the pocket, the shorts can start to pull down because I can’t tighten the waistband to keep them in place.
It’s not a problem when the pockets are empty, but it’s something I’d consider if you like carrying your phone or other essentials in your shorts.
Best For:
- Shorter hikes
- Travel
- Everyday wear
- Hiking-to-town days
Specs
- Inseam: 3”
- Fabric: 45% recycled polyester/41% polyester/14% elastane
- Rise: High-rise
- Liner: No
- Pockets: 2
- Waistband: Stretchy, no drawstring
- Available sizes: XS – XL
4. Patagonia Maipo Shorts
Why I Like Them
I’ve worn these in very hot and humid weather, and they stayed breathable without trapping sweat. They’re also incredibly useful to wear under dresses when I know I’ll be doing a lot of walking to prevent chafing while traveling.
The Maipo Shorts are also great for biking, and the 8-inch inseam gives me plenty of coverage without feeling excessively long.
Two side pockets are another huge plus. They’re large enough for my phone, and unlike some lightweight shorts, the added weight doesn’t make the waistband slide down.
What Makes Them Good For Curvy Women
The Maipo Shorts fit more like leggings than traditional hiking shorts, so there’s plenty of stretch through the waist, hips, and thighs.
If you struggle with chafing or simply prefer more coverage, I think the 8-inch inseam is especially appealing. Patagonia also makes these in a shorter inseam, but I like having a longer option in this roundup since most of my other hiking shorts are much shorter.
The stretchy fabric also means they move with you rather than digging into your waist or thighs.
What I Don’t Love
My biggest concern with these shorts is durability.
The fabric is more delicate than the other hiking shorts on this list. When I used to wear leggings for hiking, I found that they could tear when I sat on rocks or brushed against branches, and I have the same worry with these.
Because of that, I don’t reach for the Maipo Shorts on especially technical trails where I know I’ll be scrambling over rocks or squeezing through rough terrain. I’d rather save them for less technical hikes, walking, or biking.
Best For:
- Non-technical hikes
- Hot and humid weather
- Long walks
- Bike rides
- Preventing chafing
- Wearing under dresses while traveling
Specs
- Inseam: 8”
- Fabric: 80% nylon/20% spandex knit
- Rise: High-rise
- Liner: No
- Pockets: 2
- Waistband: Stretchy, no drawstring
- Available sizes: XS – XXL
Hiking Echo Canyon in Colorado National Monument
Patagonia Maipo Skort (Best Hiking Skort)
Why I Like It
I’ve tried a lot of athletic skorts, and the Patagonia Maipo Skort is the only one I’ve found that really works for my body.
The built-in shorts are 5.5 inches long and have a looser fit. That’s important to me because some skorts have built-in shorts that are barely an inch long and so tight that they bunch up while you’re moving.
The fabric is similar to the Maipo Shorts, so you get the same stretchy, comfortable feel. I also love that the built-in shorts have two side pockets that are actually useful and can comfortably hold my phone.
What Makes It Good For Curvy Women
The A-line design gives you plenty of room through the hips while fitting more closely at the waist. The outer fabric drapes nicely instead of clinging to your curves, which makes the skort feel comfortable without looking overly athletic.
The built-in shorts are also long enough to provide good coverage and help prevent chafing.
This is the first skort I’ve found where I don’t feel like I’m choosing between a flattering outer layer and functional shorts underneath.
What I Don’t Love
If I’m hiking a long distance, the built-in shorts occasionally ride up. Since they’re not super tight, it doesn’t bother me too much, but I sometimes need to stop and adjust them.
For shorter hikes and casual adventures, though, it’s not much of an issue. Overall, this is still the best hiking skort I’ve found.
Best For:
- Non-technical hikes
- Shorter hikes
- Travel
- When you want to feel a little more put together on the trail
Specs
- Inseam: 5.5” shorts
- Fabric: 81% NetPlus® postconsumer recycled nylon/19% spandex knit
- Rise: High-rise
- Pockets: 2
- Waistband: Double-lined stretchy
- Available sizes: XXS – XXL
A Popular Hiking Short I Don’t Recommend
I’ve owned several pairs of Patagonia Baggies. They’re practically synonymous with hiking shorts, but they’re not my favorite for a curvy fit. I tried and tried to like them. After all, they have the two things I usually look for in hiking shorts: an elastic waistband and a drawstring.
My biggest issue is the fabric. It’s fairly stiff and doesn’t stretch much around my hips and butt. I have to size the shorts to fit my hips, which leaves me with a considerable gap at the back of the waist. Then, when I cinch the drawstring to compensate, the excess fabric bunches up in the front.
The Baggies also ride up when I move and feel restrictive when I’m squatting. For hiking, that’s a dealbreaker for me.
I do still have a pair that I wear for floating the river or hanging out on a boat. They’re excellent for water activities and incredibly durable. I just don’t think they’re the best choice when you need a lot of freedom of movement.
Who might like them: Hikers who prefer a looser, more relaxed fit and don’t need as much waist-to-hip shaping may really like the Baggies. They’re also a good option if durability and water activities are priorities.
My verdict: Patagonia Baggies are great shorts for the right body type, but I wouldn’t recommend them as my first choice for curvy women who want stretchy, comfortable hiking shorts.
What to Look For in Hiking Shorts For Curvy Women
I am very particular about my hiking clothes. They need to be comfortable for long periods of time, move with my body, and stay put without needing constant adjustment.
After trying a lot of different hiking shorts, I’ve learned that a few features make a huge difference for me.
Stretchy Waistband with a Drawstring
Personally, I avoid button-and-zip hiking shorts. Even when the fabric itself is stretchy, I find that they tend to be either too tight around my waist or too loose once I size up to fit my hips.
A stretchy waistband with a drawstring gives me a more dialed-in fit without needing a bulky belt. I especially like being able to adjust the waistband depending on whether I have anything in my pockets.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio
Pay attention to how the shorts fit through the hips and waist—not just the size chart.
When you’re shopping online, look at reviews and photos from other people. Do the shorts look flowy around the hips on the model, or does the fabric look tight? The cut can tell you a lot.
A-line and roomier styles are often a good bet if you have fuller hips, while a more fitted short may work better if you prefer a closer-to-the-body feel.
Inseam Length
For me, a slightly longer inseam of around 4-6 inches is the sweet spot for long hikes. It gives me enough coverage to stay comfortable without feeling like I’m wearing long shorts.
With an inseam of 3 inches or less, I find there’s more risk of chafing or the shorts riding up while I hike.
That said, inseam is highly personal. If you don’t struggle with chafing, you may prefer a shorter inseam, especially for hot-weather hiking.
Pockets
I love useful pockets. A girl needs to have her phone on hand, you know?
If a pair of shorts doesn’t have a pocket large enough for my phone, I’m much less likely to wear them. Zippered pockets are a bonus for hiking because I don’t have to worry about things falling out when I’m scrambling, bending over, or sitting down.
Fabric Stretch
Stiff fabrics are a curvy woman’s nightmare. They always seem to be tightest in exactly the wrong places.
Stretchy fabric is much more forgiving. It moves with your hips and thighs instead of fighting against them, which makes a huge difference when you’re climbing, squatting, or scrambling over rocks.
But don’t assume more stretch is always better. If you’re hiking technical terrain, you’ll also want to consider whether the fabric is durable enough to handle rocks, branches, and abrasion.
Consider How You’ll Use Them
Think about where and how you’ll actually wear your hiking shorts.
Are you scrambling over boulders on a Colorado 14er? Spending eight hours hiking through the desert? Taking a quick trail break during a trip overseas and then going out to dinner?
Those situations call for different things.
For longer or more technical hikes, I prioritize durable fabric, secure pockets, and a waistband that stays put. For travel and shorter hikes, I’m more willing to choose lightweight or casual shorts that can transition from the trail to town.
If you’re hiking in hot, humid weather, breathability may matter more than durability. If you’re biking or worried about chafing, you may prefer a longer, fitted short like the Maipo.
The best hiking shorts aren’t necessarily the most technical ones. They’re the ones that fit your body and match the way you actually spend time outside.
Hiking Shorts vs. Hiking Pants for Curvy Women
I’ll be honest: most of the time, I hike in pants. I like the extra protection from the sun, brush, and dusty trails. When I’m backpacking especially, I feel cleaner knowing my legs are covered and aren’t getting scratched or coated in trail dirt.
If I’m backpacking somewhere with big temperature swings, I also appreciate zip-off pants that convert into shorts.
All that said, I know plenty of hikers prefer shorts, especially in hot weather. Which is why I’ve compiled this list of my favorite hiking shorts for curvy women, all tested on the trail and chosen because they work for me without constant adjusting.
I do wear shorts for water hikes like The Narrows or The Subway, both in Zion National Park.
If you’d rather hike in pants, check out my guide to the best hiking pants for curvy women. These are the pairs I’ve personally tested and can wear comfortably without modifications or an added belt.
Hiking Shorts for Curvy Women FAQs
What are the best hiking shorts for curvy women?
The best hiking shorts for curvy women should have enough room through the hips and thighs without creating a large waist gap. I also recommend looking for stretchy fabric, a comfortable waistband, and an inseam that won’t ride up while you hike. My favorite overall is the Patagonia Multi Trail Shorts because the stretchy waistband, roomier fit, and 5.5-inch inseam work especially well for my body.
What should I look for in hiking shorts if I have wide hips?
Look for shorts with a stretchy waistband, plenty of room through the hips and butt, and some stretch in the fabric. A-line and roomier cuts can work particularly well for curvier figures. If you size up to fit your hips and end up with a large gap at the waist, the shorts probably aren’t shaped well for your proportions.
How do I keep hiking shorts from riding up?
A slightly longer inseam, stretchy fabric, and a waistband that stays securely in place can all help prevent hiking shorts from riding up. For me, 4-6 inch inseams are a comfortable range for longer hikes. A drawstring is also useful because I can tighten the waistband without needing a belt.
Are longer hiking shorts better for preventing chafing?
They can be. I find that a 4-6 inch inseam gives me enough coverage to reduce rubbing without feeling overly long. If chafing is a major concern, a fitted longer short like the Patagonia Maipo Shorts can provide even more coverage. However, inseam length is personal, so what works for me may not be the best fit for everyone.
Are Patagonia Baggies good hiking shorts for curvy women?
They can work well for some body types, but they’re not my favorite for curvy women. I find the fabric relatively stiff and lacking enough stretch through my hips and butt. When I size them to fit my hips, I get a noticeable waist gap, and tightening the drawstring causes the fabric to bunch up. I still use mine for water activities because they’re durable and excellent for that purpose, but I prefer other shorts for hiking.
Should I wear hiking shorts or hiking pants?
It depends on the conditions and the type of hiking you’re doing. I personally wear hiking pants most of the time because I like the protection from sun, brush, and trail dust. I prefer shorts in hot weather and for hikes where I want more airflow. For backpacking trips with big temperature swings, I also like zip-off hiking pants that can convert into shorts.
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