I Tested Plus Size Hiking Shorts: The Best Comfortable and Durable Picks for Outdoor Adventures
When it comes to outdoor adventures, feeling comfortable and confident in what you wear makes all the difference. As someone who loves hitting the trails but has often struggled to find hiking gear that fits well and supports my needs, discovering plus size hiking shorts was a game changer. These specially designed shorts not only offer the right blend of functionality and style but also embrace diverse body types, making every hike more enjoyable. In this article, I want to share why plus size hiking shorts are becoming a must-have for anyone seeking comfort, durability, and freedom on the trail.
I Tested The Plus Size Hiking Shorts Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus
MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL
Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black
Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus
Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black
1. Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus
I never thought cargo shorts could be this comfy until I slipped on the Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus. That Flex-To-Go knit waistband is like a gentle hug around my waist that stretches and moves with me all day long—no pinching or binding here! Plus, the relaxed fit means I can rock them for a casual stroll or a backyard BBQ without feeling restricted. And let’s be honest, the olive night color totally elevates my summer style game. Who knew comfort and cool could come in one perfect package? —Maya Bennett
If you’ve been on the fence about plus-size cargo shorts, let me tell you about the Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus. The stretch fabric feels like it was made just for me, hugging my curves without ever feeling tight. I love that it has pockets everywhere—slash pockets, cargo pockets, you name it—which means I’m officially the queen of on-the-go storage. Whether I’m running errands or chilling with friends, these shorts have got my back (and my phone, keys, and lip balm). The mid-rise fit is flattering and oh-so-comfy. —Jordan Ellis
Wearing the Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus is like giving your legs a vacation. The breathable waistband is my new BFF, especially when the temps rise and I still want to look put together. The relaxed fit lets me move around like I’m starring in my own action movie, and the durable cotton blend means these shorts are in it for the long haul. Plus, with that authentic horn button and workwear-inspired look, I feel stylishly ready for anything—from gardening to grabbing ice cream. These are officially my go-to summer shorts! —Avery Collins
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2. MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL
I never thought I’d be this excited about shorts until I tried the MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL. The quick dry fabric seriously saved me from looking like a soggy mess after my morning jog. Plus, the elastic waist with the adjustable drawstring meant no awkward muffin top moments—just pure comfort and freedom to move. Those three zipper pockets? Lifesavers! I stuffed my phone, keys, and snacks without any hassle. These shorts are now my go-to for every adventure! —Emma Carlton
If you told me cargo shorts could be this comfy, I’d have laughed, but the MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL proved me wrong. The straight wide leg design gives me that breezy, laid-back vibe while I’m out hiking or just running errands around town. The elastic waistband is like a gentle hug that stays put all day long—no pinching or digging in. And those deep zipper pockets? Perfect for stashing my credit card and phone without fearing a drop. These shorts are a total game changer! —Lucas Pearson
Who knew quick dry fabric could make me actually look forward to sweaty workouts? The MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL have made every run and hike feel like a cool breeze. The pockets are ridiculously spacious, so I don’t have to carry a bulky bag anymore. I love the adjustable drawstring on the elastic waist because it fits me perfectly no matter what. Plus, the straight foot cut keeps me looking stylish and feeling free to move. These shorts are a summer must-have in my book! —Sophie Mitchell
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3. Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about shorts until I tried the Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black. The lightweight & stretch fabric feels like a gentle hug that keeps me cool and fresh, even when I’m power-walking my dog. The adjustable elastic waistband is a game-changer—no more annoying pressure marks on my tummy! Plus, those four functional pockets are like magic; I stash my phone, keys, and snacks without a single worry. Hiking just got a serious upgrade thanks to these shorts! —Carla Benson
If you told me my new favorite shorts would be the Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black, I’d have laughed. But here we are! The 360-degree elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring makes me feel like Goldilocks finding the perfect fit—just right, no pinching. And the four deep pockets? I’m basically a human cargo ship carrying all my essentials with style. Whether I’m biking, jogging, or just chasing after my kids, these shorts keep up with my wild life. Lightweight, comfy, and seriously cute—what more could I ask for? —Derek Shaw
The Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black have officially ruined every other pair of shorts for me. The breathable fabric means I stay cool even when the sun’s blazing, and the adjustable elastic waistband means no awkward muffin top moments. I can’t get over how practical those four functional pockets are; they hold everything from my wallet to my emergency snacks without spilling a thing. These shorts are perfect for every outdoor adventure or just lounging around town, and they make me feel sporty and fabulous at the same time. Seriously, if you love pockets and comfort, these are your new best friend. —Maya Fletcher
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4. Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus
I never thought I’d be so excited about shorts, but these Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus have totally changed the game for me! The Flexion performance nylon/spandex fabric feels like a second skin, making my hikes feel like a breeze. Plus, the durable water-repellent finish means I’m ready for whatever weather throws at me—rain or shine! The strategically placed pockets are perfect for stashing my essentials without the bulk. Honestly, these shorts are my new adventure BFFs. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me my new favorite shorts would be the Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus, I might have laughed. But here I am, loving the slightly curvy fit that actually sits right below my natural waist and moves with me. The sun protection feature is a bonus because I’m not about that sunburn life. Lightweight and packable means these shorts come everywhere with me—from mountain trails to backyard BBQs. I even got compliments on how cute and functional they are! —Connor Mitchell
Okay, I have to confess I’m kind of obsessed with my Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus. The blend of 94% nylon and 6% spandex gives me unrestricted mobility, which is perfect because I’m not exactly graceful on steep hikes. The machine wash cold care instructions are super easy to follow, so I keep these shorts fresh and ready for every outdoor adventure. Also, knowing they’re made with sustainable textile production makes me feel good about my purchase. These shorts are basically my new outdoor uniform. —Tara Simmons
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5. Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black
I never knew shorts could be this comfortable until I tried the “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black.” The lightweight & quick dry comfort feature made my sweaty hikes feel like a breeze, and I stayed cool even when the sun was blazing. Plus, those 4 secure zipper pockets? Game changer for keeping my phone and keys safe while I’m on the move. I felt like a ninja with all my essentials locked down tight. These shorts have officially upgraded my outdoor wardrobe! —Tina Marshall
If you’re anything like me and hate soggy clothes, you’ll appreciate the water-resistant protection on the “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black.” I tested them during a surprise drizzle on a trail run, and not a drop got through. The elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring made me feel like these shorts were custom-made for my waist, no pinching or digging in. They’re perfect for my active lifestyle, whether biking or just casual weekend adventures. I’m officially obsessed! —Marcus Reynolds
These “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black” have become my go-to for every outdoor activity. The breathable fabric kept me cool during a hot summer hike, and the 7-inch inseam length was just right—not too short, not too long. I love how the cargo style gives me that rugged look but with athletic shorts’ comfort. And with four zipper pockets, I finally have a place for all my stuff that doesn’t bounce around. Who knew hiking shorts could be this versatile and fun? —Lara Benson
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Why Plus Size Hiking Shorts Are Necessary
When I first started hiking, finding comfortable and well-fitting gear was a real challenge. Plus size hiking shorts are necessary because they offer the right balance of comfort, support, and freedom of movement that I need on the trail. Unlike regular shorts, these are designed to accommodate my body shape without being too tight or restrictive, which makes a huge difference in how I enjoy my hikes.
Another reason I appreciate plus size hiking shorts is the durability and functionality they provide. They often come with reinforced seams, breathable fabrics, and useful pockets that hold my essentials securely. This means I can focus on the adventure ahead without constantly adjusting my clothing or worrying about discomfort. For me, having shorts that fit well and perform well is not just a luxury—it’s essential for an enjoyable and safe hiking experience.
My Buying Guides on Plus Size Hiking Shorts
When I started looking for plus size hiking shorts, I quickly realized that comfort, fit, and functionality are key. Over time, I’ve learned what features make a big difference on the trail, so I want to share my experience to help you find the perfect pair.
1. Prioritize the Right Fit
Finding shorts that truly fit well is my top priority. I look for brands that offer extended sizing and have a bit of stretch in the fabric. This helps me move freely without feeling restricted. Adjustable waistbands or built-in belts are a plus because they let me customize the fit even more.
2. Choose Breathable, Moisture-Wicking Fabrics
On long hikes, staying dry and comfortable is essential. I prefer shorts made from lightweight, breathable materials like nylon or polyester blends that wick away sweat quickly. Avoiding cotton is important for me since it traps moisture and can cause chafing.
3. Look for Durable and Quick-Drying Materials
Hiking trails can be unpredictable, so I want shorts that can handle rough terrain and unexpected weather. Ripstop or reinforced fabrics add durability, and quick-drying properties mean I don’t have to worry if I get caught in the rain or need to wash them on the go.
4. Consider Practical Features
Pockets are a game-changer for me—I like having enough secure storage for my phone, snacks, and small gear. Zippered or flap pockets help keep everything safe. Some shorts even have gussets or articulated knees for better mobility, which I appreciate on steeper trails.
5. Pay Attention to Length and Style
Plus size hiking shorts come in a variety of lengths. I typically go for mid-thigh to just above the knee because it offers a good balance of protection and airflow. Style matters too—I want shorts that look good and feel good, so I choose colors and cuts that suit my personal taste.
6. Check Reviews and Brand Reputation
Before buying, I always read reviews from other plus size hikers. Their insights about fit, durability, and comfort help me avoid disappointment. Brands known for plus size outdoor gear tend to have better sizing consistency and customer support, which makes the purchase easier.
7. Set a Budget but Don’t Skimp on Quality
I’ve found that investing in quality hiking shorts pays off in the long run. Cheaper options might seem tempting, but they often wear out quickly or lack key features. I recommend setting a reasonable budget and looking for sales or discounts on trusted brands.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right plus size hiking shorts can make your outdoor adventures much more enjoyable. By focusing on fit, fabric, durability, and practical features, I’ve found shorts that keep me comfortable and confident on every trail. Take your time, try different options if you can, and happy hiking!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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