Home Gear Men’s Adventure Shorts Buyer’s Guide Summer 2024

Men’s Adventure Shorts Buyer’s Guide Summer 2024

Comparing and contrasting multi-purpose men’s adventure shorts from the big players.

Feature type Review

Read time 10 mins

Published Jun 05, 2024

Matthew Pink BASE’s brand head honcho is a denizen of the crag. He gorges on adventure culture, hankers for epic treks and grinds his gravel bike round the Bristol orbit.

Arksen Staran Tech Shorts

Our Verdict

The higher end choice in terms of price-point and its feature list, this is no ordinary short. There seems to be the amount of attention to detail and sophistication in these shorts that you might more usually expect in very high performance outerwear. They feel very much more like where the future of activewear is going. But with a price point to match that ambition.

Best for: the adventurer in more extreme environments that needs super high performance and functionality to match.

Price	£220.00
Material	Nylon 80% (Rec) Elastane 20% 86% Pa Econyl 14% Ea
Features	Cohaesive® Hem adjuster \| Hand Pockets \| Discreet front zip pocket for valuables \| Locking rear zip \| External Hanging loop \| Aluminium D-Ring with bottle opener function

Pros

Durability: Made from high-quality materials, designed to withstand rugged use
Quick-Drying: extends their suitability for some water-related activities
Versatile style: A defiantly modern and sporty look, can be worn casually or for outdoor activities.
Storage: Multiple pockets, often with secure closures to store essentials like keys, wallets, or small tools.

Cons

Very pricey for shorts
Limited colour options: the only choice might not appeal to everyone.

Kestin Edra Active Shorts

Our Verdict

These shorts from a newcomer brand to watch in the outdoors space combine utility with a minimalist, stylish design. Breathable and comfy they’re also tough as old boots thanks to the Cordura 2-Way Stretch Ripstop fabric. I found the stretch going up steeper slopes or over fallen tress and debris actually just right. Definitely at the smarter end of the adventure short spectrum, they’re also just the job for heading out for some post-hike snifters as well.

Best for: when you’re after something tough and hardwearing but don’t want to double pack.

Price	£99.00
Material	CORDURA® 2-Way Stretch Ripstop
Features	Zippered rear pocket Two side pockets Woven puller and drawstring Elasticated waist

Pros

CORDURA® 2-Way Stretch Ripstop – means great movement and serious durability
Versatility: Ideal for a wide range of activities, from running and hiking to casual outings and gym sessions.

Cons

The material might be a little coarse from some who prefer a smoother feel to their lightweight shorts.

Columbia Mesa™ Lightweight Shorts

Our Verdict

A lower cost multi-purpose short which is always comfortable and easy to throw on, especially if you are mixing up adventuring with some socialising away from the hill later on. Super lightweight and comfy, I also love the sort of semi-camouflage design of this particular model which is somehow energising. They wick well and the additional zip pocket is definitely useful for bank cards or keys.

Best for: mixing up activities in the hot hot heat.

Price	£39.00
Material	92% Polyester, 8% Elastane
Features	Omni-Wick™ Drawcord adjustable waist Hand pockets Zip-closed security pocket

Pros

Universal, easy fit for comfortable range of motion.
Good breathability

Cons

No water repellency

Montane Men’s Terra Lite Shorts

Our Verdict

It’s the lightness and flexibility of these shorts that really stand them out from the pack, especially under the glare of the summer sun at altitude. Although in terms of design and aesthetic there is nothing wildly creative about these shorts whatsoever, if you are looking for a low key but high quality short that will go the distance trekking or hiking then these will do very nicely.

Best for: serious hikers who want decent stretch.

Price	£70.00
Material	Materials 94% Nylon, 6% Elastane
Features	Zipped fly with button closure Removable webbing belt with low profile hook closure Two mesh-lined hand pockets Rear zipped pocket Zipped front thigh pocket 22.5cm inseam length (M)

Pros

Universal, easy fit for comfortable range of motion.
Very cool, stretchy and comfortable.
Includes the environmental benefits of PFC free DWR – provides reliable water repellency ensuring you are protected in light rain, allowing water droplets to bead and roll off the fabric.

Cons

Slightly lacking any flash of flair in the design style

Columbia Hike™ Colour Block Hiking Shorts

Our Verdict

The breathable sweat-wicking fabric really did keep me feeling fresh and comfortable for a long day out on the hill (and in the woods). The pockets are perfect for stashing snacks and gadgets, and the colour block design adds a cool flair (that I can see on the other coloured versions, I have the all-navy ones. All in all, perfect for long hikes, runs or just chilling outdoors in warm climes.

Best for: high intensity activities but also as casual wear tbh.

Price	£65.00
Material	92% Polyester, 8% Elastane
Features	Omni-Wick™ Drawcord adjustable waist Hand pockets Zip-closed security pocket

Pros

Light weight
Accessible price point
Bold visual design

Cons

Can cling a little bit
Because they’re mostly polyester, they could be prone to pilling (the formation of small, unsightly balls of fibre on the surface) over time, especially with frequent washing and heavy use.