Women's outdoor shorts: running, hiking and summer days

Women's outdoor shorts in this section are for running and walking: running shorts Pace and Combat+ from Saysky, Circle Sportswear Legend, and Get Shorty, hiking shorts Aigle UV-C, made from ultra-durable Cordura or Coolmax, and Elliker Sayer and Gramicci Ridge shorts. They are lightweight and dry quickly.

Shorts, freedom of movement

As soon as the temperature rises, shorts replace trousers for running, walking, or climbing. They keep the legs free, wick away heat, and dry in just a few minutes after a downpour or a swim.

The section includes running shorts, hiking shorts, and more casual options.

Running shorts Saysky

The Copenhagen brand Saysky offers several lengths. The Pace comes in 3 inches, very short and lightweight, and in a 2-in-1 version, with an integrated liner to prevent chafing.

The Combat+ Tights, in 4 or 7 inches, are fitted and short liners that support the muscles during exercise. The Drip Dye version adds a dyed pattern.

Circle Sportswear

The French brand Circle Sportswear features the Legend, a versatile running short, and the Get Shorty, which is shorter. Both use recycled or bio-sourced materials.

Hiking shorts Aigle

For walking, Aigle offers several hiking shorts. The UV-C and DFT UV-C models, made from quick-drying fabric, protect the skin from the sun. The DFT Coolmax chino short, dressier, wicks away sweat thanks to the Coolmax fibre.

The outdoor short made from Cordura, a nylon known for its abrasion resistance, withstands rocks, thorns, and sitting on stone.

Elliker and Gramicci

The Sayer from Elliker, a Yorkshire brand, and the Ridge from Gramicci, a climbing-inspired brand, bring a more casual look, suitable for a stroll, a day at the campsite, or a picnic.

What length of shorts?

3 inches: very short, lightweight, for fast running.
4 to 5 inches: a good compromise for running and walking.
7 inches: more coverage, reduces chafing between the thighs.
Hiking shorts: above the knee, with pockets.

The 2-in-1 short

The 2-in-1 short combines baggy shorts with an integrated liner. The liner keeps everything in place and prevents chafing, while the shorts maintain a classic look. A popular choice for long distances.

Running or hiking shorts?

A running short is very lightweight, often without pockets or with a small pocket for a key. Hiking shorts are sturdier, longer, and have multiple pockets for a map, phone, or a granola bar.

Sun protection

In summer, legs are exposed for hours. Aigle's UV-C shorts limit exposure to rays on the covered area, but remember to apply sunscreen on uncovered legs, especially at altitude or near the sea.

Hiking in shorts

The short is suitable for clear trails and hot weather. On a path overrun with brambles, nettles, or tall grass, or in tick-infested areas, lightweight trousers are safer. Some female hikers keep trousers in their bag.

Running in high heat

Opt for lightweight and breathable shorts, run early in the morning or late in the day, and drink regularly. A technical fabric dries quickly and avoids the feeling of the fabric sticking to the skin.

Shorts and liners for trails

On trails, steep climbs and technical descents put pressure on the thighs. A 7-inch liner supports the muscles and prevents chafing, while a lightweight short on top keeps a classic appearance.

Shorts by the water

For a day at the lake or river, a quick-drying short allows you to walk, swim, and head off without changing. The technical fabrics from Aigle and Saysky are well-suited for these days.

Choosing the right size

A running short should fit the waist without being tight, thanks to an elastic waistband and a drawstring. A liner should be snug without compressing. For hiking, make sure the short doesn’t ride up when you lift your knee.

Maintaining technical shorts

Wash them at 30 degrees, without fabric softener, as it reduces moisture wicking. Air dry: they dry in a few hours. Avoid the tumble dryer, which damages the elastic fibres of the liners.