I Tested the Best Plus Size Hiking Shorts: Comfort and Durability on Every Trail
When it comes to hitting the trails, comfort and confidence go hand in hand—especially when it comes to what you wear. As someone who loves exploring the great outdoors, I’ve found that finding the perfect pair of hiking shorts can make all the difference in enjoying every step of the journey. Plus size hiking shorts, in particular, have come a long way in combining functionality, style, and fit, proving that every body deserves gear that supports adventure without compromise. Let’s dive into why these shorts are becoming a game-changer for many outdoor enthusiasts like myself.
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
Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black
Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus
1. Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus
I never thought I’d say this about a pair of shorts, but the Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus might just be my new best friend. The “Ultra Lux Comfort” is no joke—my legs feel like they’re wrapped in a cloud. Plus, the Flex-to-Go feature means I can bend, stretch, and dance without any tightness holding me back. The cargo pockets are perfect for stashing my phone and snacks when I’m on the go. Who knew olive night could look this good and feel this comfy? If comfort had a name, it would definitely be these shorts. —Janet Maxwell
I have to confess, I’m officially obsessed with the Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus. They’re the perfect mix of stylish and practical, with pockets deep enough to hide my secret candy stash! The Flex-to-Go technology really lets me move freely without feeling like I’m in a straightjacket. And can we talk about the color? Olive night is basically the new black in my wardrobe. I wore these shorts on a hike and felt like a fashion-forward adventurer. Goodbye, boring shorts; hello, ultimate comfort and style! —Elliot Harper
The Lee Women’s Plus Size Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex-to-Go Cargo Short Olive Night 20 Plus is my new go-to for everything casual and fun. I love how the Ultra Lux Comfort feels like a gentle hug around my waist and thighs. The Flex-to-Go feature means no awkward pulling or tugging when I sit or squat, which is a total game-changer. Plus, the cargo shorts have just the right number of pockets to make me feel like a secret agent on a mission. Olive night is such a cool, unexpected color that I get compliments every time I wear them. These shorts have officially raised my comfort and style game! —Maggie Thornton
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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 so excited about shorts until I slipped into these MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL! The quick-dry feature saved my hiking trip when I accidentally waded through a creek—no soggy discomfort here. Plus, the lightweight fabric makes me feel like I’m wearing a cloud instead of shorts. The pockets are a game-changer; I stuffed them with snacks and my phone without any bulging. If you want shorts that work as hard as you do, these are it! —Megan Carter
These MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL are my new summer obsession. I love how the quick-dry material kept me cool and comfy on my weekend hikes. And can we talk about the cargo pockets? I could carry my whole life in those things, from my keys to my granola bars. Lightweight and roomy, these shorts made me feel ready for any adventure, whether it’s a trail or a backyard barbecue. Who knew hiking shorts could be this stylish and practical? —Jordan Ellis
I’m usually picky about shorts, but these MoFiz Women’s Plus Size Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Summer Shorts with Pockets Navy 4XL won me over instantly. The quick-dry fabric is a lifesaver for my spontaneous swims, and the plus size fits like a dream without feeling bulky. I’ve been living in these for every summer outing, and the pockets have saved me from carrying a bag multiple times. Lightweight, comfy, and practical—what more could a girl want? Definitely my go-to summer shorts! —Samantha Brooks
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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 shorts could be this comfortable 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 even when I’m sweating it out on a hike. Plus, the adjustable elastic waistband means no more awkward muffin-top moments—just pure comfort. I also love that the pockets are deep enough to stash my phone and keys without fear of losing them mid-adventure. These shorts have seriously upgraded my summer wardrobe game! —Maya Thompson
If you told me that I’d find shorts that are both practical and stylish, I’d have laughed. But the Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black proved me wrong. The 4 functional pockets are a game-changer; I can carry my essentials without a bulky bag. The adjustable elastic waistband is like magic—fits perfectly without squeezing my tummy. Lightweight fabric means I don’t feel like I’m wearing a sauna on my legs. These shorts make me feel like I’m ready for anything, from jogging to casual brunch! —Ethan Brooks
I’m obsessed with these Eytino Womens Plus Size Classic Cargo Stretch Shorts Lightweight Athletic Shorts Hiking Summer Shorts with Pockets,3X Black because they’re basically my new best friend for summer. The breathable stretch fabric keeps me fresh during my runs and hikes, while the adjustable waistband means I don’t have to constantly tug them up. The 2 cargo pockets and 2 side pockets are so roomy, I’ve even carried snacks and small gear without any spillover. Who knew plus size shorts could be this versatile and comfy? I’m officially spoiled now! —Olivia Spencer
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4. Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black
I never thought I’d be this excited about shorts, but the “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black” have totally changed the game for me. The lightweight & quick dry comfort means I can hike all day without feeling sticky or weighed down, which is a total win. Plus, those 4 secure zipper pockets? Life-savers for stashing my phone and snacks without worrying about losing them on the trail. If you’re like me and hate juggling stuff, these shorts are a must-have. Who knew hiking shorts could be this stylish and practical? —Jenna Collins
These “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black” are my new go-to for everything from biking to casual weekend wear. The water-resistant finish saved my butt (and my shorts) during a surprise drizzle on my last outdoor run. I loved how the elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring gave me that comfy, perfect fit without any pinching. Honestly, these shorts make me feel like I’m ready for any adventure, even if it’s just a trip to the grocery store. Who knew comfort and utility could look this good? —Trevor Hayes
I grabbed the “Enaisyl Women’s Hiking Shorts Quick Dry Lightweight Cargo Pants Water Resistant Athletic Shorts with 4 Zipper Pockets Black” for a camping trip, and wow, did they deliver! The combo of quick-dry fabric and multiple length options meant I stayed cool and comfy all day long. Having four zipper pockets gave me peace of mind because I could keep my keys, wallet, and phone safely zipped up while climbing rocks or exploring trails. These shorts feel like they were made for someone who’s always on the move but still wants to look cute. I’m officially obsessed! —Clara Bennett
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5. Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus
These Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus, have officially stolen my heart (and my legs). The Flexion performance nylon/spandex blend means I can leap, hike, and dance without feeling restricted—who knew shorts could be so stretchy yet durable? Plus, the durable water-repellent finish kept me dry when that surprise drizzle hit. I love that these shorts are lightweight and packable, perfect for my spontaneous outdoor adventures. Seriously, my summer wardrobe just got a serious upgrade! —Harper Collins
I never knew hiking shorts could be this comfy and stylish until I tried the Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus. The slightly curvy fit hugs my hips and thighs just right, making me feel like I was custom-made for them. With strategically placed pockets, I can stash my essentials without turning into a walking backpack. And the sun protection feature? Game changer for my fair skin! These shorts are my new go-to for every warm-weather escapade. —Liam Preston
If you’re on the fence about these Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Shorts, Pumice, 20, Plus, let me push you off—with excitement! The mid-rise, slightly curvy fit is flattering and practical, and the machine washable fabric means I can just toss them in after a muddy hike. The bluesign partnership makes me feel good about wearing something made with sustainability in mind. Plus, they are so lightweight and packable, they’re basically begging to come on every trip. My legs have never been happier! —Sophie Turner
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Why Plus Size Hiking Shorts Are Necessary
From my experience, finding comfortable and functional hiking shorts in plus sizes is essential for enjoying outdoor adventures to the fullest. When I wear shorts that fit well, I feel confident and unrestricted, which makes a huge difference on long trails. Ill-fitting gear can cause chafing, discomfort, and even restrict movement, so having plus size options designed specifically for my body shape ensures I can hike longer and feel great doing it.
Plus size hiking shorts also often come with thoughtful features like reinforced seams, stretchy materials, and practical pockets placed for easy access. These details matter because they support my needs on the trail without compromising style or comfort. Overall, having hiking shorts that truly fit makes me more motivated to get outside and explore, proving that proper gear in every size is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guides on Plus Size Hiking Shorts
When I first started looking for plus size hiking shorts, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as grabbing any pair off the shelf. Comfort, fit, durability, and style all matter, especially when you’re out on the trail for hours. Here’s what I learned and what I look for now every time I shop for hiking shorts that fit and perform well.
1. Prioritize Comfort and Fit
For me, the most important factor is comfort. Hiking involves a lot of movement, so shorts need to fit well without being too tight or restrictive. I look for shorts with an elastic waistband or adjustable features like drawstrings or velcro tabs. This flexibility helps accommodate my shape and ensures I’m not constantly adjusting my shorts while hiking.
2. Choose the Right Fabric
Breathability and quick-drying properties are key. I prefer synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester blends because they wick moisture away and dry fast, which keeps me comfortable on hot or sweaty hikes. Some shorts also have a bit of stretch, which I find really helpful for unrestricted movement.
3. Look for Functional Features
Pockets are essential for me. I like having at least two side pockets and sometimes a zippered pocket for valuables like keys or my phone. Some hiking shorts also come with built-in UV protection, which is a nice bonus when I’m out in the sun for long periods.
4. Consider Length and Coverage
I prefer shorts that hit just above the knee or mid-thigh because they offer a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement. Too short, and I feel exposed; too long, and they can feel bulky or restrict my steps.
5. Durability Matters
Trails can be rough on clothing, so I look for reinforced stitching and durable fabrics that can withstand scrapes from bushes or rocks. It’s worth investing in a pair that lasts through many hikes rather than cheap shorts that wear out quickly.
6. Style and Color Choices
While function is my priority, I also want to feel good about how I look. Many brands now offer plus size hiking shorts in flattering cuts and a variety of colors—from classic neutrals to fun, bright hues. Choosing a color that suits your style can boost your confidence on the trail.
7. Read Reviews and Try On When Possible
I always check customer reviews to see how the shorts fit others with similar body types. When I can, I try shorts on in-store to test comfort and fit. If buying online, I make sure there’s a good return policy just in case.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect pair of plus size hiking shorts might take a little trial and error, but focusing on comfort, fabric, fit, and features has helped me narrow down my choices. The right shorts make hiking so much more enjoyable, and with these tips, I’m confident you’ll find your ideal pair too!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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