Guide womens climbing shorts: The only thing that rivals the difficulty of finding good climbing pants is finding good climbing shorts. We’ve done some “work” for you and tried out a bunch. For the reviews below, Mary is 5’4″ with an athletic build, usually size 2-4 in outdoor brands and Emily is 5’1″ with a small, athletic build and usually size 0-2.
Welcome to shorts season!
Guide Womens Climbing Shorts:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Summit Shorts
Reviewed by Mary
Form: The cut on these shorts is straightforward and cute. They have everything you need: two open front pockets, one zipper pocket on the side, and great stretchy, lightweight fabric. They come in 4 colors: black, mushroom, paprika, and pewter, which are all fine, but none make me swoon. I have the very orange paprika color and I have a hard time finding good colors to pair them with. One pro is that they come in so many different lengths! I have the 5″ inseam, but there are also 7″, 13″, and 17″ capris.
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Fit:
Great in the fit department! The rise is just right and they hug me in the right places. You’ll need to size down in these shorts, which unfortunately means that if you’re very petite the smallest size offered (2) may still be too large. That said, these will look great on curvier ladies.
Function:
The 86% nylon and 14% spandex fabric makes them super stretchy, allowing for a full range of motion while climbing. They dry quickly and keep everything in place while you’re on the wall and the trail.
Finances:
They’ll cost you $65 which is a little steep, but between the sturdy construction and great function while climbing, I’d say you’ll get your money’s worth.
Crush Status:
Solid. They have everything you need for a reliable climbing short.
Kuhl Kendra Shorts
Reviewed by Emily
Form: These shorts are the most comfortable shorts I’ve ever worn! Unlike other shorts designed for outdoor use, these are soft, comfortable, breathable, and not too scratchy or synthetic feeling. They are really comfortable moving in on the wall–whether going for a wide stem or shimmying up a vertical face, they are flexible and not too exposing (even when going for a high heel hook).
Fit:
I would definitely advise sizing up–the size 2 was a perfect fit for me (and I’m usually between size 0-2 in outdoor apparel). The length is really flattering for shorter people since I tend to find that outdoor shorts can be a bit long. There is an inner elastic drawstring that can be tied for a better fit up top.
Function:
I would easily wear these at the crag, the beach, on a hike, or even in everyday casual summer wear.
Finances:
The shorts come in at $60, which is a good deal for the high quality and versatility. I am wearing them on the regular at the crag this summer!
Crush Status:
For me, these shorts were the dark horse winners of this year’s shorts post! The soft, yet durable material in fun color options comes in a flattering cut for shorter, smaller climbers.
Patagonia Quandary Shorts
Reviewed by Mary
Form: These shorts are super comfy and stretchy without looking spandex. I like that they have two types of back pockets so you can safely stow away items in the zipper pocket or just quickly stash things in the open one. They come in three “classic” outdoor colors: khaki, moss, and gray, and one much more fun, pink option, that happens to be my favorite. I know the word pink scares some of you off, but it’s more of a bright salmon.
Fit:
I am a size 2-4 in outdoor clothing and the 2 fit me well, so err on the side of sizing down. Other reviews echo that these shorts run large. They also have an internal drawstring on the waist so that you can size them to your liking.
Function:
Between the 96% nylon and 4% spandex fabric and a gusseted crotch, you really have a full range of motion while climbing in these. The fabric is lightweight and water repellant, so it stands up to sweat and rain.
Finances:
Coming in at $59, these are right in the middle of the pack in terms of price.
Crush Status:
Overall, I really enjoy climbing in these shorts and would definitely recommend them to a friend (and to you!).
Outdoor Research Essentia Shorts
Reviewed by Emily
Form: Finding a pair of spandex shorts that aren’t too short (because who really likes climbing in booty shorts?), but still a cute length (ie: not cycling shorts) turned out to be really difficult! These shorts from Outdoor Research were the best option we found. They are comfortable, lightweight, breathable, and still work well with a harness. My only wish is that they came in more fun colors or patterns.
Fit:
Not too short and not too long, these were just right! I usually size up in spandex shorts, but the XS was a perfect fit in these shorts. They are form-fitting, but not restrictive nor thigh-hugging. I would size up if you’re curvier on the bottom or on the long-legged side.
Function:
These shorts can be used for more than just climbing! The light, breathable material with a small pocket for ID cards and keys makes them perfect warm-weather running shorts, and is easy to pack in a work bag for hitting the weight room or yoga class in the evenings.
Finances:
While they aren’t a huge bargain, the price seems to be on par with other high-end spandex shorts at $55.
Crush Status:
If you just can’t leave the spandex at home this summer, these shorts are a great option for cute, not-too-short shorts.
Arc’teryx Parapet Shorts
Reviewed by Emily
Form: These shorts were the most lightweight, breathable, and quickest-drying of the bunch, and feature a zippered pocket, which was handy for stowing a small snack or hair ties at the crag. However, I found the material was a bit stiff and rough on my legs after a long day in a harness. I am a sucker for all things purple and loved the color of these shorts.
Fit:
I found the crotch and leg openings to be a bit stiff and inflexible for climbing. The length and cut are very flattering for taller, curvier climbers.
Function:
These are great for hiking or water sports, but not my first choice for climbing. The durable material will stand up great for bushwhacking and brushing up against rocks.
Finances:
The most expensive of the bunch ($85), the price was as expected for the brand and the high quality of the material.
Crush Status:
While normally a huge Arc’teryx fan, I think these shorts are better suited for activities other than climbing, but a worthwhile addition to your summer wardrobe if you’re into hiking, backpacking, or water sports!
Share the love and tell us about your favorite climbing shorts!
Climb on!
Emily & Mary
