Ladies’s Nike Dri-FIT Tempo Shorts Evaluation

Bottom Line

The Nike Dri-FIT Tempo Shorts have become one of our favorite budget-friendly options for warm-weather hikes and trail runs. We love how incredibly lightweight and breathable they are – the soft fabric with mesh side panels and built-in liner keeps us comfortable, even on hot days. In the miles we tested them around Reno and on the Pacific Crest Trail, we found them perfect for high-energy outings where you don’t want extra weight holding you back. They also pack down easily when you’re done.

That said, storage is a bit limited compared to other top women’s hiking shorts, with just a small waistband pocket that’s enough for a key or card but not much else. Over time, we noticed the waistband started to loosen a little, too. Despite this, you can use the built-in drawcord to keep them secure.

If you’re looking for a simple, comfy pair of shorts that dry quickly and won’t break the bank, we think the Tempos are a great choice.

Comfort

The Dri-FIT Tempo Shorts nail comfort in all the right ways but chafing. What makes them stand out is their ultra-breathable, lightweight design: the built-in liner and side mesh panels keep airflow high, making them handy for intense, sweaty activities. The fabric is light and airy, keeping us cool on uphill climbs and longer trail runs, even when it’s warm. The elastic waistband is comfortable, didn’t dig in during our grueling test hikes, and also includes a draw cord, which we appreciated after noticing a bit of stretch over time.

We did have some comfort complaints, however. One downside is that the shorts run small, and the waistband dug in in the smaller size. Sizing up might not look as flattering but might be more comfortable. (Bear in mind that we were not able to test both sizes.) We also noticed the seams rubbing our legs when we got really sweaty. 

But for light and comfortable hikes or workouts, these shorts feel fantastic. Overall, the Dri-FIT Tempos excel at keeping us comfortable and free, making them an easy choice for trail running, hot-weather hikes, or quick outdoor outings.

Durability

 Durability is where the Dri-FIT Tempo Shorts show their limits. During our durability testing—hiking multiple times per week, including brushing up against rocks and thick brush—the fabric held up well initially but showed signs of wear after consistent use. The waistband began to relax and stretch out, which left us relying more on the drawcord for a snug fit. The fabric is ultra-light, which feels amazing in use, but it’s definitely not designed to withstand long-term wear. They seemed built to last only one season.

We washed them multiple times, and they maintained their color and feel, though we noticed they started to bag out a bit more, loosening the fit. Overall, they’re best for lighter adventures rather than heavy-duty treks where you need shorts that can hang on for the long haul.

Features

These shorts keep things simple, with a streamlined, low-fuss design that’s easy to love – but there’s not much storage. The only pocket is a tiny “finger pocket” inside the waistband, which just fits keys or a card. It’s convenient for light essentials, but anyone needing more storage might find this limiting. We found ourselves occasionally wishing for a bit more pocket space, especially on trails where we wanted to keep a phone or snacks close at hand. Even using the finger pocket for a set of keys tends to pull the shorts down a bit, requiring us to use the drawcord to keep them in place since they are so light.

That said, simplicity is part of the charm. These shorts are all about minimalism, which we really appreciated when we just wanted to throw them on and go. So if you’re not fussed about storage, these are refreshingly straightforward.

Drying Time

These shorts are designed for quick-drying performance, and they deliver. After a steep hike that left us pretty sweaty, they dried out almost immediately once we stopped moving. The fabric is ultra-thin and wicks moisture decently, but they don’t have any built-in water protection. These shorts excel in terms of drying faster rather than protecting against water when it rains. If you’re hiking in humid conditions, splashing through streams, or getting soaked in the rain, the shorts won’t stay damp for long.

Though they do get soaked through easily, they dry so quickly that this wasn’t a big drawback. For anyone who prioritizes drying fast on the trail, these shorts are a clear win.

Weight & Packed Size

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Bermuda Shorts pack down well. In terms of the shorts that we tested, they fall around midrange at about 4.7 ounces. For the coverage they offer, this is an excellent weight, making them a great choice for international travel or long backpacking trips. The fabric is lightweight and easily folds or rolls up. It packs down well and isn’t bulky. We tested how well these shorts packed by stuffing them into various spaces in our pack, and they squished down without issue, leaving plenty of room for the rest of our stuff. The soft material doesn’t take up much space, even when compressed.

On the trail, the lightweight nature of the shorts felt relatively unnoticeable. 

Should You Buy the Nike Dri-Fit Tempo Shorts?

The Nike Dri-FIT Tempo Shorts are great for hikers who prioritize lightness, breathability, and simplicity in their shorts. We especially like their value – after all, we awarded these shorts a CleverHiker Budget Buy badge. We think they’re a great value for anyone who needs a go-to pair of shorts that’s easy, affordable, and performs well. For easy-going hikes or a breezy trail run, the Nike Dri-FIT Tempo shorts won’t let you down.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

For more options, please see our full guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.

Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Review – Lightweight and breathable, these shorts are ideal for trail runners who want a flattering, soft fit with functional pockets. They’re perfect for warm-weather hiking but may not be as durable as other options and could wear out quickly.

Patagonia Baggies 5″ Shorts Review – Baggies have a casual look with deep pockets and a rugged build and style that makes them great for both trail use and everyday wear. The nylon fabric is thicker, offering durability, but can feel a bit stiff compared to the Dri-FIT Tempo. If you need shorts for more than just hiking and durability for short hikes and daily use, these are a great value.

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review – The Janji have a “barely there” feel; they are incredibly lightweight and comfortable with a handy pocket for small items. Though shorter than the Tempo, they’re well-suited for warm, active days on the trail. They are also made from recycled materials, a plus for eco-conscious hikers.