Ladies’s Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts Overview

Bottom Line

The Patagonia Multi Trails shorts quickly became one of our favorite hiking shorts for their comfort, lightweight design, and practical pockets. They are great for trail running, fast missions, and hot hikes where low weight is a top priority. Though they come at a higher price than similar models, we feel they’re worth it. We love the flattering fit, zippered pockets, and convenient key loop, which all came in handy during our hikes around Donner Pass and Lake Tahoe.

The breathable fabric is great for staying cool on long, sweaty days, though we noticed that filling the pockets too much or with something heavy made the shorts sag a bit. There’s a draw cord to adjust, but we generally prefer to rely on just a waistband for comfort. The fabric is soft and comfy but showed some wear after a few tough hikes, so they might not be the best for rocky scrambles. Still, the comfort and lightweight feel make them a great choice for most trails if you want to go light and fast.

Comfort

The Patagonia Multi Trails shorts really nailed comfort for us. We love how the waistband feels soft and stretchy, without causing any irritation, even with a loaded backpack. We took them out in both hot and cool weather, and they kept us comfy and dry through it all. The lightweight, breathable fabric made a huge difference on warm days. If staying comfy on the trail is your priority for light and fast missions, these shorts deliver, though the snug liner might irritate some.

Durability

On the durability front, the Multi Trails are decent but not at the front of the pack. We tested them on rocky trails and through thick brush, and while the fabric didn’t tear, it did get dirty quickly and snagged a bit. Compared to other similar models, they are less durable. However, for regular trail use or long, light missions, they hold up well. If you’re looking for something that can handle rough scrambles, these might not be the best fit, but they’re solid for when you want to stay light and fast.

Features

We really appreciated the features of these shorts. This is where other lightweight options just can’t compete. The zippered hand pockets were deep enough for our phones and essentials, and the small back snap pocket plus key loop came in handy. While the shorts did sag a bit when we loaded up the pockets, the internal drawcord was a nice touch for adjustments. The mesh lining in the pockets was great for quick access. If practical features, good storage, lightness, and comfort are high on your list, these shorts are a great choice.

Dry Time

We were pleasantly surprised by how quickly the Multi Trails shorts dried – among the fastest in the lineup. Despite getting soaked from sweat or otherwise, they dried out fast and were not uncomfortable when wet, which was a big plus. They do eventually wet out, but the DWR coating was useful in light precipitation and these shorts dried quickly. For those who encounter water on their hikes or need gear that dries fast, these shorts are a great choice.

Weight & Packed Size

When it comes to weight and how they pack down, the Multi Trails shorts are impressive. They’re super light, and we were amazed at how small they pack – ideal for minimalist hikers. They are one of the lightest shorts we tested, but they have more features than the average UL pair. Even after a full day on the trail, they felt almost weightless. If you’re all about keeping your pack light and avoiding bulk, these shorts are a top pick. They’re perfect for those who want to move fast and light, but want more pockets than a traditional athletic short.

Should You Buy the Patagonia Multi Trails?

The Patagonia Multi Trails shorts are a great pick if you’re an intense hiker or trail runner looking for a blend of comfort and functionality. Their lightweight, breathable fabric excels on hot, sweaty days and offers a flattering fit that moves with you, whether you’re tackling steep inclines or navigating rugged trails. They’re perfect for those who prioritize comfort and appreciate well-designed pockets for essentials.

However, if you often find yourself on rough, rocky terrain or need heavy-duty durability, these shorts might not be ideal. Their thin fabric, while soft, can show wear quickly when subjected to abrasive surface or thick brush. Despite this, their overall value is solid for anyone looking to stay light and fast on moderate trails. If you’re in the market for top-performing hiking shorts that excel in warm weather and breathability, the Multi Trails are worth considering.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If we’re looking at alternatives to the Patagonia Multi Trails, there are a few great options to consider. 

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Short Review: The Janji 3″ AFO Middle Short are a great choice for those who need something extremely lightweight and slightly more durable due to their shorter length with a handy phone pocket. These shorts performed well on a 50-mile hike, keeping us cool and chafe-free. The design is minimal and flattering, the fabric breathable and light. 

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: The Outdoor Research Ferrosi are best If you need something that combines durability with comfort. They are still fairly lightweight, dry quickly, and feature deep, practical pockets. Though the waistband might feel tight for some, and the belt a bit pointless, they’re generally a great all-rounder for hiking. 

Houdini Wadi Short Review: If you want something longer but dries just as fast, the Houdini Wadi Short excel in breathability with their ultralight Liquid Rock fabric. They offer a barely-there feel and are highly comfortable in hot, humid conditions. However, the waistband has a flat-laying belt that we found cumbersome in terms of usability and fit (ran large). However, they’re ideal if you’re looking for longer, lightweight, breathable shorts that handle sticky weather well.