Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Shorts - Lightweight Hiking Shorts

In this review of the Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Shorts, the bottom line is simple: these are practical, lightweight hiking shorts for women who want mobility and dependable performance in warm weather. Built on a two-way stretch nylon/spandex blend, the Rainier Shorts deliver comfortable movement and everyday durability, while a durable water-repellent finish and built-in sun protection make them suited for trail days and active travel. The fit leans slightly curvy, so they balance coverage and a mobile silhouette for longer outings.

Key Features

• Fabric: The Flexion performance nylon/spandex blend provides two-way stretch for unrestricted mobility during hikes and scrambling over uneven terrain.
• Weather protection: A durable water-repellent finish sheds light moisture and splashes so a short rain or brush through wet vegetation does not soak the fabric immediately.
• Sun defense: Built-in UPF sun protection reduces exposure during long hours on exposed trails or at high elevation.
• Pockets: Strategically placed pockets, including lower zip pockets and a zippered side pocket, keep essentials like a phone and keys secure and accessible on the move.
• Packability: Lightweight construction makes the shorts easy to pack and quick to dry after washing or exposure to sweat.
• Sustainable production: Made in partnership with bluesign standards to reduce harmful chemicals in textile production and improve environmental handling.

Who It's For

The Rainier Shorts are aimed at women who hike, backpack light, or spend hot days outdoors and want a versatile short that balances comfort and performance. The slightly curvy fit, with a mid-rise that sits below the natural waist, works well for active women who prefer moderate coverage through the hip and thigh without restrictive fabrics.

Those who need heavy insulation, waterproof overpants, or a completely tailored fashion short should look elsewhere; these are performance-focused for warm weather. If you need a compression fit or a very long inseam, the Rainier Shorts may not match those specific preferences.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable two-way stretch fabric that supports range of motion on trail and in daily wear.
• Useful pocket layout with zippered options for phone and valuables during activity.
• Lightweight, quick-drying construction that packs down for travel and multi-day trips.
• Durable water-repellent finish and UPF sun protection add practical protection.

Cons

• Fit runs slightly curvy and some customers note sizing can vary, so try to check fit or size guidance before buying.
• Not intended as a fully waterproof or insulated short for cold or heavy rain conditions.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Eddie Bauer Women's Rainier Shorts are a solid choice for women seeking functional, breathable shorts for hiking and warm-weather outdoor activities. They deliver reliable stretch, useful pockets, and weather-aware finishes at a practical value, making them a good buy for trail users and everyday outdoor wearers who want lightweight, packable performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts machine washable?
Yes, they are machine wash cold on delicate with like colors and tumble dry low; do not use fabric softeners.

Do they offer sun protection?
Yes, the fabric includes built-in UPF sun protection suitable for extended time outdoors.

Are they fully waterproof?
No, they have a durable water-repellent finish to resist light moisture but are not fully waterproof for heavy rain.