prAna Stretch Zion Shorts II - Durable, Recycled Everyday Short

In this review of the prAna Stretch Zion Shorts II the bottom line is simple: these are versatile, hard-wearing shorts for anyone who wants lightweight comfort plus durable water repellency made from recycled materials. The reviewer found the fit true to the intended three-quarter length and appreciated the PFAS-Free DWR and Re-Zion recycled nylon blend fabric for repsonsible performance. Built with practical pockets and a zip-fly with button closure, these shorts are aimed at active everyday wearers who value sustainability and utility without extra bulk.

Key Features

• Recycled performance fabric: The Re-Zion blend of 95% recycled nylon and 5% elastane offers a stretchy feel that holds shape through activity.
• PFAS-Free DWR: Durable water repellency sheds light moisture and dries quickly without PFAS chemicals, making them better for regular outdoor use.
• Functional pockets: Two front hand pockets, one flap thigh pocket and two patch back pockets give secure storage for essentials on the move.
• Secure closure: Zip-fly and buttoned closure provide a familiar, reliable fit for hiking and daily wear.
• Responsible production: Blue sign approved materials and a Fairtrade certified factory reduce the environmental and social footprint of the shorts.

Who It's For

These shorts suit men who spend time outdoors, commute by bike, or want a comfortable flat-front short with functional storage for day trips. The fabric stretch and PFAS-Free DWR make them a good pick for light hiking, travel, and errands where moderate water resistance and mobility matter.

Those seeking a dressier short or a fabric with heavy insulation should look elsewhere; these are designed as performance everyday shorts rather than tailor-made fashion or cold-weather pieces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable four-way stretch and recycled nylon blend that moves with activity.
• PFAS-Free DWR offers practical moisture resistance while avoiding certain harmful chemicals.
• Well thought-out pocket layout including a thigh flap pocket for quick access storage.
• Made with Blue sign approved materials and produced in a Fairtrade certified factory for added sustainability and ethics.

Cons

• The three-quarter length and flat-front style are not suited to formal settings or cold weather layering.
• The performance fabric is lightweight, so it offers limited insulation in cool conditions.

Specifications

Brand	prAna
Fabric	Re-Zion recycled nylon blend (95% recycled nylon, 5% elastane)
Water Repellent	PFAS-Free DWR
Closure	Zip-fly with buttoned closure
Pockets	Two front hand pockets, one thigh flap pocket, two back patch pockets
Certifications	Blue sign approved materials; Fairtrade certified factory
Care	Machine wash, tumble dry

Our Verdict

The prAna Stretch Zion Shorts II are a reliable, responsibly made everyday short for active men who value mobility, useful pocketing and light water resistance. They represent strong value for anyone wanting recycled performance fabric and practical details, though buyers expecting formal styling or heavy insulation should consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts machine washable?
Yes, the shorts are machine washable and can be tumble dried following the care instructions.

What is the fabric made of?
The fabric is a Re-Zion recycled nylon blend composed of 95% recycled nylon and 5% elastane for stretch.

Do they repel water?
They have a PFAS-Free DWR finish that sheds light moisture and helps the fabric dry faster, but they are not fully waterproof.