Rainier Women's Hiking Shorts - Stretch, Water-Repellent Fit

In this review of the Rainier Women's Hiking Shorts the bottom line is simple: these are hiking shorts aimed at active women who need stretch, durability, and sun protection in one lightweight piece. The reviewer found the two-way nylon/spandex fabric moved easily during steep uphill sections and scrambling, while the durable water-repellent finish shrugged off light drizzle. Built-in UPF and a slightly curvy mid-rise fit make these shorts a practical choice for day hikes and outdoor chores. Our review highlights the balance of performance fabrics and a comfortable fit as the main reason to buy.

Key Features

• Two-way stretch fabric: The nylon/spandex blend allows full range of motion on steep trails and over rough terrain so movement never feels restricted.
• Durable water-repellent finish: Light rain and splash protection help keep you comfortable during changeable mountain weather without heavy waterproofing.
• Built-in UPF protection: Sun protection in the fabric reduces exposure on exposed trails without needing an extra layer.
• bluesign certified production: The brand partnership means the textiles meet stricter criteria to keep harmful chemicals out of the supply chain and environment.
• Machine wash care: Easy home care with cold delicate cycle and tumble dry low preserves performance and fit with routine washing.
• Slightly curvy mid-rise fit: Designed to sit below the natural waist and provide moderate shaping through hip and thigh for more comfort on active days.

Who It's For

These shorts are best for women who hike, backpack light, or spend long days outdoors and want freedom of movement plus sun protection. The fabric is durable enough for rocky trails and the DWR finish handles brief wet conditions without the weight of a rain shell.

People who need full waterproofing, heavy insulation, or a very loose fashion short should look elsewhere; similarly, if you prefer a high-rise or highly tailored city fit, these mid-rise, slightly curvy performance shorts may not match that style priority.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Stretchy nylon/spandex blend offers comfortable mobility for hiking and scrambling.
• Durable water-repellent finish sheds light moisture while keeping the shorts lightweight.
• Built-in UPF adds sun protection for long trail days without extra layers.
• bluesign partnership signals more responsible textile production and fewer harmful chemicals.

Cons

• Not fully waterproof in sustained heavy rain, so it is not a replacement for rain pants or shells.
• The slightly curvy mid-rise fit may not suit those who prefer a high-rise waistband.

Specifications

Brand	Eddie Bauer
Fit	Slightly Curvy, mid-rise
Material	Nylon/spandex two-way stretch
Finish	Durable water-repellent (DWR)
Sun Protection	Built-in UPF
Care	Machine wash cold delicate; tumble dry low; cool iron
Environmental	bluesign certified textile production

Our Verdict

The Rainier Women's Hiking Shorts are a practical pick for active women who want stretch, sun protection, and a durable finish in a lightweight short. They offer strong value for day hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who need comfortable mobility and responsible textile sourcing, though they are not meant to replace rainproof outerwear in prolonged wet conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts suitable for wet weather?
The DWR finish repels light moisture and splashes but they are not fully waterproof for heavy or prolonged rain.

How does the fit run?
They are described as slightly curvy and sit below the natural waist with moderate shaping through hip and thigh.

Can I machine wash them?
Yes; machine wash cold on delicate with like colors, tumble dry low and remove promptly.