Womens Rainier Short - Lightweight Hiking Shorts with DWR

In this review of the Womens Rainier Short the bottom line is simple: these are lightweight, packable hiking shorts designed for warm-weather outdoor activity and built for unrestricted movement. They borrow the silhouette of Eddie Bauer's Women's Guide Pro Shorts but use a Flexion nylon/spandex blend and a durable water-repellent finish to balance mobility, quick drying, and brief protection from light moisture. For anyone seeking comfortable, practical shorts with useful pockets and a slightly curvy mid-rise fit, these are worth considering.

Key Features

• Performance fabric: The Flexion nylon/spandex blend delivers stretch for unrestricted mobility during hikes and active days.
• Water resistance: A durable water-repellent finish sheds light rain and splashes so the shorts stay comfortable on damp trail sections.
• Packed with pockets: Strategically placed pockets, including a zipped front pocket mentioned by users, keep essentials secure and accessible on the move.
• Sun protection: Built-in sun protection helps reduce exposure on sunny outings without adding weight or bulk.
• Packable and light: The lightweight construction packs down easily for travel or layered storage in a daypack.
• Sustainable production: Made in partnership with bluesign to reduce harmful chemicals in textile processing for a more responsible garment.

Who It's For

These shorts are aimed at women who hike, travel, or spend long days outdoors in warm weather and who want a balance of stretch, utility, and refined styling. The slightly curvy fit sits below the natural waist and is mid-rise, so they work well for those who prefer moderate coverage and mobility without a clingy feel.

Those needing heavy waterproofing, insulated warmth, or a very long inseam should look elsewhere; the Rainier Short is optimized for breathability and light water resistance rather than full storm protection, and the inseam options are focused on shorter active silhouettes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable stretch fabric that moves with the body for hiking and everyday wear.
• Durable water-repellent finish and sun protection add practical defense on trail days.
• Thoughtful pocket placement and at least one zipped front pocket make carrying small items secure and convenient.
• Lightweight and packable, easy to stow in a daypack or suitcase.

Cons

• Sizing feedback is mixed; some shoppers report variances in fit so trying or checking measurements is recommended.
• Not intended as full rain gear, so heavy downpours will penetrate over time.

Specifications

Fit	Slightly Curvy Fit, mid-rise
Inseam	7 reg | 6.5 in
Fabric	94% nylon / 6% spandex (Flexion)
Finish	Durable water-repellent (DWR)
Features	Sun protection, multiple pockets, packable
Care	Machine wash cold, delicate; tumble dry low; do not bleach or use fabric softeners
Sustainability	Produced in partnership with bluesign criteria

Our Verdict

The Womens Rainier Short is a practical, comfortable choice for active women who need lightweight, stretchable shorts with useful pockets and light weather resistance. While not a substitute for full rain shells, its blend of mobility, packability, and sustainable production makes it a solid value for hiking and everyday outdoor use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts true to size?
Many customers find them true to size, but there are mixed reports so checking the brand sizing or trying them on is advisable.

Can these shorts handle wet weather?
The DWR finish handles light rain and splashes, but they are not fully waterproof for heavy or prolonged storms.

How should I care for them?
Machine wash cold on delicate with like colors, do not bleach or use fabric softeners, tumble dry low and remove promptly; cool iron if desired.