Womens Rainier Short - UPF 50, Stretch Hiking Short

In this review of the Womens Rainier Short, the bottom line is simple: these are hiking-focused shorts that prioritize comfort and sun protection. Designed for active days on trail or casual summer wear, they stand out because of the combined Flexion two-way active stretch and FreeShade UPF 50 protection, which together make them easy to move in while limiting sun exposure. The review finds them especially appealing to women who want lightweight, easy-care shorts with practical pockets and a durable finish that sheds light moisture.

Key Features

• bluesign certified fabric: Ensures the textiles were produced with environmental and safety standards, so the material has a smaller ecological footprint compared with conventional fabrics.
• Flexion two-way active stretch: Allows unrestricted movement on climbs and scrambles while keeping the shorts comfortable during long hikes.
• StormRepel DWR finish: Sheds light moisture and drips, so damp conditions or brief showers are less disruptive when out on trail.
• FreeShade UPF 50: Provides high sun protection for exposed legs during long days outdoors, reducing the need for constant sunscreen reapplication.
• Lightweight construction: Feels minimal on the body and packs down small, making the shorts convenient for travel and multi-day trips.

Who It's For

These shorts are best for women who hike, travel, or spend active time outdoors and want a comfortable, breathable short with sun protection and stretch. The combination of comfort and practical details like pockets and a water-shedding finish makes them a reliable choice for day hikes and casual outdoor use.

Those who want heavy-duty waterproofing, insulated warmth, or a fashion-forward city short with dressier materials should look elsewhere. Also, shoppers who prefer an exact fit may want to try on or check sizing notes, since customer feedback shows some variation in how sizes run.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable fit and good mobility from the Flexion two-way stretch.
• High UPF 50 sun protection for long days in sun-exposed environments.
• Lightweight, breathable fabric with StormRepel DWR for brief moisture resistance.
• Practical pockets including at least one zipped front pocket for small items.

Cons

• Some customers report inconsistent sizing, so trying a size or checking a sizing chart is advised.
• Not fully waterproof-designed to shed light moisture but not to replace a rain shell.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Womens Rainier Short is a smart choice for active women who need a comfortable, sun-protective short for hiking and warm-weather adventures. With certified fabric, stretch, and a DWR finish, it offers durable, practical value for outdoor use; just verify sizing before purchase to ensure the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shorts good for day hikes?
Yes, they are designed for hiking with stretch for movement, lightweight fabric, and pockets for small essentials.

Do they protect from sun exposure?
Yes, the FreeShade UPF 50 provides high sun protection for exposed skin on the legs.

Will they keep you dry in rain?
They have a StormRepel DWR finish that sheds light moisture, but they are not fully waterproof for heavy rain.