Yes, you can hike in jean shorts, though they may not be the most comfortable attire to hike in. In fact, hiking in jean shorts can cause some serious discomfort in the wrong scenario.
Jean shorts, or “Jorts” for cute, are the denim darlings of the shorts world. They can come in a variety of colors and styles, much like regular jeans, which can accommodate many style and fit preferences.
Hiking in jean shorts will likely be just fine on a short hike on a sunny day. However, if your jean shorts are ill-fitting or the weather is untoward, you might have a miserable experience altogether. To find out what over 800 hikers think about hiking in jeans, be sure to check out my other post here!
4 Pros of Hiking in Jean Shorts
If you’re looking for the reasons that jean shorts might be good for hiking, look no further! On a nice warm day, jean shorts can make a great apparel choice, particularly if you find them comfortable to begin with.
1. Durable
Compared to other fabrics, denim is extremely durable. It doesn’t snag as easily as other fabrics, and pilling is a non-issue with this tough fabric. Jean shorts will be able to stand up to rough terrain if you plan on hiking a rugged trail, taking breaks on tree stumps and rocks, or getting down in the dirt.
High-friction areas, like the inner thighs, can cause fabric to wear down. Jean shorts will be able to handle this friction longer than other shorts, particularly if you’re going on long hikes or repeated hikes.
Bums also face a lot of friction while hiking, as it’s common to sit down on rough terrain. I have also seen a lot of hikers bum-scootching down steep trails. Having a durable fabric, like denim, can make this experience more comfortable, especially if you’re preventing holes in the nether-regions.
2. Trendy
Jean shorts have withstood the test of time because they’re fashionable and purposeful. Jeans can make almost any outfit look good, which might be important if your motivation for hiking is the cute photos to post to Instagram, or if you’re wanting to impress your hiking partner(s). (I’ve been there!)
If fashion is important to you on your hike, jean shorts can be an excellent option.
3. Various Styles and Colors
Another benefit of jean shorts is that they come in a variety of styles. Long, short, baggy, tight, dark, light, black, white… there are so many options for the fit, style, and color of jean shorts.
If you want to hike in jean shorts, you’re likely to be able to find a pair that feels comfortable and looks good on you. Many people already own jean shorts that they like too, which can be a convenient outfit choice for a short-notice hike.
4. Pockets
Compared to other kinds of shorts (I’m looking at you, bike shorts and running shorts!), jean shorts tend to have multiple pockets that are actually functional. While this occurrence might decrease with short-shorts and tight shorts, they still tend to have more pocket options than other shorts.
Pockets can come in handy to store frequently-used items, like snacks and cell-phones on hikes. Although they’re not necessary to have, they truly become a luxury, particularly if you don’t want to bring a pack.
3 Cons of Hiking in Jean Shorts
It should be a given that hiking in jean shorts is not a good idea in untoward weather. If there is a chance of you becoming cold, either through cold temperatures, wind, or precipitation, it might be a good idea to forego the jean shorts for some warmer apparel.
However, there are a few other reasons jean shorts might not be the best idea for a hike. Here are some reasons you might not want to choose jean shorts to hike in:
1. Heavy
Compared to other shorts, jeans are a heavy material. This might not make a difference for short or easy hikes, but on long or difficult hikes, you might find your legs feel heavy and tired after hiking with extra weight.
Heavy materials also tend to fall down more than lighter materials. Depending on how much energy you burn, you might find your jean shorts sliding down a bit too, particularly on any descent. A belt might be a good idea, which also adds more weight.
2. Uncomfortable When Wet
Jeans do not dry quickly or easily, so they hold onto moisture for a long time, regardless if that moisture comes from precipitation or sweat.
Wet and soggy jeans can be very uncomfortable, and can also cause chafing or rubbing depending on how they fit.
If your chosen hike has any chance of encountering rain, or you think you might sweat a lot, you might want to skip the jeans for something more absorbent and protective.
3. May Cause Irritation
Depending on how your jeans fit, they might rub your skin and cause rashes, raw areas, and pain.
One common area of concern is the cuff on the bottom of jean shorts. This cuff can rub on the opposite leg and cause irritation, particularly if the jean shorts are tight or your thighs rub. As well, some people have metal allergies and can be irritated by the buttons on jeans pressing into their skin.
If you’re anything like me, your jean shorts are also quite short, leaving your thighs exposed. As you hike, your thighs rub together and cause the dreaded “chub rub”. This rash on your inner thighs can sting and be very uncomfortable for your hike.
Jean shorts can also cause irritation when moisture is inserted into the equation. Moisture softens the skin and makes it more susceptible to injury (see point #2).
When To Hike in Jean Shorts
Although hiking in jean shorts might not be perfect for all occasions, there are definitely times when it is acceptable to select them for an adventure. Some of those occasions are:
- When You’re Doin’ It For The ‘Gram – If you’re hiking for the pretty pictures (no judgement here!) jean shorts can make for some very cute and stylish photos.
- If You Need Durability – If the trail is rugged or you plan on sitting down lots, jean shorts can withstand lots of wear and tear before showing signs of any damage.
- If You Only Have Jean Shorts – If jean shorts are your only option, they will definitely work just fine for a hike.
- If You Find Them Comfortable – Some people actually enjoy lounging around in jeans. If you have a pair that you find comfortable and don’t mind spending time in, jean shorts might be a great choice for a hike, particularly if it’s an easy or moderate trail.
When Not To Hike in Jean Shorts
It should be noted that jean shorts are shorts, and don’t offer much in terms of warmth or protection for the lower legs. Jean shorts (or any shorts) are not appropriate for cool weather days when there is a risk of losing heat to the environment. Ensure you take wind and altitude into the equation as well.
Some other times you might want to skip the jean shorts for another option are:
- Long Hikes – Although jean shorts will definitely hold up for long hikes, you’re likely to experience some discomfort or sweating over a long distance. Try to choose a comfortable pair of shorts that are actually designed for exercise if this is the plan. (Ex. hiking in running shorts).
- Wet Hikes – If there’s a chance of precipitation on your hike, skip the jean shorts for something more waterproof to prevent a heavy, soggy, uncomfortable hike. Another option is to pack a pair of rain pants for use if needed, though they tend not to be overly comfortable on bare legs either.
Questions?
Have you ever hiked in jean shorts? Why or why not? If you head out on the trails with your favorite pair of jorts, be sure to drop a comment below and let me know how it goes!
Also, if there’s something I didn’t answer for you, give a shout and I’ll get back to you!
Happy trails!