Sun hats are an essential piece of gear for any outdoor enthusiast, providing protection from the elements and reducing the need for constant sunscreen reapplication. To help you find the most comfortable, packable, and durable sun hats with top sun and weather protection, we tested 10 of the most promising products from popular brands like Outdoor Research, REI, Sunday Afternoons, and The North Face.

Having hiked over 100 miles in hot, exposed, and windy conditions from the rugged Northern California coastline to the golden and amber autumn forests of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, our gear analyst thoroughly evaluated these sun hats for their performance in the field. She also submerged each one in water to determine its relative weather resistance and quick-drying capabilities.

For additional sun protection recommendations to keep you comfortable and covered when the trail gets exposed, check out these gear guides for more inspiration: Best sun shirts, best hiking pants for women, and best hiking pants for men. Or read our article on what to wear while hiking and backpacking.

And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:

Quick Picks for Sun Hats

Hats off to our first roundup of the best hiking sun hats! Get a quick overview of the best hiking sun hats below, then keep scrolling for more detailed reviews and firsthand insights from the field.

Best Sun Hat Overall: Solbari Trekker Sun Hat Men’s ($65) / Women’s ($65)

Best Ultralight Sun Hat: Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure ($50)

Best Budget Sun Hat: GearTop Navigator Safari Sun Hat ($22)

Best Wide-Brimmed Hat: Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hat ($49)

Most Stylish Hiking Hat: REI Sahara Guide Hat ($43)

Best Cap with a Cape: Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap ($40)

Best Trail to Town Sun Hat: Tilley Ltm6 Airflo Hat ($99)

Most Packable Hat: Buff Explore Booney Hat ($45)

Best Hat for Small Heads: North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat ($45)

Simplest Sun Hat: Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat ($30)

How We Test & Methodology

We thoroughly tested each sun hat extensively, from the Northern California coastline to the Eastern Sierra Nevadas, wearing them in water, on trails, and in high wind conditions. We spent several weeks in early fall, using side-by-side testing to evaluate these sun hats for comfort, durability, weather resistance, features, and packability.

COMFORT

Our comfort ratings focus on fit, breathability, materials used, the inner sweatband lining in the hat, and any additional bonus features. When trying on the hats, we determine how easy it is to get a secure, snug fit using any adjustability features included. 

We inspect all mesh panels and ventilation points to evaluate their effectiveness in providing good breathability during hot and sweaty days, as well as any issues like UV penetration and exposure through areas with looser-weave material. 

We prefer sun hats made with quick-dry material and featuring a soft, smooth sweatband lining to prevent forehead indentations. Finally, we highlight valuable bonus features such as a sunglasses lock on the crown, a ponytail hole in the back, and an anti-glare brim.

SUN PROTECTION

Sun protection is the main reason for wearing a sun hat, so it’s important to choose your style carefully and ideally pick one with a high UPF rating. Brim width is also a key factor, and we find that widths of at least 3 inches provide the best coverage. 

In the field, our gear analyst thoroughly tested the sun hats at different times of day to evaluate their coverage when the sun is at both a low and high angle. 

Hats with a cape attachment can provide better protection, especially around the back of the neck and ears. However, make sure to choose tightly woven materials, as hats with looser weaves can still allow some UV rays to pass through the fabric.

WEATHER PROTECTION

If a sun hat doesn’t provide proper weather protection, it can lead to uncomfortable and frustrating situations — like a brim that keeps flipping up over your forehead in the wind or even flying off in strong gusts. 

In the field, our gear analyst tested every sun hat in our lineup in windy conditions, from the Northern California coast to the high-altitude Sierra Nevada mountains, to gain firsthand insight into their performance. 

Water resistance is another key factor in choosing your sun hat, especially if you expect bad weather from high-altitude thunderstorms or tropical showers during your adventures. We submerged each sun hat in water and then continued with our day to test their water resistance, quick-dry ability, and how droopy they got when wet.

DURABILITY

During our testing process, we closely monitor each sun hat for signs of wear and tear on the trail, deformed brims, or noticeable quality declines. After comparing different materials used in each model’s production, we evaluate them based on overall durability and quality, while identifying which materials are the most functional, breathable, and comfortable for days with intense sun exposure and high activity.

During our review, we also pay attention to any manufacturer’s washing instructions for each hat and notify when special care is needed.  

PACKABILITY

Having a packable sun hat is very convenient when traveling, though it limits its ability to handle wet and windy conditions because of a more flexible brim. For each sun hat in our selection, we tested how easily it could be folded or stored while on the go, also noting how well it keeps its shape once unpacked.

Two other key aspects of packability are bulkiness and weight; like most outdoor gear (hiking sun hats included), we prefer low bulk and lightweight designs.

Why Trust DuskHiker

Gear Analyst Emily Parnay has worn many hats over the years in the mountains — climbing, hiking, scrambling, backpacking, on the water – you name it. She brings a wealth of field experience in what makes a sun hat great. When developing our Hiking Sun Hats Roundup Review, she hiked over 100 miles on exposed, windy trails from the Northern California Coast to the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, testing hats side-by-side on her adventures. She also submerged each sun hat to determine their performance in water and verified if the hats advertised as “floatable” truly floated.

Emily has a background in the outdoor industry and holds a BA in Adventure Education from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. As an outdoor enthusiast who loves spending hours, days, and weeks outside, she understands the importance of sun protection firsthand. From her personal and professional experiences, she is skilled in evaluating outdoor gear, critiquing features, and assessing quality.

Analysis & Results

VALUE

When discussing value, we consider not only the price but also the longevity, performance, and functionality of the gear we review. Sun hats that offer comfort, sun and weather protection, durability, and packability ratings that justify their price are considered high-value purchases.

Our top choice, the Solbari Trekker Sun Hat, may not be the cheapest on our list, but its outstanding quality and performance across all metrics offer great value. This hat will reliably protect you under the sun for years during all your adventures. Similarly, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure and Latitude Hats provide excellent sun and weather protection that justify their price.

As an affordable option, the GearTop Safari Sun Hat still provides excellent value. While it may not have the highest durability and quality, its weather resistance, sun protection, and comfort make it a strong choice even compared to more expensive sun hats. The REI Sahara Guide Hat is also reasonably priced for a simple, stylish sun hat that performs well on the trail. It offers great value as a no-frills option that combines style, durability, and functionality.

COMFORT

When determining the comfort of a sun hat, we consider the softness of the material, the fit and adjustability, added bonus features, breathability, if any forehead indentations were left from the sweatband liner and the shape of the hat.

As expected, the most comfortable hats were also among our top value picks, including the Solbari Trekker Sun Hat, with its almost silky-smooth cooling material, true-to-size fit, and easy adjustability. The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure is our second pick for comfort, thanks to its lightweight material that offers the perfect balance of protection and breathability. The Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hat ranked just a smidge lower, but only due to the long back brim, which affected comfort when wearing a high-stacked backpack.

The GearTop Safari Hat was also among our top picks for comfort, which is truly impressive for such a budget buy – it isn’t quite as breathable as some other options, but the combination of coverage and features makes it a go-to.

The REI Sahara Guide Hat is very comfortable to wear, but we deducted some points because the wide, loosely woven mesh panels could cause burns for people without hair protection around their head. Likewise, we took points away from the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap because it doesn’t perform well in the wind, as the neck flap often leaves the neck exposed.

The final hats we tested didn’t rank high in comfort because of several factors that made them less suitable for extended wear. These include the fit being too tight, lack of coverage and protection, uncomfortable chin cords, forehead indentations, and/or an ineffective brim shape.

SUN PROTECTION

Although most of the sun hats we tested have a high UPF rating, the shape of the hat, the weave of the mesh panels, and the length of the brim all influence the sun protection rating.

The sun hats with the highest sun protection rating are the Solbari Trekker Sun Hat and the Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hat. The Solbari boasts a wide slightly downturned brim with a thicker, longer neck flap that stays put in the wind, unlike the neck flap on the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure and the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap. The Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hat boasts the longest brim at 4 inches on the sides and 4.75 inches in the back, providing complete coverage with its slightly downturned shape.

The GearTop Safari Sun Hat closely follows the Latitude hat with its wide, downturned brim, providing full coverage even at lower angles of sunlight. However, it features more loosely woven mesh panels than the hats listed above.

The hats in our lineup with the least sun protection that we wouldn’t recommend for long periods of sun exposure are the Buff Explore Booney Hat, with its short 2.75-inch floppy brim, and the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II, with its awkwardly shaped brim that bends and deforms easily.

WEATHER PROTECTION

When testing for weather protection, we evaluate both wind and water resistance, as well as any extra features like a floatable brim.

The Solbari Trekker Sun Hat again secures a top spot in another category – it repels water instantly, wicks away sweat and moisture, dries quickly, and stays in place in the wind. The GearTop Safari Sun Hat and Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hat both resist wind and repel water immediately, while also featuring an effective floatable brim that comes in handy for water activities. 

The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is water-resistant, floats, and dries quickly. However, the neck flap can flip up in stronger wind gusts, which slightly lowers its weather protection rating.

The other sun hats in our lineup received lower ratings because they lack wind resistance (tested in 15-20mph winds), with brims flipping up, capes failing to stay in place, or the hats blowing off entirely. The only exception is the North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat, which is the only hat in our lineup that completely lacks water resistance and soaks up water immediately.

DURABILITY

When assessing durability, we examine the quality of the material, any features that have weak points or limitations, and any visible wear and tear from field testing. If there are any special care instructions listed for the hats, we also note them. Most of the hats we tested proved to be durable and of high quality, with only a few products expected to have issues.

The hats with the highest durability include the Solbari Trekker, Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure, Sunday Afternoons Latitude, REI Sahara Guide Hat, and the Tilley LTM6 Airflo. All of these hats are made with high-quality materials that give us nothing to critique and no concerns for long-term use.

After field testing, we noticed a few loose threads on the brim lining of the GearTop Safari Sun Hat – nothing that affects its performance, but enough to see a difference in quality compared to more expensive sun hats. The Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap uses thinner material, and the process for detaching and attaching the cape, combined with its poor performance in stronger winds, makes it seem less durable than the hats listed above. Similarly, the Buff Explore Booney Hat is made of a lower-quality, thinner material.

Lastly, the North Face Horizon Breeze Brimmer Hat and Columbia Bora Bora Booney II are the least durable hats we tested, mainly due to their features that detract from the hat’s performance, including the chin cord quality and sweatband liner quality of the North Face and the brim shape and water staining on the Columbia.

PACKABILITY

Packability refers to how easily a sun hat can be crushed, folded, or stowed away on the go without deforming the brim.

The most packable sun hat we tested is the Buff Explore Booney Hat. This hat can be stuffed or crushed without worry of deforming the floppy brim, and it easily slips into the back pocket of your pants or shorts while on the go. It even includes a built-in storage pocket inside the crown.

The next most packable hats are the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure, which can be folded into quarters into a small package that easily slips into the outer side pouch of your backpack, and the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap. Just after these two hats, the REI Sahara Guide Hat and Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat take the next spots in our packability rankings. These hats can fold several times and easily slip into the top of your pack.

The GearTop Safari, Solbari Trekker, and Sunday Afternoons Latitude Hats have creases that allow you to fold them in half for storage. However, the Latitude Hat requires more force to fold after extended wear, and we recommend hanging or laying it flat.

The least packable sun hat in our lineup is the Tilley LTM6 Airflo, which can’t easily be crushed, folded, or stuffed without damaging the brim over time. This hat should be hung or laid flat to ensure it lasts longer.

How to Choose a Sun Hat

TYPE OF HAT

There are many different types of hats to choose from, such as a straw hat, bucket hat, boonie, brimmer, fedora, or baseball cap. 

Straw Hats 

Straw hats are usually not the best choice for hiking because they lack durability, packability, and breathability, but they can be great for the beach, pool, garden, or around town. 

Bucket Hats 

Bucket hats usually have a smaller floppy brim that, while stylish, does not provide the best coverage for intense outdoor activities with lots of sun exposure.

Boonie Hats

Boonie hats originated in the military and have wider, stiffer brims than bucket hats, but they are still designed to be lightweight and breathable. 

Brimmer Hats

Brimmer hats are wide-brimmed hats made for outdoor use that provide complete sun protection. 

Fedoras

Fedoras are typically made from wool, felt, or straw with a raised crown; these hats are usually worn more for fashion than practicality. 

Baseball caps

Baseball caps lack a full brim, but those made with polyester or other quick-dry materials are ideal for under-helmet use to keep the sun out of your eyes when rafting, climbing, or mountaineering; caps can sometimes come with a removable cape attachment for neck coverage or can always be paired with a sunhoody for a sleeker look on the trail.

COVERAGE

Having excellent full coverage is the main purpose of a sun hat, so researching the brim width, UPF rating, and any cape attachments before purchasing is important. A brim width of at least 3 inches is highly recommended for the best sun protection. Wider brims, such as 4 inches, can provide even better coverage, although they may also cause some limitations, especially if you frequently lift your arms over your head 

Having a UPF rating of 50+ is ideal, but it’s important to remember that some loosely woven mesh panel designs can still allow UV rays to pass through. This is especially pertinent for those who don’t have thick hair protecting their scalp. 

Finally, some hats come with a cape attachment at the back to provide better neck protection. While these capes are usually not the most stylish, they offer fuller coverage throughout the day when the sun’s angle can vary greatly depending on the time.

COMFORT

Comfort is also one of the most important factors when choosing your hat. Since not all hats come in a one-size-fits-all option, you will need to know your head circumference to find the best size for you. This measurement can be taken by wrapping a measuring tape around your head, over the forehead where a hat typically rests.

Luckily, many hats also feature adjustability points, such as a chin strap and a bungee on the crown, which allow for a snugger, customized fit. These features are especially helpful if you find yourself between sizes.

For the most comfortable hats, we recommend choosing ones with a soft sweatband liner inside the crown to prevent indentations on the forehead. We also suggest selecting hats with mesh panels to boost breathability and airflow.

BRIM STIFFNESS

When choosing your sun hat, consider the stiffness of the outer brim. Sun hats with a softer, more flexible brim may look more stylish and are easy to pack for travel, keeping their shape even after being folded. H

owever, they tend to sag when wet and are less resistant to wind. Stiffer-brimmed sun hats are generally more durable and less likely to flip up in the wind but can crease or deform more easily if folded, stuffed, or stored improperly. It’s usually best to store your hat with the brim up to maintain its shape. 

Conclusion

After extensive field testing from California’s seas to its mountains, we present a comprehensive guide to the best sun hats for your hiking adventures. DuskHiker is a team of outdoor enthusiasts who love what we do – we aim to inspire people to get outside and help them make gear choices that make outdoor adventures more accessible. We hope these reviews, tips, and rankings assist you in finding a hat that keeps you protected for miles and years of use. 

Bottom Line

The REI Trailmade Shorts are an excellent all-around functional pair of hiking shorts with superior quick-drying capabilities. Even better, you’re pulling these on at a relatively low price point. Our gear analyst hiked in these shorts in the coastal forests of Occidental, CA, to see if they should make it on our guide to the best hiking shorts for women.

The UPF 50+ material, DWR finish, elastic waistband, and 2-way stretch all combine to create a comfy, high-performing, and durable product. For the most part, we loved the six pockets, including the deep hand pockets and convenient envelope-style thigh pockets. The only gripe is that the thinner material sags with the weight of a phone and other heavier items. 

Overall, we recommend the Trailmade Shorts for being a packable, durable, and quick-drying option for backcountry adventures, day hikes, and even watersports. This is an excellent value short that ranks high in every category with only minor suggestions for improvement. Those looking for options beyond the 5” length will need to keep shopping (the Trailmade only sells at 5”).

How We Tested

We field-tested these shorts hiking in the Northern California coastal forests. We hiked up and down steep terrain, through shade and sun, and also jumped into a lake to submerge the shorts and see how they felt (spoiler alert, they did great). On the trail, we tested their DWR finish, quick-drying capabilities, and comfort.

Comfort

The REI Trailmade Hiking Shorts are exceptionally comfortable and stretchy with their 2-way stretch breathable nylon and spandex material. The fabric feels soft against the skin and never caused any chafing or discomfort when we were high-stepping, squatting, or bending on the trail. 

The waistband sits comfortably without pinching or riding up on strenuous hikes. However, the bungee adjustment on the front of the waistband does stick out a bit and cannot be tucked away inside the shorts. While this did not directly affect comfort, the bungee was noticeable when wearing tight shirts over the shorts, which made it less flattering.

Durability

Even with their relatively low price point, thinner and lightweight material, the Trailmade shorts are surprisingly durable. The material held up well in all kinds of terrain that we hiked in, including rocky scrambles, bushy trails, and wet climates. 

The DWR finish gives it an impressive performance, and the shorts also do not stain easily, even when exposed to dirt and mud. After field testing, we did not notice any wear and tear on the shorts, and the fabric maintained its shape even after alternating between being wet and dry.

These shorts are also straightforward to care for, by just machine washing on cold and tumble drying low.

Features

These Trailmade Shorts are extremely functional and offer a lot of beneficial features. With six pockets, including two in the back, two hand pockets, and two envelope thigh pockets, these shorts can carry all your smaller essential items. 

The front hand pockets are incredibly deep, reaching down the full 5” length of the shorts. However, the lightweight and stretchy material isn’t good for carrying heavier items in the pockets, such as a phone. They sag, feel heavy, and cause some discomfort, so while you “can” load them, we don’t suggest it. With that being said, they are still excellent for lighter and smaller items such as keys, a quick snack, and chapstick. There is also a small cord loop at the waistband where you can hang sunglasses or clip on keys. 

Another feature of these shorts includes their UPF 50+ rated material, which offers extra sun protection when hiking in hot or exposed climates.

Dry Time

The DWR finish on these shorts is working so far, though we know this will fade over time. We wore these shorts on a hike to a lake, noting their comfort before and after jumping into the water. We appreciated that the shorts didn’t cling to her body after getting submerged and dried within 15-20 minutes of hitting the trail.

If the Trailmade shorts just get splashed, the DWR finish effectively repels any moisture, with water beading off the material without reaching the skin. When dry time is a priority, these shorts would be an excellent option to have in your outdoor gear wardrobe.

Weight & Packed Size

At 5.7 oz, the REI Trailmade shorts are relatively lightweight for the price and use case. They have a relaxed fit, but aren’t bulky or baggy.  The thin material folds easily, and these shorts can be rolled up or stuffed away in a pinch. While there are lighter shorts out there, we wouldn’t hesitate to take on a backpacking trip.  We can also easily wear a pair of hiking pants over the Trailmade shorts.

Should You Buy the REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts?

The REI Trailmade shorts are an excellent value with their high rankings in comfort, durability, dry-time, functionality and packability. Anyone looking for a mid-length short with pockets, UPF rating, and water-resistant coating can look no further. We like them best for day hikes and water sports. 

However, those looking for a different length other than 5” will need to look elsewhere since the Trailmade only comes in one length option. Hikers who prefer to carry their larger phone in their pocket while on the trail will also want to consider other hiking shorts. The material of the Trailmade sags and pulls when carrying heavier items like phones.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

While the REI Trailmade Hiking Shorts are a highly recommended option, we have tested numerous other hiking shorts from a wide variety of top-tier brands in the industry. To compare the REI Trailmade shorts to other similar, yet highly rated products, check out our best hiking shorts for women gear guide.

Patagonia Baggies Review: These shorts have fewer pockets and features and slightly stiffer material. However, they have a simple and convenient elastic waistband (no front bungee), are quick-drying, and come in a couple of different lengths.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: A fan favorite, these shorts have similar features to the Trailmade, such as UPF 50, longer length, stretchy material, and quick drying. However, they have a slightly baggier fit, and the belt on the waistband makes them feel bulkier.

Patagonia Multi Trails Review: These hiking shorts are renowned for their ultralight weight at just 3.8 ounces. While they feature similar properties to the REI Trailmade, they do include an inner liner in the shorts, which may or may not be desired depending on personal preference.

Bottom Line

The prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts have a lot to offer. 2-way stretch, adjustable waist cinches, UPF 50 rated durable material, and five deep pockets (our favorite by far being the unique slanted side zippered pocket) all contribute to a high-functioning pair of shorts. 

However, as the name suggests, these aren’t best for wet outings. On some coastal hikes, we quickly learned that the fabric lacks any quick-dry properties and has limited breathability. While they are advertised as moisture-wicking, we weren’t impressed while getting sweaty hiking. Their performance was even less impressive after submerging them in a creek midway. They absorbed a significant amount of water and were no longer comfortable. Again, these are best suited for arid environments.

These cargo shorts are also advertised as high-rise; however, we find these to be more of an ultra high-rise fit. For us, the waist settles over our belly button. The crotch is also slightly bulky, but it does not restrict any movement when high-stepping, squatting, and bending.

How We Tested

Our gear analyst tested these hiking shorts while exploring California state parks in the early summer. She traversed a variety of terrain, including hot and exposed rocky sections, forests, and overgrown trails, all of which provided excellent feedback for the shorts’ breathability, durability, and functionality. She also submerged them in a creek to test their performance when wet and to see how long it took them to completely dry.

Comfort

After hiking through a variety of terrain and high-stepping, squatting, and bending, we got a good feel for the comfort of the Stretch Zion Cargo shorts. The soft material is made with a 2-way stretch, which allows for freedom of movement without pinching or chafing. However, these shorts are much higher-waisted than we expected. 

The design has the shorts sitting above our belly button. Depending on personal preference, this could be a very comfortable style, though we find it to feel a bit excessive. The crotch design is also stiffer and bulkier, and it pooches out when sitting. However, it does not affect the range of motion, and we were still able to move around on our hike without restrictions.

Due to the higher waist and slightly thicker material, the shorts don’t feel as breathable as others in our lineup. On hot and exposed terrain in 80-degree weather, we were getting sweaty and noticed that the shorts were not as moisture-wicking as advertised.

Durability

These shorts are very durable, with no signs of wear and tear after hiking through rocky terrain, overgrown trails, and past pokey tree branches. After submerging the shorts in water, we squeezed excess water out of the material; the shorts easily handled being wrung out, stuffed, and rolled.

The zippers and pockets all appear to have reinforced stitching. The fabric feels slightly thicker than others in our lineup and is of high quality. prAna also rates the Zion Cargo shorts as UPF 50+, which reinforces that these are for sunny and dry climates. When machine washing, prAna suggests washing with like colors and inside out.

Features

These shorts have some excellent, unique, and valuable features. The webbing cinches on either side of the waist allow for an easy, simple, and quick way to customize and adjust the fit. We love how the cinches are placed on the sides, rather than the front of the waist. This design is less bulky, more flattering, and offers more adjustability.

We also love the deep front hand pockets. Our favorite pocket of them all is the unique slanted side zippered pocket. It is the perfect pocket for holding heavier items, like a phone. The design magically holds bulky things without any material chafing, sagging, or discomfort. The pocket slant gives easy access as well. We wish more shorts and pants would have pockets designed like this! The back pockets left us a bit disappointed. The envelope design and zippers aren’t as convenient or accessible to open and close in a pinch.

Dry Time

These are some thirsty shorts! The Zion’s absorb water wholly and without delay, like a dehydrated hiker in the desert. Also, once they are wet, the material turns into a stage five clinger, which is a bummer. We find that it is best to take them off and wring them out after wetting them on hikes.

Another letdown is their dry time. After a hike that gave them ample time to air dry, the shorts were still sopping wet once we got back to the car. We had to lay them out overnight in her house so that they could fully dry. For a hiking short, this dry time is disappointing, making it not ideal for adventures with the potential for inclement weather, swimming holes, and significant sweat.

Weight & Packed Size

At just over 7 ounces, the Zion Cargo shorts in the 5” length are on the heavier side of other products in our lineup. However, the shorts only feel noticeably heavier when saturated with sweat or water. While the material may just be slightly thicker than some other shorts we recommend, the majority of the extra weight comes from the ultra high-rise, which requires more of its durable material.

The shorts are easy to fold, roll up, or stuff into a day pack. They are a bit bulkier than some of the athletic shorts in our lineup due to the waist cinches, zippered pockets, and stiffer crotch design. However, we didn’t find that this significantly affected their packability ranking.

Should You Buy the prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Hiking Shorts?

These prAna stretch zion cargo shorts are a great pick for those embarking on casual adventures or trail to town escapades, where getting wet or excessively sweaty is not on the itinerary. For those who prefer high-rise shorts, these could be the perfect fit, as they have the highest waist of all the shorts in our lineup. The durability, UPF-rated material, pockets, and waist cinches are also excellent features that significantly add to the value of the shorts.

However, due to the reduced breathability in the material and slow dry time, those looking for shorts to take on hot and humid trails or for bottoms that can also be used in the water will want to check out other recommendations in our gear guide. Further, if you find that high-waisted styles are uncomfortable, these prAna shorts will not be your go-to favorite due to their ultra high-rise.

Overall, these are an excellent option for your outdoor wardrobe if you don’t mind their unique fit and lack of water repellency and quick dry properties.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If the prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts are not quite what you are looking for or if you would like to compare them to other products before purchasing, take a look at our full women’s hiking shorts gear guide for other top-notch and high-performing products for the trail.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: These shorts will be more breathable and quick-drying than the prAna Stretch Zion Cargo, however, the adjustable belt loop in the front will be bulkier and less functional than prAna’s side waist cinches.

Patagonia Quandary Review: The Quandary shorts are another durable option to consider – they come in longer lengths and the fabric is also made with DWR for water resistance. They use an internal drawcord instead of waist cinches and are not as high-waisted as the prAna Stretch Zion Cargo.

Kuhl Freeflex Cargo Shorts Review: These shorts come in the longest option at 10,” are UPF rated and have a DWR coating. They have many pockets, however we still prefer the slanted side zippered pocket on the prAna shorts.

Bottom Line

The Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts live up to their name with their unique 360-degree mesh pocket design going all around the waistband. With an additional back zippered pocket, these shorts are perfect for stashing away essentials while trail running (or on a hike). They are also made with quick-drying, 4-way stretch fabric, which makes them ideal for fast-paced adventures. The built-in liner and flattering fit make these shorts an excellent value for trail runners and hikers looking for a lightweight, breathable, and feature-filled pair of athletic bottoms. 

Our gear analyst thoroughly tested these shorts in a variety of terrain: scrambling over rocks and boulders, running along the beach, and hiking on forested trails. The shorts offered excellent freedom of movement when high-stepping, squatting, and bending. They also performed just as well wet as they did when dry.

However, if you prefer shorts without an inner liner, with a UPF rating or with DWR coating for water resistance, you may want to view other hiking shorts suggestions in our gear guide to the best hiking shorts for women.

How We Tested

We took these Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts hiking on coastal trails, scrambling over rocks and boulders, and running along the beach to test their performance in a variety of terrains. We also got the shorts wet in the ocean to determine how they reacted to moisture and if their comfort level changed when the material got wet.

Comfort

These shorts make you feel so fast. It’s probably because of their 4-way stretch and the high percentage of spandex in the material. They are extremely stretchy, soft, and comfy against the skin. We can high step, squat, and run without any chafing, pinching, or discomfort in the waistband or built-in liner. The lightweight material is breathable and wicks away sweat and moisture quickly. 

We found the shorts run true-to-size, but they are definitely “skimpy” compared to traditional hiking shorts. We like the semi-fitted, non-poofy silhouette and the mid-rise waistband, which make the shorts both comfortable and flattering.

Durability

These shorts are simple to care for, with no special washing instructions. The material feels high quality, and we aren’t getting any wear and tear on our field testing adventures thus far. Even after scrambling over rocks and boulders, the shorts were not affected by the abrasive terrain – no holes, tears, or snags could be found. 

However, depending on how the mesh pockets around the waist are used and cared for, we could see this material wearing out/loosening over time. The pockets use a thinner fabric that could be more susceptible to holes or tears over the long term.

Features

By far, the best feature of these shorts is their unique 360-degree mesh pocket design around the waistband. The waist is made up of 4 large stretchy pockets that can fit snacks and smaller trail essentials. This design is more convenient and comfortable than maxing out internal pockets inside the shorts. The Oiselle Toolbelt Roga also features a large zippered back pocket that is easy to reach and another convenient storage option. The internal drawcord on these shorts is simple, not bulky, and hidden well. 

These Oiselle shorts also feature a built-in liner and 4-way stretch due to the high percentage of spandex in the fabric. Unfortunately, the shorts don’t provide a UPF rating, which would be nice to know.

Dry Time

Although the Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts lack any DWR coating for water resistance, we like that they dry very quickly. We took these shorts running on the beach and getting them wet in the waves in Northern California. While water absorbs into the material fairly quickly, the thin and lightweight fabric of the shorts dries fast in the sun. 

Once these shorts get wet, they don’t cling uncomfortably to our skin. We found the Oiselle Toolbelt Roga to perform just as well wet as they did when they were dry – making them an excellent option for hiking adventures where swimming holes, lakes, and waterfalls abound.

Weight & Packed Size

At just over 4 ounces in the 4” length, the Toolbelt Roga shorts are incredibly lightweight, with a barely there feel when wearing. They pack and roll up just as easily as other athletic shorts in our lineup. The large pockets around the waistband of the Toolbelt Roga and the zippered back pocket make them only slightly stiffer when folding them up. Overall, we are satisfied with the packability of these shorts and won’t hesitate to pack them on a trip.

Should You Buy the Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Hiking Shorts?

The Oiselle Toolbelt Roga shorts are an excellent value product for those looking for quick-drying, lightweight athletic shorts with a bunch of features. For endurance athletes, the Toolbelt Roga’s 360-degree mesh pocket design will surely impress, making grabbing those energy gels even easier when you’re trying to make good time. Hikers will also be pleased with how fast these shorts dry – perfect for swimming hole pit stops along the trail.

Hikers looking for shorts with DWR coating for extra water resistance or a UPF rating will want to check out some of the other top picks in our gear guide. Those who also desire a longer length in their shorts or prefer bottoms without an inner liner will also want to peruse our gear guide for alternative suggestions.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If you are in the market for a new pair of versatile, lightweight, and breathable hiking shorts, check out our full gear guide to the Best Hiking Shorts for Women in 2025, selected by our female gear analysts. We have several other recommendations similar to the Oiselle Toolbelt Roga that may catch your eye.

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Review: These shorts also boast five pockets, quick-dry lightweight material, and a built-in liner. However, we preferred the drawstring on the Oiselle to the Rabbit shorts. Keep in mind that the Rabbit shorts run a bit large, while the Oiselle runs slightly smaller.

Nike Dri-Fit Tempo Review: These are an excellent budget-friendly pair of quick-dry athletic shorts. Although they lack the same quality and number of pockets, they are significantly more affordable.

Janji 3” AFO Middle Shorts Review: These shorts are incredibly lightweight, soft and quick-drying – though they lack a significant number of pockets. Both the Oiselle and Janji have a very similar ratio of polyester to spandex in the material.

Bottom Line

While the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” shorts have one of the shortest lengths, they aren’t short on features. With their five pockets, built-in anti-odor liner, drawstring, and side perforations for airflow, these shorts pack a punch for their small size. Not to mention, they are also one of the lightest shorts in our lineup with incredibly soft and thin fabric that contributes to a barely-there feel.

Our gear analyst rocked these shorts while hiking through Mt Tamalpais State Park in Northern California. She hiked several miles over steep terrain, in both shady and exposed environments, testing their performance in a variety of climates. She also got the shorts wet in a nearby creek to determine their dry time and confirm their quick-drying capabilities. 

Overall, these are excellent athletic shorts that rank high in almost every category that we tested. The shorts’ greatest strength (their barely there feel) is also one of their weaknesses. The thin material is likely to be susceptible to tears and snags on unforgiving terrain and overgrown trails (but you’d want pants for this kind of trail anyway, right?). 

For hikers looking for clothing designed with durability in mind for off-trail adventures and scrambling, we suggest that you review the rest of our gear guide to the best hiking shorts for women.

How We Tested

We tested the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly Shorts this spring and summer while hiking through both shady and hot, exposed terrain to determine their breathability and comfort in a variety of climates and terrains. We also got the shorts wet to see how they felt to wear while soggy and then how long they took to air dry.

Comfort

We love how soft the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly shorts are compared to the material of other basic quick-drying athletic shorts. The fabric is buttery smooth and comfy against the skin, and they function just as well wet as they do when dry. During hikes in Northern California, we never experienced any chafing, pinching, or discomfort with the built-in liner or waistband. 

Compared to other brands, these Rabbit shorts run a bit large. We ordered our usual size, and they worked just fine, but were slightly larger than expected. Although the Fuel n’ Fly shorts contain less Spandex than other styles on our list of favorites, they still felt stretchy enough for a full range of motion.

With the loose design around the thighs, the shorts also have adequate airflow and breathability that make them comfortable even when sweating during hikes in hot and exposed terrain.

Durability

During our field testing on the trails of Mt. Tamalpais in Northern California, we didn’t experience any wear and tear with these shorts. We also weren’t “hucking our meat” down any hillsides to see how they’d hold up. But we can surmise how it would go due to the thinner material. If you’re wearing shorts, we suggest sticking to more maintained trails, as the fabric is likely susceptible to tears and snags if you bushwack and scramble off the beaten path. Rabbit designed these shorts mostly with endurance athletes and trail runners in mind, rather than for off-trail adventures.

During our testing, our gear analyst did get some light staining on the fabric from sitting on dirty surfaces. It took a bit of scrubbing, but we were able to get the stains out. Luckily, the shorts don’t have any special washing instructions, and they can also be thrown into the laundry machine.

Features

For such a small pair of shorts with a 2.5” length, these shorts boast an impressive array of features. They include four small interior pockets: two in the front and two in the back. 

We use them for storing her keys and chapstick, but beyond that, they aren’t large enough for on-the-move snacks. To solve that conundrum, Rabbit includes a large zippered pocket in the back of the shorts that can fit a protein bar, a smaller phone, or other similar-sized bits. Attached to the zipper is a long pull tab, which makes the pocket easy to access on the go.

Besides pockets, Fuel n’ Fly shorts have nice features like a built-in liner with anti-odor treatment. The liner is comfortable and doesn’t cause any pinching when squatting or high-stepping. 

To customize the fit of the waistband, Rabbit includes an internal drawcord. However, you must be sure to knot the ends of the strings yourself. They can get lost inside the waistband when we pull them on and off. It is also made with stiff material that feels more bulky than necessary. Overall, we aren’t very impressed with the design of the drawstring.

Dry Time

Although these shorts lack a water-resistant coating and absorb moisture, they are incredibly quick-drying with their thin, lightweight, and breathable fabric. Even after getting the shorts wet in a creek during our hike, the shorts were completely dry by the time we were back at the trailhead. What’s also nice is they don’t cling uncomfortably if they are soggy.

We also like how they wick away sweat during hot, strenuous hikes. The laser-cut square perforations on the sides of the shorts help with additional airflow. Due to the lightweight, breathability, and fast dry time of the Fuel n’ Fly shorts, we highly recommend them to endurance athletes and trail runners.

Weight & Packed Size

At under 4 ounces, these shorts are one of the lightest in our lineup. It’s likey due to a combination of being a short 2.5” length and composed of thin and breathable polyester material. When wearing out on the trail, we have to check to make sure we are wearing shorts because they have such a barely-there feel.

When rolling up the shorts to stash them away, they easily fit inside the smallest front pouch of our mid-sized daypack. The only bulk is from the back zippered pocket. Aside from that, the Fuel n’ Fly shorts are one of the most packable options in our lineup.

Should You Buy the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly Hiking Shorts?

The Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” shorts are ideal for endurance athletes, trail runners, and hikers who desire a lightweight, comfortable, breathable, and quick-drying short for their adventures. With five pockets and a built-in liner, these shorts are versatile and functional. They are an excellent value for those who prefer the shorter 2.5” length, but don’t want to sacrifice on features.

Adventurers looking for more durability in their shorts will want to check out our gear guide for other suggestions. The thin material of the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly may not hold up to the demands of off-trail exploring and hardcore backpacking. Hikers who also desire water resistance and UPF protection in their clothing will want to consider other top-performing brands that are more geared towards backcountry hikers.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If you aren’t sure that the Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly shorts are the best option for you, take a look at our complete gear guide to the best hiking shorts for women. Our female gear analysts have thoroughly tested a variety of brands and styles to provide you with the most up-to-date recommendations.

Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts Review: These shorts also offer five pockets, including a 360 mesh pocket design around the waistband, which we love! We also prefer the drawcord on these shorts to the Rabbit.

Nike Dri-Fit Tempo Review: These are an excellent budget-friendly pair of quick-dry athletic shorts. Although they lack the same quality and number of pockets, they are significantly more affordable.

Janji 3” AFO Middle Shorts Review: These shorts are incredibly lightweight, soft and quick-drying – though they lack a significant number of pockets. The Janji has more spandex in the material, which makes them feel a bit softer and stretchier.

Bottom Line

Many women enjoy hiking and adventuring in compression shorts, so we decided to test the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise this year and see how it stacked against more hiking-specific styles.

Our gear analyst tested this short on local hikes and maintained trails to get a feel for its comfort, functionality, and fit. Since compression shorts are inherently not a go-to for durability, we focused on testing these shorts in more casual outdoor environments. 

With their softer material, the Wunder Trains will be more prone to snags and tears than the more rugged, classic hiking shorts in our lineup. They also lack the water-resistant properties that many of our other hiking shorts recommendations boast.

Overall, the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise is a flattering, body-hugging and movement-friendly short that comes in a 4” and 6” length option and includes an internal drawstring and key pocket. They are an excellent value for women who prefer compression shorts that they can wear on casual hikes, in town, and at their fitness studio. 

The Lululemon EverLux material is renowned for its moderate supportive compression and sweat-wicking properties. The high-rise waistband fits securely and keeps the shorts in place during all types of movement, including squatting, high-stepping, and bending. While our gear analyst was not fond of the lighter blue color pattern she tested the shorts in, she believes that darker colors will better hide any dirt from the outdoors, as well as water spots, potential stains, and underwear lines.

To compare the performance of the Wunder Train shorts to others in our lineup, check out our updated gear guide to the best women’s hiking shorts for more in-depth and detailed reviews.

How We Tested

We tested the Lululemon Wunder Train shorts on casual local hikes, experimenting with a variety of movements including squats and high steps to determine their comfort ranking, functionality, and performance for activities beyond the fitness studio. We also got the shorts wet to see first-hand how they respond to moisture and how long it takes them to dry.

Comfort

The Lululemon Wunder Train shorts are made with their classic EverLux sweat-wicking material that provides moderate compression, as well as movement-friendly stretch. The shorts are soft to the skin, with a barely-there feel. Many women prefer compression shorts for their low-profile design, body-hugging comfort, and versatility for hiking, sports, workouts, and town.

Our gear analyst tested the 4” length of the Wunder Train shorts on her local hikes in Sonoma County, CA, and felt that they provided the perfect amount of coverage. However, depending on how the shorts fit your thighs, you may notice some slight rolling up of the material when you move.

As someone who typically goes for a mid-rise fit, our gear analyst found the high-rise of the Wunder Train Shorts to be extremely comfortable. The waistband fits snugly without being overly tight, preventing the shorts from riding up or down during movement. While Lululemon products have a history of being highly flattering, the Wunder Train isn’t leaving much to the imagination. They will show underwear lines through the material (if you care about this kinda thing). 

Breathability can be an issue with compression shorts.  For this reason, we generally don’t bring them for backpacking trips because we want airflow and quick-drying materials near our lady bits.

Durability

Compression shorts are not designed for durability in the DuskHiker sense of the word. If you’re on a well-graded trail, they won’t wear or snag unless something gnarly happens in the wash/dryer. But if you’re headed out on more rugged terrain, the material is more susceptible to snagging, tears, and holes. Still, Lululemon is known for its quality and lifespan.

So the Wunder Train shorts are best suited to local casual hikes on maintained pathways and trail-to-town ventures. However, we do love how comfy and versatile these shorts are for the active woman – perfect if you are the type of hiker who enjoys incorporating fitness workouts and stretches during your walks and hikes.

Luckily, the shorts don’t require special washing instructions, though we do suggest using a gentle cycle to preserve the fabric and stitching better. While our gear analyst tested the Wunder Train shorts in a light blue color, she wishes she had instead tried a darker color. The light blue shows stains, water spots, and underwear lines much more than darker hues would.

Features

The Lululemon shorts are simple compression bottoms without many bells and whistles. However, they do include a well-hidden internal drawstring that lies flat and is easy to use. There is also a key pocket in the front waistband, making it easy to stash your car key on an adventure. The pocket opening is on the side, rather than the top, which makes it not as convenient to reach, though we still appreciate the design of having a waistband compartment.

Dry Time

At just under 3.5 oz in the 4” length, the Lululemon shorts are one of the lightest shorts in our lineup. When hiking, they offer a barely-there feel and low-profile design that lacks the bulk of more classic hiking short styles. Similar to the athletic shorts in our lineup, these shorts roll up easily for storage and take up very little space in your closet, daypack or suitcase.

Weight & Packed Size

At just under 3.5 oz in the 4” length, the Lululemon shorts are one of the lightest shorts in our lineup. When hiking, they offer a barely-there feel and low-profile design that lacks the bulk of more classic hiking short styles. Similar to the athletic shorts in our lineup, these shorts roll up easily for storage and take up very little space in your closet, daypack or suitcase.

Should You Buy the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts?

The Lululemon Wunder Train is a flattering, comfortable and versatile option for women who prefer the low-profile, body-hugging design and support of compression shorts. They excel in casual hiking environments on maintained pathways and trail-to-town adventures, and are great for those who enjoy incorporating fitness and stretching into their daily hiking workouts. 

However, if you are looking for a more durable pair of shorts that is quick-drying and abrasion-resistant, we suggest that you consider a more classic hiking bottom rather than compression shorts. If you do decide to try out these Wunder Train shorts, we highly suggest that you select a darker color pattern to better hide water spots, stains, and potential underwear lines.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If the Lululemon Wunder Train shorts aren’t exactly what you are looking for, take a look at the other suggestions below, as well as our full gear guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Shorts Review: These shorts are much longer and with a lower rise than the Lululemon, but are also revered for their comfortable and soft material. 

Prana Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts Review: These shorts are also ultra high-waisted, similar to the Lululemon Wunder Train. If you are looking for more durable, classic hiking shorts that are also high-rise, the Prana Zion may be a great fit.

Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts Review: These comfy, flattering shorts with a relaxed fit and wide yoga-style waistband are an excellent option to consider if you are in the market for a more classic, quick-drying athletic short. These also come with five pockets!

Bottom Line

Even as our most budget-friendly recommendation, the Glorsign Outdoor Puffy blanket is a versatile, large, user-friendly, and durable blanket that comes in an array of mountain-inspired patterns. It features a stuff sack, cape clip, and four corner loops, as well as DWR-coated material that offers excellent water resistance. 

While the blanket showed no wear and tear after adventuring in the redwoods and beaches of Northern California, the material still felt noticeably lower quality than more expensive brand-name products in our lineup. It is definitely thinner and not as warm as its competitors. However, it still performed adequately in the field and served its purpose as a go-to, simple blanket. 

For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize affordability and only require lightweight warmth, the Glorsign is an excellent blanket option that is durable, easy to clean, and versatile. To compare to other top-performing blankets, check out more of our favorites in our guide to the best camping blankets.

How We Tested

To test the durability, packability, and functionality of the Glorsign Outdoor Puffy blanket, we stashed it in our backpack during day hikes and enjoyed it while lounging on the beach. We tested its relative warmth in Northern California’s redwoods and coasts, and performed a standardized test to determine how much heat was lost after a hot sock was wrapped in the blanket for 30 minutes.

Durability

As a budget-friendly blanket, we kept our expectations low in this metric. Surprisingly,  the Glorsign did rather well. We noticed no wear and tear after use and were pleased with its performance during our “shake test,” where we covered the blanket with debris from the redwood forest floor. 

With the blanket’s smooth polyester puffy material, there was no debris cling, and it was easy to shake off and stow away into its stuff sack at the end of the day. If the blanket did get dirty, it can simply be machine-washed with no special care instructions.

We then took the blanket to a nearby creek and splashed it with water to test its DWR coating. Even after repeatedly splashing the material, we noticed no water absorption – any moisture immediately beaded off the blanket’s surface and dried quickly. Our gear analyst was impressed by its performance, given its low price and lower quality appearance. We might have more to say years from now, but so far, so good!

Warmth

After our hot sock at 136 degrees was wrapped in the Glorsign blanket for 30 minutes, the temperature dropped to 128.4F. This blanket was not impressively insulative; however, its performance was adequate for its purpose as a budget-friendly pick. Plus, it performed just as well as another blanket that is 3x the cost of the Glorsign.

When wrapped in the blanket out on the Northern California Coast, we found the material to feel thinner and lower quality than others in our lineup, but this makes sense given its price. While it wasn’t the coziest or plushest blanket we tested in the field, the polyester was still soft and smooth and provided enough lightweight insulation to cut off the chill.

Size to Packability

When fully laid out, the blanket is large and roomy at 80” x 60” – great for one or two people. It provides full body coverage when worn around the shoulders, which we appreciated when it got chilly out on the Northern Californian coast during field testing. While the Glorsign packs down to a reasonable size for car camping, picnics, and campfires, it is still a bit too large to carry easily in a daypack for hikes or longer journeys from the car. 

At 15” x 10” in its stuff sack, it’s significantly larger than a 32-ounce Nalgene – and slightly larger than the Rumpl Original in its packed state. Though if you are short on space, you can easily compress the packed blanket further and shove it down into your pack. Although the Glorsign is still not the most travel-friendly blanket in our lineup, its generous size and features help make up for its lack of packability.

Comfort

Similar to other puffy blankets in our lineup, the Glorsign is made with soft and smooth recycled polyester and a DWR coating. While it isn’t as cozy as fleece or wool blankets, this material is more durable and versatile for outdoor environments. 

We like the large size of the blanket and the coverage, but the material is thinner than that of other puffy blankets we tested. All in all, nothing wows us, but it is adequate for its purpose as a lightweight, budget-friendly, and versatile outdoor blanket.

Features

Like many other blankets in our lineup, the Glorsign comes with its own stuff sack, cape clip, and corner loops. The stuff sack is stretchy and roomy, making it easy to roll or stuff the blanket away for storage. 

When wearing the blanket hands-free, we appreciated the user-friendly cape clip feature that held the blanket around our shoulders and was easy to unclip and clip in a pinch. The Glorsign also boasts four corner loops, allowing it to be staked down to the ground for picnics or lounging on the beach, when it is not being used as a throw blanket for warmth.

We also love the colorful mountain-inspired designs that are available with this blanket. They have multiple options to choose from, providing some extra color to your outdoor gear collection.

Should You Buy the Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Camping Blanket?

The Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Camping Blanket is our top pick for a budget-friendly blanket. It is an excellent option for those who prioritize functionality, durability, and versatility just as much as affordability. For those looking for simple, user-friendly features like a stuff sack, cape clip, and corner loops, the Glorsign is a worthy consideration. We also love how this blanket is durable enough to be used on the ground, as well as large enough to provide full coverage and lightweight warmth around the shoulders.

However, outdoor enthusiasts shopping for increased packability, more warmth, or plusher material will likely desire more from the Glorsign than what it offers. While it is durable enough for outdoor use, the quality and thickness of the fabric are not as impressive as those of more expensive brand-name blankets in our lineup.

What Other Camping Blankets Should You Consider?

To compare the Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Blanket to other blankets in our lineup, you can view our full camping blanket gear guide. We have many other top-notch recommendations to consider and reviews to peruse that may catch your eye.

REI Camp Blanket Review: The REI Camp is more expensive than the Glorsign, but is slightly thicker, warmer, and more packable with a smaller stuff sack size. However, both blankets offer excellent water resistance with their DWR-coated material.

Horizon Hound Trek Review: More expensive than the Glorsign, but still a budget-friendly pick, this is a very packable blanket with highly-ranked downy warmth. While the Glorsign can be machine-washed, the Horizon Hound requires more special care when cleaning.

Kelty Biggie Review: Another budget-friendly pick that is closer in price to the Glorsign, the Kelty Biggie is an oversized blanket that can comfortably fit two people. While it does not have a DWR coating, it does have a soft, brushed lining for extra coziness.

Bottom Line

Made by the well-respected legacy brand, the Kelty Biggie blanket is a long-lasting, affordable, cozy, and versatile addition to your gear collection (albeit a bulky and heavy one). Due to its 2+ pound weight and large packed size, this blanket is best suited for glamping, car camping, hammocking, beach days, or backyard campfire sessions.

This generously-sized 2-person blanket is made of thick CloudLoft insulation, a DWR-coated outer shell, and a cozy polyester inner lining that is soft to the touch. Being wrapped in the Biggie provides utmost comfort, being much more snuggly than some of the thinner synthetic puffy blankets in our lineup. Not to mention, it is also one of the warmest styles we tested this season. 

Overall, the Biggie is a highly recommended product for those who value affordability, warmth, comfort, and blanket size over packability, weight, and extra features.

To compare this blanket to other top-performers in the category, check out our full gear guide here for the most up-to-date suggestions.

How We Tested

We tested the Kelty Biggie out on the chilly and foggy Northern CA coastline to feel out its warmth, packability, and comfort. As an oversized blanket, we tested its size for use as both a one-person and a two-person blanket. 

We also performed a shake test to determine debris cling, as well as a water test to determine water resistance. To standardize our warmth ratings, we heated up a hot sock to 136F and left it in the blanket for 30 minutes to determine how much heat loss occurred.

Durability

The Kelty Biggie passed with flying colors for the majority of our durability tests. The thick, hefty material is long-lasting and can stand up to regular outdoor use. While we did notice a few loose threads when we first pulled the blanket out of its packaging, they were easily snipped off. Otherwise, no wear and tear was noted after we took it out in the field for extensive testing. The blanket doesn’t have any specific washing instructions and requires much less care than others in our lineup, such as those made with down.

When at the beach, we tested the Biggie out as a ground blanket and, after covering it in sand, we were pleased that the material shed debris easily without catching in or clinging to the fabric. However, after getting the blanket wet, we were not impressed with the DWR coating on the outer shell. 

Water temporarily beaded off the material, only to soak into the blanket much quicker than others with DWR treatments. The inner liner on the Biggie is not coated with DWR, which was noticeable due to how the fabric immediately absorbed moisture. It also stayed wet longer than desired.

Warmth

We were pleasantly surprised by how warm this blanket felt! After our hot sock test, where a hot sock was wrapped in each blanket for 30 minutes, the Kelty Biggie only experienced a drop of 4.1F. This makes it one of the warmer blankets in our lineup. Even as a budget pick, the Biggie’s CloudLoft insulation has an impressive performance and is actually warmer than some of the more expensive products that we also tested in the great outdoors.

In the field, this plush blanket proved its warmth to our gear analyst when out on a chilly morning along the Northern California coast. As an oversized blanket with generous coverage for two people, body heat is trapped effectively to cut the chill. The Biggie is also noticeably thicker than other blankets in our lineup, providing both more insulation and cushioned comfort.

Size to Packability

The Biggie is advertised as a 2-person blanket. When laid out in our 2-person tent, the Biggie filled up the tent space perfectly and provided full coverage. When lounging on the blanket at the beach, two people were able to lie down side-by-side and even in opposite directions without touching the sand. 

While we found the blanket to also work comfortably as a throw around the shoulders or over the lap, its squarish shape wasn’t our favorite. We would have preferred rectangular dimensions so that one side of the blanket would be longer for more coverage around two sets of shoulders.

While the Biggie is a large blanket at 81.89” x 79.92,” it is one of the least packable options in our lineup. When stuffed into its stuff sack, it is almost the size of our day pack itself – not an ideal hiking companion. The Biggie is much better suited for car camping, beach days, or relaxing outdoors closer to the frontcountry. The blanket is so large that it takes some effort to roll it up to a size that adequately fits into its stuff sack. Not to mention, the blanket weighs over 2 pounds, making it one of the heaviest options we tested.

Comfort

With the Biggie’s thickness and large size, this blanket is snug and cozy for cold weather. When testing it out at the beach, our gear analyst noted how its plushness and DWR outer shell also make it a great option as a ground blanket, even more comfortable than other beach mats in our lineup.

However, our favorite comfort feature is the inner lining on the Biggie. It is made of a very soft polyester, much softer and more comfy than synthetic puffy blankets. Even though the Biggie weighs over 2 pounds, the extra weight offers an additional sense of comfort when wrapping it over and around yourself. It does like to cling dog hair…

Features

The Kelty Biggie blanket is one of the simplest blankets in our lineup – no cape clip, no corner loops, and no extra features. With that being said, the heavyweight blanket does not require loops for staking, and it would be a bit uncomfortable to wear hands-free, anyway. 

It comes with a stuff sack for storage, and the sack includes a carrying strap to make it easier to cart around from the car to the hang spot. We also appreciate the versatility of the blanket for use on the ground or draped over the body.

Should You Buy the Kelty Biggie Camping Blanket?

The Kelty Biggie is an excellent heavy-duty and budget-friendly buy for those prioritizing comfort, warmth, size, and affordability over features, packability, and water resistance. With its soft inner lining, thick insulation, and 2-person coverage, this blanket is perfect for relaxing outdoors, lounging at the beach, or car camping – anywhere that is easily accessible and doesn’t require a trek to get there.

Outdoor enthusiasts who desire a packable go-to blanket for any and every type of adventure will be disappointed by the weight, bulk, and lack of packability the Biggie offers. It is not designed for backcountry trails, stashing in a backpack, or minimalist-style adventurers. 

What Other Camping Blankets Should You Consider?

If the Kelty Biggies isn’t quite what you are looking for or if you want to compare it to other blankets before purchase, check out our full updated gear guide to the best camping blankets. 

Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Camping Blanket Review: This blanket is even more budget-friendly, comes with a plethora of features, and packs down slightly smaller and quite a bit lighter than the Kelty. However, it is not quite as warm or as high quality. 

Rumpl Original Puffy Review: Although more expensive, Rumpl is a classic blanket brand in the industry – high quality, plush, feature-friendly and a bit more packable than the Kelty. 

REI Camp Review: Similar to the Kelty Biggie, the REI Camp is a very simple blanket. It isn’t as cozy or as large, but it is much more packable for wherever the trail takes you. 

Bottom Line

The Kammok Firebelly is the warmest and most versatile option in our annual best camping blanket lineup! Although technically advertised as a backpacking trail quilt, the Firebelly is a bit too bulky and heavy for our gear analyst to recommend for hardcore backcountry trips. Though with that being said, it is still a worthy consideration if you have the space and don’t mind the weight for a minimalist sleeping bag with a higher minimum temperature rating of 30F.

After testing on the Northern California coastline, our gear analyst was impressed with the Firebelly’s water resistance and warmth. This trail quilt can effectively be used as a poncho and a minimalist sleeping bag – with its unique array of buttons, cinches, and zippers to customize the fit and airflow.  However, since the Firebelly is very expensive and made with 750 duck down, it does require extra care for cleaning and storage, which some may find a hassle compared to the machine-washable synthetic options on the market.

To compare the Kammok Firebelly to other options in our lineup, take a look at our full guide to the best camping blankets of 2025.

How We Tested

We tested the Kammok Firebelly on the chilly and foggy Northern California coastline, where we experimented with its minimalist sleeping bag and poncho modes. We got the blanket sandy to determine how much debris clings and also got it wet to test its DWR coating. In addition to feeling out the quilt’s warmth in the field, we also performed a hot sock test, where we wrapped a hot sock inside the blanket for 30 minutes while measuring the temperature before and after.

Durability

The Kammok Firebelly performed well in all of our durability tests. After covering the trail quilt with sand, we were able to easily shake it off without noting any debris clinging. After pouring water over the blanket to test its DWR coating, we were impressed with how the moisture beaded off the material without any absorption. Even though the Kammok is down, it dried quickly in the field. 

The material of this blanket feels high quality; however, like any outdoor gear, it is susceptible to snagging on abrasive surfaces.. Due to the high price point and downy insulation, this blanket is best suited for hikers who are willing and able to be extra mindful and take additional steps to care for the material.

To keep the condition of the Kammok Firebelly in good shape, it requires special cleaning due to its down filling. Ideally, it should be handwashed using a down-specific cleanser, then laid out to air dry. Once ready for storage, the trail quilt should be loosely packed into the large and roomy storage bag it came with to preserve the loft over time better.

Warmth

The Kammok Firebelly is without a doubt, the warmest blanket in our lineup. It kept us warm and cozy on the chilly Northern California coastline. Lab tests further affirmed our toasty suspicions with the results of our standardized hot sock test. 

After heating a hot sock to 136F and wrapping it in the Kammok for 30 minutes, the temperature only dropped 0.2F – by far the most insulating blanket that we tested in 2025. The Firebelly’s 750 duck down is incredibly thick and plush, though it does take some time for the down to relax and regain its loft after being compressed in its stuff sack.

When used as both a minimalist sleeping bag and poncho, we felt cozy and warm – it effectively cut the chill and insulated us from the coastal breeze. The Kammok Firebelly is rated to 30F, making it one of the best blankets in our lineup for alpine adventures where temperatures are more likely to drop steeply during the nights.

Size to Packability

The Kammok Firebelly is an excellent size for one person in all of its different forms. Though if you did decide to share the warmth with an adventure buddy, you may find that you are much too short on coverage. 

At over one and a half pounds, it isn’t the lightest backpacking quilts out there at that rating. While it is advertised as a backpacking trail quilt, our gear analyst would recommend other ultralight sleeping bags for multi-day strenuous hiking trips instead. The Firebelly is also very bulky for its designed purpose – taking up most of the space in our backpack. A compression sack rather than the one it comes with would help a lot.

Overall, it didn’t quite hit the marks in weight and packability for hardcore backpacking – though it is still functional for camping and shorter trips.

Comfort

Due to its warmth, coverage, and versatility, the Kammok Firebelly is extremely cozy. Once the downy insulation relaxes and regains its loft after being compressed, it is very plush, airy, and soft against the skin. We were satisfied with its performance as a poncho, blanket, and minimalist sleeping bag – though keep in mind that the sleeping bag design is a slim fit.

It is important to note that due to the extra care requirements of this blanket, you can’t just get comfy anywhere on the trail. Those who purchase the Firebelly should be aware that this blanket is best suited for use inside the tent and off the ground to avoid snags and tears on abrasive surfaces.

Features

The Kammok Firebelly 30F is the most feature-filled blanket we tested! It can be used as a hammock underquilt, throw blanket, poncho, or minimalist sleeping bag. There is a large zippered hole in the center of the trail quilt that, when unzipped, can be pulled over the head – this allows you to wear the Firebelly as a poncho and go hands-free. We like this design over cape clips because it prevents the blanket from slipping down her shoulders since it wraps more closely around the neck.

To use the Firebelly as a minimalist sleeping bag, you first button up the row of clasps along the front of the quilt. The small gaps in between the buttons allow for some breathability and airflow. Once buttoned, there are two cinches at the foot box that you can completely cinch down to keep your feet toasty and protected from the elements. To snug it all up, two cinches at the shoulders can be adjusted. Our gear analyst felt cozy and warm in this design; however, please note that, when used as a sleeping bag, the Firebelly is a slim fit and best suited for smaller-framed individuals. 

Lastly, the Kammok Firebelly also comes with a small stuff sack for better packability, a loose sack for long-term storage, and sleeping pad straps that allow you to secure the trail quilt to your pad at night.

Should You Buy the Kammok Firebelly 30F Camping Blanket?

The Kammok Firebelly is best suited for gearheads and dedicated adventurers with its high price point and unique design. With its 30F rating, it is advertised as a backpacking trail quilt that can handle the demands of backcountry adventures. 

While the Firebelly is bulkier and heavier than some other ultralight sleeping systems on the market, it is still a worthy consideration for those who have the space in their pack, don’t mind the weight, and prioritize a feature-filled product. 

Please keep in mind that this trail quilt is rated to 30F, which may not be warm enough for alpine nights depending on your elevation, even though the 750 down is the warmest insulation of any blanket in our lineup. Also, it is important for interested buyers to remember that the Firebelly does require extra care for cleaning, storage, and use on the trail.

What Other Camping Blankets Should You Consider?

To compare the Kammok Firebelly to other high-performing (and more affordable) blankets in our lineup, check out our updated gear guide for our annual favorites.

Horizon Hound Trek Review: Another down blanket option that ranks very high in warmth, the Horizon Hound is a great alternative to the Kammok for those in need of fewer features and more packable gear.

Rumpl Original Puffy Review: Similar in packability to the Kammok, yet more affordable, the Rumpl is still high quality, features a cape-clip for going hands-free and offers adequate warmth without the care requirements of down.

REI Camp Review: This is an excellent pick for those looking for a large synthetic puffy blanket that can pack down into a smaller stuff sack. While it sacrifices some warmth, the ease of care and packability made it a worthy contender. 

Bottom Line

REI’s Trailmade line is designed to provide gear that gets people outside without breaking the bank. So the REI Trailmade Fleece (men’s / women’s) is a straightforward jacket with minimal add-ons and features. The result is that it’s priced at a fraction of its competitors. Even still, it offers decent durability, breathability, and packability for the trail—all at a low weight. 

While this fleece is advertised as midweight warmth, we found it to be on the lighter end of the spectrum. Overall, this is a great value pick for backpackers and hikers looking for a simple fleece to add to their layering system. 

Our gear analyst tested the comfort, fit, and functionality of the Trailmade by going on local hikes in Sonoma County, CA, with and without a daypack, strapping the fleece onto the outside of her pack, and bringing it along to a variety of terrain and outdoor hangs. 

If you would like to compare the Trailmade to the other top-performing fleece jackets we reviewed, check out our full list of recommendations in our gear guide.

Warmth

Although the Trailmade fleece is advertised as having an insulating midweight warmth, our gear analyst found it to be more of a lightweight layer. 

It traps less warmth than many other fleece jackets in our lineup. While this can be a benefit in terms of better airflow, our gear analyst felt that the warmth was insufficient for extended breaks on the trail or for colder temperatures. The Trailmade worked great in chilly temps when in motion; however, as soon as our gear analyst stopped hiking, the cold crept in. 

Since this fleece is thinner and lacks woven overlays, wind easily penetrates the material, stealing away some warmth. Due to this, having an outer shell in inclement weather would be a must-have with this fleece. So it works well if it’s part of a layering system. 

Still, our gear analyst was disappointed that the fleece jacket did not provide the midweight warmth as advertised. However, she still finds it a valuable wardrobe addition for shoulder-season adventures and winter layering.

Comfort

With its soft recycled polyester fleece, the REI Trailmade feels comfy against the skin. Although the jacket runs a bit large and long in the torso, it does not feel bulky when wearing it. 

Our gear analyst tested the comfort level of this fleece jacket by doing a variety of movements besides hiking and hanging out, like lifting and raising the arms, and found no movement restrictions in the shoulders. 

The thinner material of this fleece also allowed for better breathability on the trail, making it a go-to pick for hitting the trail. Due to the lightweight warmth of the Trailmade, this would be an excellent hiking companion for shoulder seasons like spring and fall or for layering in colder winter months.

When hiking with a daypack over the Trailmade fleece, our gear analyst was satisfied with the performance. The fleece fit easily under the shoulder straps and didn’t limit any range of motion. We would definitely recommend this as an excellent, simple, comfy, and budget-friendly layer for the trail.

Durability

The material of this fleece feels decently durable, though the thinner material will be more prone to wear and tear over time. The jacket held up throughout testing and requires no special care or specific washing instructions. As one of the methods for testing durability in the field, our gear analyst strapped the fleece to the outside of her daypack, while hiking through bushy terrain.

Even after brushing up against branches, rocks, and vegetation, the fleece showed no immediate signs of wear. While there was some debris cling, it was not as noticeable as other high-pile fleece jackets and was easily removed.

Due to Trailmade’s combination of durability, lightweight design, breathability, and packability, this would be an excellent layer to consider taking in the backcountry.

Weight

At under 11 oz, the REI Trailmade is a relatively lightweight and compressible fleece. Although the fleece runs a bit large, our gear analyst was pleased with the overall slimmer design and thinner fabric, which eliminates extra weight and bulk. 

When on the trail, we were able to easily stow this fleece, either by stuffing it into our pack or strapping it to the outside of our daypack. Keep in mind that the fleece’s lower weight is reflected in the lack of features and lower warmth.

Features

This fleece is very simple with its main features being two zippered hand pockets, two interior side mesh pockets, and material made of Bluesign-approved recycled polyester. There is no hood, thumb loops, hidden pockets, pit zips, or woven overlays for added durability. Due to the slightly larger fit and longer torso of this fleece, we would have liked an adjustable bungee at the waist to better customize the fit. 

The simplicity of this fleece is reflected in its lower price point, which may or may not be a drawback for prospective buyers. We weren’t awed by this fleece, but we were satisfied with its performance as a no-frills go-to lightweight jacket.

Should You Buy The REI Trailmade Fleece Jacket?

The REI Trailmade is an excellent go-to fleece for shoulder season hikes, layering in winter, and even for backcountry adventures. With its lightweight warmth, low weight, packability, adequate breathability, and movement-friendly design, it pairs well with a backpack for outdoor adventures. We recommend this fleece as a quality, budget-friendly pick for those looking for a simple layering system. Hikers seeking a warmer, mid-weight layer will likely be unsatisfied with the warmth of the Trailmade on its own. 

The main gripe most will experience with the Trailmade is its lack of features, such as an adjustable bungee at the waist, chest pocket, thumb holes, pit zips, or a hood. However, if you desire a no-frills jacket, then this fleece from a well-regarded brand in the outdoor industry is worth consideration.

What Other Fleeces Should You Consider?

Want more warmth and features than the REI Trailmade? We suggest that you explore our best fleece jackets gear guide for our other top picks..

Patagonia Better Sweater Review: Although much pricier, this fleece is warmer and thicker than the Trailmade and also boasts an additional zippered pocket. However, the trade-off is a heavier weight and bulkier material.

Outdoor Research Vigor Review: At a high price point for a lightweight fleece, this jacket boasts a hood and a zippered chest pocket. It is more breathable and quick-drying than the Trailmade, but also slightly heavier.

Columbia Steens 2.0 Review: This fleece is even more budget-friendly than the Trailmade and is a comfortable and simple option for the trail. However, it is much heavier, bulkier and not quite as durable.