Women’s KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts Review

Bottom Line

The KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts are for hikers who prioritize leg coverage and storage over trendy style. With a 10-inch inseam, these shorts provide ample leg protection and coverage, which feels especially valuable on longer hikes or on trails populated with dense trees or heavy brush. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and breathable. They’re comfortable for all-day wear. Our team tested them on the steep trails of the Tahoe Rim, where the durability and easy fit stood out. They also held up well in testing for the 30 miles we took them out on the Pacific Crest Trail.

One of the highlights of these shorts is their abundance of pockets – although, some may find the metal snaps a bit bulky and inconvenient when they need quick access. The water-resistant coating is a bonus, keeping them relatively dry. At the same time, they aren’t the fastest-drying pair in our guide to the best women’s hiking shorts..

For hikers who want coverage, plenty of storage, and solid durability, the Freeflex Cargo Shorts are a worthwhile investment. They’re not cheap, but for long-lasting wear, they offer good value.

For more options – and to see how these compare with others – check out our full guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.

Comfort

The Kuhl Freeflex Cargo Shorts are very comfortable. The Freeflex polyester fabric is stretchy, soft, and breathable, and we didn’t experience any chafing on our test hikes. We like how the stretchy material moves with us rather than pulling or restricting our movement. The 10-inch inseam provides great leg coverage without feeling bulky. With a UPF 50 rating, these longer shorts also provide sun protection to keep our thighs comfortable under bluebird skies. We tested the shorts in sweaty conditions and cooler weather, and they were hard to take off because they were so comfortable. 

Even so, the comfort isn’t perfect. The waistband is a little baggy, but the shorts did not fall down. The cargo style – with its metal snap closures – can press against the body in certain positions. We didn’t experience discomfort during our hikes, but that design could be a bit bothersome at times.

Durability

The KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts are made from a high-quality polyester fabric that feels a little thick but not overbearing. They’re stretchy yet hold up well after miles on the trail and repeated washes. During testing, we exposed the shorts to various rugged surfaces, including rock, brush, and tree branches, which they withstood  without any noticeable damage. The soft fabric didn’t seem to sacrifice strength. 

Despite some initial concerns about the softness leading to quicker wear, the shorts held up well during testing. However, the true test will come with long-term use. For now, they seem like a solid investment for anyone needing a dependable, durable pair of hiking shorts.

Features

The KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts have plenty of features – some more practical than others. As cargo shorts, they feature six total pockets. The large pockets with metal snap closures are handy for carrying things like snacks or your phone. However, they can feel a bit over the top – the cargo look isn’t for everyone – and they’re not as easy to open as zippers when you need quick access. The DWR coating is a nice touch, and so is UPF 50 sun protection. However, we found that  the shorts took a bit longer to dry than some lighter, more technical fabrics.

Drying Time

Drying time was one area where the KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts didn’t quite impress. Although the fabric has both water repellent and moisture-wicking qualities, the shorts didn’t dry as quickly as we hoped after getting soaked in a short rainstorm. This is mainly due to the amount of fabric -they are 10 inches long with a thicker material than other shorts we’ve reviewed. 

Weight & Packed Size

These shorts are very light and one of the lightest on our list. They pack down incredibly small, making them easy to stash in any backpack. They work best when rolled. Despite their length, they are still lightweight, which is impressive. They don’t add bulk, and their small packed size makes them ideal for travel or long treks where weight is a major concern.

Should You Buy the KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts?

The KUHL Freeflex Cargo Shorts are ideal for hikers who prefer longer shorts with a lot of pockets over ultralight hiking shorts with more  minimalist designs. These protective yet flexible shorts deliver with their soft, stretchy fabric and sturdy construction. They’re not the best for ultralight backpackers due to their bulkier packed size and slower drying times, but they’re a solid investment for regular hikers who value reliable performance and comfort. 

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

For more options, please see our full guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review – If you’re after a versatile, lightweight, and breathable pair of shorts, the Ferrosi is a fantastic choice. The stretchy fabric is impressively durable and dries quickly. They’re great for hot days on the trail. If you like a streamlined, athletic fit, with a secure waistband these shorts are a great match.

Houdini Wadi Review – The Houdini Wadi Shorts are ultra-light and dry in a flash, which makes them perfect for warmer climates. They’ve got deep, functional pockets and a flattering fit that we love – though, the non-elastic waistband can make them a bit tricky to pull on. Still, if you’re looking for shorts that perform well in summer, the Wadi is a solid pick.

Patagonia Quandary Review – The Patagonia Quandary shorts are lightweight, stretchy options with four functional pockets that are stylish and can pass for “normal” clothing when you’re at home. These shorts are a solid all-rounder for anyone wanting reliable performance without a high price tag.