Women’s Houdini Wadi Shorts Review

Bottom Line

The Houdini Wadi Shorts are a standout choice for those seeking lightweight, ultra-breathable shorts perfect for hot and humid conditions. Their soft, quick-drying fabric and flattering fit make them incredibly comfortable, even when wet. We tested these shorts completely soaked on the Tahoe Rim Trail and fully dry on the PCT and found them impressively durable despite their thin material. The deep, functional pockets and sleek built-in belt enhance their practicality, though the non-elastic waistband can be difficult to pull on, particularly for those with wider hips.

While they excel in breathability and drying time, the Wadi Shorts lack features like UPF protection and may not be ideal for cooler weather. While the price tag is higher than other options on the racks, they offer excellent value for those prioritizing length, minimalism, and performance in hot climates.

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 Houdini Women’s Wadi Shorts deliver exceptional comfort, especially in hot, humid climates. We barely noticed the lightweight, ultra-thin fabric, whether hiking uphill or downhill. The waistband features a small, flat hook with nine size adjustments, but the adjuster belt is elastic, so we had to cinch it all the way to the tightest mark. The waistband, however, is not elastic, making this model somewhat challenging to put on, especially for those with wider hips. 

These shorts manage to be both flattering and comfy. They magically avoid chafing or discomfort, even when they’re wet. The fabric is light and soft. We enjoyed the longer knee length for added protection, yet it never felt hot, heavy, or bothersome. Though the extended cut might not be everyone’s style, and those with hips might get annoyed with the waistband, the fabric’s plush feel, flexibility, and airy nature won us over.

Durability

The Wadi Shorts hold up well against rough conditions. We tested them by rubbing the fabric against rocks and thick brush and hiking through dense trees. Like a magic trick, Houdini’s fabric didn’t tear or show signs of wear. The material’s thinness didn’t compromise its durability, making these shorts worth the investment.

Features

Featuring exceptionally deep front pockets, including one with an internal zipper, and a small back pocket with a snap, the Wadi Shorts offer impressive features and storage. Although we had to cinch the waist tightly, the built-in belt is sleek and flat. This is the most preferable waistbelt that we found on any of the shorts on our list. It’s low profile, doesn’t get in the way, and isn’t going to cause any unwanted pressure when wearing a backpack hipbelt over it. While some hikers might miss features like explicitly rated UPF protection (all clothing provides some protection), the pockets and belt system are well-designed and add to the comfort of the shorts.

Dry Time

The Wadi Shorts outshine others in their quick-drying performance. Although they soaked through with minimal water resistance, they dry in under 15 minutes after getting wet, making them perfect for unexpected rain or humid conditions. We hiked in the shorts when they were wet and they were still comfortable, even refreshing. They didn’t chafe on longer days, even when damp.

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 Houdini Wadi?

The Houdini Wadi Shorts are perfect if you want ultra-lightweight, comfortable, longer shorts built for hot and humid conditions. They offer impressive breathability and quick-drying capabilities, have deep, functional pockets, and the sleek built-in belt enhances their practicality, especially if you value minimalist, high-performance gear.

These shorts might not be the best fit if you need additional features like UPF protection or want something you can wear in colder weather. Plus, their non-elastic waistband can be challenging to pull on if you have larger hips. Aside from those considerations, the Wadi Shorts are a solid investment for those prioritizing an excellent quick-dry short.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Review: These shorts stand out for their all-around performance. With a lightweight, breathable fabric, they offer a streamlined fit that’s both durable and quick-drying. The Ferrosi shorts feature deep, functional pockets and a robust waistband.

Janji 3″ AFO Middle Shorts Review: The Janji shorts excel in lightweight barely-there feel and comfort, perfect for those who prioritize a minimal design great for high-intensity activities.

Patagonia Multi Trails Review: These shorts are incredibly lightweight and packable, ideal for minimalist hikers who need to save space and weight. Despite their featherweight feel, they’re decently durable with great zip pockets. 

Patagonia Quandary Review: For a blend of style and functionality, the Quandary shorts offer comfort and a style suitable for both casual and technical hikes. They feature a good balance of pockets and practicality, though they might be better for shorter hikes.