Women’s Patagonia Baggies Shorts Review

Bottom Line

If you want a durable, comfortable pair of shorts for casual hiking or everyday wear, the Patagonia Baggies are a solid choice. Made from fast-drying, recycled nylon fabric, these shorts are super comfortable and easy to pull on and off with their elastic waistband.  Baggies come in a variety of inclusive sizes – which we love – and the fit is flattering on most.

However, the fabric is stiffer than other shorts, which feels a little restrictive when stepping high or bending down. Plus, the lack of zippered pockets is a downside for those who don’t want to worry about their phone falling out. They may be super comfy around town or for day hikes, but the ribbed waistband caused discomfort when we stacked up sweaty miles on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Overall, though, they’re ideal for hikers who want something practical and comfortable but don’t need high-end features.  The Baggies are a great value compared to the other best women’s hiking shorts on our list. If you’re looking for affordable, durable shorts that work for hiking and casual outings, these are for you.

Comfort

We found the Patagonia Baggies to be extremely comfortable in testing. Because they’re a pull-on short, they’re very “hassle-free” and easy to get on and off. They’re made from 100% recycled nylon and dry quickly, increasing their comfort for hikers who get sweaty. The fabric is stiffer than those of other hiking shorts, which concerned us at first. Then, as we wore them for testing, we hardly noticed they were even there. The waistband is a ribbed elastic with a pull cord, so if you load up the pockets, they won’t fall down. However, it can sometimes rub uncomfortably, especially after prolonged wear, which could be an issue during long hikes. The fabric doesn’t stretch much, so we suggest buying a relatively loose pair since the shorts can feel restrictive if worn too tight. Overall, the Baggies are comfortable. 

Durability

If anything, the Baggies are certainly durable. The thick, recycled nylon fabric held up incredibly well during testing, including stretches of the Tahoe Rim Trail where our shorts got caught on spiky branches. Scrubbing against rocks, trees, and brush, the tough fabric did not show any wear – no tearing or peeling. We also found they held up well against washing without showing signs of fading or fabric degradation. 

The Baggies are a tough pair of shorts. They’re remarkably strong and resistant to abrasions, making them a great long-term investment. However, be mindful of the fit; if you wear them too tight, they could tear, so the loose fit is key to their durability. 

Features

The Patagonia Baggies come with a few thoughtful features, including deep mesh-lined front pockets and a key loop to carry our keys safely on the trail. We like the deep pockets, but they lack zippers, making it harder to secure our phone and other small items. The elastic waistband with a pull cord helps to achieve a comfortable fit, but the cord is a bit chunky and may not be as sleek as other designs.

Dry Time

The Patagonia Baggies have a fast dry time. The shorts’ durable water repellent finish keeps light rain and water spills from soaking through, and they dry relatively quickly after getting wet. Even if the exterior fabric got wet, the interior fabric stayed fairly dry against the skin during our tests in wet conditions. The Patagonia Baggies don’t dry as fast as some other models like the Houdini Wadi Shorts, but they are a top contender. If you’re looking for shorts that will dry rapidly after a swim or a downpour, the Baggies won’t disappoint.

Weight & Packed Size

The Baggies are impressively lightweight at 4.5 oz. and pack down surprisingly well despite their stiff fabric. During our testing, they easily rolled up and stashed into a pack without taking up much room. Whether you’re wearing these shorts for a light hike after work or a long multi-day trip, they won’t weigh you down. 

Should You Buy the Patagonia Baggies 5″ Shorts?

The Patagonia Baggies are our top pick for day hiking or blending in back home in the city. They’re perfect for short hikes, casual outdoor activities, or even daily wear. If you want something that is durable with quick-drying fabric, these shorts are a great option. They offer a loose, comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement and a “barely there” feeling; you forget you’re even wearing them.

However, they might not be the best choice for those who prefer ultra-soft, stretchy fabrics or need zippered pockets for more secure storage. They may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but their durability, comfort, and price make them a solid investment for hiking shorts.

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 – The Ferrosi Shorts are a great alternative if you want a more athletic cut short with a softer fabric. They’re lightweight, comfortable and dry quickly. With deep pockets and a zippered back pocket, they are similar to the Baggies but with a more flattering fit and a softer fabric.

Patagonia Multi Trails Review – If you’re looking for an ultralight, breathable fabric that’s soft against the skin, the Multi Trails are ideal. With two zippered pockets and a comfortable fit, they are great for warm weather but are a bit less durable than the Baggies. If you want something lightweight and comfortable for warm weather hikes, the Multi Trails are for you.

Patagonia Quandary Review – The Quandary is a stylish comfortable short with a stretchy, lightweight fabric and multiple pockets. They dry quickly and are a great all-around choice if you prefer something fashionable yet technical. Their overall performance in testing makes them a solid competitor to the Baggies.