Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Shorts Review
The men’s Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Shorts (shop now) are an intelligently designed, hybrid-mapped pair of hiking/trail running shorts made with excellent fabric and minimalist features. They are available with or without a liner.
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- Weight: 4.4 oz
- Price: $65
- Pockets: 2 hand
- Material: 4-way stretch woven polyester, knit mesh panels
- Inseam: 8″
- Waist: Elastic band with internal drawstring
- Average User Review: 4.7 stars
- Pros: Excellent materials. Very quick to dry. Lightweight. Durable. Light stretch. Comfy elastic waistband.
- Cons: Only two pockets, non-zipper closure. Only available in men’s. Slim around the thigh. No lower side hem notch.
Skyline Trail Shorts Construction & Features
We have tons of good things to say about the materials and build of these shorts. For starters, they are very movement-friendly thanks to the 100% 4-way stretch woven polyester. They have an average amount of stretch, but without the use of blending in spandex or elastic into the main body fabric. By excluding spandex and elastic, these shorts maximize quick drying speed while also increasing durability.
What’s more, the crotch gusset is a knit mesh panel for maximum air flow where you need it most. The same material is used on an outer thigh panel. All of this helps to ensure they offer adequate breathability and quick drying performance. A very smart combination of fabrics, and especially helpful given that they have a slim fit around the thigh.
An elastic waistband with internal drawstring ensure they’ll stay up. Two average sized knit mesh hand pockets complete the chassis.
Areas for improvement
Where we think these could be improved up on is adding zipper closures to the hand pockets. As-is, we wouldn’t feel safe storing important things like a phone or wallet in our pockets while climbing over downed trees or through a scree field. The addition of cargo pockets, or side-thigh pockets would also be very welcome.
Lastly, we prefer a looser fit because it encourage airflow. There’s a reason thru hikers love Patagonia Baggies. Why go to such great lengths to have breathability panels when that same effect could be achieved simply by making them fit a bit looser around the thigh? That said, the contour as-is looks great and is very flattering.
Outdoor Vitals Skyline Trail Shorts Review Verdict
These shorts are as functional as they are minimalist, thanks to the superb fabric combination and comfortable waistband. While we tend to prefer shorts with more pockets and/or zippered pockets, those who don’t use their pockets much may find that these are the single best pair on the market.
Compare this model to all of the best hiking shorts or best trail running shorts.
