REI Sahara Cargo Shorts Review
Alan’s choice! The REI Sahara Cargo Shorts (shop now) are another well-done-but-basic pair of cargo hiking shorts that check all of the boxes without getting too fancy. And compared to similar models, they are priced competitively.
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- Weight: ~8 oz (estimate)
- Price: $60
- Pockets: 2 slash cut hand, 2 rear, 2 cargo
- Material: 96% nylon, 4% spandex
- Inseam: 9″
- Waist: Elasticized half waistband on rear with belt loops and button closure zipper fly
- Average User Review Score: 4.6 stars
- Pros: Good pockets. Good value. Alan’s choice.
- Cons:Narrow belt loops. Not particularly stretchy or sporty.
Features
Ditch those modern, side-entry cargo zippers because traditional top-entry cargo pockets are still the most functional and easy to use while hiking. And the REI Sahara Cargo shorts have one on each side, offering excellent storage volume, in addition to the deep, full size slash-cut hand pockets and enveloped rear pockets. Interestingly, the cargo pockets have zipper closure and overlapping tops to ensure your gear is extra safe.
Beyond the exceptionally great pockets, these are just a basic pair of lightweight, quick drying, 9″ inseam hiking shorts. The fabric is a 96% nylon, 4% spandex blend. It has light-duty stretch, but is not particularly sporty or movement-friendly. You wouldn’t want to run in these, for example. But it should be durable enough and they’re comfortable to walk in.
They have a traditional zipper fly with button closure. And a very-welcome elasticized rear section of the waistband helps keep them up.
But no shorts are perfect, and the REI Sahara shorts have one boneheaded design error – narrow belt loops. It’s not a big a deal, in fact, it’s a rather small problem. You may not even hike with a belt. But if you do make sure it’s no wider than a 1.25 inches. These shorts cannot fit a width width belt. We will give REI the benefit of the doubt and assume this was a small production mistake that slipped through and they will correct in time for next year.
REI Sahara Cargo Shorts Review Verdict
The REI Sahara Cargo Shorts are highly functional pair of traditional cargo hiking shorts, still the most functional. They’re everything you’d expect them to be and nothing more. Despite the minor belt-loop-flaw, they’re sold a good price and Alan himself loves them for both hiking and everyday wear.
