For many of us, Coronavirus has led to a new stay-at-home style made up of Zoom-worthy business attire on top and comfort-driven lounge wear on the bottom. This summer, that “mullet style” has translated to stretchy, swishy, lightweight shorts. Our favorites earn points for comfort (duh), trail-worthiness and funky, summer-inspired patterns.
Patagonia Women’s Baggies Shorts
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Patagonia’s version of the surfer’s staple short would make even a Beach Boy proud. With 10 different pattern options ranging from the melodramatic melon to business-class black, the Baggies offer a lightweight, relaxed fit in an environmentally friendly, 100-percent-recycled nylon package. I dig the 5-inch inseam, but if you prefer short shorts, choose the Barely Baggies Shorts with a 2.5-inch inseam instead. $55 | patagonia.com
Icebreaker Women’s Cool-Lite Impulse Running Shorts
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Made with recycled nylon fabric for breathability and Lycra for stretch and mobility, the Impulse running shorts feature a glorious barely-there feel. Icebreaker’s patented “cool-lite” eyelet liner and waistband quickly wick sweat away for extra comfort. A sneaky interior stash pocket is ready for cash or a house key. $80 | icebreaker.com
KAVU Tepic Short
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Leave it to KAVU to put the fun in functional. Made with a movement-ready polyester/spandex blend, the Tepics’ straightforward design features an elastic waistband, cuffed hem and three pockets. It’s the print that kicks these trail-to-town bottoms up a notch. Opt for pheasants, tree fronds, a Southwest palette or simple black. $50 | kavu.com
Fjällräven Women’s High Coast Lite Shorts
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If you prefer a fuller-coverage short that’s still breathable, fast-drying and uber lightweight, then Fjällräven’s High Coast Lite Shorts are for you. The slightly flared legs create a silhouette that flatters any body type, while the inner drawstring ensures you get your perfect fit. High-stretch material simplifies high-stepping through a boulder field. $59.50 (on sale!) | fjallraven.com
Cotopaxi Vamos Short
![](https://www.elevationoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Cotopaxi-1024x748.jpg)
The Vamos Shorts are great for everyday lounging, but they’re just as comfortable on the trail or near the water thanks to their soft and stretchy nylon/spandex composition. A wide waistband provides a flattering fit as well as a bold color hit if you go for the tucked-in aesthetic. $52 (on sale!) | cotopaxi.com
Toad&Co Women’s Boundless Short
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Toad&Co consistently melds the worlds of the playful outdoors with subtle sophistication. The Boundless Short is no different. Made primarily with organic cotton (recycled polyester and elastane add a touch of stretch), these bottoms lean more toward fashionable, everyday comfort than hardcore hammer-time, but they’re perfect for an after-dinner dog walk or casual morning stroll. $65 | toadandco.com
Prana Arch Skort
![](https://www.elevationoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Prana-1024x693.jpg)
Flirty and feminine, yet lightweight and trail-ready, the Arch Skort feels at home in the city or the state park. The nylon blend and elasticized waistband allow for an easy pull-on entry. My favorite part: The soft-and-stretchy, undershort lining with its handy side pocket and port buttonhole. No peekaboo here. $34.50 (on sale!) | prana.com
Flylow Marion Short
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Surfboard, paddle board, mountain bike, cruiser: The Marion’s have a ticket to ride all of the above. The Hawaiian hipster print is toned down with washed-out coloring, making these bottoms bold but not obnoxious. These quick-drying shorts feature a 6-inch inseam for fuller coverage. $70 | flylowgear.com