Great shorts even if they are a bit long
I found a pair of X-Large Zion shorts at my local REI. I had read the reviews and was impressed. When I tried them on, I knew why they received such good reviews.
These shorts are made with a stretch fabric that really does stretch. When you move, the shorts do not cling, bunch, or otherwise annoy you.
I had been looking for a pair of shorts that I could use as an outer layer when I bike. I wear cycling underwear with padding and wanted shorts that were comfortable to wear over the underwear. These were perfect.
The length does not bother me because I am 6'3" and the shorts move so they do not get hung up when I bend my knee. Swinging my leg over my bike seat is no problem. In fact, these are probably more comfortable than my baggy bike shorts.
The only issue I have with these is the sizing. I bought the XL pair. Normally, XL denotes a 38 - 40 inch waist. The prAna website says the XL are for 36 inch waist. It would be nice if REI had that same information. My -1 star is for the lack of information.
Fortunately, the XL fit me okay. I ended up ordering two more pair of XXL from another site because these shorts really are some of the most comfortable I have ever worn.
Dave L at
REI on
07/07/2012
Favorite shorts ever
These are by far my favorite shorts for just about any occasion, as evidenced by the fact that I've purchased them in multiple colors. They are my regular shorts for climbing and hiking because they have a good amount of stretch to them and are lightweight. They also dry easily if you should find yourself wanting to take a dip, but don't have swim shorts on hand.
Construction is top notch. They do run a bit small in the waste, in my opinion. I have a thirty inch waist, and had to get these in a small, which seems a bit off. The mediums were far too large. That said, the small in these shorts fits me to a tee. Still give 5 stars because it's best to try clothes on before buying anyway. But REI's return policy keeps it from being much of a gamble to order online.
These shorts also look great. They are tapered at the bottom so they don't "bell" out like so many other shorts do.
I can't recommend these highly enough! You will not be disappointed.
Adam107 at
REI on
04/04/2012
Best all-around shorts I own!
These are definitely my new favorite shorts !! I am a size 32 waist and ordered a size M. They fit perfect for me. Possibly a slightly slimmer cut than average but they provide more freedom of movement than any cargo short I have ever seen, owned, or tried on. I am used to a bit more of a baggy short to get the movement I want but these provide all of that and more. The material feels nice on your skin, is very durable, and dries fast. The first day I got them I went hiking , biking , trimmed some trees at my house, and did some gardening and they worked great. You could probably swim in them too. My only dislike is the one cargo pocket. Some people will definitely find the belt annoying too, but it doesn't bother me.
Powderfiend at
REI on
06/06/2012
So good
Maybe the second greatest summer climbing short ever made! Only trumped by the older design of these shorts. The added zipper in the cargo pocket is a nice feature, especially if your hanging in a harness or riding a bike and need something from your pocket. However, the zippers make the pockets just a smidgen more bulky. Even so, they feel incredibly light weight. The right back pocket has been modified so your wallet won't slide out of your pants when you sit down, which was a common occurance with the old design. All that being said, prana stretch zion shorts are in my opinion the best shorts you can buy anywhere for summer craging or just hanging out. If the temps get high, you want to have these babies on!
Favorite Shorts
These are my favorite all-around shorts. I own them in Charcoal. I've used them for hiking, gym climbing, around town, and even swimming when I didn't have board shorts. They are very durable, dry quickly, and the stretch in the fabric provides a nice range of movement.
I like the slightly longer fit. They are a bit tapered toward the bottom so you don't get that annoying bell shape found with many other shorts.
With most clothing items I fall between a medium and small. I have between a 30-31 inch waist, and with these shorts the small fits me perfectly. Someone with a waist smaller than 29 inches could find these a bit too loose at the waist, even with the cinch belt.
Adam107 at
REI on
07/07/2011
I wish I bought these a long time ago
I used to hate having anything in my front or cargo pockets on an extended hike. I felt like the more stuff in them, the more my range of motion was restricted. No matter how many "motion panels" or "crotch gussets" shorts or pants say they have, the material still limits your range of motion.
Within two weeks I ordered another pair in a different color (darker, because I figured I was going to be wearing them a lot and they were going to get dirty).
The only bad thing is that the cargo pocket is on the wrong side for me. I wish it was on the right. Love the two zipper access to the same pocket...access wether sitting or standing.
Four pairs and counting....
I own four pairs of these shorts and have had a difficult time finding another that measures up. I like the length (not too short or long), and wear them for everything all summer, even a casual bike ride with my son - the stretch is great for such activities. The oldest pair that I own is probably 4-5 years old and they have held up perfectly. I usually do not run them through the dryer - maybe just me, but I sense this wears nylon-type materials out. At any rate, these shorts are tough and you'll get your money's worth. For fly fishing and other water activities, they are nicey because they dry so quickly. GREAT SHORTS.
David Lee at
REI on
04/04/2013
Excellent and good looking
I am 5'10.5", pants size 31x32. I got these in Small. Perfect fit, does not feel bulky (Medium, which is what I would regularly get, had I not tried these in store for size, was too big), just about covers the knees standing, but is above knees when sitting or lifting legs. They look a bit tapered to the bottom, so they're much "smarter" looking than lose fitting straight board shorts.
Notice how the pictures of two colors REI used are of different shorts. Charcoal ones have two cargo pockets and extra stitching on the bottom. I got charcoal, but they look exactly like the pictured khaki ones (one cargo pocket, etc.)
Sashok at
REI on
07/07/2011
Comfortable (and stretchy!)
I bought these with a gift card, sight unseen off the website, and have no regrets. The material is unique in that it is stretchy, but not like a balloon. There is just a little "give" in both directions that you notice only when you sit down or step high onto an obstacle. The only negative comment I can offer is that the leg length is just a little too long -- not a big deal but when it's really hot and sticky outside I just don't want my clothes clinging to my legs. All in all, these are a great pair of shorts.
Awesome Shorts!
Best shorts I've ever bought. Risked it on the purchase and picked up three (3, 1 in each color) and it was the best move ever. 6'4" with about a 35 inch waist and the large fit perfect. Built in belt allows a snug fit and loops allows to add a belt for additional support. Stretch material is sweet and super comfortable. Just got back from MEX with them and wore them to a wedding and then out on the beach. Zip pocket was nice for holding money/cards while in MEX. Regular pockets nice and deep. Any place any time. Great job PrAna.
ScottySo at
REI on
06/06/2013