Buying rock-climbing shorts can be difficult because many stores carry athletic shorts without labeling them for climbing. The right pair needs enough stretch to handle high steps without reaching its breaking point. It also helps to find a secure waistband and pockets that will not let your keys take a free fall. Dedicated climbing shorts can be surprisingly hard to scale down in price. Fortunately, Independence has several retailers where you can hunt for climbing-friendly options without getting tied in knots. The prices below are estimated averages for shorts suitable for climbing, hiking, or other active sports—not guaranteed prices for a specific climbing model.

1. **DICK’S Sporting Goods** — [Visit DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/)

DICK’S usually offers athletic and outdoor shorts from brands such as Nike, adidas, and Columbia, making it a solid place to start your ascent. **Estimated average price: $45.** Check the Independence Center location and look for stretch fabric, zippered pockets, and longer inseams so your shorts do not leave you in a tight spot.

2. **Academy Sports + Outdoors** — [Visit Academy Sports + Outdoors](https://www.academy.com/)

Academy’s hiking, fishing, and training sections often include flexible shorts that can handle a day at the crag. **Estimated average price: $30.** Its outdoor selection gives you a good foothold, especially if you compare lightweight hiking shorts with athletic styles.

3. **Bass Pro Shops** — [Visit Bass Pro Shops](https://www.basspro.com/)

Bass Pro Shops is worth a look for durable hiking, water, and outdoor shorts that can climb beyond their usual trail duties. **Estimated average price: $45.** The store’s rugged options may help you scale rough approaches, although some designs may be roomier than dedicated climbing apparel.

4. **Walmart** — [Visit Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/)

Walmart can be a budget-friendly belay buddy, with athletic, cargo, and hiking shorts often available at approachable prices. **Estimated average price: $18.** Selection varies by location and season, so inspect the stitching and stretch before you commit to a pair that might not rise to the occasion.

5. **Target** — [Visit Target](https://www.target.com/)

Target’s athletic and outdoor clothing sections can provide lightweight shorts for beginner climbing sessions or gym bouldering. **Estimated average price: $25.** Look for flexible materials and drawstring waists so your gear stays grounded while you reach new heights.

6. **Kohl’s** — [Visit Kohl’s](https://www.kohls.com/)

Kohl’s carries athletic and casual outdoor shorts from brands such as Tek Gear, Columbia, and Adidas, giving shoppers several routes up the clothing wall. **Estimated average price: $35.** Sales and coupons can lower the cost, helping your budget avoid a financial cliff.

7. **JCPenney** — [Visit JCPenney](https://www.jcpenney.com/)

JCPenney’s men’s and activewear sections may have stretch shorts suitable for climbing gyms, hiking trails, or casual crag days. **Estimated average price: $30.** Search for athletic or golf shorts with gussets and secure pockets; they can give your climbing wardrobe a little extra grip.

8. **Burlington** — [Visit Burlington](https://www.burlington.com/)

Burlington’s constantly changing inventory makes it a treasure hunt, but you may find discounted brand-name athletic or outdoor shorts. **Estimated average price: $25.** Because the selection can disappear faster than a climber on a top-rope route, shop early and check the seams before making your move.

9. **Ross Dress for Less** — [Visit Ross](https://www.rossstores.com/)

Ross often stocks low-cost activewear, including stretch shorts from recognizable brands, though the exact selection changes frequently. **Estimated average price: $22.** It is a good place to chalk up savings, but inspect each pair carefully for durable fabric and pockets that will not send your essentials rappelling away.

10. **Marshalls** — [Visit Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/)

Marshalls can offer discounted performance, hiking, and training shorts that work well for casual climbing or outdoor approaches. **Estimated average price: $28.** Inventory is unpredictable, so be ready to make a quick grab before the best pair climbs out of reach.

Before visiting, check each retailer’s website or call the Independence store to confirm inventory, since climbing-specific shorts are seasonal and can vanish from the rack without a trace. When comparing pairs, prioritize four-way stretch, a comfortable gusset, secure pockets, and fabric that dries quickly—because wardrobe malfunctions should never be the crux of your climb.