Finding suitable rock-climbing shorts can be an uphill battle. Dedicated climbing apparel is often sold at specialty outdoor stores rather than ordinary clothing retailers. Even when a store carries athletic shorts, the right combination of stretch, durability, pockets, and freedom of movement may leave shoppers hanging. Southaven has plenty of places to search, but inventory can change faster than a climber’s grip. The good news is that several local retailers carry hiking, training, or performance shorts that can scale nicely for indoor and outdoor climbing.
*Prices below are estimated average prices for climbing-suitable athletic, hiking, or utility shorts—not guaranteed prices for a product specifically labeled “rock-climbing shorts.” Check each store’s website or call the Southaven location before making the trip.*
- **Academy Sports + Outdoors — about $25**
- **DICK’S Sporting Goods — about $45**
- **Walmart — about $18**
- **Target — about $25**
- **Kohl’s — about $30**
- **Old Navy — about $28**
- **Ross Dress for Less — about $18**
- **T.J. Maxx — about $22**
- **Marshalls — about $22**
- **JCPenney — about $25**
Academy is a strong place to start if you want to raise the bar without sending your budget up a cliff. Look for brands such as Magellan Outdoors, Columbia, or athletic labels offering stretchy, quick-drying shorts. **Website:** [Academy Sports + Outdoors](https://www.academy.com/storelocator)
DICK’S often carries higher-performance shorts from brands such as adidas, Nike, Patagonia, and prAna, so you can chalk up a good chance of finding a climbing-friendly pair. Prices tend to be higher, but the fabric and construction may be better suited to repeated trips to the wall. **Website:** [DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/s/store-locator)
Walmart is a good choice for rock-bottom prices, especially if you need a basic pair for an indoor climbing gym. Search for men’s or women’s athletic, golf, hiking, or cargo shorts with stretch fabric and secure pockets. **Website:** [Walmart Store Finder](https://www.walmart.com/store-finder)
Target can hit the bull’s-eye for affordable training shorts that work well for beginner climbing sessions. Its athletic and outdoor sections commonly include lightweight materials, elastic waistbands, and four-way stretch—useful features when you’re reaching for the next hold. **Website:** [Target Store Locator](https://www.target.com/store-locator)
Kohl’s is worth a climb because its athletic and outdoor clothing departments frequently include brands such as Tek Gear, Columbia, and Nike. Sales and coupons can help you descend from the original price, making technical-looking shorts more budget-friendly. **Website:** [Kohl’s Store Locator](https://www.kohls.com/stores)
Old Navy may not specialize in climbing gear, but its activewear and utility shorts can help you find your footing. Prioritize flexible fabric, a gusseted or roomy crotch, and pockets that will not spill your essentials when you are hanging around. **Website:** [Old Navy](https://oldnavy.gap.com/)
Ross is a treasure hunt where prices can scale downward, although selection changes frequently. Check the activewear, hiking, and men’s utility sections for discounted shorts from outdoor or athletic brands. **Website:** [Ross Dress for Less](https://www.rossstores.com/)
T.J. Maxx can be a solid summit for discounted name-brand athletic shorts, particularly if you are flexible about color and style. Since stock varies by shipment, your best strategy is to inspect the seams, stretch the fabric, and make sure the pockets will not become a loose end. **Website:** [T.J. Maxx](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/)
Marshalls gives bargain hunters another route around the boulder of high outdoor-apparel prices. Its men’s, women’s, and activewear departments may include lightweight hiking, running, or golf shorts that provide the mobility needed for climbing. **Website:** [Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/)
JCPenney can help you belay your budget while searching for athletic, golf, or outdoor shorts with stretch and breathable fabric. Look for a comfortable waistband and a length that will not restrict high steps or heel hooks. **Website:** [JCPenney](https://www.jcpenney.com/)
Before buying, test the shorts’ range of motion with a deep squat or high knee—assuming the store allows it—and check whether the pockets have secure closures. A little stretch can make a big difference when you are reaching, twisting, and trying not to split your seams. With these Southaven options, finding the right pair should be less of a cliffhanger.