Buying hiking shorts can sometimes feel like a trek up a steep hill with no end in sight. You want the perfect pair that’s lightweight, breathable, and durable, but also stylish enough to keep you looking sharp on and off the trail. Sorting through endless options can leave you feeling a bit "short"-changed in patience! Plus, finding the right fit and fabric that matches Montana’s unpredictable weather isn’t always a walk in the park. Fear not — to prevent you from hiking your way into a shopping snafu, here’s a list that will have you well-covered in no time.
- **River City Outfitters**
- **Mackenzie River Trading Company**
- **The Mountaineer**
- **Dick’s Sporting Goods Missoula**
- **Big Sky Outdoors**
- **REI Missoula**
- **Glacier Outdoor Gear**
- **Adventure Cycling Association**
- **Alpenglow Sports**
- **Patagonia Missoula**
When you’re looking to be “short”-listed for quality, River City Outfitters offers a solid selection of hiking shorts built to last. They’ve got styles that will keep you cool as a Montana mountain breeze.
[rivercityoutfitters.com](https://rivercityoutfitters.com)
Average price: $55
Don’t get caught with your shorts down when you visit Mackenzie River! Their durable hiking shorts blend comfort and style so well, you’ll be ready to "trail-blaze" the wilderness or town.
[mackenzieriver.com](https://mackenzieriver.com)
Average price: $60
If you want to "peak" your performance on the trail, The Mountaineer is the place to go. Their collection of technical shorts will have you feeling like a mountain pro in no time.
[themountaineer.com](https://themountaineer.com)
Average price: $65
Don’t just sport any shorts—at Dick’s, you get to “gear” up with trusted brands that suit any adventure level. They stock reliable hiking shorts that keep you comfortable mile after mile.
[dickssportinggoods.com](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com)
Average price: $50
For shorts that really “measure up,” Big Sky Outdoors features a great variety designed to endure Montana’s rugged trails. Their prices are a solid step above the rest without stepping too high.
[bigskyoutdoors.com](https://bigskyoutdoors.com)
Average price: $62
When it’s time to up your “short game,” REI brings in quality offerings with expert staff who can help you find shorts that fit like a glove—or in this case, fit like a perfect pair of shorts!
[rei.com](https://www.rei.com/stores/missoula)
Average price: $70
Don’t “short-circuit” your plans with bad gear. Glacier Outdoor consistently stocks hiking shorts that combine function with fresh style, ensuring your trail look is a trek above the rest.
[glacieroutdoorgear.com](https://glacieroutdoorgear.com)
Average price: $58
Want your shorts to keep pace with your journey? The Adventure Cycling Association’s shop carries a handful of functional hiking shorts that won’t leave you dangling behind.
[adventurecycling.org](https://www.adventurecycling.org/shop/)
Average price: $55
At Alpenglow, they don’t “short-change” your options. Their expertly selected hiking shorts balance practicality and performance for your next mountain escapade.
[alpenglowsports.com](https://alpenglowsports.com)
Average price: $63
Want to stay “short and green”? Patagonia’s eco-conscious hiking shorts are a perfect match for environmentally minded adventurers who want to tread lightly while looking cool.
[patagonia.com](https://www.patagonia.com/store-locator/missoula-montana)
Average price: $75
Finding the right hiking shorts in Missoula doesn’t have to be a trial by fire. With these ten hotspots, you’re sure to "short-stop" your search quickly and head back outside with gear that fits your hiking spirit as well as your body. Happy trails and happy shopping!