Finding the right pair of hiking shorts can sometimes feel like a trek through thorny trails rather than a refreshing hike. You want shorts that are breathable yet durable, lightweight but sturdy, and of course, at a price that doesn’t make your wallet feel hiked up. With so many options out there, it’s easy to get tangled in the choice of fabrics, cuts, and features like pockets or quick-dry materials. Plus, not all stores in Albany have a leg up on hiking apparel, making the search a real uphill climb. But don’t sweat it—whether you’re a trailblazer or a nature stroller, here are 10 local spots where you can short-circuit your shopping woes.
- **REI Co-op**
- **Dick’s Sporting Goods**
- **L.L.Bean Outlet**
- **Patagonia at BlueLine Outdoors**
- **Columbia Sportswear**
- **Bass Pro Shops**
- **The North Face at Dick’s Sporting Goods**
- **Walmart Supercenter**
- **Sports Authority** (if still open, or find a local equivalent)
- **Earthbound Trading Co.**
Get ready to step up your hiking game without stepping out of budget. REI Co-op is known for its wide selection of outdoor gear and has a solid lineup of hiking shorts that are both functional and fashionable. You’ll find shorts typically priced around $50-$70 that will keep you cool on those summer hikes.
[REI Co-op Albany](https://www.rei.com/stores/albany)
If you’re looking for variety that won’t hike your expectations too high, Dick’s Sporting Goods is where you can bag some great deals on hiking shorts. Average prices here hover around $30-$60, perfect for budget-conscious adventurers who want to keep their cool.
[Dick’s Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/stores/ny/albany)
Trail-ready and Bean-approved, this outlet store will have you feeling like you’re walking on air without the high outlet price tag. Hiking shorts here typically range from $40-$65, blending quality with affordability.
[L.L.Bean Outlet Albany](https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/83903)
This place will leave you utterly Patagonia-d for choice, offering eco-friendly technical hiking shorts that work as hard as you do on the trail. Expect to pay around $70-$90 for some of the best performance wear in town.
[BlueLine Outdoors](https://www.bluelineoutdoors.com)
Columbia’s gear is as cool as a mountain breeze, providing hiking shorts that combine style and technical features for about $40-$65. A great spot if you want adventure-ready gear that doesn’t box you into a steep price.
[Columbia Sportswear Albany](https://www.columbia.com/)
If you’re casting around for rugged and reliable hiking shorts, Bass Pro Shops has you covered with options running about $35-$65. Their selection is built for the outdoorsman who likes to wade through more than just trails.
[Bass Pro Shops Albany](https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/bass-pro-shops-albany)
When it comes to hiking shorts that can weather any storm, The North Face line at Dick’s Sporting Goods is trail-tested and wilderness-approved. Prices are typically around $50-$80, worth every penny if you want your gear to perform on every terrain.
[The North Face](https://www.thenorthface.com)
If your budget is a little tight, Walmart is where you can find hiking shorts that won’t leave your pockets hiking for mercy. Prices here tend to be between $15-$30, perfect for casual hikers or those just starting out.
[Walmart Albany](https://www.walmart.com/store/3573-albany-ny)
This store can help you score shorts that hit the peak of both comfort and affordability, with prices averaging around $25-$50. Perfect for those looking to take a shortcut to quality without hiking too far on prices.
[Sports Authority](https://www.sportsauthority.com) *(Check for local availability)*
For those who like a little flare with their function, Earthbound Trading Co. carries shorts great for nature lovers who want their gear to reflect their personality. Expect prices around $30-$50 for locally cool hiking wear.
[Earthbound Trading Co.](https://earthboundtrading.com)
No need to hike all over Albany to find your ideal pair of hiking shorts. Whether you want to keep it breezy or trail-tough, these local spots will have you ready to step out with shorts that are as serious about adventure as you are. Time to drop the shorts on your worries and hit the trail in style!