Buying men’s hiking shorts can be difficult because one pair rarely checks every trail box. Some shorts are light as a feather but tough as a paper trail, while others offer durability without much breathing room. Pockets can also be a slippery subject when you need space for keys, snacks, and a phone. Then there is the price, which can climb faster than a mountain pass. Fortunately, Watertown offers several places where you can hunt down a pair before your next adventure takes a wrong turn.
*Prices below are estimated typical prices for men’s outdoor, athletic, work, or casual shorts that may work for hiking; actual inventory and prices can vary by season. Call ahead so your shopping trip does not take the scenic route.*
- **Walmart Supercenter — Budget-friendly trail gear**
- **Dunham’s Sports — A solid sporting chance**
- **Kohl’s — Shorts that fit the bill**
- **JCPenney — A classic path to casual comfort**
- **Runnings — Where workwear meets the trail**
- **Bomgaars Supply — A down-to-earth outdoor option**
- **Tractor Supply Co. — Heavy-duty shorts for lighter trails**
- **Goodwill — Secondhand shorts with first-rate potential**
- **Glik’s — Casual styles for easygoing hikes**
- **Shoe Sensation — A surprising step in the right direction**
Walmart is a good first stop if you want hiking shorts that do not make your wallet walk the plank. Its men’s activewear and outdoor sections commonly include quick-drying, cargo, and athletic shorts. **Estimated average price: $22.** Visit [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/) and use the store finder for the Watertown location before heading out.
Dunham’s Sports is worth exploring for athletic and outdoor shorts designed to keep you moving when the trail gets its steps in. You may find brands with stretch fabric, zip pockets, or moisture-wicking features. **Estimated average price: $35.** Browse [Dunham’s Sports](https://www.dunhamssports.com/) and check local availability.
Kohl’s often carries men’s performance, golf, cargo, and casual shorts that can pull double duty on a hike. Watch for sales and coupons, because the sticker price may take a hike while the final price stays grounded. **Estimated average price: $32 before major promotions.** Shop through [Kohl’s](https://www.kohls.com/) and search for pickup options near Watertown.
JCPenney can be a good bet for men’s cargo and performance shorts, especially if you want a comfortable pair for easy trails and weekend wandering. They may not all be mountain specialists, but they can still make a respectable showing on the trail. **Estimated average price: $35.** Visit [JCPenney](https://www.jcpenney.com/) to review men’s shorts and local pickup options.
Runnings is a natural place to look for rugged men’s shorts from workwear and outdoor brands. These pairs may favor durability and pockets over ultralight design, making them ready to tackle a rough patch without getting their hems in a twist. **Estimated average price: $30.** Check [Runnings](https://www.runnings.com/) for outdoor clothing and the Watertown store.
Bomgaars may carry men’s work and outdoor shorts that are sturdy enough for hiking, camping, or a little trail-side tinkering. If your ideal pair has room for tools, snacks, and a multitasking attitude, this could be a shorts-and-sweet spot. **Estimated average price: $27.** Visit [Bomgaars](https://www.bomgaars.com/) and look under apparel or workwear.
Tractor Supply Co. is another place to search for durable men’s work shorts that can handle outdoor use. They may not be cut like technical hiking gear, but they can still plow ahead on casual hikes and campsite chores. **Estimated average price: $30.** Browse [Tractor Supply Co.](https://www.tractorsupply.com/) and confirm Watertown inventory before making tracks.
Goodwill can be a treasure trail for gently used athletic, cargo, and outdoor shorts at a fraction of new-retail prices. Selection changes quickly, so you may need to rummage a little before striking clothing gold. **Estimated average price: $8.** Use the [Goodwill Great Plains](https://goodwillgreatplains.org/) site to find the Watertown store and check its hours.
Glik’s focuses on fashionable casual clothing, but its men’s shorts may include flexible or lightweight styles suitable for city trails, park paths, and relaxed day hikes. These options put a little more fashion in your foothills. **Estimated average price: $45.** Explore [Glik’s](https://www.gliks.com/) and look for men’s shorts with stretch fabric and useful pockets.
Shoe Sensation is primarily known for footwear, but some locations also carry seasonal apparel and accessories that may include men’s shorts. It is worth checking before you lace up a longer shopping expedition, since the clothing selection can vary from store to store. **Estimated average price: $28 if available.** Visit [Shoe Sensation](https://www.shoesensation.com/) or contact the Watertown store to see whether shorts are in stock.
Before buying, try sitting, squatting, and taking a few exaggerated strides to test comfort and range of motion. Look for quick-drying fabric, a secure waistband, reinforced stitching, and pockets that can keep your essentials from going on an unscheduled hike. With a little legwork, you should be able to find a pair that fits the bill—and the trail.