Finding women’s hiking shorts can be a real uphill battle because outdoor clothing must balance comfort, durability, breathability, and style. A pair that fits the waist may fall short on pockets, while one with plenty of storage may feel like a load on your legs. Sizes and colors can also disappear faster than a trail marker in the woods. Prices range from bargain-bin bargains to premium gear that costs more than a weekend getaway. The good news is that Chesapeake shoppers have several places where they can get a leg up on the search. With the right fit, your next pair can help you go the distance without putting your wallet in a tight spot.

*Price note: The figures below are approximate average prices per pair, based on typical women’s outdoor, athletic, or hiking shorts sold by each retailer; local inventory and prices may vary, so call ahead before making the trek.*

1. **[DICK’S Sporting Goods](https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/)** — Average price: **about $45 per pair**. DICK’S is a strong starting point for trail-ready brands such as Columbia, Patagonia, and DSG, with options ranging from lightweight running shorts to durable hiking styles. The selection should help you find the right shorts without taking a wrong turn.
2. **[Academy Sports + Outdoors](https://www.academy.com/)** — Average price: **about $30 per pair**. Academy typically carries affordable outdoor brands, including women’s shorts with stretch fabric, zip pockets, and moisture-wicking features. It is a good place to make a smart “short cut” toward practical hiking gear.
3. **[Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/)** — Average price: **about $20 per pair**. Walmart’s Chesapeake locations and website often feature budget-friendly athletic and outdoor shorts from brands such as Athletic Works and Avia. The prices may be easy on the wallet, giving your hiking budget plenty of room to roam.
4. **[Target](https://www.target.com/)** — Average price: **about $32 per pair**. Target’s women’s activewear selection often includes lightweight shorts with stretch, drawstrings, and pockets that work well for casual hikes. You may not need to blaze a trail to find a pair that fits both your style and your budget.
5. **[Kohl’s](https://www.kohls.com/)** — Average price: **about $38 per pair**. Kohl’s regularly stocks women’s athletic and outdoor shorts from labels such as Columbia, Tek Gear, and Nike, with frequent sales and promotional discounts. A good coupon can make the price take a pleasant downhill slide.
6. **[Old Navy](https://oldnavy.gap.com/)** — Average price: **about $30 per pair**. Old Navy is worth checking for women’s active shorts with flexible fabrics, elastic waists, and casual styling suitable for easy trails or travel days. These shorts can help you keep your outfit on the right track without spending a mountain of money.
7. **[Marshalls](https://www.marshalls.com/)** — Average price: **about $25 per pair**. Marshalls’ constantly changing inventory may include discounted athletic and outdoor brands, making it a worthwhile stop for shoppers who enjoy a little retail adventure. Since the selection moves quickly, you may want to grab a great pair before it hikes out of reach.
8. **[T.J. Maxx](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/)** — Average price: **about $25 per pair**. T.J. Maxx often offers name-brand activewear at reduced prices, including women’s shorts suitable for walking, camping, and light hiking. The inventory can be hit or miss, but that is part of the store’s bargain-hunting trail.
9. **[Burlington](https://www.burlington.com/)** — Average price: **about $24 per pair**. Burlington may carry inexpensive women’s active shorts with breathable materials and practical pockets, especially during spring and summer. It is a good place to explore if you want your hiking wardrobe to make tracks without leaving your bank account behind.
10. **[Ross Dress for Less](https://www.rossstores.com/)** — Average price: **about $22 per pair**. Ross stores frequently carry discounted athletic brands, so shoppers may find lightweight shorts at some of the lowest prices in Chesapeake. The selection changes often, but a little patience can help you strike retail gold at the trailhead.

Before heading out, check each retailer’s website for Chesapeake store hours, pickup options, and current inventory. Hiking shorts can disappear from racks as quickly as hikers disappear down a wooded path, so a quick online check may save you a long walk.