While I enjoy well-made women’s swimwear for watery pursuits like surfing, snorkeling, diving, and swimming, it’s not as easy to wear a swimsuit when you’re adventuring on land. In many cases when I’m hiking and expect to take a dip in a lake or river along the way, I wear men’s board shorts.
I’ve recently been enjoying wearing Mountain Hardwear Women’s Stryder Swim Short when I’m out on the trail and choose to take a splash. Made with 100-percent recycled nylon, the sustainable and durable fabric is solid enough to wear on adventures but comfortable enough to keep on when those adventures are over and you’re just hanging out. The fabric also filters out harsh UV rays with its UPF 50 rating, and a PFC-free DWR finish repels water when you’re not immersing yourself in a cool river.
One of the things I like best about the Stryder Short is that it lacks a sewn-in liner, making it more versatile for activities without the discomfort of liner seams.
An elastic pull-on waist with external draw cord gives you the flexibility to adjust your own fit, whether you need more space for layering or want to secure the shorts for active water sports. Two side pockets (with mesh) are roomy enough for hands or a phone, and a zippered back pocket (also with mesh) helps keep cards or money secure—but not dry.
The Stryder Short is ideal for travel because it’s flexible enough to wear for camping, outdoor fun, casual hangouts, and even chilling out in the hotel room in between adventures.
The Women’s Stryder Swim Short comes in mantis green floral print, jack pine bandana print, clay earth bandana grid, and calla (solid) and lists for $60 on the Mountain Hardwear site.