Prana Brion II Short Review

These shorts are meant for an active day in the front country and a night out with friends. They certainly stand out from the pack in terms of their style, but we wish they had just a feature or two that appealed to the hiker in us. This pair would run away with the top spot if this category was something like summer shorts. The Prana Brion is buoyed by its comfort and style but is missing the water resistance and features that would put it in contention for a top spot.

Performance Comparison

Comfort and Mobility

These shorts conform without constricting, as the 95%/5% nylon/spandex blend fabric is surprisingly stretchy. The fit is advertised as standard, but our testing showed that they have a slimmer fit than many other models. Even our lanky testers enjoyed how they fit and didn't find that our movement was restricted in any significant way while hiking. They do slide up the thigh a bit when sitting down, but the crotch isn't restrictive. The 9" inseam we tested will hit most folks just above the knee.

These shorts earn some points because they are the pair with the waist that stretched out the least after multiple wears and multiple days of hiking.

Features

As comfortable as they are, these shorts lack hiking features. They have four traditional pockets; two front, two rear, plus a coin pocket on the right. They include traditional belt loops, a metal button closure, and a center gusset to increase space in the crotch and legs.

Despite their simplicity, they do have some durability features like a small strip of webbing to reinforce the button, a large, sturdy zipper, and rivets at the corner of each pocket (like on a pair of jeans).

Versatility and Style

These shorts have limited versatility, but they make up for it with style. They are fine for walks and day hikes in dry weather if you are bringing along a pack, or don't need to secure any items in a zippered pocket.

On the flip side, these shorts excel in the front country. Even if we weren't outdoors-obsessed, we would get a pair to wear around. The details on their styling are reminiscent of jorts but are more refined.

Weather Resistance and Dry Time

These shorts are made for dry weather. Our testing showed that they have no water resistance; they absorb precipitation immediately, making for a heavy slog if caught in the rain.

However, they do dry rather quickly.

Venting and Breathability

The stretch fabric is breathable. This model isn't terribly lightweight with the metal button, rivets, and zipper, but we didn't get noticeably sweatier in this pair than other comparable models.

The handwarmer pockets are fully mesh-lined (the rear are not).

Should You Buy the Prana Brion II?

The Prana Brion is an excellent pair of casual wear. This model is stretchy and comfortable. They aren't water-resistant like the top contenders and don't have the same functional features to put them in the upper tier of this review. However, we do have to admit that we really, really like these shorts. They are hands down the best-looking of any model in the category, and we would be happy to have them as part of a wardrobe that includes a pair with a little more utility.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If you are looking for another pair of shorts to partner with these, we recommend the Patagonia Quandary, which also looks good and offers the perfect set of pockets and other features. If you like the Prana brand, then the Prana Stretch Zion II will also offer additional functionality with an integrated belt and more pockets. The Patagonia Nine Trails will fit the bill if you are more of a trail runner than a hiker.