Prana Stretch Zion II Short Review

The fabric of the Stretch Zion II maintains excellent user mobility, and as far as shorts with cargo pockets go, they look really good. They offer some versatility and style, and their comfort bolsters the Prana Stretch Zion II shorts.

Performance Comparison

Comfort and Mobility

The best part of these shorts is how comfortable they are. The 95%/5% nylon/spandex blend has a good amount of stretch. We found that we had plenty of mobility when taking big steps up inclines. Because of their more regular fit, they also don't bunch up nearly as much as slimmer models. The gusseted crotch and 10" inseam ensure the wearer has plenty of mobility. This pair is also unique in that the gusset isn't just a swatch in the middle but a strip of fabric that runs through the legs, creating extra room in the thigh area.

The softer fabric along the interior of the waist reduces chafing while on the move. The integrated belt also makes it possible to adjust the waist, so even though these shorts aren't particularly slim fit, the waist and hips still feel secure, which we found is especially nice if you are also wearing a backpack. In addition, the button closure at the front has a low profile, so it doesn't rub uncomfortably against a hip belt or harness. The fly zipper isn't especially long, but we found it to be sufficient, a surprisingly rare feature in hiking shorts.

Features

These shorts come with a strong complement of features. In addition to everything outlined above, there are six pockets; three front, including a coin pocket, two rear, and one on the left leg. We love the depth of the two main front pockets. Even without closures at the top, items still feel secure. There is also a super stealth coin pocket on the right side that is deep and has a zipper closure. We love it for stashing car and house keys on outings when we didn't have a pack. The right rear pocket has a flap closure and the left rear pocket is open.

This cargo pocket has dual zippers, one on the side and one on top, and a flap covering the top zip. We are a little confused by the inclusion of the flap over the cargo pocket — it just makes items slightly more challenging to access without adding any protection. We found it hard to fit our hands in there to retrieve snacks. It can hold a large smartphone, but it's not quite deep enough to zip over the top of it. The side zip access is nice if you sit with your legs up.

Versatility and Style

So long as you stick to dry climates, these shorts are multi-purpose. We like them for day hikes and front country meet-ups if you don't have time to change. They are also nice for outdoor work around the house. They make for great travel shorts because they are comfortable and their standard fit through the legs makes it easier to curl up in an airplane seat. However, their lack of water resistance means they aren't ideal for rainy weather or water sports.

In terms of style, they are somewhere between rugged and casual. These shorts have a lot of visible redundant stitching, which is a little for style and a little for durability. The integrated belt is super practical. However, this model also has traditional belt loops, so it's possible to put a regular belt over the top of the one that is sewn in. The two together can look a little odd, but it is nice to have the flexibility to wear a nicer-looking belt if the occasion calls for it while still retaining the ability to tighten the waist if you forget to put on a regular belt.

Weather Resistance and Dry Time

These shorts are among the poorest performers in this metric. The fabric does not have any water resistance. They absorb precipitation quite quickly. Though their thickness keeps moisture from reaching the skin in light rain, they also take a comparatively long time to dry out after moderate or heavy rain. For this reason, we think they are better suited to sunny days and arid climates.

Like many in the category, these shorts have a UPF 50+ rating, meaning they are highly protective against sun exposure. As for wind resistance, they stand up better than most, owing to their thicker nylon.

Venting and Breathability

The Zion II is the only one in this review that incorporates an active ventilation feature. There are four holes on the crotch gusset, which are small enough and discretely placed. If you are sitting down, they are visible, but the openings are small enough that no one could see through them. On the other hand, we aren't sure they offer a lot.

The fabric is notably thicker than other models, and they hold on to moisture longer. That being said, we do sweat less in these shorts than similar competitors. We chalk this up to their looser fit, facilitating airflow throughout the crotch. The stretch fabric does provide additional breathability and the front pockets are mesh-lined, providing some nominal relief.

Should You Buy the Prana Stretch Zion II?

The Prana Stretch Zion II shorts are comfortable and the stretch fabric is flexible yet durable. We recommend them for someone who wants an array of pockets and enjoys additional features like an integrated belt and soft interior wait liner. They aren't water resistant, so they are best for arid climates. However, we enjoy their combination of practicality and unique styling. If light weight is a primary consideration, we suggest looking elsewhere, but this is a great option for a reliable pair of hiking shorts.

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?

If it is important for your shorts to look good, or you just like the Prana brand, we recommend the equally priced Prana Brion. If combined comfort and functionality are what you are after, then the Patagonia Quandary is a high-value option. Also, if a plethora of pockets makes this model appealing, the REI Sahara Cargo is another worth exploring. If you are more into running than hiking, the Patagonia Nine Trails is a top contender with its built-in liner.