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Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Short - Women's Review

A versatile and high-performing pair of shorts with subtle styling and great pockets
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Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Short - Women's Review (From easy to strenuous terrain, we want a pair of shorts that will perform and feel good no matter what.)
From easy to strenuous terrain, we want a pair of shorts that will perform and feel good no matter what.
Credit: Sara Aranda
Price:  $70 List
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Manufacturer:   Mountain Hardwear
By Sara Aranda ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Nov 20, 2024
81
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#1 of 11
  • Comfort and Mobility - 35% 9.0
  • Fabric Performance - 25% 8.0
  • Versatility and Style - 25% 8.0
  • Construction Quality - 15% 6.0

Our Verdict

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda shorts bring quality, comfort, and versatility to a whole new level. The fabric is technical and breathable, and the stretch is generous to work with the shapes of our bodies under movement. During testing, we found little to complain about. From strenuous hikes to hour-long bike rides and sessions on a yoga mat, these shorts were able to meet all our needs with ease. Their style is fairly middle-of-the-road. If you're one to stray away from longer inseams, you won't prefer a Bermuda design. Otherwise, the cut is both sporty and chic, and the fit and fabric make them ready to accommodate all kinds of adventures, from the short and the long to casual and far more strenuous. Check out our review article covering all the best women's hiking shorts to see how this pair ranks versus competitors.
REASONS TO BUY
Comfortable
Water-resistant
Breathable
Versatile for general outdoor recreation
REASONS TO AVOID
Not the cheapest
Not the most stylish
Not the most durable

Editor's Note: We updated this review on November 20, 2024, to include our findings from recent retesting, during which time we reverified our previous findings against an updated lineup and ensured all our scores were aligned with the new testing protocols and metrics we've introduced.

Recent Product Updates
We bought the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda shorts for testing during the Summer of 2024. Between the time of that purchase, our testing, and the publication of this review update, Mountain Hardwear implemented some design changes that are worth noting, as they are not reflected in our results. The thigh pocket has now moved from the left side of the short to the right and now includes a vertical zipper instead of the previous diagonal zip. The body materials remain the same, but Mountain Hardwear changed the name from “Dynama/2” to just “Dynama” (i.e. they dropped the “/2” from the product's name). We plan to test the renamed product in a future update, but based on the minor changes implemented, we expect them to perform similarly to the version we reviewed here.

Compare to Similar Products

 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Women's Hiking Shorts
Top Pick Award
Best Belted Design
Top Pick Award
Best for Trail Running and Distance Hikes
Best Buy Award
Best Bang for Your Buck
Top Pick Award
Best for Water Play
Price $41.97 at Amazon
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$40 List
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$36 List
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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Bottom Line High versatility, comfort, and breathability come together in all the right waysThe most comfortable design with a belt in our lineup, but the style may not be for everyoneThe minimalist design skips hand pockets but offers high comfort and breathabilityHigh mobility and quality fabric shine, but comfort and construction quality are lackingBreezy, water-friendly activewear for a decent price
Rating Categories Mountain Hardwear D... Outdoor Research Fe... REI Co-op Active Pu... Hugut Lightweight C... Columbia Sandy Rive...
Comfort and Mobility (35%)
9.0
8.0
8.5
6.5
6.0
Fabric Performance (25%)
8.0
7.0
5.5
8.0
8.0
Versatility and Style (25%)
8.0
7.5
6.5
6.5
6.0
Construction Quality (15%)
6.0
7.0
7.0
6.0
6.5
Specs Mountain Hardwear D... Outdoor Research Fe... REI Co-op Active Pu... Hugut Lightweight C... Columbia Sandy Rive...
Number of Pockets 4 4 1 5 4
Measured Weight 4.8 oz 7.2 oz 3.9 oz 6.7 oz 4.1 oz (no belt), 5.1 oz (with belt)
Saturation Time 1.23 min 2.50 min 0.25 min 3.00 min 3.00 min
Dry Time 42 min 56 min 55 min 26 min 22 min
Material 94% nylon, 6% elastane Ferrosi 86% nylon (46% recycled), 14% spandex 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex (liner: 100% recycled polyester) 90% polyester, 10% spandex 100% nylon Perfecta Plus II with Omni Shade
Water Resistance Fabric Treatment PFC-free DWR Yes None DWR Yes
Size Options (Size Tested) XS - XL (size S) XS - XXL / plus sizes 1X-4X (size M) XS - 3X (size S) S - 3X (size M) XS - 3X (size S)
Inseam Options (Size Tested, If Multiple) 9.0 in 5.0 in, 7 in button fly, 9.0 in plus sizes (5.0 in) 4.5 in, 6 in (4.5 in) 9.5 in 6.0 in
Measured Leg Opening Circumference 21.0 in 25.5 in 27.0 in 23.0 in 25.0 in
Sun Protection Rating UPF 50 UPF 50+ UPF 50 UPF 50+ UPF 30
Waistband Design Stretch knit waistband Wrapped elastic wasitband with integrated web belt Wrapped elastic waistband with internal drawstring Wrapped elastic waistband with external drawstring Wrapped elastic waistband, zipper fly and plastic snap, optional belt
Seam Stich Density (Range Stitches Per Inch) 11-13 10-12 14-19 9-13 10-12
Other Features/Notes Accessory pocket with zipper; all pockets have mesh lining; mid-rise One pocket with zipper; bluesign approved; two pockets with mesh lining; high-rise Laser-cut perforations on sides for ventilation; bluesign approved; small accessory zip pocket with mesh; mid-rise All pockets zippered; high-rise Belt loops and removable belt; two pockets with mesh; two accessory pockets, one with zipper; high-rise

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda shorts are mostly constructed out of nylon with the added touch of elastane for improved stretch and a PFC-free DWR treatment incorporated into the fabric for water resistance. The shorts have three standard but deep pockets, all mesh-lined, and one pocket on the thigh with a zipper that is also fairly deep. There are no snaps or buttons for waist closure, just a stretchy knit waistband that is wide and drawstring-free. They are mid-rise and have a 9-inch inseam, providing excellent comfort and broad utility.

Performance Comparison


mountain hardwear dynama bermuda short for women - stretchy and minimal, the comfort is of the best.
Stretchy and minimal, the comfort is of the best.
Credit: Sara Aranda

Comfort and Mobility


This model earned one of the highest scores for this metric, as the fabric and overall design are incredibly comfortable when worn, with smooth fabric and a flexible fit. The length does not restrict our movement whatsoever, with enough stretch to facilitate high-stepping without any sense of “pull.” We appreciate how large the three main pockets are, which allows us to store items away, like a phone, without sacrificing mobility and, thus, comfort once we are on the trail. Weighing in at 4.8 ounces for the size Small, we find this model to be respectably lightweight and easily worn all day without gripe. Their general comfort and fluid mobility are notable qualities, making this one of the first pairs our test team would choose to grab when faced with a busy day ahead in the outdoors.


Thankfully, we didn't notice any change in fit or feel after washing. This pair remains true to size with use and is designed with a relaxed cut with plenty of roominess to ensure easy movements and general overall comfort. We also appreciate the simplicity of the waistband design, removing potential hassle and discomfort caused by buttons, zippers, or tightly strung elastic. This makes these shorts perfect to fit beneath a pack with a waist belt. We noted that we rarely, if ever, found ourselves adjusting how the waistband sits on our hips or against our skin. This is not something you think about until you are faced with apparel that just doesn't sit right. In total, there just isn't much to complain about when it comes to this metric unless you're just not a fan of long inseams, be it how they look or how they feel against the thighs. Our testers report this pair feels smooth and light, and since they breathe well, they maintain their comfort over the long term, no matter how much we're sweating.

The pockets are adequate for carrying a phone but could benefit from...
The pockets are adequate for carrying a phone but could benefit from being a little deeper.
Being able to high-step is easy with the stretchy and lightweight...
Being able to high-step is easy with the stretchy and lightweight fabric.

Fabric Performance


Scoring near the top for this metric as well, we found the nylon-elastane fabric managed to breathe well during field testing. Even though the 9-inch length does retain a tad more warmth than those with shorter inseams, the design of the Dynama Bermudas does not trap heat in any substantial way. This is true even given the leg openings that measured only 21 inches in circumference — among the slimmer ones we tested — since the cut is not too snug overall. In general, we find its moisture-wicking nylon to be effective even on a hot day despite the DWR treatment, which might otherwise diminish breathability. Since the waistband is just as thin as the rest of the shorts, there is no extra heat retention taking place at the abdomen, something we often see when waistbands are thicker or are lined with fancier materials (i.e., tricot) in this area of the body. And for additional venting, all the pockets are mesh-lined to facilitate airflow. We appreciate the Dynama's smart, streamlined construction.


The technical aspects of its body fabric are high. The shorts provide UPF 50 sun protection and are treated with a water-repellant that is free from Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs or "forever chemicals"). In lab-like testing, we investigated soaking and drying times. In the case of the Dyanama Bermudas, the fabric became fully soaked after about 1 minute and 15 seconds of immersion and took around 42 minutes to air dry fully with a blow dryer set at an “air” temp (no heat). This places these Mountain Hardwear shorts somewhat in the middle of the pack for this specific test, not the quickest to try nor the slowest. Still, this warrants a reasonably high score reflecting the equally sufficient performance of the fabric under mixed conditions akin to those they are likely to find when put to use by an average wearer.

Having water resistance added to the fabric is nice when you spill...
Having water resistance added to the fabric is nice when you spill on yourself; you can easily brush off the beaded moisture.
Having mesh-lined pockets increases venting and also helps drain...
Having mesh-lined pockets increases venting and also helps drain water if you have to wade.

Versatility and Style


The second highest mark for the Dynama Bermuda is related to how easily it can be integrated and put to use for activities other than hiking. It's easy and still comfortable to wear these shorts with a harness for climbing due to the stretch and flexibility of the fabric. They are also great for cycling, yoga, or whatever other sport you're inspired to use them for. Since they are on the modest side of the inseam spectrum, we can also see them being useful for people working outside (i.e., summer camps, gardening, light farm work, etc). Our lead tester reported feeling like she was wearing the “right shorts” for nearly any activity she partook in while donning the Dynama Bermudas. Plus, the longer inseam means that these shorts can still be worn during shoulder seasons or in colder weather.


A highly versatile product is one we love to celebrate, so this metric also considers the various applications and fashionable qualities of the design. With simple, subtle styling, the Dynama Bermudas isn't necessarily something we'd consider high fashion or trendy. They occupy a sportier space. So, even though they are easily transferable from one sport to the next, we feel that they don't translate well into town activities. Or at least not quite as well as other pairs of shorts we tested in this lineup. However, they do have a chicness and beach-friendliness to them, in our tester's opinion, due to how smooth and airy they feel and how streamlined they look. There are several colors to choose from, which is always a plus. In addition, we acknowledge that personal and cultural preferences may shift between generations or even over a select few years. This is why we feel such shorts with middle-of-the-road inseam lengths are far more well-rounded and inclusive in their design and may have a longer usable lifespan in your drawer.

Being able to cycle in the Dynama 2 Bermuda is a huge plus. The...
Being able to cycle in the Dynama 2 Bermuda is a huge plus. The length and breathability make them ideal shorts for biking around town.
Coming in different color options, the smooth and flat look of the...
Coming in different color options, the smooth and flat look of the shorts is somewhat similar to that of leggings.

Construction Quality


This is the only metric in which this model didn't soar to the top of the list. The main reason is the result of our paperclip snag test. The Dynama's fabric snagged rather easily with testing, producing notable pilling even if the fabric didn't rip. Unfortunately, these shorts performed the worst out of all the competitors in the snag test alone. Yet, while the test helps us grasp the essence of the shorts' durability, we acknowledge that the overall strength in construction depends on a variety of factors and will also depend on how much wear they receive. To gauge strength in their build, we also measured stitching loops, looking at how many exist per seamed inch in various places along the shorts. We're happy to report that at 11-13 stitches per inch, this pair ranks great as compared with other pairs, with reliable reinforcements anywhere panels meet. So, while the fabric may fray a little bit from sliding down a rock, the seams are unlikely to start unraveling with regular use.


Other things we examined include a close look at each of the features and fabrics used in every short's construction. This invites us to take a closer look at any extra design features, including pockets. On the Dynama Bermuda, we noted all pockets are large enough to carry a modern phone. However, we also found they could not hold the phone securely when sitting, and the phone was prone to sliding out. What we do like is that the fabric is stretchy enough to allow us to move around easily while carrying such things in our pockets. We also noted reinforced stitching in high-stress areas, which adds to the durability and longevity of these shorts. Mesh-lined pockets are also a welcome perk, producing an excellent venting and breathability strategy. A zipper on the accessory thigh pocket is also high quality and easy to use without catching up on itself. Lastly, all materials used are soft, smooth, and have a good amount of stretch.

There is some fraying that happens with this fabric, but nothing...
There is some fraying that happens with this fabric, but nothing ever ripped on us.
The zippered pocket is larger than most accessory pockets tend to...
The zippered pocket is larger than most accessory pockets tend to be, and the zipper is of high quality.

Should You Buy the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda?


We think these shorts are of considerable quality and offer great value as a result. The Dynama Bermudas are more than sufficient for a summer day hike or even backpacking. For the price, which runs to the high side albeit far from the priciest in the lineup, you're gaining a highly reliable purchase that will perform well on many hikes to come. Our testers reported these shorts as one of the most outstanding pairs that have been recently tested. They applaud their comfort and versatility. Plus, they are both flattering and technical.

mountain hardwear dynama bermuda short for women - with flexible fabric and a relaxed fit, this bermuda doesn't shy...
With flexible fabric and a relaxed fit, this bermuda doesn't shy away from activities requiring mobility, such as bouldering, scrambling, or yoga.
Credit: Sara Aranda

What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?


It's hard to beat a product that is casual, practical, and feels amazing no matter what we're doing in it, but we understand that a 9-inch inseam length isn't for everyone. For something a bit shorter, take a look at the REI Active Pursuits or the Patagonia Multi Trails, which are still very comfortable and offer a high-tech performance in a more athletic style. If you're on a budget and just want to get the job done, head over to the Hugut Lightweight Cargo. While this pair is a bit less exciting as a fashion statement, they offer decent performance value for a very affordable price.

Sara Aranda