Prana Revenna Review
Cons: Stretches out, wrinkles easily
Manufacturer: Prana
Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Revenna is made mostly out of nylon with a touch of spandex, labeled as ripstop by the manufacturer. They have four standard but deep pockets, all mesh-lined. The front, right pocket has a zipper for added security. In addition to the two metal snaps and zipper combination for waist closure, they also have an internal drawstring (which we found ourselves never using, actually). The inseam is 7 inches, and the waist is mid-rise.
Performance Comparison
Comfort and Mobility
The fabric on these shorts is very comfortable, flexible, and soft. The length does not restrict our movement whatsoever, and we appreciate how large the four pockets are - and how one of them has a concealed zipper (a highlight in the features category). We tested this pair in a size 2, which weighed 5.2 oz.
The main setback is in the overall fit. While true to size after a fresh wash, the material stretches and wrinkles much more readily than the others in the group. Stretching out over time, we are left with a baggier feeling and fit, which for us detracts from the comfort as we find ourselves adjusting the shorts more and more. This is possibly why there exists an internal drawstring.
Venting and Breathability
Scoring well above average in this metric, the soft fabric breathes well. Despite being a little longer than some shorts we tested, we feel that these shorts handle heat well. We find the moisture-wicking nylon to be effective even on the hottest days here in Colorado.
The thin waistband does not trap heat around our abdomen, which we really appreciated on hot hikes. For venting, there isn't anything extra, save for the mesh-lined pockets. Having a longer inseam will also hinder venting, but the circumference of the leg openings are plenty wide and not too fitted around the leg.
Versatility
Another high mark for the Prana, the ability to use these shorts for activities other than hiking is a no-brainer. From bike rides to dog walks to even climbing, we felt that these shorts perform well. From gardeners to summer camp counselors, these shorts work well in many outdoor, non-hiking settings, too.
With simple, subtle styling, they aren't necessarily something we'd consider as trendy, especially when they wrinkle and stay wrinkled (which is easily done from merely sitting in them). Though great for many outdoor activities, we don't think these are the best for urban settings.
Water Resistance
According to the manufacturer's description, the fabric also has a DWR (durable water repellant) treatment. During our testing, however, we were unable to determine exactly how the DWR treatment plays a role in water resistance. The pair absorbs water instantly and does not classically bead as the other repellant shorts do.
Having little resistance inevitably lands them right along with any other average pair in this sense. It is very fortunate that the material isn't cotton, however, as being able to dry fairly quickly can make up for lacking water resistance. We score drying time under the Features category, though, so read on to see how they fared.
Features
This model sure doesn't look super technical, but we appreciate the added perks of mesh-lined (and deep) pockets, UPF 50, and belt loops. The nylon dries fast enough for our expectations, but not as impressively as some of the others that are thinner and made up of more synthetic blends.
Regardless, we still consider them to be technical and more than sufficient for summer day-hiking and even backpacking, even if they are on the near-minimal side of the spectrum when it comes to added design features and fabric technology.
Value
With best in class performance, these shorts present high value. We definitely recommend owning a pair of these. However, if the price is more than you want to spend for a pair of hiking shorts, there are completely functional options that cost considerably less.
Conclusion
With only a few minor drawbacks, the Prana Revenna is otherwise one of the most outstanding pairs of shorts we've recently tested. Comfortable and versatile for many outdoor scenarios, these shorts quickly became a favorite among our team. If only they didn't wrinkle so much and if only they were a tad more technical when it comes to water-resistance, they'd be perfect. But they are casual, practical, and feel amazing.
— Sara Aranda