Versatile Shorts for Trail, Town or Gym
Lightweight Versatility for Trail and Town
When it comes to outdoor gear, few pieces are as important as a reliable pair of shorts. The Kühl Upriser Short has quickly become one of my favorites—not just for the trail, but for nearly everything I do in the summer. Whether I’m hiking, bikepacking, backpacking, hitting the gym, or even wandering around town, these shorts have proven themselves to be both versatile and durable.
Lightweight and Built for Adventure
The Upriser is cut from ultra-lightweight perforated fabric, making it incredibly breathable in hot weather. The material wicks moisture, dries quickly, and is just as comfortable above the waterline as it is below. In fact, I’ve even used them for swimming, and they worked surprisingly well. Unlike lined shorts, the absence of mesh means they dry faster and feel less bulky.
For hiking and backpacking, the perforated design is a lifesaver on steep climbs or humid days. For bikepacking, the gusseted crotch gives you better range of motion and eliminates uncomfortable pinching in the saddle.
Smart Design Features
One of the features I love most is the hidden inner drawstring. It eliminates the need for a belt, which not only cuts down on extra weight when traveling, but also takes pressure off the front button—a common weak point in many shorts. The waistband combines a bar button, zipper fly, and elastic comfort stretch, which together provide a snug, secure fit.
The five-pocket design is equally impressive:
Two deep hand pockets
One zippered back pocket for security
Two stealth side pockets sized for cell phones
Plus, a handy key-keeper bungee inside the right front pocket
That’s a lot of storage without adding bulk or awkward flaps.
Everyday Style
Not every trail short can double as a town short, but the Kühl Upriser pulls it off. The clean, athletic design makes them look just as good at the gym or a café as they do on the trail. Reviewers agree that the perforated fabric gives them a modern, stylish look, while still performing in outdoor settings.
The only minor drawback some users mentioned is the lack of additional plain color options—stone khaki or dark khaki would be nice additions. Still, the existing choices work well in most situations, whether casual or active.
Final Thoughts
The Kühl Upriser Short is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants one pair of shorts to do it all—from rugged mountain trails to workouts and casual summer outings. They’re lightweight, breathable, quick-drying, and thoughtfully designed with features like a hidden drawstring and plenty of pockets.
If you’re an outdoor traveler who values versatility, you’ll have a hard time finding a better all-around summer short.
👉 Check out the Kühl Upriser Short directly on kuhl.com or pick some up at REI.
