Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s Review

First Impressions of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s

The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s enters a crowded market of outdoor apparel, promising both performance and sustainability. Mountain Hardwear aims to blend technical features with environmentally conscious materials, hoping to capture the attention of the modern outdoor enthusiast. These shorts, designed for women, are intended to be versatile enough for hiking, climbing, and general outdoor activities.

I was on the hunt for a pair of durable, lightweight shorts that wouldn’t restrict my movement during summer hikes and scrambles. I needed something that could handle rugged terrain, dry quickly, and offer a comfortable fit for long days on the trail. Aesthetics were also a consideration; I wanted shorts that looked good and felt good, both on and off the mountain.

Upon receiving the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s, the first thing I noticed was its remarkably light weight and the feel of the recycled nylon fabric. The material felt smooth and durable, suggesting it could withstand some abuse. The included belt was a nice touch, adding a customizable fit.

Compared to similar shorts from Patagonia and Arc’teryx, the Stryder Belted Short seemed to strike a good balance between price and features. While the Patagonia Baggies are a classic for casual wear, they lack the technical features I needed for more demanding activities. The Arc’teryx Gamma LT shorts are more performance-oriented but come with a significantly higher price tag.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The shorts seemed well-made and thoughtfully designed, but the real test would be how they performed in the field. I was eager to put them through their paces on an upcoming hiking trip to the Sierra Nevada.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s on a three-day backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada. This involved hiking through varied terrain, including rocky trails, creek crossings, and exposed ridges. The shorts were subjected to both dry and sunny conditions, as well as a brief afternoon thunderstorm.

The Stryder Belted Short performed admirably in most conditions. Its lightweight construction allowed for unrestricted movement while hiking and scrambling. The fabric proved to be quick-drying after the creek crossings and the rain shower, preventing any discomfort or chafing.

The only initial issue was with the integrated belt; it required frequent adjustments to maintain a snug fit around my waist. The buckle felt a bit flimsy and didn’t always hold securely. Despite this minor annoyance, the overall performance of the shorts was positive during this first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s has proven to be a reliable piece of outdoor apparel. The fabric has held up well, with no significant signs of wear and tear despite exposure to rocks and abrasion. The stitching remains intact, and the color hasn’t faded.

Maintenance is straightforward. The shorts are machine washable and dry quickly, making them easy to care for after a day on the trail. I’ve found that a simple wash and air dry is sufficient to keep them clean and fresh.

Compared to other hiking shorts I’ve owned, the Stryder Belted Short holds its own. It offers a similar level of performance and durability to more expensive options while remaining lightweight and comfortable. The only downside is the occasional need to readjust the belt.

Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Mountain Hardwear
• Inseam Size: 5 inches. This length offers a good balance between coverage and freedom of movement.
• Apparel Fit: Regular. A regular fit allows for comfortable layering and doesn’t feel too tight or restrictive.
• Age Group: Adults.
• Application: Outdoor. These shorts are designed for various outdoor activities.
• Gender: Female.
• Fabric/Material: Recycled Nylon Woven 100% Recycled Nylon. The use of recycled nylon is a significant plus for environmentally conscious consumers.
• Weight: 3.51 oz. This incredibly light weight makes them comfortable for long days.

Performance & Functionality

The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s excels in its primary function: providing comfortable and unrestrictive movement during outdoor activities. The lightweight fabric and articulated design allow for a full range of motion, whether hiking, climbing, or simply exploring. The quick-drying properties of the nylon are also a major benefit, especially in wet or humid conditions.

One area that could use improvement is the belt buckle. It occasionally slips and requires readjustment. Despite this minor flaw, the overall performance of the shorts is impressive, especially considering their lightweight design.

The Stryder Belted Short generally meets expectations. It offers a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s is commendable. The recycled nylon fabric feels durable and resists abrasion. The shorts are exceptionally lightweight, making them comfortable for extended wear.

The Stryder Belted Short is user-friendly. There’s no learning curve; it’s easy to put on, adjust, and wear.

Durability & Maintenance

The recycled nylon fabric of the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s appears to be quite durable. With proper care, they should last for several seasons of regular use.

Maintenance is simple. The shorts are machine washable and dry quickly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s comes with an integrated belt. No other specific customization options or dedicated accessories are available.

The shorts’ design is fairly standard, and compatible with most athletic underlayers. The color options are designed to coordinate well with other Mountain Hardwear apparel.

Pros and Cons of Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s

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Who Should Buy Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s?

The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s is perfect for hikers, backpackers, and climbers who prioritize lightweight comfort and durability. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile pair of outdoor shorts that are made with environmentally friendly materials. Active travelers will also appreciate these shorts.

Anyone seeking heavy-duty shorts for very rugged use might prefer something with more robust fabric or additional features. Individuals who require lots of secure pockets might also find these shorts lacking.

A lightweight liner or base-layer short can enhance comfort. A sturdier replacement belt might be desirable for those who find the integrated belt insufficient.

Conclusion on Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s

The Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s offers an impressive combination of lightweight comfort, durability, and sustainability. While the integrated belt could be improved, the overall performance of the shorts is excellent.

At $70.00, the price is justified. The Stryder Belted Short provides good value for money.

I would recommend these shorts to anyone seeking a versatile and eco-friendly option for their outdoor adventures. Give the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Belted Short – Women’s a try, and experience the freedom and comfort they offer on the trail.