Anyone wear "half tight" shorts?

Spandex shorts are one of the best hiking garments ever especially in wet conditions and reasons they aren’t used more are more cultural than practical.

I believe Ray Jardine generally wore shorts similar to what you are describing. There are lots on the market made for running. Different materials will affect how breathable, insulating and quick drying. I was looking for some merino wool/spandex compression shorts which used to be sold in running stores to wear under an extremely thin pair of running shorts with the liner cut out. For most conditions that seemed a very appealing way to hike to me. I have yet to try it though.

I use something similar they are swimwear called Jammers. They are like cycling shorts without the padding. I find them to be very comfortable even in very hot weather. I have never had an issue with chaffing. I have been wanting to try a pair of wool cycling shorts made by Kucharik. They are a 6 panel design without padding. I think they would be very similar to the Jammers but maybe too hot and would not dry quick enough.  Fred

I started wearing spandex shorts under a skirt two years ago, and haven’t looked at nylon hiking pants ever again.  Truthfully, the skirt is probably unnecessary, but it gives me pockets to carry my map and cell phone, so I’ve persisted, even in hot weather.  I get mine from Running Funky.  Especially under rain shells, this is the best, and I think they dry faster.

As a cyclist and triathlete, I get to prance about in spandex a lot =D And I agree with others about how it’s more of a cultural thing.

Spandex shorts are such a great option under most conditions. When it is hot, they breathe well. When wet, they prevent chaffing. When cold, shell pants fit well over them.

There are 2-in-1 shorts made by running clothing guys that have the spandex inner in the form of boxer briefs with the standard loose shorts. You get pockets, cultural decency, light weight.

Jammers, running tights, tri shorts without padding are great if you don’t want the other shorts attached or at all.

And if you don’t need chafe protection mid thigh, volleyball shorts (especially female ones) are great.

Seems that these shorts might be contrary to the 2nd Law of Thermodynamic Walking

Don’t know what the Second Law is, Nick.  I will admit that if I were walking in your neck of the woods, I might have to think twice about them.  Desert with stickers everywhere might not be the place to wear spandex.  The other spot is under heavy mosquito pressure.  I do use permethrin on mine for the summer.

It’s ok that you don’t know  the 2nd Law of Thermodynamic Walking! But you can google it with Colin Fletcher.

Diane,

I am fairly certain the 2nd Law isn’t applicable to you.

I just got some asics stretchy running shorts in the mail. I like them. I plan on wearing them over wool underwear. Seems like running tights would slip over them easier than loose shorts without bunching.