Gear Review: ACAI Activewear Women’s Hiking Shorts

I don’t wear shorts very often. Women’s hiking shorts make me think of of unflattering, cargo cuts that were not designed with the female body in mind. So I avoid them like the plague. But when I’m out climbing munros on a hot summers day, it would be nice to feel the breeze on my legs! I had heard a lot about ACAI, but was wary because they are on the pricier side. When I saw they had a sale on, I jumped at the opportunity to try their Water Resistant Summer Hiking Shorts. And I can say with confidence, they are worth every penny.

Stats, Features & Fabric

The fabric is a nylon and elastane mix. It’s water-resistant and yet very lightweight. Features highly needed for summer hikes in Scotland, when the rain still persists even when it’s warm! The waist line is fleece lined for smooth sit across your skin. It’s also got pockets galore – and we all love pockets. There are four: the two standard hip pockets at the front, then two rear pockets, one of which has a zip.

Sizing & Fit

Womens sizing is so hard to hit to get precisely right. We all have different ratios, between hips, bum, thighs, waist and boobs. But, even though sizes are unique to each individual, I appreciate when companies keep in mind the hips situation. ACAI is one of those companies.

I often need to size up for my hips. But then I’m left with too much fabric sagging around my waist, bum and legs. Sound familiar? It’s a common issue. But these women’s hiking shorts have been designed with hips in mind (and hips don’t lie remember). They are well-proportioned for the hip-waist-thigh ratio and are flatteringly high-waisted.

I measured my waist and was between sizes. So I went for the slightly bigger option, as I would rather have roomier leg holes. The waist is a little big, but there are belt loops I can use if I wanted to.

And exactly as I had hoped, when I sit down the legs don’t tighten over my thighs and make me self conscious. I can really feel that ACAI has left room for my curves.

The Adventure Test

ACAI Activewear have specifically designed their clothing with adventurous pursuits in mind. But just how adventure-proof are they?

There were a few activities I took them out on. The first was cycling. Since the shorts are not tight fitting, they had plenty room so my legs could seamlessly move as I pedalled, with no tightness or restriction. It’s also important that the shorts stay put when cycling, as it can be hard to battle with slipping waistbands while whizzing along a trail. These stayed where they should, keeping my builder’s butt from being shown to the world!

I’ve also taken the shorts on various hikes, from beaches to forests to hills. Normally I find shorts quite uncomfortable for a full day exploring. But these shorts are wonderfully comfortable and the fabric is so lightweight, I sometimes I feel I’m wearing nothing at all!

Environmental Footprint

As a relatively small and new company, ACAI still have room for improvement in the sustainability of their women’s hiking shorts. However, ACAI have already made a dedicated sustainability page to share their story and movements towards more sustainable products. Examples so far are using Polylana yarn for their beanies, which uses far less water than acrylic and is made from 80% recycled materials. Their newest skinny trousers are sent in mesh bags instead of plastic, and recycled coffee charcoal is used for the yarn in their thermals.

Overall Feels?

These women’s hiking shorts have been my go-to all summer. They also match so many outfits of mine – because being adventurous doesn’t mean you don’t have to be stylish! The sizing is the best I’ve found yet, and while the company still has a way to go in the sustainability spectrum, I appreciate that they are trying to change as they grow. Ready for yours? They’re currently ON SALE – in both Black or Khaki – so I suggest you get them now!

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