REASONS TO BUY
Versatile
Internal zipper pocket
UPF 50+
Snap hand pockets
Accessible price
REASONS TO AVOID
Internal zip shares hand pocket space
Taller waistband
No drying/breathability tech
REI Active Pursuits Shorts Review
A solid all-around unlined short with good pocket security and stretch fabric for running, hiking, and gym use
Credit: Matthew Richardson
By Matthew Richardson ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ July 1, 2026
Our Verdict
The REI Active Pursuits Shorts are the jack-of-all-trades unlined option in our lineup. The 86% recycled polyester and 14% spandex blend stretches comfortably for running, hiking, and gym work, and UPF 50+ protection is a nice bonus. The snap-closure hand pockets add security over open-top designs, and the internal zipper pocket inside the right hand pocket locks down a phone. The unlined construction means you choose your own base layer. For runners who want one affordable, versatile pair for mixed activity, the Active Pursuits deliver across the board without excelling in any single area.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The REI Active Pursuits on a dry singletrack loop. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Likes
The pocket setup is where the REI Active Pursuits Shorts quietly stand out as an unlined budget short. The snap-closure hand pockets feel more secure than open-top designs, and the internal zipper pocket in the right-hand pocket keeps a phone secure with enough peace of mind for running. The stretchy poly-spandex blend moves comfortably across activities, from a morning run to a trail hike to gym time, and the UPF 50+ protection is a genuine asset for outdoor training. The 7-inch inseam and roomy cut transition easily to casual wear. At this price point, the Active Pursuits offer solid versatility without a significant investment.
Using a hand pocket on the REI Active Pursuits. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Dislikes
The Active Pursuits do everything adequately, but nothing exceptionally. The waistband is narrower than our top performers and tends to fold over during higher-intensity efforts. The unlined design means you need your own base layer for running support. The internal zipper pocket, while secure, shares space with the hand pocket it sits in, making accessing both a bit awkward. Breathability and drying speed are middle-of-the-pack, with no special ventilation features or moisture-management technology. The fabric is functional but lacks the soft, premium hand feel of the Vuori or the ultralight quality of the Janji.
The waistband on the REI Active Pursuits can fold over during harder efforts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Should You Buy the REI Active Pursuits Shorts?
If you want one pair of unlined shorts that handles a range of activities at a fair price, the Active Pursuits are a safe, versatile pick. They are not the best at any single thing, but they are good at most things. Runners who want a liner, better breathability, or a more running-specific design will find stronger options in the lineup, but for general-purpose use at this price, the Active Pursuits earn their place.
What Other Running Shorts Should You Consider?
The Vuori Kore Short offers a softer fabric and a built-in boxer brief liner for runners who want more comfort and style versatility, though at a higher price. The Patagonia Trailfarer is a lighter, faster-drying unlined option with DWR weather protection. For a lined short at a similar price, the Brooks Dash Shorts deliver a much better waistband with a brief liner included.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare REI Active Pursuits Shorts versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $45 List Check REI (on sale!) |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | A solid all-around unlined short with good pocket security and stretch fabric for running, hiking, and gym use |
| Pros | Versatile, internal zipper pocket, UPF 50+, snap hand pockets, accessible price |
| Cons | Internal zip shares hand pocket space, taller waistband, no drying/breathability tech |
| Rating Categories | REI Active Pursuits |
| Overall Comfort (50%) | |
| Breathability & Moisture Control (30%) | |
| Pockets (20%) | |
| Specifications | REI Active Pursuits |
| Best for | Versatility |
| Liner Type | None |
| Pockets | 2 hand + 1 internal zipper |
| Fits a Phone | Yes (internal zipper pocket) |
| Measured Weight (Size Small) | 4.70 0z |
| Measured Waistband Width | 13.50 in |
| Measured Leg Opening (Diameter) | 12.00 in |
| Dry Time - Blow Dryer | 20 min |
| Waistband Drawstring Placement | Internal |
| Body Material | 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex |
| Alternate Styles | 6" unisex version; 9" inseam |
—Matthew Richardson
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