So I went in to a local outdoor retailer and tried atleast five different pairs of technical shorts..

These shorts are just about perfect. For me, they are the ideal length for hiking - which is slightly shorter than most other "hiking shorts." The fit is very flattering; they look nice off the trail too and are great for traveling. I've worn them while traveling through cities, hiking in the mountains, even out to dinner and some "nicer" summer events. They are very lightweight and dry quickly (ideal for traveling). My one concern is this: the material seems to be starting to pill on the front just above the hemline. I've had these shorts for a few months, and have worn them regularly (but not daily!) through the summer. I with they felt a little more durable. Hopefully they hold up! They are super comfortable and cute shorts!

I pretty much live in these all summer. Comfy and stretchy fabric.

These shorts are extremely comfortable and suitable for hiking or boating. They are so stretchy and light weight that it feels as though I have nothing on...they are great. They seem as though they would dry quickly. (I actually know they do as a friend of mine kayaks in them.) What I didn't like about them, is that they have no secure pockets for keys for example. The slash pockets in front feel as though small items could easily fall out. The pockets in back may be more secure but it would look and feel strange to put much in them. Another issue for me was the style- nothing wrong, but nothing great either. I wear a 2 or 4 or 6 and in these shorts the 6 was comfortable.