Women's climbing shorts

Looking for women's climbing shorts that perform both on the crag and at the climbing gym? Our selection features stretch fabric models designed to offer true freedom of movement and a fit tailored to the female body. Enjoy free returns within 60 days and free delivery from £199.

Why choose women's climbing shorts?

Women's climbing shorts are a dedicated piece of kit, very different from standard hiking shorts. While hiking shorts focus on lightness and storage pockets, climbing shorts are designed to support technical climbing moves: high heel hooks, flagging, and overhangs. Their fitted cut ensures secure support under a harness without restricting leg movement. Whether you're bouldering, climbing indoors, or tackling multi-pitch routes outdoors, this gear significantly improves your climbing comfort. For cooler days or multi-pitch sessions, check out our high-performance women's climbing trousers. And to kit out your climbing partner, discover our range of men's climbing shorts designed for the sport.

The benefits of stretch fabric for climbing

Stretch fabric is what sets true climbing shorts apart from regular shorts. Thanks to added elastane, the fabric stretches in all directions and returns to shape without losing form. Black Diamond makes excellent use of this technology in their Sierra Shorts, known for their stretch and durability on the rock. Key benefits include:

• Exceptional lightness, so you're never restricted on long routes
• Quick-drying, ideal for intense sessions or hot weather
• High abrasion resistance against rock surfaces
• Lasting comfort, even after hours of climbing

Choose a model with reinforced stretch panels at the crotch and thighs-this is where freedom of movement really counts.

How to choose the right size?

Finding the right women's climbing shorts is all about fit and feel. Here are the key criteria to consider among available sizes:

• Waist: check for an adjustable waistband or elastic for a secure fit under a harness
• Length: shorts that are too long can restrict leg movement, while those too short may lack support. Aim for a balanced length for your activity
• Fit: cuts tailored to the female body offer better fit at the hips and thighs

If you're between sizes, our team is available via online chat to help you choose.

Our eco-friendly climbing shorts

Recycled materials and durability

Climb with a lower environmental impact. Several brands in our range offer women's climbing shorts made from recycled polyester or regenerated nylon. These eco-designed materials deliver the same durability and stretch as conventional fabrics, while significantly reducing carbon footprint. Looking for Wild, a French brand born in the Tarn gorges, designs its shorts with certified fabrics and responsible European manufacturing. Norrøna follows the same standards with its Falketind Flex1 range, praised by climbers for its balance of performance and sustainability. Discover our technical women's climbing trousers made with the same approach.

FAQ: All about women's climbing shorts

What's the difference between climbing shorts and hiking shorts?

Women's climbing shorts stand out for their fitted cut, high-stretch fabric, and abrasion resistance against rock. Hiking shorts, on the other hand, focus on lightness, breathability, and storage pockets, with a generally looser fit. For climbing, secure fit under a harness and freedom of movement are the top priorities.

How do you care for your climbing shorts?

Proper care will extend the life of your climbing shorts. A few simple tips:

• Wash at 30°C on a delicate cycle, inside out
• Avoid tumble drying, which can damage stretch fabrics
• Air dry, preferably in the shade
• Close zips before washing to protect the fibres

Do you need different shorts for outdoor and indoor climbing?

For indoor climbing, you can choose lightweight, flexible women's climbing shorts, as artificial walls are less abrasive. Outdoors, opt for reinforced models with good abrasion resistance-rock wears down fabric, especially at the thighs and seat. E9 and La Sportiva offer versatile models suitable for both. Complete your kit with a quality pair of climbing shoes and browse our full range of women's climbing clothing.