Lightweight yet ultra-durable, the Switchback Shorts are constructed from a highly-technical fabric blend with quick-dry technology, dynamic 4-way stretch and enhanced abrasion resistance for unrivalled performance and comfort.
Made from tough, abrasion-resistant materials and backed by a Lifetime Warranty*, the Switchback Shorts don’t mess around when it comes to durability.
4-Way Stretch
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4-Way Stretch
Designed for movement and comfort, these hard-wearing shorts feature 4-way stretch fabric technology that accommodates your body’s natural range of motion without ever feeling restrictive.
Quick-Dry Technology
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Quick-Dry Technology
The Switchback Shorts can handle the heat. Quick-dry fabric technology wicks sweat and moisture away from your skin, keeping you cool, dry and comfortable even when the temperatures spike.
Simple & Effective
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Simple & Effective
We think less is more when it comes to outdoor equipment. The Switchback Shorts are no exception, with low-key styling and a simple, effective design that prioritises function over fashion.
Specifications
Fabric
77% Nylon 11% Polyester 12% Spandex
Construction
4-Way Stretch
Coating/Finish
C0 PFC-Free
Weight
205g (Size M)
Fabric
77% Nylon 11% Polyester 12% Spandex
Construction
4-Way Stretch
Coating/Finish
C0 PFC-Free
Weight
7.2oz (Size M)
What's included
1 × SWITCHBACK SHORTS
bluesign® APPROVED
Our Switchback Shorts are made from bluesign® APPROVED fabric, produced with industry-leading ethical, sustainable and safety standards at every stage of the production process. This globally recognised certification works to reduce the impact of garment and textile manufacturing on the environment, workers and customers.
Fit-For-Purpose Functionality
With a low-profile waist, four pockets and a subtle tailored fit, the Switchback Shorts are made to keep things simple. Whether you are hiking through the mountains or chilling at the beach, these hard-wearing shorts deliver hard-hitting performance without unnecessary distractions.
Customer Reviews
Overall rating: 4.8 / 5 from 19 reviews.
Whilst not the typical use, the Switchback Shorts performed well during the Sunday Creek Classic mountain bike event. Although the conditions were wet and muddy the fabric showed no signs of wear after a gruelling 7 hours in the saddle. The Switchbacks not only look good on (self assessed), they feel light and stretch to comfortably accommodate movement. Needing glasses to read/ interpret my Garmin, maps and messages, I particularly liked the well placed, accessible slim line glasses pocket. I noted that the waist band stretched and loosened after several hours of intense activity. This said, I wasn’t using the Switchbacks for their intended purpose, so definitely not a deal breaker.
I love these pants. I got them about 2 months ago, I wear them probably 2-3 times a week and only wash them once a week. From hiking, ocean swimming or moving house, these are now my go-to shorts. True to size, they are comfortable, and move well with your body. The pockets are near perfect. I originally thought I’d miss having zippered pockets for outdoor shorts, but haven’t found it an issue. There are two reasons for the 4 stars… since the fabric is water repellant & none of the pockets have drainage holes - when you’re in water, the pockets fill quickly and don’t easily drain. This results in weighing the pants down when navigating through water.
The other reason, I’m cautious of the stretch fabric used. It’s *highly* durable but the shorts themselves have become more loose the longer I’ve worn and washed them. Time will tell. Over all, I highly recommend this product, I’ll probably pick up a second pair soon. I’d love it if they came in tan…..
Initially, I was a bit reluctant to spend this much on shorts, but these are the best shorts I've ever used. As advertised, they're durable, quick drying, and are perfectly fine dealing with multiple days of hiking through the bush. Would/will 100% buy again.
We recently travelled interstate stopping at caravan parks, motels etc and at days end would have welcomed a change from casual pants/jeans into shorts. Guess what I forgot to take.
There’s a fantastic shorts great quality and so comfortable. Have spent a week on Fraser Island in them and they have taken everything. I’ve thrown them. Highly recommend!
Over all I'm very happy with the shorts, good fit and feel. Only one small the thing was the front hand pockets, their contents can easily fall out if seated or riding a bike. Otherwise faultless, light weight and comfy.
Super light, super comfortable & breathable. Great everyday casual shorts or for work and board shorts all in one. Fit true to size and very much worth the price. Love em!
As an everyday pair of shorts, these are great. The material is unmatched. They seem strong, dry quick, and don't hold on to nasty smells. I wear them all the time.
When it comes to hiking though, I still prefer my Colombia silver ridge convertibles. The functionality and weight saving of zip off pants make them a no brainer, and the pocket situation on the Colombia's is much better for the bush in my opinion. Having plenty of zipped and Velcro pockets provides me with a lot more peace of mind, rather than worrying about all my quick access gear falling out of my open pocket, especially when I'm going up some pretty harsh ascents.
The Alton shorts are still pretty great, I'd just like to see some more secure pockets on the next version. A convertible option would also save you having to buy both the shorts and the pants, which would be much appreciated considering they are not cheap.
