prAna  Stretch Zion 8" Shorts - Men's

I just purchased these new Zion Shorts–to replace my 5 year-or more-old ones (which are still going strong but showing obvious wear and tear). Sizing has changed. I use to buy these in 32 (which is ridiculous because I’m no less than a 34”). Now sizing is more in line with reality. the 34’s fit exactly like my old 32’s. Keep that in mind if ordering on line, I can report they have returned to using the same metal button as my old ones. The cut and seams–and pockets– are virtually identical in design. I even measured the cargo pocket that everyone complains about and it appears to he same exact same dimensions (although i do notice the top zipper opening is more restrictive which makes it a little difficult to get one’s hand in it). I rarely use the cargo pocket so a non-issue for me. The smaller pocket makes for a trimmer profile which reduces these looking like those baggy grunge-looking cargos. The side seam pockets are still large and deep which more than makes up for the smaller cargo pockets. The length of the shorts has been shortened from 10’ to 8” but i’d challenge anyone to notice the difference. I’m glad they are a little shorter but as I just said, it’s hardly noticeable. I measered the inseam on my old one’s at 9.5” The new ones are about 8”. Measurement on the side from the waist to bottom is about 15’ on old ones and about 14.5’ on the new ones. Glad they went in the shorter direction rather than longer. Comfortable hiking–or casual–shorts. If they're like my old ones should last for years. I do have one BIG COMPLAINT and that is that like so many other brands Prana has decide to up the use of “ELASTIN” in its fabric blend. I loath this ultra stretchy material–especially when it surpasses 3%. My old Zions were 97% Nylon and 3% Elastin. These new ones are 95% Nylon and 5% Elastin which may not seem like a lot–but is! They have an almost hosiery -stretchy GOKLF WEAR FEEL. Way more stretch than anyone would need. Personally I wouldn't mind if they dumped the elastin altogether but no more than 3%–is necessary. The overuse of elastin takes away that natural feel and if my suspicion's are correct, probably won’t breath or wear as well over the years. I’d give these 5 Stars except for the

I bought my second pair of Zion shorts 2 months ago & the threads in the front pockets are coming out. I have only worn them hiking twice & have worn them casually about 5 times. AND these Zions do not fit the same as the old ones - bigger & somewhat baggy in the legs. Judging from other reviews posted & from my experience with your product PrAna has lost their edge. Unacceptable! For the price I paid, PrAna has fell way short of my expectations.

I've had my first stretch Zion shorts since I first purchased them in 2018. They were made differently then. Prana was different then. I'm ok with change as long as it is positive. The old pair have held up without any flaws and are still going strong. "Born from the Experience" and "Breathe" I've recently purchased a few new pairs and I am disappointed. After a week of wear the button that holds everything together came off. After so many great things from Prana... I have a button malfunction. I submitted a return claim and then my local seamstress offered to sew on a button. Problem solved and I didn't have to wait for the return or the cost of postage.

These are a classic pair of shorts that are good for the trails, everyday wear or the pub! They fit to spec, I'm a steady 34” waist and they are a comfortable fit. At 6’1” getting the right length can be a challenge, these are the perfect “mama bear” length. The fabric is soft and stretchy, I've not noticed any issues with wear. They are well made and there were no loose threads or obvious flaws. Things that could be improved, none of the pockets have a fastening closure, the fabric in black is a little shiny, a more neutral color (olive, tan) could be less. A dual belt loop at the back is always nice. Overall a solid pair of shorts. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review

I just got a couple pairs of the 8" inseams and honestly these are the best shorts I've purchased in 10 years. I sized up an inch and between the fabric, the cut(!), and the ability to tighten the waist, these fit my big butt better than anything since some discontinued shorts from a decade ago. The pockets are sufficiently deep, deeper than some of the zion stretch pants they make. The couple zipper pockets are nice, everything about them rocks and I'll get them in several additional colors immediately. That said, reading these other reviews will keep me up at night wondering what I'm missing about the 12" shorts I'll never know. Good grief, fellas.

I am a newer owner of these shorts, maybe a months worth of wear. I like the "elastic" stretch fit. They move better. They handle heat well unlike cotton. The size is dead on perfect aka the 8" inseam hits perfect. They are loose enough to feel free to move about. Too many shorts have slimmed down. The built in belt is nice, let's me be lazy until I add a belt. If it breaks, I will just wear a belt. The front and rear pockets are perfect sizes. If I could remove the cargo pocket, I would. I will never use it. I find them corny. But it is also barely noticeable. I own 2 pair, seriously considering a 3rd. How they handle long term, I am willing to find out.

After reading the reviews online, I went to REI to buy a pair of these, size 38. They fit well, however the cargo pocket, on the left side only. is so small my iPhone 16 with a case would just fit into the side zippered pocket if I pushed hard and stretched the pocket to its limit. Whoever approved of this design obviously did not try to actually wear them and place items in the cargo pocket. The one cargo pocket has two opening, both zippered, one horizonal and one vertical, however they are small and it took an effort to push either my wallet or phone into the pockets. I bought a different brand in the store.

I've got about 4 pair of the old school stretch zion shorts that are still wearable. These were the long inseam I believe 11" Awesome shorts. When they changed to the stretch zion 2 I bought a pair in the long inseam. Total junk! Broken button, seam threading issues etc. Then I saw a light, Prana was bringing back the old style. Yay? Nope! Different material, not the same level of quality as the original and not available in the long inseam. Sometimes you just need to admit your mistakes and correct course but I assume the need to squeeze the consumer for higher margins is the rule. I used to buy my wife a ton of Prana apparel also but since I don't shop here anymore, that market is gone for you also.

These are the 6th pair of stretch Zion shorts I’ve purchased over the last couple of years of course in different colors because these are the best! They are super comfortable, lightweight and my favorite part is the cinch strap because I have narrow hips! These tighten once and don’t loosen so I don’t have to wear a belt! I love the material also, I’m a dirt magnet and for some reason this material sheds dirt and I can wear them multiple times without washing! If they get wet they dry quickly! I can’t afford to pay full price so I usually wait until they are on sale! These are the best shorts I’ve ever owned!

Pretty much all I wear climbing, hiking, fishing, and day to day. I've yet to tear them. They're great under a harness, breathe under waders, and dry super fast. They kinda move with you like a second stretchy skin. Zippered pockets are sweet when carrying valuables in compromised places. They're stretchy but dont look like old man blue jeans. I'ts hard to hit burly, comfy, function, and style in one product but prAna did it with the Stretch Zion