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.

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

Agree with everyone here. Please bring back the ORIGINAL Zion Short, 12", metal closure. When you brought out the Zion II you said it was due to customer feedback and you made improvements - I'm sorry, but the Zion II was dismal compared to the original Zion. I purchased a pair and then tried to find more but I think it was at the end of the run and I could only find one in my size. I then purchased three Zion II pairs at the same size - and they were too small and inferior. So now I have two perfect pairs and three inferior pairs. I wear these shorts every day in the summer, and five pairs of the Zion Stretch pants (please don't change them!) every day in the winter. Please bring back the original!

I love my older version of these shorts I bought in 2023, they have survived a thru hike of the Appalachian Trail and they seemed indestructible. I bought this pair in May and have only worn them a handful of times and the seams are already pulling apart. For that price I’m pretty disappointed.

Great fabric and fit. Cargo pocket is just the right size and doesn't make you look like a total goober when worn to the office or restaurant. I have 2 pair that all I have worn for more than a year nearly every day. (I'm cheap and live in Texas where it hot to warm most of the time) and they have help up nicely.