I Ditched My Denim Shorts for These $24 Linen Ones That Are Good for Hiking, Camping, and Sightseeing

Two summers ago, I finally decided to ditch my denim shorts. I was done dealing with the restrictiveness and the not-so-fun (but seemingly inevitable) feeling of them riding up. 

In my search to replace them, I discovered the Amazon Essentials Linen Blend Shorts, which caught my eye because of the vibrant terracotta orange color and affordable price — a pair is only $24. I’d recently invested in basic neutral T-shirts, so I thought a colorful bottom would be a fun way to spruce up my wardrobe. 

The shorts quickly became my go-to for every occasion, and I bought a second pair in green because they are that good.   

Amazon Essentials Drawstring Linen Blend Short in Terracotta Orange

They’re made of a cotton-linen blend that’s soft and free-flowing, but the shorts are still flattering since they hit at my natural waist and aren’t too baggy. I love that they look a little more dressy than my athletic shorts, and with a 5-inch inseam, I’ve always felt comfortable throwing them on for most occasions. 

I’ve worn the shorts while hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Last summer, they kept me cool during a scorching hot day touring the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. I’d been wearing linen pants, like so many celebrities do every season, and midi dresses for most of the Europe trip, but feeling the breeze on my legs was the key to combating the heat that day.   

The same shorts were also great while grilling posted up by a tent in Big Sur, California earlier in the year. I also packed my green pair, which I wore to a winery on our way back to Los Angeles after camping.

I mostly style them with a black or white fitted tee and sneakers or sandals, depending on where I’m headed for the day. For an even more casual look, I like to throw on my favorite cropped graphic T-shirt that has similar colors in the design. 

Amazon Essentials Drawstring Linen Blend Short in Military Green

More than 1,400 Amazon shoppers have given them a five-star rating and called them the “perfect summer shorts” in their reviews, and I couldn’t agree more. I’m heading into my third summer of wearing them and am considering buying them in another color (or two!) before my cruise in June — maybe in white or black to switch things up. 

Now, instead of dreading squeezing into uncomfortable denim shorts, I’m excitedly waiting to break out my Amazon Essentials Linen Shorts when the weather’s warm enough. Below, shop more comfortable shorts deals at Amazon. 

Shop More Summer Shorts at Amazon

Gap Linen Pull-On Short

Kingfen Drawstring Elastic Waist Shorts, $24 with Prime

Dokotoo Relaxed Fit High-Waisted Shorts, $28 with coupon