Howler Brothers Horizon Hybrid Shorts Review

At Adventure Worthy, we’re constantly seeking gear that seamlessly transitions between diverse environments, The Howler Brothers Horizon Hybrid Shorts caught our attention with their Horizon shorts. Renowned for their commitment to quality and style in the fishing community, the Howler Brothers designed these shorts to cater to both active pursuits and casual wear. After extensive testing across various activities—including hiking, swimming, fishing, and everyday use—we present our comprehensive review of the Horizon Hybrid Shorts.

✔ The Verdict:

The Howler Brothers Horizon Hybrid Shorts are well-suited for individuals seeking versatile apparel capable of performing across a spectrum of activities. Their quick-drying fabric, practical pocket configuration, and comfortable fit make them ideal for:​

• Water-Based Activities: Such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming

• Hiking and Trail Use: Where durability and mobility are essential

• Casual Wear: Thanks to their stylish design and comfortable fit

Priced at $75, the Horizon Hybrid Shorts offer excellent value for their quality and versatility. Howler Brothers' commitment to functional design and durability ensures these shorts are a worthwhile investment for those leading active lifestyles.

+ What We Like: 

• Relaxed fit with a surf-inspired style

• Durable fabric

• Half Mesh pockets provide drainage for water activities

- What We Don’t Like:

• Traditional button and zip closure may not be as secure as a drawstring

• Fabric is thicker and not as stretchy as the other shorts in this review

▶ Product Specs

• Material: 100% Nylon Ripstop​

• Inseam Lengths: 7.5 inches and 9.5 inches

• Outseam Lengths: 18.5 inches (7.5" inseam) and 20 inches (9.5" inseam)​

• Waist Sizes: Available in sizes 28 to 40​

• Pockets:

  • Front zippered stash pocket​

  • Reinforced pliers pocket​

  • Back left snap flap pocket

  • Back right zippered pocket

• Features:

  • Quick-drying fabric​

  • Button closure with zipper fly and drawcord​

  • Self-draining nylon mesh pocket bags​

  • Bungee loop at waistband​

Full Review

Versatility: Great Transition Between Activities

The Horizon Hybrid Shorts exemplify versatility, effortlessly adapting to a range of activities. Their clean design and functional features make them suitable for both outdoor adventures and casual settings. Whether navigating rugged trails, wading through streams, or enjoying a leisurely day in town, these shorts maintain a stylish and practical presence.

Fabric & Performance: Quick-Drying and Durable

Constructed from 100% nylon ripstop fabric, the Horizon Hybrid Shorts are both lightweight and durable. This material choice ensures quick-drying capabilities, making them ideal for water-related activities. During our testing, the shorts dried noticeably faster than many other quick-dry fabrics, enhancing comfort during transitions from water to land. During our quick dunk testing, these shorts beaded water right off making them dry almost instantly coming out of the water. The DWR coating used as well does a good job of beading water off and allowing the fabric to not hold moisture very well. The ripstop construction also contributes to their resilience against abrasions, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments

Comfort & Fit

Howler Brothers offers the Horizon Hybrid Shorts in various inseam lengths, including 7.5 inches and 9.5 inches, catering to individual preferences. The shorts feature a regular fit that balances comfort and mobility. The waistband includes a button closure with a zipper fly but doesn’t offer a drawstring. A belt will be needed for those wanting a slightly tighter fit. Due to the nature of the rip stop, these shorts aren’t as nearly as stretchy as the other Hybrid shorts we have tested here. So that does take away some comfort, however, these shoes are still mobile. It is a give-and-take relationship with durability and stretchy comfort. 

We found the shorts are perfect for who the company targets; fisherman who are constantly hiking through tough brush and wading out to their favorite fishing hole. These shorts perform very well in that environment. 

Pockets & Practicality: Functional Storage Solutions

The shorts are equipped with multiple pockets designed for practicality:​

• Front Zippered Stash Pocket: Provides secure storage for small essentials

• Reinforced Pliers Pocket: Ideal for anglers needing quick access to tools

• Back Left Snap Flap Pocket: Offers additional storage secured with a snap closure

• Back Right Zippered Pocket: Ensures valuables remain safe during active movements

The pocket bags are made from self-draining nylon mesh, facilitating quick water drainage and reducing water retention after submersion. This thoughtful design enhances comfort and functionality during water-based activities.​

Durability & Longevity

The ripstop nylon fabric not only contributes to the shorts' quick-drying nature but also enhances their durability. The stitching on these shorts are very reinforced, these shorts will last a while indeed. Durability is prioritized in these shorts, potentially at the expense of some comfort.