These are longer length shorts, just above the knee. The material is breathable and the stitching is very sturdy. They're comfortable and seem durable. I have one nit-pick; in the right front pocket, there is a Velcro horizontal strip to create a separate, lower pocket. I suppose this is for a key so it doesn't accidentally fall out. Interesting idea, but the problem is that it's not a solid strip; there're gaps, which allow for other items in the pocket to slip down into the lower portion. I find I'm putting everything in the left pocket to avoid the right. Frankly, it's more trouble than it's worth as it's designed, which knocks it down one star.I really dig the look and feel of these shorts-- the pattern is subtle but colorful, and the material is light and cool on hot summer days. The sizing, however, is "vanity" sizing, so although my waist is a 32, and I ordered a 32, I need a belt. Sadly, this is also somewhat a function of my waist size being "in-between" Columbia's sizing for these shorts, as I'm pretty certain a 30 would be a tight squeeze for me.That being my only real issue, I do really like these shorts. Solid feeling hardware, good deep (although oddly segmented, as another reviewer noted) pockets, and washes easily, staying bright.These shorts are great, lightweight and durable, odd pocket configuration on them, the pockets are big enough that my Galaxy S3 can turn sideways in it, which is annoying while you are hiking. The right pocket has Velcro in it, and nobody seems to know why.There is only one back pocket and it is Velcro as wellThere is a small pocket inside like you get in a swim suit, big enough for a folded bill, a few coins, or a single keyThe double snap design is nice when using these in an active settingThey breath well and dry quickly, fantastic shorts, I bought 4 pairs totalA little snug for their size, but its the first hiking shorts i've bought so that may just be the sizing they come in. Otherwise like the pockets, outside of the right front pocket that has a velcro'd deeper pocket section which i still can't find a purpose for. Outside of that slightly confusing part, they are light, bright, and excellent storage capacity for long hikes.These are good shorts if you are looking to do something outside, they are comfortable and well built.The 30 inch waist I ordered seemed a little big but not to much so. I mostly use these shorts for climbing and for that they are excellent. The right hip pocket has velcro at the bottom which seems a bit pointless, the single rear pocket is suitable and have a velcro opening which seems much more useful.I just got these today since it's hot here already in the Coachella Valley this spring. Really good deal as they are light, air out easy and seem sturdy. I don't give anything a five on amazon so that's the only reason they get only four stars.Great deal for what you get here so I'm ordering another pair ASAP.Bought blue and grey of the same size. Blue fit great, grey was very tight. Other than that, love the product. Just wish there was size consistencyGood shorts for hot weather and dry quickly. When I purchased them I expected them to be khakis material but are actually closer to board shorts