Mountain Hardwear Swimwear

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes the Mountain Hardwear Stryder Swim Shorts a good choice for outdoor water adventures?

  The Stryder Swim Shorts (including the Stryder 7" for men and Stryder Swim Short for women) use a Durable File Weave woven of 100% recycled nylon and a PFC-free DWR to shed water and dry quickly, making them ideal for swims, river crossings, and multi-day travel. Built-in UPF 50 Broad Spectrum sun protection blocks the majority of UVA/UVB exposure, and abrasion-resistant construction plus adjustable waists and secure pockets keep gear put during active use. Their lightweight, unlined design balances mobility with durable performance for hiking-to-swim outings.
• How should the Stryder 7" Swim Short fit and which size should I pick?

  The men's Stryder 7" is a standard-fit short designed to be neither too tight nor too loose, with a 7" inseam for mobility; choose based on your waist measurement (e.g., S = 29–31", M = 32–33", L = 34–36", XL = 37–39"). The women’s Stryder Swim Short uses a mid-rise elastic waistband with external drawcord for adjustable comfort and follows standard apparel sizing—check waist and hip measurements for best fit. If you’re between sizes and plan to wear liners or a baselayer, consider sizing up for extra room and range of motion.
• What materials and construction features deliver the quick-drying, durable performance of the Stryder swim shorts?

  Stryder shorts are made from 100% recycled nylon in a Durable File Weave that is abrasion-resistant and lightweight, with a PFC-free durable water repellent finish to help water bead off. They are unlined to speed drying and reduce bulk, and include functional details like an elastic or stretch waistband with external drawcord, side-entry hand pockets, and a secure back pocket (snap on men’s, zip on women’s). Those features combine moisture-wicking and quick-dry properties with practical storage for active water use.
• How does the men’s Stryder 7" Swim Short compare to the women’s Stryder Swim Short?

  The men’s Stryder 7" highlights a 7" inseam and a back snap pocket, while the women’s Stryder Swim Short has a mid-rise stretch elastic waistband, an external drawcord tuned for women’s fit, and typically a zip-back pocket option—both share the same recycled nylon fabric, PFC-free DWR, and UPF 50 protection. Fit and rise differ to match body silhouettes, so the men’s style favors a slightly longer, straight cut and the women’s is shaped for mid-rise comfort. Functionally they perform the same for quick-drying, abrasion resistance, and sun protection; choose by preferred rise, length, and pocket closure.
• Does UPF 50 and Broad Spectrum protection in the Stryder shorts mean I can skip sunscreen?

  UPF 50 Broad Spectrum fabric filters the vast majority of UVA/UVB radiation (about 98%), providing strong sun protection for the skin covered by the shorts. However, sun exposure on uncovered areas (legs above the hem, arms, face) still requires sunscreen, and extended reflection from water can increase UV load, so combine sun-protective clothing with sunscreen and other protections for full-day outings. For prolonged exposure, reapply sunscreen to exposed skin and use hats or rashguards as needed.