One of my favorite world class shorts are the Amphi shorts from Ex Officio. They have now become a classic, shorts that other vendors are trying to emulate. Here's why they are so hot, eh, cool, no, hot; well, you know what I mean:

• The Amphi is made of a very lightweight, 100% nylon fabric with Teflon coating. The texture of the surface is similar to peach fuzz, and is very soft. This combination results in shorts that are lightweight and very packable, breathable, moisture-wicking, fast-drying, stain-resistant, and wrinkle-resistant. And did I say durable? I lost track of my adjectives.
  
   
• The shorts are very cool-looking and practically designed. The can be worn hiking, trekking, on (or in) the water, traveling, or about town.
  
   
• The Amphi (men's) comes with a built-in mesh brief. In other words, you don't need to wear underwear with them. But you can if you want. The women's version, as you might image, do not come with the built-in brief.
  
   
• The shorts have a built-in belt, elastic waistband, five pockets, and an 8 inch inseam. The fit is loose and comfortable, but not baggy. The single cargo pocket can be zipped for additional security. If you want the shorts tight around your thighs, you can adjust the shorts for a tight (or loose) fit around them.

If you are looking for a swell, all-around pair of shorts, then you will want to consider the Amphi shorts.

Using the Amphi Shorts in the Real World

I currently have two pair of the Amphi shorts and wear them all the time during late Spring, Summer, and early Fall. They have proved to be very tough, even though the fabric is very lightweight. I have worn the Amphis traveling, hiking, and trekking, and they have always provided well.

On very hot days, the shorts do a good job of moving moisture off your skin so that it can quickly evaporate. In fact, I can't ever remember the pants getting wet to the point they get soaked with sweat. And since we are on the subject of sweat, the pants do a good job of avoiding offensive odors after many days of wear without washing.

On hot, rainy days, forget wearing any rain protection and get wet. Once the rain stops, the shorts will dry quickly. Although I haven't worn them swimming, I have been told that make passable swimming trunks.

When traveling, the shorts are easy to wash and let hang dry. You can even let them dry attached to your backpack if you don't have time for them to dry on their own. Wrinkling is not much of a problem, unless you like to let them dry in a wad.

Recommendation

If you wear shorts, then you will want to give the Amphi shorts a try.

Product Notes

Amphi shorts are available for both men and women in a variety of sizes and colors. The MSRP is $49.00. If you are a man, but don't like the idea of a built-in mesh brief, the Ex Officio Explorer shorts are a good alternative. Amphi shorts can be washed and dried in your washer and dryer.