I recently had the opportunity to test Patagonia’s newest addition to their line of women’s shorts, the Barely Baggies. I’m sure most people in the hiking world have heard of their predecessor, the Baggies, Patagonia’s quintessential line of hiking shorts. But Barely Baggies… what could it be? Are they barely there? Are they the misfit baggies that they can’t sell and therefore can’t have the almighty title of Baggie? The world might never know! But in fact, they will… because I will tell you!
Patagonia Barely Baggies Specifications
MSRP: $59
Lester: 4.5 oz.
Materials: NetPlus® 100% post-consumer recycled nylon
Inseam: 2.5 inches
Circumstances of the examination
I’ve had a chance to try the Barely Baggies for a few months on long hikes, sweaty runs, swimming in alpine lakes, and also just in general lounge mode, and they’ve proven to be quite versatile and comfortable in all activities. Even going into commando mode was nice enough as long as a little breeze in your undercarriage didn’t bother you.
Who are the Patagonia Barely Baggies for?
First of all, Barely Baggies is basically for anyone who wants to wear comfortable shorts. Their intended audience is, like most things Patagonia makes, for those who enjoy outdoor activities, as these shorts are meant to be mobile, comfortable, lightweight, and quick-drying. They’re great for climbing mountains and then jumping into a lake afterwards (for non-skinny divers, at least). But also with most things made by Patagonia, they’re fashionable enough to wear around town, for a round of golf, or for a first Tinder date.
Barely Baggies vs Original Baggies
The main difference between the Patagonia Barely Baggies and the original Baggies is the shorter inseam length of 2.5″ for the women’s size compared to 5″ for the Baggies. As someone who constantly struggles with feeling like just about every “outdoor” short I try on goes down to my knees, making my quads quite claustrophobic, I can definitely appreciate a short inseam when I’m find one.
Another difference between the Barely Baggies and the originals is the removal of the mesh lining from the Barely. When I first ordered these shorts I honestly hadn’t done any research on them and (no kidding) was puzzled as to how the pair they sent me went through production without the inner lining. Then my brain started working and I realized that not all shorts contain liners.
Fit and Style
Now, as someone who aims to wear as little underwear as possible (blaming it on the UL hiking cult), I usually only buy workout/hiking shorts without inner liners if they are not form-fitting. I may look like a lady, but after a long day on the trail or a killer run, I’m all about flopping the eagle wide apart on the floor, and expecting that my shorts make up for my societal shortcomings. So let’s just say I was a little apprehensive about trying these puppies.
But as I’ve learned after many years of using Patagonia gear, they kinda know what they’re doing. When I finally decided to give the Barely Baggies a chance on the trails, I honestly forgot they were even there…that’s exactly what you want your shorts to do. No rubbing, no rising in my buttocks, no awkward rustling. I felt free and mobile. They didn’t stick to me, despite the hot conditions I wore them in. They didn’t even really get wet, despite sweating profusely.
As a 5’5″, 125 pound female with long legs, short torso, small waist and wide hips, I always wonder whether to order small (for my wide hips) or x- small (for my small size and runner’s butt). I went with the small but probably would have done better with an x-small. The little ones fit very comfortably. I can tighten the belt around my waist, and there’s no cut in my hips or movement up and down when I’m active. I guess I’m just used to wearing short shorts, and the little ones are definitely baggy on my runner legs. But hey, the comfort factor is 100%, although they do feel a little chunky.
Features
Pockets: I am one of those people who like to talk with their hands. Or my hands doing awkward things while I’m talking because they need something to do. So the pockets are great! Just slip those clumsy hands into these two Barely Baggies pockets, and not only will you look less crazy telling your very believable story of seeing Bigfoot on your morning run, but your hands will also stay warm! Also, we always need a place for snacks, right?
On the other hand, don’t put anything too substantial in these things as they are quite loose. One missed pin on a lead climb and you could buy a new iPhone. The pockets are lined with mesh, which is very useful for not packing pounds of sand on beach days. There is also a small hidden mesh pocket on the front part inside the shorts which is great for storing your keys, credit card, loose cash or anything else you don’t want to risk. to lose. 
Key loop: But my favorite feature is the handy little loop inside the right pocket. Every time I go for a run I find myself with the age old question of whether I carry my car key or bury it in the dirt in some random place whose location I will mysteriously forget within the next hour . Well, the Barely Baggies pocket loop makes it easy to slip this key on, store it in your pocket, and not worry about getting stuck when you come back panting from your next outing.
The Barely Baggies have an elastic waistband and two laces inside the front part of the shorts to tighten and loosen them. The elastic waistband seems to stay secure at any level of tightness desired without even having to tie the strings.
Sustainability: Barely Baggies bags are made from 100% post-consumer recycled NetPlus® nylon made from recycled fishing nets to help reduce ocean plastic pollution. The nylon contributes both to the lightness of the shorts and their ability to dry very quickly.
Lightweight and packable: The shorts weigh approximately 4.5 ounces, so it’s an easy addition to throw in a bag or suitcase without adding much weight.
Patagonia Barely Luggage Benefits
- Lightweight (4.5 oz) and packable
- Fast drying
- Comfortable
- Stay in place when I move
- Pockets! (Including key chain loop)
Patagonia Barely Baggies Cons
- No mesh lining
- Price: $59 a bit pricey for shorts
- The fit was a little loose for my liking
Globally
Overall, the Barely Baggies have proven to be great shorts for outdoor and leisure activities. The comfort, lack of movement, and quick drying attributes were huge pluses for me. They also come in a variety of colors and designs.
The $59 price tag is a little high for me for a pair of shorts, but again, the durability, weight, and quick-drying ability will likely outweigh the cost. The only other negatives I can point out are that I would have appreciated a mesh liner and also wished the shorts were a little less baggy. I guess with the use I have already made of these shorts, they will probably be a staple in my outdoor wardrobe for several years to come.
Comparable shorts
The Patagonia Barely Baggies Shorts were given away for review.
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