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If you live in Michigan, you know the weather makes absolutely no sense. We spent most of July stuck in a heatwave, and I honestly can’t remember the last time I wore a pair of pants. Summer is for trips to the beach, evenings around the campground, backyard cookouts, walks with the family, and spending as much time outside as possible.
That’s exactly why I wanted a pair of shorts that I could throw on every day without thinking about it.
I picked up the Black Diamond Sequence Shorts and they’ve become my favorite shorts this summer. As soon as they come out of the wash, I put them right back on. They look good, feel great, and work just as well for relaxing around town as they do for getting outside.
Comfort Comes First
The first thing I noticed was how comfortable these shorts feel. The lightweight ripstop fabric doesn’t feel stiff or bulky. It has enough stretch that I never think about what I’m wearing, whether I’m climbing into my truck, walking down the beach, or chasing my kids around the campground.
The elastic waistband sits comfortably without digging into my waist, and the integrated drawstring lets me dial in the fit without needing a belt. Black Diamond also kept the fit simple. The shorts don’t look overly athletic, but they don’t look baggy either. They hit a nice middle ground that works almost anywhere.
The Black Diamond Sequence Shorts are Built for More Than Climbing
Black Diamond designed the Sequence Shorts with climbing in mind, but I think that’s only part of the story.
I haven’t spent this month hanging off cliffs. Instead, I’ve worn these shorts during evening walks, while running errands, grilling dinner, driving across Michigan, relaxing around camp, and spending long days outside.
The lightweight polyester stretch ripstop fabric keeps air moving, even when temperatures climb into the 90s. The PFAS-free DWR finish also helps shed light moisture, so I don’t worry about sitting on damp picnic benches or getting caught in a quick summer shower.
Simple Features That Matter
I appreciate gear that doesn’t try to do too much.
The Sequence Shorts include two front hand pockets and a rear snap pocket. That’s enough room for my phone, wallet, and keys without adding unnecessary bulk. The 7-inch inseam also feels like the sweet spot. They stay out of the way when I move, but they still provide plenty of coverage.
The tundra color has turned out to be another bonus. It matches almost every T-shirt I own, so getting dressed takes about five seconds.
Durability Without Feeling Heavy
Ripstop fabric usually makes me expect something rough or stiff. That isn’t the case here.
The material feels soft enough for all-day wear while still giving me confidence that it can handle regular outdoor use. I’ve sat on rough picnic tables, walked wooded trails, loaded camping gear, and spent plenty of time outdoors without seeing any signs of excessive wear.
I also like that the fabric dries quickly. During a hot Michigan summer, that’s a huge plus. Sweat doesn’t linger long, and the shorts feel comfortable again after only a short time outside.
The Shorts I Keep Reaching For
I own plenty of shorts, but these keep moving to the top of the pile.
Whenever they’re clean, I wear them again. That’s probably the best compliment I can give any piece of clothing. I don’t save them for special trips or outdoor adventures. They have become my everyday shorts because they work for almost everything I do during the summer.
They feel comfortable enough to lounge around the house, but they also look nice enough to wear out to dinner after a day at the beach.
Final Thoughts on the Black Diamond Sequence Shorts
The Black Diamond Sequence Shorts surprised me. I expected a climbing short that I would wear once in a while. Instead, I found a comfortable everyday summer short that rarely stays in my drawer for long.
If you’re looking for lightweight shorts that look good, move well, and stay comfortable through hot weather, these deserve a serious look.
For more information, sizing, and color options, check out blackdiamondequipment.com. If you’re ready to try a pair, you can order them directly from Black Diamond or rei.com.
