Kuhl once again asked if I’d like to review any of their gear, after browsing through the cataloge, I settled on the Kuhl REVIVR™ ACTIV Short.

I didn’t have to write a positive review about them, but I can say I genuinely like these shorts. More than the Kuhl KRUISER™ short I reviewed previously.

kuhl revivr shorts while exploring china in summer

Wearing the Kuhl REVIVR™ Shorts while exploring new places.

I chose them, as once again they ticked off a few boxes (like the KRUISER™):

  • A zipped pocket (ideally I’d have two)
  • Lightweight (I don’t like heavy cargo shorts)
  • Elasticated waist (I’m not a fan of belts)

Getting into this post, I’ll detail what I use these shorts for, what I like, and what I don’t like about them, and their specs.

I got them in the colour Raven (like a dark grey), with a 10-inch inseam (four colour options, and there’s an 8-inch inseam option).

WHAT I USE THEM FOR

kuhl revivr shorts review while running

They work a treat while running and hiking.

Everything! I initially thought they were going to be a hiking/running short. But they are comfy, and tidy enough to wear day to day as you can see in these photos.

KUHL REVIVR™ SHORT FEATURES

  • High-performance ultra-soft knit (nylon, polyester, spandex)
  • Durability for all life’s activities
  • Built-in stretch
  • Comfortable, pull-on waistband
  • External drawcord
  • Back pocket with zipper and an inner cell phone pocket
  • UPF 50+ sun protection

WHAT I LIKE

wearing the kuhl revivr shorts on a long plane ride

They handled a 12 hour flight no problem

All Purpose Short. I’m a simple person who likes my gear to be suitable for as many uses as possible, and I have no issues grabbing these out for active pursuits, which they’re designed for…or heading to the pub with friends on a warm afternoon.

The Back Zippered Pocket. This is a nice touch to put keys and cards in. The zip is easy to use (isn’t always the case on back pokckets), and the way it’s built it doesn’t look like I’ve got a cist on my bum with things bulging out.

kuhl revivr short features

The back zippered pocket and the drawcord on the REVIVR™ Shorts

They Are Hard Wearing. After 30+ washes, they look like new with not a whole heap of seams and detailing going on.

The Internal Phone Pocket. I’ve never had a pair of shorts with this feature before, and it’s nifty. Simple to use too. Rather than it knocking about loosely, it’s nice that it sits firmly. I don’t use it when running…but while hiking and everything else, you can find my phone there (when it’s not in my hand).

The Feel In Hot Conditions. When I first wore them, I felt like they might be a fit too tight fitting, which combined with the soft fabric might make for an itchy feel when sweating. Happy to say that’s not the case, and they dry quick after activities which is nice. The stretch in the fabric works a treat. They almost feel like cotton they’re so soft.

WHAT I DON’T LIKE

There’s nothing I don’t like about these shorts. If there is in the longterm, I’ll update this post. But I’ve been sitting here writing this post, and I just can’t think of anything.

If you like the sound of that, go check them out in store, or on the Kuhl website here.


Looking at the Kuhl website, the reviews are all positive except for someone who seemed to have issues with the zip.

So there you go. These are a super reliable pair of shorts that won’t let you down. They’ll last a long time, and perform like a short should.

If you have any questions about Kuhl REVIVR™ ACTIV Shorts, let me know in the comments below or email jub@churnewzealand.com.

You can read the rest of my gear reviews here.