I use these to swim and walk. Occasionally I use them for shopping and going about. They are very lightweight, but there are belt loops that will allow use of a 1 1/2 inch nylon D-ring belt. There are many pockets, but, if you load them up, you will need that nylon belt. The back pocket has a zipper; it is secure for your wallet. When I swim, I only use the nylon drawstring, which is good and sturdy. The elastic waist is tight enough if I have nothing in the pockets but not too tight for discomfort. The slash pockets are only half mesh, so they can float out when you jump in the pool. The advantage is that I can get things in and out of the slash pockets easier than if they were all mesh. There is a side pocket for a mobile phone or something of similar shape. The mesh liner is the best I have encountered--it supports without binding or getting too hot. This is one of the best designs of Columbia. I have 6 or so, of various colors.