My #1 criteria when purchasing shorts is that they have usable pockets. I'm lucky in that men's shorts usually have them, unless they're specific athletic shorts. Most women in STEM that I know have found ways around the pocket problem- wearing men's clothing, belts, backpacks, etc.
Cargo shorts are so useful at competitions though, as carrying around tools and scouting lists and such is so much easier and more convenient in my pockets than my backpack, and I'd hope nobody at competitions is making scouting decisions based off my fashion sense anyway
