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After months on the trail, we found the best hiking pants for women. Our carefully curated list will help you narrow in on the best hiking pants for your trail-blazing excursions.
Finding the right pair of women’s pants for outdoor activities is a notoriously difficult task. Too stretchy, not stretchy enough, high-waisted, low-waisted, cinched ankles or roll-ups, it’s not easy to wade through all the options.
After researching dozens of the best women’s hiking pants on the market today, we chose 16 models from popular brands to test. Our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, tried each of them personally, taking them on local hikes in southern California, on exposed trails and through prickly desert plants, and on mountain switchbacks with river crossings and bug exposure.
During testing, we considered comfort, durability, and freedom of movement. We also looked at value, style, and clever features. Having specific metrics allowed us to objectively compare different models of pants to see where they excelled and fell short. After several months of researching the newest pants and putting them to the test, we narrowed down the best options for different uses, in categories such as versatility, durability, and budget.
Luckily, we’re seeing an expanding list of hiking pants for women. And while there isn’t a single hiking pant to suit every woman, we’ve broken the list into useful categories to help you find the best fit.
Don’t forget to check out our buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions for helpful tips, and have a look at our comparison chart to help steer your decision-making.
Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on April 13, 2024, identifying a new best overall pick, the Outdoor Research Ferrossi Pant. We’ve also added two new products — the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, a new budget-friendly option, and the Outdoor Afro + REI Co-op Trail Pants, a collaboration celebrating inclusion in outdoor recreation.
The Ferrosi pants from Outdoor Research ($99) are top-sellers for a reason. Lightweight and versatile, with soft and stretchy fabric that is durable, water-resistant, and breathable, it’s hard not to fall in love with these pants. With a regular fit and straight style, the Ferrosi promotes freedom of movement. A mid-rise waist ensures the pants can fit underneath a backpack’s waist straps, and a bonus drawcord lets you dial in the fit even further. The pant legs can be adjusted with cinching cuffs, which is especially nice for rock climbing.
Speaking of, while these pants fared excellently on backyard trails, dog walks, and up steep switchbacks in Bishop, Calif., our testers also wore them out climbing out in Pine Creek Canyon in California and were impressed by their mobility and how well they fit underneath a harness. High-stepping was a breeze, and we didn’t feel restricted in the waist even though we usually prefer an elastic waistband in our climbing pants.
With 50+ UPF sun protection and a DWR finish, the Ferrosis is at home in hot, sunny weather and can also provide moderate protection during surprise showers. The 90D ripstop nylon is also made with 46% recycled material, which earns points in all of the products we review.
These pants sport two deep front pockets as well as a bonus zippered pocket on the thigh which can easily fit a phone or some snacks. While the pockets are deep, which we very much appreciate, the overall material of the pants is quite thin making it awkward to load up any of the pockets with too many items. A wallet and a phone work well, but will still poke out very visibly, which is something to keep in mind.
Their very light weight also raises questions about their overall durability over time, as they could be subject to abrasion. All in all, for their versatility, mobility, and comfort, these pants earn a top spot and deserve a place in your closet!
Simple, affordable, and lightweight, our testers loved the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants ($70) and think they’re the best bang for your buck in our lineup. With a 94% nylon and 6% spandex construction, they’re durable and quick-drying, and pretty dang stretchy. UPF 50+ protection guards against harmful UV rays, articulated knees allow you to move with ease without fabric clinging to your legs, and a comfortable, mid-rise waistband has a classic button and zipper closure as well as stretchy elastic in the back for more freedom of movement and comfort.
These pants are a standard, straight fit, and have a choice of short and regular inseams. Two front and back sets of pockets, as well as an additional zippered thigh pocket allow for ample storage space. However, we would have liked the thigh pocket to be a bit deeper to better accommodate large phones.
One of the features our testers loved the most was the smooth and simple bungee mechanism for cinching the ankles. The soft piece of rubber on the elastic band makes cinching a breeze and did a great job at staying in place during our hikes. If you’re looking for affordable hiking pants that don’t sacrifice performance, look no further than the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants.
Possibly one of the best pants of all time, prAna’s Halle II pant ($95) is everything you need for a variety of adventures outside, and have recently received an upgrade. Our staff has collectively rock climbed, thru-hiked, climbed 14ers, commuted to the office, traveled internationally, and more in these durable, well-equipped, versatile pants.
The new prAna Halle II is made with prAna’s proprietary ReZion fabric. Made with 95% recycled nylon, this new prAna fabric is noticeably more lightweight than on the old Halle pants. The rise of the pants is higher than the old version and has more room in the upper thighs, making it more comfortable to hike in and fit backpack waist belts over.
The front button has a new lower-profile plastic closure that lays flat for added comfort, the pockets are now deeper than before, and the fabric is still treated with a water-resistant coating and UPF 50+ to protect against the elements.
Want to soak your feet in a creek, or need to climb or ride a bike without fabric holding you up? Just roll up the pants to capri length — prAna included handy snaps just for this purpose.
GearJunkie Managing Editor Mary Murphy owns four pairs of these pants. They function great, fit super well, and work every time, no matter the activity. And while they are great all-around summer hiking pants, we’ve even worn them in the colder seasons too.
Overall, these are some of the best women’s hiking pants on the market.
Consider the KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant ($99) if you’re not sure what kind of pants you need for your upcoming trek. These pants have withstood thru-hikes across various terrain and unpredictable weather, even on those sweltering 100-degree days, thanks to their sturdy polyester blend, UPF 50+ protection, water resistance, and moisture-wicking qualities.
We were also grateful for the 32-inch inseam that rolls up to a breezy 21-inch capri. This pant has many qualities we look for in a pair of hiking pants, which is why we consider them the best in versatility.
However, if you want front pockets to keep your cell phone or other items in place, you’ll be disappointed with these pants. And while they do have two back pockets with snap-button features, we still found the size inadequate to carry our phones.
If you want just one pair of pants that can keep up with you on all of your outdoor excursions, including rock climbing, scrambling, hiking, backpacking, and everything in between, then you’ll want to get the KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pant.
The Keb Curved Trousers by Fjallraven ($235) are ultra-durable for trekking. In fact, they should come with a warning that reads, “Once you put these on, be prepared to go do big things.”
The G-1000 material is abrasion-resistant, and the reinforced knees and rear provide extra protection where you need it most. Complete with long side vents and large snap-down cargo pockets, these pants are ready for just about anything. We also appreciate the strategically placed elastane, which allows for a full range of movement.
We have tested these in rain, in frigid temperatures, and on hot, sticky days. They’re very breathable in the hottest of temperatures, thanks to the side vents. And for colder weather, it’s easy to throw on a thin pair of long underwear underneath.
Undoubtedly, these hiking pants come with a substantial price tag. Aside from price, they aren’t light, weighing over one pound — although that’s what makes them pretty darn tough!
But, if you’re looking to buy just one pair of pants that you can wear hiking all year round and do practically everything in year after year, then the Keb Trouser is worth every penny.
If sweatpants and hiking pants had a baby, the Coalatree Trailhead pants ($99) would be it. They’re undeniably comfortable and trail-ready. Oh, and did we mention they also look great? The eco-friendly DWR finish repels water and keeps stains at bay as well.
Another fantastic surprise is that these are anti-microbial — reducing their need for frequent washings. The four-way stretch allowed us to scramble, climb, and lounge without restriction. And the ripstop nylon proved impressively durable and tear-resistant.
Also earning high marks for breathability, these will surely become a favorite pair of hiking pants for summer. They’re also available in a slim-fit design.
The one pesky thing we noticed on these pants was the ankle ties. They had a tendency to come undone if not carefully tied. We would have preferred ankles to have either drawcord, an elastic ankle, or the option to roll them up and fasten them in place.
Despite the strings attached, the Coalatree Trailhead pants strike a great balance of all-day leisurewear with maximum comfort and functionality for tackling all the hiking trails on your summer bucket list.
With heavy-duty fabric and reinforced anti-abrasion paneling on the front that keeps you warm and protects you from dense foliage, the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tights ($119) have everything a hiker needs.
Fully functional six-zip pockets also distinguish them as great technical hiking pants. Even though they have “cargo” in their name, don’t let that fool you into thinking they’re bulky. The wide waistband sits high on the natural waist, which flatters the body’s curves while simultaneously giving the impression you’re ready to tackle some challenging terrain.
While these pants are robust and offer the kind of seriously impressive features we rave about, we do find them to be expensive, especially due to the thick material that doesn’t breathe well in hot weather. However, given the well-thought-out features, we understand the price point.
Ultimately, we were incredibly impressed with the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tights. We can’t recommend them enough for anyone who plans on taking their hiking to higher altitudes.
Sometimes it’s nice to have a pair of hiking pants that look just as good worn casually for trips to the grocery store or dog walks in the park. The Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama/2 Ankle ($85) hit the sweet spot between style and function with their simple design that’s not as technical-looking as some of the other pants in our lineup.
But don’t let that fool you, these pants are still great for taking to the trails. With their lightweight nylon and spandex blend, these pants are stretchy and soft for easy mobility on steep hikes. A durable water-repellent finish provides some protection against moisture and stains, and the fabric also provides UPF 50+ for bonus sun protection.
Our testers loved to wear these pants out rock climbing because of their impressive stretch-factor, and would often receive compliments when out and about. The feminine fit is flattering, they aren’t too tight or too loose, and the tapered, ankle-length looks great with a variety of footwear.
Because they are so thin and light, there is a possibility they could be prone to snags or tears, which was our only complaint. But you won’t be disappointed by the comfort and style of one of our top picks for trail-to-town use.
A collaboration between Outdoor Afro and REI Co-op, these Trail Pants ($100) not only are a stylish, relaxed pair of pants for a variety of activities but also aim to celebrate Black Joy in the outdoors and more inclusion in outdoor recreation. With a relaxed, straight fit, these pants are not too tight nor too baggy. A comfortable, high-waisted elastic waistband moves with you from hiking on trails to bouldering on rocks, and you can tell that these pants were made to accommodate a variety of body shapes and sizes.
The fabric is lightweight while still feeling durable. It withstood our testing while climbing on the sharp volcanic tuff around Bishop, California. REI really went the full distance with these pants, adding a DWR finish for light water protection and 50+ UPF for hot days out in the sun.
The Trail pants also have some unique details that make them stand out. Ankle gussets with 7” zippers allow for some venting and add a style statement, while a crossed loop on the back of the waistband allows you to clip accessories such as a chalk bag or keychain directly to your waist.
The zippered pockets are some of the most ample we’ve tested and have very long zippered tassels for easy access. There is an additional zippered pocket on the front of the left thigh for even more storage and an Outdoor Afro badge that is a fun detail.
These pants come in various colors from neutral to bright, allowing you to dictate your style statement. Comfortable on the trail and off, we recommend the Outdoor Afro + REI Co-op Trail pants for hiking, climbing, and casual wear.
Looking for a pair of stylish pants you can put through the wringer? Then you need to meet the Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pant ($99). These pants are one tester’s go-to pair of pants for climbing, hiking, kid-chasing, and bike-errand-running. They have yet to fail, and we get compliments on them with every wear.
We love the tapered leg and the slightly tight fit. Not only is it very flattering, but for walking through the brush, climbing, and even biking, it means worry-free, non-snagging steps. The DWR finish makes them both durable and water-resistant, which is always a good thing.
Sadly, the same tight-fitting design we like that keeps them free from snagging is also their downfall. Those with sturdy calves will find the skinny legs restrictive.
If you don’t mind a sleek fit, the more technical Skyline Traveler Pant is definitely the pant to consider for your hikes. Its complementary look, budget-friendly price, and durability make them a strong contender when choosing pants that go beyond just hiking.
Our legging prayers have been answered, thanks to the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD ($175). It’s no surprise that we are big fans of leggings, but sometimes what works great in yoga class simply can’t withstand the rigors of a multiday trek.
Offering all the same comfort and stretch we expect from a legging, Swedish brand Fjallraven takes it a step further, adding reinforcement over the rear and knees. Two side pockets, one angled and one zippered, easily fit a phone and other small essentials. A drawcord in the wide waistband makes for easy size adjustments.
Fjallraven isn’t known for being budget-conscious, but in this case, you get what you pay for, and these leggings are durable enough to withstand the test of time.
If you want a streamlined look while trekking or cross-country skiing in the backcountry, you’ll want to get your hands on the Abisko Trekking Tights HD. These leggings could be the only ones you’ll ever need.
Made with an organically grown, cotton blend canvas material, the Kanab pants ($95) from prAna are a comfortable and durable choice for hitting the trails. Our testers loved the high waist and wide, stretchy waistband. This fits comfortably under backpack straps and keeps the pants from riding low so you can concentrate on logging miles, instead of pulling up your pants and readjusting any drawstrings.
Double-layer fabric at the knees with articulation provides extra protection, and the sturdy cotton fabric stood up to abrasion tests while hiking among the scratchy sagebrush of the high desert.
Because these pants are made primarily from cotton, however, they aren’t as water resistant as other hiking pants on our list. If you plan on hiking in rain-prone climates, we would steer clear of these cotton joggers. Cotton breathes wonderfully, though, and is a great choice for hiking in hot and dry climates.
Nonetheless, prAna’s Kanab pants are some of the most comfortable pants we tested. And you’ll look cute without spending a fortune. These pants were made to do it all in style, from multiday backpacking trips to a casual stroll on your local trail.
A choice pick for summer alone or combined with base layers for cool hikes, First Lite’s Alturas Guide Pant ($145) is a breathable, durable pant that cuts no corners. The pockets are legitimately utilitarian without feeling like cargo pants, and the fabric has a four-way stretch that’s excellent over long distances.
These pants will last. Beat the tar out of them for a few years, and then keep it up. Specializing in pants made for hunters, durability is top of mind in First Lite’s line, and its gear proves itself in the field. Invest here if you’re looking for a pant to get you through whatever time and time again.
While we give these pants high praise for their ruggedness out in the field, we don’t consider them the most flattering, and that’s due to their primary function as hunting pants. So, they won’t be a great choice for the office.
If you don’t mind a rugged look while bushwacking across the terrain and prefer a no-frills appearance, then the First Lite’s Alturas Guide Pant is a hiking pant that doesn’t mess around.
Can’t stand the stiff, noisy synthetic material of most hiking pants? Then The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants ($80) may be just what you’re looking for. Feather-light and soft against your skin, these pants are great for when you want coverage but also want that barely-there feel.
A stretch drawcord at the bottom of each pant leg allows for even more freedom of movement and breathability on strenuous hikes or the hottest of days. We’re also big fans of the wide, flat waistband with a drawstring for extra comfort.
These are not the hardiest of pants, however, and would not be our top pick for any off-trail hiking where you might encounter some bushwhacking or any more extreme terrain. The lightweight material also seems prone to snags and tears, and sacrifices durability for being lightweight.
But if you’re looking for great mobility, comfort, and coverage without feeling weighed down, the Aphrodite 2.0 pants are a great bet.
A solid bang for the buck, the Columbia Saturday Trail Pant ($70) helps you get out on the trail and stay within your budget. Beyond a great value, we love its durability and comfort. The two-way stretch and gusset make high-stepping or scrambling a breeze.
The Omni-Shield and Omni-Shade finish ward off harmful sun rays and repel unwanted water and stains — making them ideal for warm sunny days and chilly off-season adventures. These pants have a lot to offer for such a reasonable price.
But you may be disappointed if you like to carry a lot in your pockets. Items easily fall out of slanted front pockets, and there’s only one small zippered pocket. In the case of problematic storage, their back pockets with hook and loop finishes do provide some redemption.
Pocket space aside, the Saturday Trail Pant is an excellent choice for getting outside, whether on an epic backcountry adventure, or a leisurely day hike. We think they’re the best women’s hiking pants for the price.
The Patagonia Quandary Pants ($89) offer everything hikers need to get out and explore, making them one of our favorite hiking pants for the second season in a row. Lightweight, comfortable, and durable — these pants do it all. Their hidden tabs at the knees allow them to roll up in addition to being light enough to wear in hot summer months.
They also provide UPF sun protection, and the DWR coating provides extra protection against unexpected light rain. Additionally, they are sturdy enough to use all winter long (add warmth with a thermal base layer), making them impressively adaptable.
These pants are designed to fit curves. Curvy women know it can be a pain to find pants that fit well (especially hiking pants). We were pleasantly surprised to find these fit perfectly in both the butt, thighs, and waist. And for those who may need added security at the waist, it comes with an inner drawstring to keep them in place.
Despite all of our raves, the one thing we aren’t thrilled about about is the pockets. We wish they were a bit deeper to ensure our phones’ safety. Zippered front pockets for total peace of mind while scrambling would make them absolutely perfect.
The Quandary’s lightweight fabric provides comfort for an all-day hike or backpacking trip, while still being durable enough for off-trail slogs. We’re confident that you’ll love them as much as we do.
Here at GearJunkie, we are dedicated athletes, outdoor hobbyists, and all-around adventure aficionados. In other words, we do it all, and we know what it’s like to want your clothing to be able to keep up.
We’ve been reviewing hiking pants for this guide since July 2020, and each year we carefully research the best hiking pants on the market to review. In this latest iteration, our testers spent over a year researching which models to test, and put those hiking pants through the wringer.
From rocky trails in the Pacific Northwest to the desert sagebrush and alpine mountains of Bishop, Calif., we ensured that each pair was worn over several miles in varying terrain and conditions to see how they measured up to one another.
Contributor Rebecca Ross is a hiking and backpacking enthusiast. She’s hiked all over the Pacific Northwest, often combined with climbing objectives. An American Alpine Club grant recipient, she’s no stranger to international climbing expeditions.
Our other tester and editor, Miya Tsudome, is also an avid hiking enthusiast and former guide for the Yosemite Mountain School, and can often be found going deep into the High Sierra mountains in her backyard of Bishop, Calif. She’s used and destroyed plenty of pants bushwhacking her way to remote crags and shimmying up granite chimneys.
Assessing each of these pants with objective metrics such as material, versatility, mobility, weatherproofing, and additional features, Miya and Rebecca were able to write an informed buyer’s guide full of useful information. Their combined experience and knowledge — plus their overall intuition on what a great pair of hiking pants should look and feel like — will hopefully help you find the best pair for your next adventure.
This guide focuses on the best hiking pants on the market that boast durability over the long run. Check out our guide to the best leggings if you want more suggestions for activewear to match all your adventures. Also, if you’re looking for male-specific models, check out our guide on the Best Hiking Pants for men.
Do you plan to hike only in warm summer months or do you plan to hike all year round in fluctuating weather? Do you like a lot of stretch in your pants or are you looking for something more waterproof and durable? These questions are important to keep in mind when choosing hiking pants, which come in all types of materials these days.
Most all hiking pants are made of a blend of synthetic materials. In our lineup, nylon, polyester, and spandex (elastane) are heavily featured. This ensures they have qualities that make them breathable or weather-resistant, as well as stretchy to keep you comfortable on the trail.
Pants made primarily of polyester, like the Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pants and Fjallraven Keb Curved Trousers, are typically more breathable with high moisture-wicking abilities and medium stretch.
Pants that are primarily made of nylon, like the Patagonia Quandary Pants, Prana Halle Hiking Pants, Columbia Saturday Trail Pant, and Coalatree Trailhead Pants are tougher than pants made primarily of polyester, making them the better choice if durability is of concern.
Lastly, pants with a higher level of elastane, like the Coalatree Trailhead Pants, or naturally, any leggings like the Athleta Headlands Cargo Tights, will provide more stretch.
Choosing what type of fabric will best suit your needs is ultimately a matter of personal preference and comfort, as well as considering if you need durability or breathability based on the type of hiking you will be doing. If you are looking for even more breathability, you might want to choose pants that are made with extra ventilation features like on the Fjallraven Keb Curved Trousers. These heavy-duty hiking pants have side vents on each pant leg for when you need some extra help cooling down.
Also, since pants are adding additional features to safeguard you from the sun — look for pants with UPF protection like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi which is rated at 50+ UPF!
Hiking pants typically come in three main options: full-length, convertible, and roll-up.
Full-length pants are a great option for complete leg protection, even in the summer. Most of the pants on our list are considered full-length like the Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants or the Columbia Saturday Trail Pant.
Convertible pants — none are shown in our list — are a 2-in-1 packaged deal. They can be worn as shorts or pants, as the legs zip off. They’re a great option for variable weather and multiday hikes where you want more options and less gear to pack. They don’t get as many style points but are functional and versatile if that’s what you’re looking for.
And somewhere between full-length and convertible lie roll-up pants similar to Patagonia’s Quandary pants or the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants. Such pants have a tab, button, or drawcord that secures the cuff when rolled up.
Some of our testers are also big proponents of ankle-length pants that don’t require you to roll the cuff, like the Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama/2 Ankle. Not only can this be a style preference, but also it allows you to wear hiking boots with ankle cuffs without having to make any alterations to your pants, which can be a bonus for some.
Being able to move freely is a major hallmark of the best hiking pants. Whether running down the trail or scrambling up a rocky patch, you don’t want your pants restricting your movement. This is where design features like a gusseted crotch, articulated knees, and stretchy materials prove useful.
The female shape can be tough to fit, but there are more options now than ever before, and some pants, like the Outdoor Afro + REI Co-op Trail Pants accommodate a variety of body shapes and sizes. Some brands like Fjallraven offer curvy and straight fits, while others have added plus-size technical options. And because every body is shaped differently, it can be helpful to try on a few pairs before buying to ensure a snug (but comfortable) fit.
When it comes to trekking-specific leggings, like our favorite pick, Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD they can often be slightly tighter and less forgiving than typical yoga pants but are more durable and often reinforced to aid in longevity on the trail.
Hiking pants come in all shapes and sizes, and some features like the type of waist closure or size and the number of pockets can help you decide what kind of pants you’ll like the best.
Pockets can be helpful when accessing items quickly while out on the trail. Often, hiking pants will have front and back pockets, like we noted on the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants. Pants with more versatility will provide a zippered pocket on the thigh for added security.
Since we like to stay on the move, we prefer pants with deep pockets that fit our phones or snacks and, ideally ones that zip. When it comes to pockets that are not functional for our needs, they tend to make it on our cons list.
The Fjallraven Keb Curved Trousers have an impressive amount of pockets, with two hand pockets plus two deep pockets on each leg, and even an interior mesh pocket. We also really appreciate when leggings feature pockets, and that’s one of the main reasons the Athleta Headlands Cargo Tights and the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights made it onto our list.
You’ll also have to decide what type of waist closure you’re looking for in a hiking pant. Most traditional hiking pants feature a zipper and button closure, like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi, Patagonia Quandary, Prana Halle II, Kuhl Freeflex, and Columbia Saturday Trail Pant. These types of pants also all come with belt loops, so you can dial in a precise fit.
The Coalatree Trailhead pants feature a cinched waistband with a drawcord for a more casual, rather than technical, look. For some, the stretchy waistband of leggings might be more appealing. These fit snugly under a backpacking backpack’s waist belt, and won’t be prone to any snagging or bunching like button-closure pants might.
A DWR (durable waterproof repellent) coating is used on most hiking pants. It doesn’t make pants completely waterproof but adds enough protection to keep you dry on dewy mornings or in light showers.
The Coalatree Trailhead Pants and Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants provide a DWR finish for unexpected rain, but we don’t recommend wearing them as all-weather pants. Instead, you would want something designed to take on more precipitation like the Columbia Saturday Trail Pant with Omni-Shield for repelling stains and water. However, if you wish to have total waterproof protection — rain pants layered over hiking pants will do the trick.
It’s worth mentioning that DWR coatings wear out over time, so you’ll want to treat heavily used hiking pants for optimal performance. Nikwax Softshell Proof Wash-In is an easy way to keep your pants repelling water year after year.
The little extras can really make or break a good pair of pants. Some of the features available are well-positioned cargo pockets, zippered pockets, cooling vents, belt loops, and built-in belts. These boost a pant’s useability and function on long treks, and help with organization and overall comfort as the miles grind by.
Additional features we like are stain resistance and anti-microbial properties for fewer washes, protection from abrasions to keep your pants lasting through rugged terrain, and even designated waist loops designed to keep items handy. Whether you want these or not depends on your personal hiking plans and style.
The best hiking pants will vary from person to person. Big things to look for, though, are comfort, breathability, and the ability to dry quickly. If you plan to do a lot of winter or cold-weather hiking, you may want an insulated legging or room to layer long underwear underneath.
The last few years have seen an explosion in hiking leggings (and everyday leggings in general). We like them for a few reasons.
First, the flat waistband is comfortable underneath a pack. Hiking-specific leggings are made to be more durable, although that sometimes comes at the expense of breathability.
We also appreciate having a side-leg pocket for quick phone storage. Some leggings may not be as quick-drying as hiking pants or offer as many larger cargo-style pockets.
You can, of course, hike in darn near anything. And if it comes down to not hiking or hiking in less-than-perfect pants, we’d always choose hiking. That said, the best hiking pants offer increased comfort and utility on the trail.
If you’re just going for a quick outing, having the right pants is less important. If you’re backpacking for a week, the right pants could make or break your adventure.
The features we look for in a good pair of hiking pants are pockets that are ample in size, with bonus points for additional pockets with zippers to keep your items secure. Being able to cuff or cinch your pants is also a great addition, especially for those who are on the shorter side. Weather protection, whether UPF to guard against the sun or DWR finish to repel water make for a more versatile pant.
With a focus on comfort, durability, and performance, we’ve found the best hiking pants for men. Get ready to hit the trail.
We found the best women’s workout and travel leggings. With these designs you can go from yoga or a mountaintop to the coffee shop without a hitch.
Originally from New York, Miya graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Skidmore College and quickly fled west to see what the great outdoors had to offer. What was supposed to be a summer job in Yosemite National Park turned into five years, with her ultimately becoming a rock climbing guide with the Yosemite Mountaineering School. She now works as a photographer and freelance writer and is always looking for ways to share her passion and expertise for outdoor gear through her writing.
In 2017, I started blogging for Melanin Base Camp around the same time I started mountaineering. Over the years, I found myself writing and doing photography for various organizations, which ultimately led me to GearJunkie. My personal interests include photography, swimming, climbing, camping, cross-country skiing, reading, and DIY health & beauty.
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