Credit:
Jamal Hicks
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Credit:
Jamal Hicks
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These Nike ACG “Smith Summit” cargo pants may just be the most functional and sustainable pair of hiking pants on this list. Read More
These pants are made with resilient, water-repellent, and UPF 50+ protection material that allows them to sustain a variety of weather conditions. Read More
These mid-rise hiking pants have all the properties needed to be suitable for your outdoor adventures. Read More
These hiking pants are secure and comfortable with their high-waist fit and super stretchy nylon-and-spandex material. Read More
Whether you want to go rock climbing or hiking, these are a very durable pair of hiking pants that can withstand multiple adventures. Read More
Have you ever been out on a day hike enjoying the tranquility of nature, only to find that your pants felt uncomfortable? Perhaps you experienced chafing on your legs, or your pants didn't fit properly, so you were tugging them up constantly. Not only is having a comfortable pair of hiking boots important, but so is what you wear for bottoms, especially when you’re spending hours walking in the woods.
The best pair of pants for hiking will offer some water resistance, allow for a deep range of motion, feel comfortable, and provide durability. All of these factors will allow for a more enjoyable hiking experience.
As an avid hiking enthusiast, I researched my favorite outdoor apparel brands to find the most popular pair of hiking pants available online right now.
Quick-drying fabric
Lightweight
Repel water and stains
Run slightly small
Durable construction
Option to roll up the legs
UPF 50+ protection
Sizing may be off
Versatile
Lightweight and comfortable
Affordable
Pockets are poorly made
Unrestricted knee design
Stretchy
Several pockets
Fit may be too slim for some
Hiking pants should be quick to dry, durable, and ideally lightweight and breathable. Therefore, any that are made with spandex, nylon, or polyester would work well. Avoid cotton unless you’re just going for an easy walk in comfortable temperatures. If you plan on climbing to higher elevations or in extreme cold or hot conditions, cotton puts your safety at risk. It does not absorb sweat or moisture, which can make you cold or even lead to hypothermia once you cool down.
When you’re out on the trail, brushing against objects like roots and rocks is common. Therefore, you’ll want to invest in a pair of high-quality hiking pants that are rated for their durability. This means that they’ll be resistant to wear and tear (especially after multiple washes) and be able to hold up against rugged terrain.
Nothing ruins a day on the trail more than feeling uncomfortable. Comfort is one of the most important aspects of hiking clothes and gear. Hiking pants that are soft, stretchy, lightweight, and breathable will usually feel the most comfortable, but it really comes down to how they work for you individually.
If you think about the way your body moves while hiking, you take big, deep steps and move side to side. Therefore, you’ll need hiking pants that offer some type of mobility. Pants with two-way stretch (horizontal) or four-way stretch (horizontal and vertical) are great because they allow for a deep range of motion, and therefore comfort.
Even if the weather forecast predicts sunny skies, conditions can change quickly in the mountains, with unexpected rain, wind, or snow. Before buying a pair of hiking pants, consider their resistance properties. For example, waterproof and windproof pants will block water and wind in order to keep you warm and dry. Water- and wind-resistant hiking pants will help keep these elements off, but won’t block them completely. Waterproof and windproof layers, such as hard shells, are especially important in the winter or on wet and windy days.
Lily Hartman
Staff Writer, Search
Lily Hartman is a staff writer who also enjoys writing magazine articles about health and outdoor recreation. In her free time, she likes to hike, camp, run, and lift weights.
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