A pair of hiking pants are a great option for those who like getting outdoors all year long. Additionally, the right pair of women’s hiking pants can be utilized in even the warmest of months. Instead of summer garbs like running shorts or hiking skorts, hiking pants offer protection from insects, UV rays, and rugged trails.
When shopping for the best hiking pants for women, consider your hiking goals, clothing preferences, and outdoor ability. Visit an REI Co-op or your local outdoor outfitter to try different styles of pants to get a general idea of fit and feel. REI Co-op has a generous return policy if you happen to prefer ordering online. When selecting your first pair of hiking pants, remember that personal preference plays the biggest role.
Table of Contents
- 1 Consider this Before Shopping
- 2 Best Overall Hiking Pants
- 3 Runner-Up:
- 4 Best Budget Hiking Pants
- 5 Best High-End Pants
- 6 Best Pants for All Body Types
- 7 Best Lightweight Pants
- 8 Best Durable Pants
- 9 Best Convertible Hiking Pants
- 10 Best Hiking Tights
- 11 Best Pant for Climbing
- 12 Best Stylish Hiking Pants
- 13 Quick Recommendations
- 14 Buyers Guide
- 15 Ethical Products
- 16 Shop Local
- 17 Repair, When Possible
- 18 Shop Used
Consider this Before Shopping
Price
Depending on your budget, you may be able to secure a few pairs of hiking pants to rotate depending on terrain, weather, or desired pack weight. If your outdoor gear is limited by budget, there are still plenty of options to choose from, although you may want to consider a hybrid pair that can do it all.
Weight
Since pants are bound to take up more space and weigh more than hiking shorts, consider when and where you’ll be using this type of clothing. For long trips in which every ounce counts, you may decide to choose an ultralight pair of pants. If you’re more of a day adventurer and don’t plan on doing a lot of overnight backpacking trips, you may not need to worry so much about the actual weight of the hiking pants you choose. Lightweight fabric makes all the difference in overall weight of hiking pants.
Style
It’s ok to buy a pair of hiking pants for both form and function. Hiking pants come in a variety of colors, fabrics, and cuts that work with so many body shapes and sizes. If you want a pair that easily transitions from the trail to the town, consider buying a pair based on aesthetics.
Durability
Some outdoor enthusiasts like to get a lot of miles out of each piece of gear they use. Shopping based on durability may mean you sacrifice in the style and weight department, but get more life out of the hiking pants you choose.
Downsides to pants
Hiking often takes place in areas that are more dynamic and less temperate. For example, the desert, coastline, and mountains all experience wide ranges of weather and temperature changes throughout the day. Lack of mobility, breathability, and versatility are some of the main downsides to pants when selecting gear for the backcountry.
Best Overall Hiking Pants
The North Face Aphrodite
Technical Specifications
- Price: $69.00
- Nylon & Elastane
- Lightweight
- Midrise
- Petite and Tall options are available
What we love
The North Face makes quality products across the board and designs gear with a variety of terrain and trails in mind. This pant is easily packable and stylish. It’s moisture-wicking and quick-dry so you can easily wear them for days in the backcountry.
What we don’t love
The lightweight material is more susceptible to snags and tears on rugged trails. Bushwhacking through dense trails and scrambling up granite rock may mean a shorter lifespan for the North Face Aphrodite.
Product Overview/Review
These pants come in five different colors, have a drawstring waistband, and are straight-leg in style. The breathable fabric makes the North Face Aphrodite great for hot weather and everyday wear.
Runner-Up:
Patagonia Quandary
Technical Specifications
- Price: $79
- Nylon & Spandex
- 10.1 ounces
- Long pant, straight leg
- Belt Loop
- Range of sizes
What we love
We love Patagonia’s ethical standards and return policy. This pant uses material that meets the bluesign standard. Plus, it’s comfy and flattering. Articulated knees mean ease of movement while this lightweight hiking pant can be packed for overseas adventuring without taking up much room in your suitcase.
What we don’t love
In comparison to other pants, the Patagonia Quandary is a little low-rise, and tucked-in sweaters or shirts are prone to slipping out while moving.
Product Overview/Review
This design sports deep front pockets and stands up to stains, water, and dirt. You could wear these pants for weeks on end and they would still look fresh.
Best Budget Hiking Pants
Columbia Anytime Outdoor
Technical Specifications
- Price: $59.99
- Nylon & Elastane
- Bootcut, mid-rise
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Built-in belt, drawstring
- Range of sizes
What we love
The affordability of the Columbia Anytime Outdoor pants makes them an easy purchase. They stretch easily, making hiking, walking, or even scrambling comfortable.
What we don’t love
The look and feel of the Columbia Anytime Outdoor reflects the lower price tag. Plus, the material of these full-length pants may succumb more quickly to thorny brush and thick trails.
Product Overview/Review
Columbia has long made outdoor gear along with multiple price points. The Anytime Outdoor pant is great for warm days because of their UPF and breathable fabric. A drawstring makes them easily adjustable while the bootcut is a flattering fit for most body types.
Best High-End Pants
Kuhl Innovair Skinny
Technical Specifications
- Price: $89.00
- Nylon & Spandex
- Moderate stretch
- Functional pockets
What we love
Kuhl is one of the most reliable outdoor brands that was originally founded in the mountains. Its products are designed for rough terrain, cold weather, and tough adventures. The Innovair Skinny hiking pants for women look as nice as they feel. They are flattering, durable, and offer a slight stretch for mobility.
What we don’t love
They are more expensive than other pants on this list. If you are hard on your gear, you may want to opt for less expensive pants.
Product Overview/Review
Made in two colors – khaki and thyme – these stylish, fitted pants easily transition from the trail to a night on the town. The wide waistband and belt loops make these pants easily adjustable.
Best Pants for All Body Types
Prana Halle
Technical Specifications
- Price: $85
- Nylon & Spandex
- 12.2 ounces
- Wide leg
- Belt loop
- Currently on sale for $41
What we love
Prana makes comfortable, high-quality clothing. Each piece is uniquely fitted to its respective sport. The prAna Halle pant is no different. It’s made for approach climbing, multi-day treks, or intense hikes. The stretchy fabric is great for all body shapes. The Halle Pant is made with thicker, durable fabric and has plenty of pockets. Cold weather hikers can layer thicker leggings underneath the Halle pant.
What we don’t love
They can stretch out upon multiple wears between washes so may not be the best bet for multi-day trips.
Product Overview/Review
While most wearers love the Halle pant, some complain that, while there are plenty of pockets, some are not usable because of their size.
Best Lightweight Pants
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pant
Technical Specifications
- Price: $75
- Nylon & Elastane
- Ultralight
- Fitted, mid-calf rise
- Fun patterns
- Elastic waistband
What we love
These Mountain Hardwear pants are great for all types of outdoor adventure. The stretchy fabric is super comfortable while the water-resistant design makes these perfect for rafting, spring hiking, and multi-day backpacking trips. Since they hit just above the ankle, these Mountain Hardwear pants are great for water crossings and wading into alpine lakes.
What we don’t love
Because the Dynama pants are so lightweight, they aren’t inherently warm. Layer your favorite hiking leggings underneath for cold weather hiking or use the Dynama pants as a baselayer to go underneath thick outerwear.
Product Overview/Review
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama Ankle Pant is comfy and cool looking, no matter your outdoor recreation. The wide waistband helps these pants stay up while two, deep hand pockets allow for stashing items like a phone, sunglasses, or buff for easy access. These pants may quickly become your favorite pair.
Best Durable Pants
REI Co-op Trailsmith Pants
Technical Specifications
- Price: $69.95
- Cotton, polyester, spandex
- Heavyweight
- Straight, long pant
What we love
As an REI Co-op product, these pants are made to last. They feel more like cargo pants than spandex hiking pants. You can tackle the gnarliest terrain in these, scramble knees first up rocks, or scoot down mashed-potato snowfields and not feel a thing.
What we don’t love
They are heavy and the fabric would be much less comfortable upon getting wet. These don’t stretch to accommodate much versatile movement unless you size up.
Product Overview/Review
These pants are for harsh camping situations, thick bushwhacking, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Don’t bring the Trailsmith pants on multi-day treks that require light, quick movement.
Best Convertible Hiking Pants
REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants
Technical Specifications
- Price: $89.95
- Nylon & spandex
- UPF 50
- Standard fit
- Mid-thigh zip to convert into shorts.
What we love
You’re getting breathable hiking pants and stylish hiking shorts for the price of one. These are not your typical zip-off pants. Water-repellent fabric causes moisture to bead up and roll off instead of absorbing into the pants.
What we don’t love
They only come in two colors!
Product Overview/Review
Stretchy, breathable yet durable, the REI Co-op convertible pant has an internal drawstring waistband that allows for easy adjustments. A carabiner loop and large-patch hand pockets offer space for extra gear storage and on-the-go access.
Best Hiking Tights
Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights Pro
Technical Specifications
- Price: $150
- Recycled polyester and elastane
- 8.6 ounces
- stash pocket
What we love
The Abisko Trekking Tights are both stylish and insanely durable. You won’t find another pair of durable leggings that can stand up to rocks, trees, and scree like these. These hiking leggings feature Cordura knees and rear so you can scramble or scoot over steep sections easily. Curvy figures look great in these pants.
What we don’t love
The price is steep. Thicker fabric means that these tights aren’t great for summer adventures in warm climates.
Product Overview/Review
Reviews of the Abisko Trekking Tights rave about the look, feel, and durability of these women’s hiking pants.
Best Pant for Climbing
Topo Designs Dirt Pants
Technical Specifications
- Price: $98
- Organic cotton
- 7.6 ounces
- Straight-leg, drawstring ankles
- Roll-up pants
What we love
We love the flexibility and structure of these pants. While you can certainly hike in them, the Topo Designs Dirt Pants also make a great pair of climbing pants. With a canvas-like feel, they’ll help protect your legs against sharp, rough rock without tearing like a legging or polyester material might. The Dirt Pants look great on all body types.
What we don’t love
The price point is a little high to justify thrashing these pants on the rocks. However, if you’re going to be climbing frequently and want to protect your legs against sun and sandstone, then the splurge is worth it.
Product Overview/Review
These pants are one of Topo’s best-selling items. Customers continuously rave about the Dirt Pants and these flattering cotton pants are swiftly becoming the climbing community’s favorite pair.
Best Stylish Hiking Pants
What we love
This Alo It Girl Pant quickly transitions from day to night. Pack this pant for desert adventuring, exploring charming mountain towns in the summertime, or walking along the coast of the Pacific Northwest. The look and feel of Alo’s clothing necessitate the steeper price point.
What we don’t love
These aren’t the most durable hiking pants. They prioritize style and feel over ruggedness. You won’t be taking these It Girl pants on gnarly terrain, but if you do, be prepared to walk away with some rips and tears.
Product Overview/Review
The It Girl pant comes in four colors, meaning you may want to stock up on these hiking pants to have one in each color. They look just fancy enough to wear to a brewery or winery after a day spend outdoors. They’d also make great loungewear for a windy day at the beach.
Quick Recommendations
just links off to the products for miscellaneous categories. Check out how CleverHiker (link above) does these. No detailed breakdowns are needed here.
- Best stylish hiking pants – Alo Yoga It Girl Pant
- Best waterproof pants – Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants
- Best Ultralight Hiking Pants – Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants
- Best Bug-Repellent Pants – InsectSheild Women’s Tech Ankle Pant
- Best Bomber Pants – Title 9 Indestructible 2.0 Hiking Pants
- Best Convertible Cargo Pants – Eddie Bauer Guide Hiking Pants
- Best All-Purpose Hiking Pants – Patagonia Caliza Rock Pants
Buyers Guide
Buying outdoor gear can be daunting, even for the most seasoned wilderness enthusiasts. Consider your outdoor gear purchase as an investment in enjoying mother nature, physical health, and mental well-being. You can make a more informed purchase by first understanding your hiking goals and considering upcoming adventures. With a little bit of research, time, and forethought, you can buy a pair of women’s hiking pants that will last you through years of adventure while equipping you with the confidence you need to explore, wild and free, in the wonderful out-of-doors. Consider the following before buying a hiking pant.
Breathability
Consider the climate where you usually hike and purchase a pant that is made with a breathable fabric like polyester, elastane, or nylon. Cotton and Cordura are less breathable and absorb moisture.
Stretch
Certain materials – like spandex and elastane – are made to stretch and bounce back. If you want a flexible pants that won’t stretch out during many days of use, consider looking for one with these materials.
Durability
Cotton, Cordura, and nylon tend to be more durable than thinner fabrics. You may have to go up in weight and sacrifice some stretch to find women’s hiking pants that can stand up to touch rocks and thick trails.
Price
Hiking pants can be found in any price range. Typically, the more expensive, the better the hiking pant is made. You can spend a small amount on a lesser quality pant only to buy a new pair the very next year. Additionally, REI co-op has great deals and shopping at the end of the summer season may improve your access to last-minute sales.
Pockets
Depending on what you like to have easy access to, front, back, and thigh pockets may be a must in your hiking pants checklist. For those that like to pack a lot on themselves, zippered pockets are a must. Zippered pockets keep your most precious items from getting lost on the trail.
Comfort
Most hiking pants are made to offer some level of comfort since buyers will be moving around in them. If you can, try on a few pairs to see how certain fabrics feel on your skin.
Technical Fabric Care
Some fabrics – like down, Cordura, or wool need to be washed and dried in certain ways to maintain their longevity. If you aren’t one to take care of your laundry and prioritize specific washing instructions, you may want to buy a low-maintenance pair of pants, like one made from cotton or polyester.
Pants vs. Shorts
In climates that quickly transition from cold to hot, having a pant that zips off can be a huge plus to self-regulating.
Sun protection (UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Level)
Hiking in the sun for many hours can leave you and your skin depleted and damaged. Pants that offer a higher UPF can keep the sun’s harmful rays from burning and degrading your skin.
Insect Protection
Insect protection is a must if you’re trekking through humid, swampy areas like southern portions of the Appalachian Trail or the Florida Everglades. Additionally, even Alaska, Montana, and the Canadian Rockies are notorious for mosquitos during the summer months.
Water Protection
Staying dry is the name of the game when spending multiple days in the backcountry. Cold weather hikers and those who expect many water crossings should consider looking for a pant that offers considerable water protection.
Adjustable Waist
If you plan to spend multiple days back to back in the same pair of pants, an adjustable waist can help. As pants stretch out, a drawstring can help them stay up or keep layers tucked in.
Articulated knees. The additional fabric around the knees helps mobility and movement without sacrificing durability. Some women’s hiking pants are crafted with double-lined knees or utilize stretchier fabrics – like spandex or elastane – in these areas. Consider how much scrambling, bending and climbing you’ll be doing on the majority of your hikes. If you wish to level up your outdoor exploration game, you may consider finding a hiking pant that specifically has articulated knees.
Ethical Products
Some areas of the outdoor rec world promote consumerism by prompting nature lovers to buy seasonally or pack for every occasion. We believe that there is an ethical way to enjoy mother nature that boils down to making conscious purchasing decisions.
BLUESIGN
When it comes to fabric, look for brands that are BLUESIGN approved. The company went through a rigorous process to have its textiles vetted and certified to be gentle and fair to animals and people.
ECCOCERT
Look for this sign to ensure fabrics like cotton and wool were organically produced. Not only is this good for the producers and people harvesting textiles but a chemical-free textile doesn’t pollute landfills with additional chemicals (should it end up there).
Fair Trade Certified
Fair trade is a relatively loose term that is supposed to mean that someone gets paid a fair price for the product they produce. However, Fair Trade Certified is a US certification that puts manufacturers and producers (like J. Crew and Madewell) through a stringent approval process to ensure their working conditions and environmental impact are positive and beneficial.
Patagonia
Oftentimes, this famous brand carries a hefty price tag with it. However, spending an extra $50 can be worth it when considering the brand’s ethical practices and repair policy. Patagonia offers buyers the ability to send in clothing and other gear for repairs, free of charge.
prAna
This California-based company uses materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers to make its soft, comfy clothing. prAna also recently launched its ethical packaging movement which calls for greater awareness around plastic used in packaging.
Smartwool
For decades, Smartwool has been the name of the game for baselayers. As the company has gained notoriety, they have prioritized using recycled wool, recycled nylon, and recycled polyester. Its partnership with ZQ Wool ensures the wool that they do source is ethically farmed and processed.
The North Face Renewed
While The North Face has long been active in the climate crisis fight, its sister organization, The North Face Renewed, keeps more clothing out of landfills. This eco-focused company takes donated or discarded North Face apparel and restores it to like-new condition, keeping more of its textiles out of the trash and offering an affordable option to its high-quality apparel.
Shop Local
Again, you significantly impact your local economy with each purchase you make. When you can, shop local and support small businesses. Area outfitters will also be able to guide your purchase and offer insight into what gear could best suit your needs. After all, they are more familiar with the area that you live, work, and hike in than any online retailer.
Repair, When Possible
If you spend your summer season getting after it, there’s a chance that your hiking pants will reflect your ‘send it’ sentiments. In an effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle, consider the lesser talked about “R” – repair. If your hiking pants have a tear, lose a button, or even suffer from a broken zipper, find a tailor to show your gear some TLC.
Shop Used
It’s no secret that the fashion industry moves fast and has drastically negative impacts on the environment. Fortunately, many of the brands listed above offer a gentle-used option that is better on the planet and your wallet.
Patagonia Worn Wear
Find down jackets, women’s hiking pants, swimsuits, and more at the second-hand site. Additionally, if you’re looking to clean out your closet, donating your gently-used Patagonia pieces helps give someone else access to affordable, high-quality gear.
Arc’teryx Used
No one explains it better than Arc’teryx. According to this outdoor brand, “65 percent of the impact of one of our jackets is caused by its creation”. Keeping this durable, rugged gear in use gives others the opportunity to explore the outdoors with safe, warm clothing while directly decreasing the environmental impact of making more jackets to meet demand.
REI Used
For as large of a retailer as they are, REI uses its power and money to advocate for climate action. Its cooperative business model allows members to buy in and receive a dividend back each year. REI’s used outdoor goods market is one of the largest online markets in the country, offering everything from basic clothing to technical gear. If you’re looking for a bargain or want to purchase a few pairs of hiking pants to accomplish different outdoor adventures, REI’s used outdoor clothing and gear market might be a great first stop.
Women’s hiking pants are a great gear choice for trekking no matter the terrain, weather, or length of time spent outdoors. Versatile, dynamic, and protective, hiking pants encourage year-round trips while also protecting a large swatch of the body from bugs, sunburn, windburn, frostnip, and more. You can scrimp on a lot of stuff but take your time finding a solid pair of hiking pants. Your adventures will be that much better if you feel comfortable, safe, and confident in your clothing.
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