May 7, 2024
Found in “Gear, Activities”
From scaling peaks to trudging through mud, having the right pair of hiking pants can make all the difference in your day. That's why we've compiled our list of the best hiking pants for 2024 - so you can find the perfect pair to make the most of your time on the trails.
Ask any seasoned hiker, and they'll tell you—having gear that can keep up with the demands of the wilderness is a non-negotiable. Your ideal hiking pants should be tough and comfy, with features like water-repellent fabric, quick-drying materials, breathability, stretch, and well-placed pockets all considered.
Finding a pair of hiking pants can feel as tough as picking where to go for your next multi-dayer. We've got you covered with our top picks below, catering to the rugged trekkers, town-to-trail explorers, or anyone looking for unbeatable value in their hiking gear.
Best hiking pants for women 2024
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants
Whether you’re scrambling to the peak or scaling smooth granite walls, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are the ideal combination of women’s hiking and climbing pants. Built using UPF 50+ sun protection, wind, water and abrasion-resistant fabrics, these pants can cut the wind, shelter against light rain and block harmful UV in the alpine. The stretch-woven nylon and spandex mix offers enough stretch for reaching that technical foothold, belaying off the high deck or tackling your favourite day hike. Also available in extended sizes.
Bonus – If you do a lot of day hiking while you travel, these all-rounders are so comfortable that they effortlessly go between the airport and the trail.
Top marks for: Lightweight, stretchy, breathability, good size/fit, value.
Why we love it: Great choice for day hikes, basic climbs, casual adventuring and the active traveler.
Features and benefits:
- Breathable and durable stretch woven nylon/spandex ripstop fabric (46% recycled content) offers enough stretch to hug curves with added belt loops to accommodate petite frames
- Provides UPF 50+ sun protection for added protection on sunny days or exposed alpine
- Full zip fly with snap and brushed-tricot lined waistband with drawcord for tailored-to-the-body fit
- Includes zippered thigh pocket for secure storage, articulated knees for mobility, and drawcord ankle adjustments to keep debris out
Wear it: Hiking, climbing, camping, casual adventures, traveling.
Patagonia Pack Out Tights
You’ll love the Patagonia Pack Out Tights for trekking because they’re soft, stretchy, warmer than regular workout tights, and wick away moisture when the going gets sweaty. Although they’re not waterproof, they’ll be your go-to’s for cool mornings, hot days, and wearing under rain pants if the weather turns on you. These Patagonia tights also have plenty of pockets with one zip pocket and two thigh pockets to keep your hiking must-haves on hand.
Top marks for: Stretchy, moisture-wicking, feature-rich, comfort.
Why we love it: From lounging around the campfire, walking tours in the city, or hiking in the mountains, these Patagonia tights get top marks for mobility and comfort.
Features and benefits:
- Made from a soft blend of polyester and spandex jersey double-knit for extra stretch and warmth
- Wide waistband lies flat under your hiking pack
- Zippered side pocket on hip and easy-access drop-in pocket on each leg
- Sleek legs taper to fit inside hiking boots but aren't skin-tight
Wear it: Camping, hiking, travelling, casual wear.
MEC Terrena Stretch Pants
The MEC Terrena Stretch Pants are so well-rounded you won't think they're hiking pants (but they are)! Stretchy, comfy, quick-drying, and durable for daily needs, the articulated knees and gusset offer lots of freedom of movement for the trails. Grab these for a simple outing on a maintained trail near your house or a dawn-to-dusk journey through remote wilderness. And when the sun comes out, these pants easily transform into capri-length for hotter days. The MEC Terrena Stretch Pants are available in a wide range of women's waist sizes, from 0 to 24W, and you'll love the six different colour options.
Top marks for: All-round comfort, stretch, size range, value.
Why we love it: These pants are incredibly comfortable and versatile for everyday wear. You can wear them in the summer with the convertible capri-mode or even use them for light snowshoeing with some wool liners underneath.
Features and benefits:
- Stretchy and quick-drying nylon/spandex blend with durable water repellent (DWR) finish repels water and dirt
- Fabric offers UPF 50+ rating for sun protection
- Features side zippered pocket, zippered back pockets for secure storage during activity
- Convertible design allows for hem rolling to transform into capris using inner buttons, fabric tabs, and outer loops
Wear it: Camping, hiking, traveling, everyday wear.
Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD
The ultimate hiking tights—the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights seamlessly combine the easy stretch and fit of workout leggings with the durability of hiking pants. You can jump over logs and slide down rock faces without a worry of a tear. The snug fit is excellent for navigating rough terrain without riding up in unwanted places. The reinforced patches at the knees and seat stand up to anything from bushwhacking to sharp rocks. They also provide added protection so you can plop down anywhere without worrying about the fabric thinning or staining.
Built tough for years of use—these tights are worth every penny for their durability.
Top marks for: Rugged, durability, stretch, comfort.
Why we love it: You don’t have to worry about being rough on these tights! The Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights are built for the rigours of the wild.
Features and benefits:
- 4-way stretch fabric enhances mobility and wicks away moisture
- Reinforced knees and seat hold up to scraps, snags, and allow you to slide through mountains and forests with ease
- Flatlock seams and pre-shaped knees enhance fit and reduce chafing
- Thigh pockets big enough to fit your phone, map, lip balm and other trail essentials
Wear it: Camping, hiking, climbing, scrambling, bushwhacking, mountaineering in backcountry conditions.
MEC Summit Seeker Pants - Women’s
True to their name, the all-new MEC Summit Seeker Pants are built to get you to and from the peaks. Crafted with breathable stretch fabric and a water-repellent finish, these pants are ready to take on whatever Mother Nature throws your way, from light city showers to pelting sleet and rain while navigating a mountain pass. The built-in webbing belt adjusts the waist to accommodate wide hips or petite frames without bagging out or riding up on longer expeditions.
Top marks for: Versatility, breathability, water repellent, comfort.
Why we love it: The MEC Summit Seeker Pant offers the best combination of weight, stretch and durability in our women’s lineup—great for rugged terrain, high elevations, and varied weather conditions on longer treks.
Features and benefits:
- Tailored fit specifically designed for women
- Optimal length for a flattering look and comfortable wear
- Stretchy fabric allows for unrestricted movement and flexibility
- Multiple pockets provide ample storage space for trail essentials
Wear it: Day and multi-day hikes, camping, travel.
Best hiking pants for men for 2024
Arc’teryx Gamma Pants
If you’re looking for hiking pants that can hold up in all conditions, look great, and fit like your favourite jeans, check out the Arc’teryx Gamma Pants. Built tough and tailored for dynamic movement, the Gamma pants move with you whether you’re sending top-tier routes or on a multi-day trek through complex terrain. The waistband rides comfortably under a climbing harness or heavy hiking pack. The hardwearing Fortius™ 2.0 softshell fabric is lightweight, resists wind and water and provides light insulation to handle the full temperature swing from valley to alpine.
Top marks for: Versatility, durability, style, weather protection.
Why we love it: These go-anywhere hiking and climbing pants pack a ton of value in their durability and versatility, making them a worthy investment piece for years of wear.
Features and benefits:
- Lightweight and durable Fortius™ DW 2.0 fabric with durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment for extra protection against changing weather
- Customizable fit with low-profile waist belt suitable under a harness or pack
- Convenient storage with two zippered hand pockets and thigh pocket for hiking and climbing essentials
- Adjustable drawcord pant cuffs to prevent debris infiltration
Wear it: Hiking, rock climbing, multi-day treks and mountaineering in backcountry conditions.
MEC Mochilero Stretch Pants
For hikers who prefer a little more stretch for picking through boulder fields, maneuvering through the landscape or everyday wear, these lightweight, quick-drying go-tos are durable enough for backcountry environments and well-fitted for urban outings. The durable water-repellent finish beads off light rain, but if you’re expecting nasty weather on your journey, you may want to pack a pair of MEC rain pants to slide over top.
Top marks for: Stretch, lightweight, comfort, and value.
Why we love it: The MEC Mochilero Stretch Pants are the best value in lightweight and stretch. Their technical features make them ideal for day treks, travel, and road trips.
Features and benefits:
- Versatile stretch nylon fabric for comfort and durability in any environment, urban or backcountry
- Quick-drying fabric with durable water-repellent (DWR) finish repels moisture
- Features belt loops for added convenience and a tailored fit
- Articulated knees and crotch gives you more freedom of movement and plenty of pockets to keep essentials close at hand
Wear it: Light hikes, urban trails, traveling or everyday use.
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers
If you need a pair of hiking pants that can take a beating and keep on going, the Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers are built for the most demanding adventures. Fjallraven’s G-1000 fabric is tough enough to handle bushwhacking through coastal rainforests, backpacking in a downpour, or anything you may encounter while trekking through the forest and mountains. Keep in mind these heavyweight pants are an all-season powerhouse, but you may want to find something thinner and lighter for hot summer days.
Top marks for: Durability, heavyweight, weather protection.
Why we love it: Made with Fjallraven’s cornerstone, hardwearing G-1000® fabric, the Vidda Pro’s are some of the toughest hiking pants on the market.
Features and benefits:
- Built using Fjallraven’s G-1000®, a durable blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, known for adapting to various climates when treated with Greenland Wax
- Reinforced knees and rear for challenging terrain with chances of snags, abrasions or impacts
- Area for knee pad inserts for added knee protection
- Tons of pockets to fit all your snacks and other essentials
Wear it: Hiking, trekking, rugged coastal or mountain terrain, bushwhacking.
Patagonia Quandary Convertible Pants
If you’re a fan of convertible hiking pants, the Patagonia Quandary Convertible Pants are in a league of their own. These two-in-one pants/shorts combo are ideal for camping and hiking in the heat or pack hikers concerned about extra weight on long summer treks. Featuring 40+UPF sun protection and stretch-woven 96% NetPlus® nylon made from recycled fishing nets, these eco-friendly pants are durable and fast-drying, lightweight and breathable. And when those afternoon temps start to climb, zip off the legs and boom! Instant hiking shorts.
Because of the thin fabric, we wouldn't recommend these pants for heavy outdoor work or activities with a high risk of abrasion, like rock climbing or mountaineering.
Top marks for: Zip-off legs, fast-drying, stretch fabric, hot weather compatibility.
Why we love it: These hiking pants are everything you need for summer action. They are durable and versatile enough to handle multi-day treks in mild conditions.
Features and benefits:
- Zip-off legs two in one hiking pants/shorts combo for summer
- Blended 40+UPF sun protective nylon and spandex fabric with durable water repellent (DWR) finish repels spills and splashes while providing stretch and sun protection
- Curved waistband ensures a contoured fit, following the natural shape of the hips to keep the pants in place
- Plenty of pocket storage for essentials, including two front slash pockets with mesh bags for ventilation, two back pockets, and a side zippered pocket
Wear it: Camping, hiking, travel.
MEC Summit Seeker Pants - Men’s
Spending the day on the trails exposes you to changing weather and temperature swings. Whether you're sweating on the up or caught in sudden alpine showers, the MEC Summit Seeker stretch fabric breathes well and repels water, keeping you protected from the elements and at the perfect temperature. There'll be nothing holding back to your pace to the summit, but watch out for compliments along the way. Available in black and dark forest green.
Top marks for: Versatility, breathability, water repellent, value.
Why we love it: The MEC Summit Seeker seamlessly adapts to changing conditions, making them a trusted companion in varied mountain weather.
Features and benefits:
- Dual-fabric blends durability and flexibility where you need it most
- Water-repellent finish for added weather protection during sudden showers
- Multiple pockets to store all your gear
- Tailored fit with the integrated webbing belt and shock cord ankle cuffs to keep dirt out
Wear it: Day and multi-day hikes, camping, travel.
Hiking Pants Materials Guideline:
When choosing the best hiking pants, it's important to consider the materials they're made from. Here's a guideline to help you better understand the advantages of different materials:
- Nylon: Provides durability and abrasion resistance for rugged terrain.
- Polyester: Offers moisture-wicking properties and quick-drying capabilities, suitable for various weather conditions.
- Spandex: Adds stretch and flexibility, allowing for unrestricted movement on the trail.
- Cotton: While comfortable, cotton tends to retain moisture and is not a great choice for hiking.
- DWR Finish: DWR stands for "Durable water repellent." It’s a treatment applied to fabrics to make them water-resistant, causing water to bead up and roll off the surface. Great for protection against light rain or moisture.
- Gore-Tex: Known for its waterproof and breathable properties, ideal for hiking in rainy or snowy conditions.
- G-1000 ®: Developed by Fjallraven, G-1000 ® is a durable blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, often treated with Greenland Wax for enhanced weather resistance, suitable for rugged exploration and outdoor activities.
- Fortius™ DW 2.0: Developed by Arc'teryx, Fortius™ DW 2.0 is known for its lightweight yet durable properties. The "DW" stands for "Durable Water Repellent," indicating that the fabric has been treated to repel water, keeping the wearer dry in light rain or snow.
You can also check out other useful MEC resources when choosing the right layers:
