Finding comfortable trousers or hiking pants seems to cause us reviewers – and many of you – no end of trouble. Many brands seem to cater for long-legged, athletic gazelles, rather than the shorter or stockier. Actual human beings often hover between sizes, depending on the brand, too. Most of us don’t conform to “typical” shapes and sizes, although us hikers can often have muscly calves in common – features that don’t always fit well in slim-fit athletic styles. For those of us in the plus size range, our experts have rounded up some excellent options in legwear in our plus size gear guide.
Main image: The versatile, breathable Tierra Lite Track Pants | Credit: Tierra Lite
Perhaps the most important thing about mountain trousers is versatility: a wide range of sizes available, stretchy fabric if at all possible. Some of us may also prefer high-rise trousers that sit at our natural waistline (around the belly button), rather than modern-fit trousers that sit at our hips. They certainly interfere with a backpack belt less.
Beyond fit, the needs of mountain trousers vary depending on activity and time of year. Hillwalking in July? You’ll want lightweight, breathable fabric that dries quickly – ideally in a lighter colour to avoid soaking in the sun, and to make it easy to spot ticks. Mountaineering in Glen Coe in February? Heavy-duty softshell with crampon-resistant ankles, boot-lace attachments, and lots of pockets are ideal. And whatever you choose, you’ll need to layer them beneath waterproof over trousers eventually (and possibly over long johns in winter).
Above all, personal preference reigns when it comes to mountain legwear. Some still stick to traditional trousers, others favour hiking leggings due to their light weight and flexibility. In this comparative review, we have tested a wide range of trousers – some best for winter, some more suited for warmer weather. We’ve quoted sizes differently according to gender, as most frequently used by brands and recognised by you.
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Best hiking pants: our favourite walking trousers
Here, we compare the best hiking trousers on the market right now. For those of us in the plus size range, our experts have rounded up some excellent options in legwear in our plus size gear guide. If you prefer tights, here’s our guide to the best hiking leggings.
| Quick List |
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| Best overall: Mammut Eiger Speed SO Hybrid Pants (available from Mammut) |
| Best value: Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers (available at Craghoppers) |
| Greener Choice: Passenger 365 Trail Roll Up Trouser (available from Passenger) |
| Lightest in test: Rab Momentum (available from Cotswold Outdoor) |
Best overall
Mammut Eiger Speed SO
Gemma Palmer’s Best in Test
While they carry a premium price, the performance, design and robust construction make them a worthwhile investment.- smart storage
- ventilation
- adjustable waistband
- machine wash on wool/delicates cycle
- overloading the thigh pocket pulls at the waistband
| Quick specs |
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| Price: €230 | £185 (available from Mammut) Weight: 316g Materials: Insert 79% Polyamide (ECONYL® Regenerated Nylon), 21% Spandex, Main material 83% Polyamide, 17% Spandex Features: Body-mapped design, Wind-resistant softshell, Integrated attachment hooks and anti-slip coating at the hem, Reflective detailing Pockets: Zippered front, Concealed thigh Hem: 2-way zip, boot hook, elasticated and reinforced cuff Sizes: UK 6 – 20 Men’s version: Yes mammut.com |
The design of the Mammut Eiger Speed SO Hybrid Pants, using varying materials and thoughtfully placed panels, contributes not only to a flattering silhouette but also to exceptional on-trail performance. I noticed the freedom of movement offered by the gusseted crotch with no inner leg seam catching as I extended my stride right away. The two-way ¾-length side zips proved practical, offering excellent ventilation and protecting my lower legs. I was surprised the fabric weave didn’t catch on thorns, putting this down to the wind-resistant softshell material strategically reinforcing high wear areas.
Higher up the hill, there’s just enough weather resistance to make them ideal for 3 season use, and I have subsequently paired compression leggings underneath for chillier mornings, as the stretch is forgiving. The fabric is light and dries quickly, and integrated laser-cut ‘X’ ventilation on the lower back prevents overheating on uphill climbs. The reinforced, deep thigh pockets are great for essentials and a headtorch.
Read more: Gemma’s full Mammut Eiger Speed SO Hybrid Pants review
Best value
Craghoppers Kiwi Classics
Alex Roddie’s Best Value
Overall, these trousers are near perfect and easy to recommend. They’re now my personal choice for most conditions and I’ve bought several spare pairs.- comfort
- value
- relaxed fit
- pockets
- weather and insect resistance
- range of sizes
- women’s version discontinued
| Quick specs |
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| Price: no US shipping | £70 (available at Craghoppers) Weight: 468g (34” waist 29” leg) Materials: SolarShield main fabric: 65% recycled polyester, 35% cotton; trim: 65% polyester, 35% cotton; PFC-free DWR Features: stretch waist with belt loops & webbing belt, UPF50+ sun protection, knee reinforcement, anti-insect construction Pockets: 4x hand pockets (2x zipped), 2x rear pockets (zipped), 2x thigh pockets (1x velcro flap, 1x zipped) Hem: basic hem Sizes: waist 26–42”, leg 29–35” Women’s version? no craghoppers.com |
These Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers are made from a durable polycotton blend, and thanks to their relaxed fit, generous array of pockets, and great weather resistance they’re fantastic for British mountain use. The fabric is 65% recycled polyester and 35% cotton, and feels comfy but is also quick drying. When new, the DWR coating repels light rain. The UPF50+ UV resistance is reassuring in hot sun, and thanks to the fabric’s weave it is resistant to insect bites. They’re impervious even under heavy midge pressure.
Fit is a real highlight. The straight legs allow for tons of freedom of movement, and I’ve found them great for scrambling (the fabric resists abrasion). They sit high, out of the way of a rucksack belt and have simple cuffs that are easy to adjust yourself. I really like the stretch waistband, equipped with plenty of belt loops. And the included webbing belt is excellent – no slippage! The pockets are another strong point: loads of zipped options, including two hidden zipped hand pockets, but there are also non-zipped hand pockets and a large thigh pocket with a velcro flap. It’s the best pocket selection of any trouser I’ve reviewed in years.
Read more: Alex’s full Craghoppers Kiwi Classic trousers review
Best for winter use
Fjällräven Keb Agile
Alex Roddie’s Best in Test
For winter use, it’s hard to fault these. But they are high in price, and I’d find them too warm from spring through to early autumn.- High waist
- Warm enough for winter
- Fit over big boots
- Pockets
- No Women’s Version
- Expensive
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £250 Weight: 580g Materials: G-1000 Stretch: 50% polyester (recycled), 15% polyester (T400), 35% cotton (organic); 49% polyamide (recycled), 43% polyester, 8% elastane Features: ventilation zips, knee and ankle reinforcement, stretch material, boot hooks Pockets: 2x thigh pockets (zipped), 2x hand pockets (no zip) Hem: boot hook, zip expansion Sizes: waist 28–44”, leg 30–34” Womens/Mens version: men only fjallraven.com |
The Fjällräven Keb Agile are mountain hiking pants designed for winter conditions, made from G-1000 Stretch fabric. They have a good degree of stretch and a soft backing, making them warm enough for most winter conditions. The pants have a high rise and are comfortable, with freedom of movement and reinforcement at the knees and ankles. They have a zip-expansion hem, boot-lace hook, and standard belt loops for support. The pockets are large and have ventilation zips. While they are suitable for winter use, they are high in price and may be too warm from spring to early autumn. There is no women’s version of the Fjällräven Keb Agile.
Read more: Alex’s full Fjällräven Keb Agile Winter Trousers Review
Patagonia Alpine Guide
Kirsty Pallas’ Best in Test
These were easily my favourite trousers this winter, they felt great on and fit well, but also just worked great.- Fit
- Versatility
- Price
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: £220 Weight: 495g for US size 4 Materials: 92% recycled nylon, 8% elastane Features: Internal gaiter, zipped thigh vents, stretch material, reinforced crampon patch Pockets: Two zipped hand pockets, two zipped thigh pockets Hem: Expandable zip ankle gusset, loops to add cord underneath a boot, internal gaiter Sizes: US size 2 – 16 Mens version: Yes eu.patagonia.com |
The Alpine Guide hiking pant is a versatile and versatile item suitable for both winter and summer activities. It features a slim fit with a good waist to hip and thigh ratio, a high waist, and a popper and fly closure. The pant can be expanded with a long zip and popper, and has reinforced crampon patches and an internal gaiter to keep snow out. The pockets are zipped and have a good size, with a streamlined thigh pocket and an inner mesh pocket. The fabric is durable and hard-wearing, with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent finish. The pant has double-sided thigh vents for easy access to the zip, but small zip pulls are tricky with gloves. The pant has good stretch and a gusseted crotch, making it easy to move with on climbs and scrambles. Although stacked with good features, they may feel overkill in summer, but they are a great choice for classic Scottish summers.
Read Kirsty’s full Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants Review
Passenger 365 Trail
Gemma Palmer recommends
They earn a ‘Greener Choice’ tag from me for their strong sustainability efforts, including recycled fabric to planting a tree with every sale, and commitments to supporting disadvantaged communities.- Belt-free adjustable waist
- hanger loop
- quick to dry
- eco-friendly fabric
- Sized up for smoother fit across the crotch
| Quick specs |
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| Price: $94.95 | £79.95 (available from Passenger) Weight: 342g Materials: 90% Recycled Polyester 10% Elastane 155 gsm Features: Secure pockets, Customizable fit Pockets: Front hip pockets (includes one hidden zipped pocket), Zipped rear pocket Hem: Snap-up leg length adjustment Sizes: XS – XXXL in long and regular length Men’s version: Yes passenger-clothing.com |
A very mixed weather trip to the Northumbrian hills was the perfect test for the classic-fit Passenger 365 Trail Roll Up trousers. They struck me as a thoughtful balance of design, performance and sustainability. The recycled polyester and elastane blend allowed me to bend, twist, walk, climb, and descend without any restriction. The overlocked seams are durable and chafe-free, even when squatting. The light fabric also lived up to its quick-dry promise, holding its shape perfectly after a cold wash. While it repelled light rain effectively, a heavier downpour in 14-degree temperatures left me feeling a bit chilly – layer up with leggings or tights for cooler weather.
I really liked the simple adjustment features. The roll hem with snap-up poppers allows for ankle ventilation on warmer days and the adjustable webbing side fasteners are a perfect fail-safe if you forget a belt—yup, that’s me. They offer a great micro-adjustment, through there are belt loops too, as well as a soft fleece backing on the waistband to further aid comfort.
Read more: Gemma’s full Passenger 365 Trail Roll Up trousers review
Sprayway Escape
Gemma Palmer recommends
They’ve definitely earned a ‘Best Value’ award as they hold their own against higher-end athletic brands for value and performance.- high wicking
- great support
- sun protection
- lack of secure pocket
| Quick specs |
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| Price: £55 (available from Outdoor Action) Weight: 266g Materials: 78% polyamide, 22% elastane Features: 4-way stretch interlock fabric, UPF 50+ UV Rating, Tech fabric to keep you cool in hot weather Pockets: Mesh thigh pocket Hem: Traditional hem Sizes: UK 8 – 18 Men’s version: No sprayway.com |
Getting my lower-half layers right can make or break a day on the trail. Having been sceptical of leggings for hiking, I am now a genuine convert thanks to the Sprayway Escape leggings! True to size and crafted from 4-way stretch interlock polyamide fabric, they offer an unbeatable fit for the price. Beyond comfort, their strength lies in facilitating dynamic movement. Whether I’m stepping over a stile or bending to tie a lace, they stay perfectly put, with no uncomfortable bunching or unsightly sheerness.
The integrated Aqua.X® yarn, effectively wicks away moisture and helps keeps me sweat free and dry. They were great for moderate temperatures, but I found them too warm above 23 degrees or on humid days. For those extremes, or colder weather, the Escape range offers ¾ length or thermal brush fleece alternatives. What sets these apart, however, is their durability. Overlocked seams, a well-finished internal and external hem, and the inclusion of a gusset for enhanced comfort without underwear. Mine handled a cold sports wash with other gear, even though the care label recommended a delicate cycle. They’ve definitely earned a ‘Best Value’ award as they hold their own against higher-end athletic brands for value and performance.
Read more: Gemma’s full Sprayway Escape review
Tierra Lite Track
Alex Roddie Recommends
Overall, these are excellent three-season softshell trousers suited to a wide range of conditions.- Versatile
- Good fit
- Waterproof seam
- Awkward boot lacing hook attachment and hem
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: €199.95 Weight: 568g Materials: Double Weave 4-Way Stretch Softshell, 237 g/sqm, PFC Free DWR, Bluesign® fabric, 65% recycled polyamide, 24% polyester, 11% elastane Features: ventilation zips, seat and ankle waterproof patches, stretch material, boot hooks Pockets: 1x thigh pocket (zipped), 2x hand pockets (zipped) Hem: boot hook, adjustable strap, zipped vents Sizes: men: waist 28–39”, leg 30–33”; women: 32–44 Womens/Mens version: both trekkit.co.uk |
The Tierra Lite Track Pants are versatile hiking trousers made from a lighter softshell, making them suitable for warmer months. They have a roomy fit and are breathable, with a soft backer. The pants feature fully waterproof panels on the ankles and seat, allowing you to sit on a wet bench without getting a wet bottom. They have big side vents for cooling down. The hems are overbuilt with large buckle-adjustable straps and boot-lace hooks, making them difficult to attach securely to laces. The pocket selection is good, but there is room for two thigh pockets. Support is provided via belt loops. Overall, these three-season softshell trousers are suitable for a wide range of conditions.
Read more: Alex’s full Tierra Lite Track Pants review
Rab Torque Vapour-Rise
Kirsty Pallas Recommends
These are a great technical winter option, and one that I really valued on those chilly days out.- Weight for warmth
- Crampon patches
- Thin mesh pockets
- No way of tightening hem
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: £165 Weight: 431g for UK size 10 Materials: Body 95% Polyamide, 5% Elastane; Panels 55% recycled polyester, 45% polyester; Lining 100% polyester Features: Zipped thigh vents, reinforced knee and crampon patches, stretch material Pockets: Two zipped hand pockets, one zipped rear pocket, one zipped thigh pocket Hem: Expandable zip ankle gusset, holes to add a cord underneath a boot Sizes: UK 8 – 16 Mens version: No rab.equipment |
The Torque Vapour-Rise hiking pants are a warm, lightweight, and breathable trouser that holds its own in winter. The pants are a mid-waist fit, allowing layers to be tucked in and are slimline. The closure is poppers and a double-ended fly, and there are belt loops and brace loops. The length is slightly long, but it doesn’t affect movement when boots are on. The trouser has a zip for ski boots and reinforced patches for crampon protection. Four zipped pockets are lined with thin mesh, but the pockets are a good size. The softshell outer is windproof and has a Durable Water Repellent coating. The lining is Vapour Rise, with fluffy panels in colder areas like the bum and thighs. The zipped mesh thigh vents are small but effective for ventilating on sweaty uphills. These pants are a great technical winter option, especially for chilly days out.
Read more: Kirsty’s full Rab Torque Vapour-Rise Pants review
Salewa Pedroc 2 Durastretch Softshell
Kirsty Pallas Recommends
These are a great three season trouser option, either under waterproofs on those kinds of days, or by themselves.- Weight
- Stretchy Fabric
- Fabric seems to fur up quickly
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: £115 Weight: 265g for UK size 8 short leg Materials: 63% polyamide, 27% polyester, 10% elastane Features: Key pocket, stretch material Pockets: Two zipped hand pockets, zipped key pocket at back Hem: Popper to adjust ankle cuff size Sizes: UK 4 – 16 Mens version: Yes www.salewa.com |
The Pedroc 2 Durastretch Softshell hiking pants from Salewa are ideal for UK summers, offering light, stretchy fabric and wind and water resistance. They have a high waisted fit, allowing layers to be tucked in and keeping the legs warm. The pants have a popper, zipped fly, and tie for adjustable fit. The short leg fits well, and the zipped back pocket can fit a key or energy bar, but may be uncomfortable under a harness or rucksack. The gusseted crotch and shaped knees make them suitable for scrambling and climbing. However, the fabric may be less durable than heavier options. The pants are treated with a PFC-free Durable Water Repellent for light showers. These hiking pants are a great three-season option, suitable under waterproofs or alone.
Read more: Kirsty’s full Salewa Pedroc 2 Durastretch Softshell Pant Review
Páramo Enduro Tour
Alex Roddie recommends
Overall, these trousers are highly protective in the winter mountains and do the job well. They should last well, making them a long-term investment.- highly protective for winter
- waterproofing
- snow gaiters
- braces compatibility
- durability
- gaiters have no lace hooks
- snug fit
- limited pockets
- price
- no women’s fit
| Quick specs |
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| Price: £375 Weight: 700g (Large) Materials: lining/outer fabric: 100% polyester; outer reinforcing fabric: 65% polyamide, 38% polyethyline; PFC-free DWR Features: ventilation zips, knee and ankle reinforcement, stretch material, boot hooks Pockets: 2x hand pockets (zipped) Hem: zip and popper closure, removable internal gaiter Sizes: men: XS–3XL Women’s version: no paramo-clothing.com |
The tough, waterproof Páramo Enduro Tour trousers are designed for cold conditions and winter mountaineering, and have a design close to that of salopettes. With detachable snow gaiters and loops for braces, as well as ventilation zips, these are highly versatile in the winter mountains but overkill for general use. Páramo’s Analogy fabric is warm, durable, and waterproof, with easy garment care – breathability and water repellency can be restored with products such as Nikwax.
The thickness of the material here is well tuned for cold winter use but much too warm for summer, although you do get 3/4-length zipped vents on each leg, which can be used to quickly dump heat. In really nasty winter conditions I’ve found that I still need to wear thin long johns underneath, but they’re fine 90% of the time. It’s great not needing to carry overtrousers!
Read more: Alex’s full Páramo Enduro Tour review
Keela Machu
Alex Roddie Recommends
These are pretty close to my ideal for the perfect summer walking trouser. The price is good however it’s a shame about the pockets- Lightweight
- Insect protection
- Great for hot weather
- Very small pockets
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: £74.95 Weight: 279g Materials: 96% nylon, 4% spandex Features: Insect Shield treatment, UPF protection Pockets: 1x rear pocket (zipped), 2x hand pockets (zipped) Hem: simple Sizes: men: waist 28–44”, leg 29–34”; women: 8–20, leg 29–33” Womens/Mens version: both keelaoutdoors.com |
Keela Machu summer hiking trousers are lightweight, breathable nylon with excellent stretch. They offer freedom of movement and belt loops for support. The fabric features Insect Shield technology, a permanent Permethrin treatment for insect repellence, and UPF protection. The lightweight khaki color adds comfort in warm sunshine. However, the small pockets are a downside. The trousers are similar to ordinary khaki chinos from a distance, making them suitable for those who prefer not to appear tooled-up. They are lightweight, airy, protective, and come in a light color that repels the sun and makes ticks stand out. The price is decent, but the pockets are a minor issue.
Read more: Alex’s full Keela Machu Trouser Review
Montane Men’s Terra XT
Alex Roddie’s Verdict
If they fit you, these are good trousers for winter mountaineering. But I recommend trying before you buy. And no women’s version is currently available.- Excellent pockets
- Durable materials and construction
- Baggy fit
- Heavy
- No women’s version
| Quick specs | |
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| Price: £175 Weight: 702g Materials: 97% Nylon, 3% Elastane with PFC-free DWR; polyester backing Features: ventilation zips, knee, seat and ankle reinforcement, boot hooks, webbing belt Pockets: 1x rear pocket (zipped), 2x thigh pockets (zipped, flaps, press studs), 2x hand pockets (zipped) Hem: boot hook, popper adjustment Sizes: waist 28–40”, leg 30–34” Womens/Mens version: men only montane.com |
The Montane Terra XT are durable mountain hiking pants designed for winter mountaineering and alpinism. The fabric is thick and tough, with a heavy reinforcement on the seat, knees, and ankle. The trousers are designed for long-term use, but their high weight contributes to their baggy fit. The hems are basic but functional, with boot-lace hooks and popper adjustment. They fit over winter boots but may not fit over ski boots. Side adjustment zips are backed with mesh fabric, but ventilation is not as good as other softshell trousers. The large thigh pockets have storm flaps. Although not available in a women’s version, they are suitable for winter mountaineering.
Read more: Alex’s full Montane Men’s Terra XT Pants Review
Rab Momentum
Alex Roddie’s verdict
As ultralight backup legwear for use in camp, or as running tights, they are close to ideal.- ultralight
- highly breathable
- great in hot weather
- skin-tight design
- no fly opening
- drawcord waist
- durability
| Quick specs |
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| Price: $100 | £80 (available from Cotswold Outdoor) Weight: 238g (34” waist 30” leg) Materials: 130gsm stretch nylon with PFC-free DWR Features: stretch material, drawcord waist Pockets: 2x hand pockets (no zip), 1x rear pocket (zipped) Hem: basic hem Sizes: men: waist 28–38”, leg 30–34”; women: 8–16, leg 28–32” Women’s version: yes rab.equipment |
These ultralight, minimalist, and highly breathable trousers are designed for fast-and-light movement in the mountains. The design of the Rab Momentum Pants is stripped back to the basics, and they’re meant for warm conditions. However, the skin-tight fit won’t be for everyone, and I have my doubts about durability. The 130gsm high-stretch fabric is gossamer thin, incredibly light, and makes for just about the most breathable trousers I’ve ever worn – genuinely great in hot weather. Weather resistance is minimal. Cold wind goes right through them and the DWR is not very effective, which means they wet out quickly. On the plus side, the fabric is partially recycled.
Rab say the Momentum Pants were designed without a gram of excess material, and this shows in the fit, which is very tight – and for men, it’s got to be said that means somewhat revealing! I felt a bit self-conscious wearing these. The high level of stretch means they’re never uncomfortable, but I found myself preferring them for use in camp, rather than actually hiking.
Read more: Alex’s full Rab Momentum full review
Revolution Race Hiball
Kirsty Pallas’ verdict
The Hiball isn’t the most technical trouser, but it’s incredibly warm and durable for the price tag. If the fit works for you, then they’re a good option for the depths of winter and wild weather days- Warmth
- Durability
- Weight
- Seam placement
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £125 Weight: 658g for UK size 12 Materials: 89% Polyamide, 11% elastane Features: Zipped thigh vents, fleece lining, stretch material Pockets: Two hand pockets, two zipped thigh pockets, one zipped rear pocket Hem: Elasticated, expandable zip ankle gusset Sizes: UK 8 – 20 Mens version: No www.revolutionrace.co.uk |
Revolution Race’s winter weight hiking pant is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The pant is high waisted, with a button and zipped fly, and belt loops for support. The fit is roomy at the waist but slightly tight around the thighs, with a stitched pink panel on the thigh. The hem is elasticated and expandable to fit various footwear, including ski boots. The pant has cozy fleece-lined hand pockets, zipped thigh pockets, a mesh secondary pocket, and a zipped back pocket. The trousers are fleece-lined throughout and have a durable softshell outer. The fabric is thick but not as stretchy as some other models. The Revolution Race Hiball is wind-proof and treated with Durable Water Repellent, making it suitable for winter and wild weather days on the hill. While not the most technical trouser, it is incredibly warm and durable for its price.
Read more: Kirsty’s full Revolution Race Hiball Trousers Review
How we tested
Gemma is 5’10” and a curvy UK size 16 with an athletic build. She tested these trousers in spring and summer in Northumberland, the Malvern Hills, Derbyshire and Cambridgeshire.
Alex Roddie tested his trousers on a wide range of short backpacking routes, mountaineering days out, and hikes at all levels throughout the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands. All trousers are 36” waist and short leg length.
Kirsty Pallas is between a size 8 and 10, depending on the brand’s sizing, and always a short leg if there’s an option available. The winter weight ones were tested through Scottish winter, on winter skills courses and personal mountaineering days. The other trousers were tested mountaineering, hillwalking and climbing.
All weights are from the testers’ own scales.
How to choose hiking pants and trousers
When it comes to hiking, having the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, particularly when it comes to your choice of legwear. Choose the right pair of hiking pants and you should be able to enjoy your trip, feeling comfortable and protected. Choose the wrong pair and you’re potentially going to feel uncomfortable, irritated and you might even be jeopardising the success of the whole day. I’ve made the mistake of hiking in pants that weren’t quite right for my trip before, so I’m here to prevent you from doing the same yourself!
Fit
Fit can vary from brand to brand so it’s always a good idea to try before you buy when it comes to hiking pants. Just like with a waterproof jacket or a pair of hiking socks, the ideal fit for hiking pants should strike the right balance between functionality and comfort. Pants that are too tight are going to potentially restrict your movement on a hike – particularly when it comes to scrambling – while excessively baggy pants can be heavy, flappy in the wind and can feel less nimble.
I personally like to look for trousers that have a relaxed and flexible fit but that aren’t so baggy that they feel heavy or flappy in the wind. Flex at the knees and at the crotch is important, especially for things like climbing and scrambling. Knee darts and a gusseted crotch improve overall fit and articulation, enhancing mobility.
Some trousers will come with an in-built hipbelt while others come with belt loops. There are also some that are simply elasticated or that have poppers or velcro for adjustment.
Pockets
Pockets are, of course, handy to have – though some hikers will require more than others. A pocket that can store a map or GPS device and make it quick and easy to access and put away is always very useful.
Ventilation
If you tend to run quite warm you might want to consider trousers with ventilation options. This can be in the form of a simple zip on the thigh or even trousers legs that can be fully removed. While these essentially give you a pair of trousers and shorts all in one, the downside is that the zips can often be flimsy, easy to break and difficult to fix.
Panels and stitching
Areas more prone to abrasion, like the knees, seat and instep, often have thicker, reinforced fabric panels. Look for double- or even triple-stitched seams for added durability in any areas that tend to be stretched – at the crotch, for instance.
The best materials for hiking trousers
Softshell
If you own any outdoor kit that’s both tough and water-resistant, chances are you’re already well acquainted with a softshell fabric. Manufacturers have developed their own blends for specific products but generally, softshell simply means a blend of polyester, nylon (or polyamide) and elastane. This woven blend makes softshell a classic all-rounder for outdoor use – and one of the best materials for hiking trousers. But like any outdoor gear, it’s not infallible and does require ongoing care and treatment to keep its performance.
Wool
On the other hand, a material with many naturally occurring qualities that can be handy outdoors is wool. While wool trousers are probably the preserve of the colder months, wool’s warmth, durability and innate water and odour-resistance makes it worth considering as one of the best materials for hiking trousers in winter. Just be aware that wool might itch a bit if not treated!
Nylon
Nylon has become a common occurrence in the great outdoors thanks to the proliferation of excellent hiking and trekking leggings favoured by women for whom finding hiking trousers to fit is still a constant struggle. Thankfully, nylon offers the four-way stretch needed on climbs and scrambles and – as in some designs – is easily constructed with reinforced panelling at the rear and knees. It’s also a breathable enough fabric that you could wear a pair of nylon leggings underneath waterproof over-trousers or winter trousers, keeping your comfortable but eliminating the risk of cold from the elements. Of course, you’ll also find nylon in many hiking trouser fabric blends, alongside elastane and polyester.
Polyctoon and hemp can also be used to make hiking pants. Learn more in our guide to hiking trouser materials.
