Finding the best women’s hiking pants takes a little work, but once you find the perfect pair, they can last you for years! In our book, a good pair of hiking pants has stretchy fabric that moves with you, durable material to withstand the elements, and a style that’s both comfortable and attractive.
If you’re looking for the best women’s hiking pants, look no further. We’ve rounded up the top 12 hiking pants in this guide. You’ll find our best picks for different types of weather, price points, and features such as breathability, water resistance, and lightweight materials.
For their amazing material, style, and durability, we’ve chosen the icebreaker Hike Pants as our best overall hiking pants for women. Read on to discover our other favourite pants for this season!
Best Hiking Pants for Women Reviewed
BEST OVERALL HIKING PANTS FOR WOMEN
The sleek, top-performing icebreaker Hike Pants is the shining star in this lineup. If you’re looking for top-shelf trekking pants, these are the ones. They’re outfitted with an array of helpful features like a gusseted crotch to prevent chafing, articulated knees for unrestricted motion, and a 100% natural fibre construction with odour- and abrasion-resistance built right in.
We love the look of the Hike Pants. The streamlined design and slightly tapered ankles are attractive even in off-trail environments like your local café or tavern. Plus, with so many pockets (front hand pockets, rear zip pockets, and thigh zip pockets), you’ll never have any trouble keeping the things you need close and secure.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Sleek style
- 100% sustainable fabrics
- Comfortable
Cons
- Steep price tag
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Runner Up
There are two classes of hikers: those who love zip-off pants and those who despise them! For those in the first group, you’ll absolutely love the Ferrosi Convertible Pants by Outdoor Research. They came as a close runner-up and still stand out as dreamy convertible hiking pants.
Some noteworthy features include the breathable, water-resistant material with UPF 50+ to protect from harmful rays. The stretchy material provides maximum mobility and comfort, and the loose fit around the waist is great for times where you feel bloated. They’re the perfect summer hiking pants (or shorts)!
For those who still hate zip-offs, check out the traditional hiking pants version of the Ferrosis. The latest iteration in this beloved line features a host of new and improved features, making them perfect for both hiking and climbing (and even rocking around town).
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Zip-off pants
- UPF 50+
- Stretchy fabric
Cons
- Not as stylish as some other pants
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Best Value Hiking Pants
For hikers on a budget looking for a 2-in-1 pant, check out the Columbia Saturday Trail Stretch Pant. These inexpensive hiking pants are crafted with the Omni-Shield Summiteer Lite fabric, which is stretchy and protects against elements.
There’s also a wide, flattering waistband with dual snap closures to compliment your shape. You can also roll up the legs to convert these pants into capris, while the articulated knees give you full and unrestricted freedom of movement.
Speaking of capris, you can also go straight for the Columbia Trail II Knee Pants. They boast the same unparalleled UPF 50 sun-shielding protection and all-day comfort fit.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Beautiful look
- Sun protection
Cons
- Thin material
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Best Lightweight
Tackle miles of trail while staying cool with the The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants. The cute shirring style on legs can tuck into your shoes or be folded up for different looks and lengths.
Keep them full length to protect against bugs, or fold them up for a capri-style pant. Some other nice features include durable triple stitching, extra stretchy material at the waist and hips for added comfort, and Flashdry technology for those spontaneous summer rain showers.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Shirring style
- Versatile use
- Quick drying
Cons
- Flare out at the bottom
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Best Hiking Tights
Tired of carrying a bag while you hike? You won’t need to with the amount of pockets on the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights. There’s a map pocket, security pocket near the waist, and an upper thigh pocket.
These gems are the best of both worlds: stretchy like yoga leggings but durable like trekking pants. There’s also reinforced stitching in the knees and rear, and four-way stretch fabric to make them more durable. The interior drawcord on the waist improves the fit but maintains a sleek, streamlined look. The one drawback is they may stretch out as you wear them.
Also check out the Abisko Trekking Pro Tights for some extra features. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more breathable, grab yourself a pair of Abisko Tight Short 6”.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Highly durable
- Many pockets
- Very stretchy
Cons
- Thick fabric
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Best Breathable
For breezy, comfortable pants perfect for the trail or rock climbing, you can’t beat the Patagonia Hampi Rock Pants. The hemp/recycled polyester/spandex blend breathes and stretches, and the loose, relaxed fit is ideal for more easy-going hikes.
The elastic cuffs and waistband help them fit perfectly to your shape. If you do decide to take them out rock climbing, the pants are optimised to allow for harness-wearing comfort as well.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Relaxed fit
Cons
- Not good for very hot weather
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Best Waterproof Hiking Pants
For the best waterproof hiking pants, look no further than the Salomon Wayfarer Pants. They boast a soft yet durable technical fabric that offers both comfort and resilience. The lightweight 4-way stretch fabric and active fit ensure ease of movement, while the recycled Polyamide material and PFC-free water repellent finish reduce environmental impact.
The Wayfarer Pants are versatile as heck, with practical features like a semi-elasticated waist, adjustable leg bottoms, and well-designed pockets (including a zipped one on the leg). An excellent choice for any hiker braving a midsummer thunder shower.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Many pockets
- Waterproof
- Soft fabric
Cons
- Heavy
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Best for Hot Weather Hiking
The Mountain Hardwear Dynama High Rise Ankle Pants are perfect for hot-weather hiking, seamlessly transitioning from trekking trails to the office or camp. Their feminine, high-rise fit combines comfort and stretch, allowing for dynamic movement whether you're working or tackling tough terrain.
These pants feature UPF 50 fabric for UV protection, a PFC-free DWR finish to repel water, and odour-resistant material. The flat, wide stretch waistband and two secure zip side pockets enhance practicality, making the Dynama Pants an excellent choice for any hot-weather adventure.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Lightweight
- Odour-resistant
- Contoured fit
Cons
- Runs a bit large
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Best For Cold Weather Hiking
For cold-weather, the award-winning Fjällräven Keb Curved Trousers are a top choice, offering enhanced performance, fit, and durability. Made from stretch fabric and G-1000, these trousers feature new, easily adjustable and repairable leg endings. Classic large pockets, generous mesh-backed ventilation zippers, and openings for optional knee pads ensure they are as functional as they are comfortable.
The trousers' technically advanced design includes zippered hip-to-knee ventilation, multiple pockets, and reinforced areas on the knees, rear, and pockets. With a more inclusive fit, they provide maximum freedom of movement and comfort in the mountains. Available in three lengths, these trousers are ideal for any cold-weather adventure.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Warm
- Durable
- Featured-filled
Cons
- Weighty
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Other Favourites
The Norrøna Falketind Flex1 is a lightweight softshell pant, perfect for year-round mountaineering and outdoor activities. Made from a flex1 fabric blend of recycled materials, they offer durability, breathability, and moisture management. Key features include a Custom-Fit waist system, mesh-lined ventilation, multiple zippered pockets, and adjustable lower legs with a hidden gaiter hook. Treated with PFC-free DWR for water repellency.
Price: 0.00$
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The Kari Traa Ane Hiking Tights are full-length women's leggings designed for medium-impact outdoor activities. They feature 4-way stretch material and a crotch gusset for unrestricted movement, while the elastic hem and silicone grip prevent slippage. The quick-drying fabric wicks moisture and offers UPF 40+ sun protection. Made from recycled materials and Oeko-Tex 100 certified, these tights boast both performance and sustainability.
Price: 0.00$
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Whether you’re looking for pants that were built for climbing or just want something great for a variety of activities, check out the Black Diamond Notion Pant. They’re made with stretchy organic twill cotton, so they feel soft and comfortable. Reinforced knees and a gusseted seat also adds comfort for long days spent hiking or climbing.
Price: 0.00$
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BUYING GUIDE
What to Look for in Women’s Hiking Pants
1. Types of Hiking Pants
Standard Hiking Pants
As we stated earlier, there are two types of hikers: those who love convertible hiking pants and those who don’t. But really, having both in your closet is a smart move. Standard hiking pants don’t have zippers at the thighs, making for a nice streamlined look. They can also be better for chillier weather when there’s no way you’d be wearing hiking shorts.
Convertible Hiking Pants
Convertible hiking pants, also known as zip-off pants, can double as pants or shorts. They’re ideal for hikes that start colder, then warm up as the day goes on. As soon as you start to get too hot, you just zip off the longer pants section and continue hiking.
2. Sizing & Fit
When it comes to hiking pants for women, sizing and fit are completely subjective! Some people might prefer a pair of hiking pants with a more athletic fit — tighter around the waist and thighs, then tapering out to a straight leg or bootcut. Or, you may prefer trekking pants with a relaxed fit that are loose throughout the waist, thighs, and calves.
The most important thing is that, whatever your size or fit preference, you retain a good range of motion. There’s nothing more annoying than not being able to crouch down or bend over because your pants are too tight!
3. Comfort and Mobility
For many hikers, finding women’s hiking pants that offer good freedom of movement is a must. To ensure this, look for a pair of hiking pants with stretchy material that has some give. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for pants with a gusseted crotch, or a diamond-shaped piece of fabric on the crotch that prevents chafing and irritation.
4. Breathability
Many hikers know the classic dilemma of finding a pair of hiking pants with good weather protection and high breathability. It’s tricky to find a balance between the two, but it’s also essential for staying comfortable while hiking.
Many summer hiking pants are made of lightweight material that makes them breathable. Look for a mix of materials like nylon, polyester, and elastane.
5. Weather Protection
When we’re hiking, we come face to face with elements like rain, wind, and sticks and twigs. You need a good pair of pants that will hold up against abrasion and moisture.
That’s why it’s important to look for pants that have a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish that repels water. You’ll also want to find quick drying material to keep you comfortable after sweating or hiking through drizzle.
6. Durability
If a pair of hiking pants comes from a trusted brand like The North Face, Patagonia, Columbia, or Rab, you can count on its durability. Some other good indicators for durability include reinforcements on critical areas like the knees and rear, and double or triple stitching. Hiking pants are meant to last for years, so you’ll want to invest in a good, long-lasting pair.
7. Style & Versatility
As active women, we want a blend of fashion and practicality. Many of the women’s hiking pants made these days are cute enough to wear travelling or out for a casual day in town.
Pants that can double as outdoor apparel and casual wear also save room in your closet. So, look for pants with a style you like: straight-leg bottoms, shearing, or cute patterns (plus the functionality to take them through the trail).
8. Other Features
Pockets
If you like to hike without holding a pack, pockets on your women’s hiking pants are a must! Some more expensive hiking pants have zippered thigh pockets for holding a map or your phone. Almost every pair has side pockets, and some even have a few extra zipper pockets. Think about what you usually carry on your hikes, then choose your pants with the right amount of storage.
Integrated Waist Cinch or Belt
For a more tailored look, get a pair of hiking pants with a waist cinch or built-in belt. Whether you’re day hiking or on a longer backpacking trip, you’ll feel confident and comfortable with a belt that tightens. Some pants also have belt loops that you can attach gear to or add your own belt.
Rollable cuffs
For more versatility, some pants have rollable cuffs. These help you adjust the length of your pants to fit different shoes and styles.
FAQs
Q: Can you wear yoga pants hiking?
A: While yoga pants are a great option for hiking, they don’t have as many hiking-specific features. You’ll be 100 times more comfortable hiking in trekking pants than yoga pants, as they have more features like breathability, quick drying materials, and water resistance.
Q: Are hiking pants worth it?
A: Hiking pants are well worth the investment—if you love to hike! Whether you choose convertible or standard pants, you’ll feel cooler and more comfortable with hiking-specific pants. Since they can last for years, you won’t regret the investment.
CONCLUSION
Women’s hiking pants are one of the best purchases we can make as female hikers! Not only do they keep us more comfortable, dryer, and cooler, they can also make us feel great.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the options out there, you can’t go wrong with our top pick, the icebreaker Hike Pants. They’re a favourite among hikers for their comfort, durability, and breathability that’ll get you through any trail.
The best women’s hiking pants are a piece of kit that will never leave your bag on trips and make you excited for your next big trek!
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