On (and off) the trail, the last thing you want to worry about is adjusting your waistband, getting overheated, or battling annoying bugs through flimsy fabric. Ouch! The best hiking pants for women strike a balance between function and freedom, protecting against wind, prickly branches, and even the damaging rays of the sun—while allowing you to move with ease. And today’s hiking pants also look good, so you don’t have to choose between function and fashion.
No matter where the road takes you, there’s a perfect pair of hiking pants to keep you covered and comfortable. That starts with knowing what to look for.
What to Look for in the Best Hiking Pants for Women
It’s tempting to pick up pants just for the style, color, or sales price. But before you choose, it’s worth getting clear on what really makes a great pair of hiking pants.
Here’s what to look for so you stay comfortable and trail-ready from step one to the top of the summit… or the end of the road.
Fit & Comfort That Moves with You
Let’s face it, hiking pants that pinch, sag, or require constant adjustment can detract from even the best hike. To ensure a proper fit, look for:
- Mid- or high-rise waistbands, which are less likely to shift when you’re scrambling over rocks or carrying a pack, and stay right where you want them.
- Articulated knees and gusseted crotches to enable easier movement when climbing, squatting, scrambling, or simply bending over to adjust your hiking boots.
- Fit types like slim, straight, jogger, relaxed, or even leggings, depending on your personal style and what you feel most comfortable in.
Breathability & Moisture-Wicking
You want pants that keep air moving and dry quickly if you sweat or get caught in a drizzle. Lightweight nylon or polyester blends often do the trick—especially those labeled as moisture-wicking or quick-dry.
Don’t overlook natural fibers or blends, such as merino wool, which can increase your comfort. I know I’m not the only one who has bought a super cute pair of hiking pants (probably on sale) that weren’t as breathable as hoped for. After one hike, they either became lounge pants or were donated. No matter how good they looked, they simply would not do for a long (or even moderate) hike. They just led to overheating.
Durability & Toughness
Trails naturally come with a lot of sharp, poky objects—from brambles to branches to rocks and roots. When faced with challenges in the natural world, you need pants that can withstand the environment. Look for ripstop fabrics, which resist tearing, and reinforced areas (such as the knees and seat) for high-contact zones.
Weather Protection
Even if you start out in fair weather, conditions can shift—often alarmingly quickly. Consider:
- DWR (durable water repellent) finishes for light rain, mist, or creek crossings
- Wind-resistant or insulated options if you’ll be hiking in higher elevations, during shoulder seasons, or in unpredictable weather.
Pockets & Practicality
We (that is, hikers of all kinds) love pockets! Especially good, deep pockets. The kind that keep our keys, lip balm, and healthy snacks secure. To keep your valuables safe, look for:
- Zippered pockets to keep everything securely in place (without bouncing along the trail)
- Deep front or cargo-style thigh pockets for easy access
Sun Protection
Even when covered, if you’re spending long days in the sun, UPF-rated pants can help protect against sunburn as a built-in sunscreen. Many technical fabrics now boast UPF 30 to 50+ protection—without sacrificing breathability.
Pest Protection
It’s a bug’s life on hikes. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other annoying pests can make even the most beautiful trail miserable—or even dangerous. I’ve cut some wonderful hikes short due to the intensity of the biting bugs. One that’s quite memorable was a gorgeous hike through a lush fern forest that was unfortunately also home to some particularly nasty deer flies. So painful! For better bug defense, consider reaching for:
- Full-length pants (especially if you’ll be hiking in tall grass or areas or seasons known to be buggy)
- Cinchable hems or elastic cuffs to seal off ankle openings
- You can also find pants made with pre-treated insect-repelling fabrics (like permethrin) for added peace of mind.
Eco-Friendly Materials
For those of us who want to tread lightly on the planet to save the beautiful trails for future generations, it’s worth seeking brands that use:
- Recycled materials (e.g., polyester made from water bottles)
- PFC-free DWR to reduce harmful runoff
- Ethical production certifications (such as Fair Trade)
- Natural fibers (e.g., hemp, wool, and Tencel) or blends
Top Picks: The Best Hiking Pants for Women
Most Versatile: prAna Halle II Pants are durable, stretchy, and stylish. They also feature a water-resistant finish and roll-up legs, making them ideal for trail-to-town versatility.
Best for: day hikes, travel, casual wear
Top Rated: Patagonia Quandary Pants are lightweight, quick-drying, and made from recycled nylon with a DWR finish and UPF 50+ protection.
Best for: all-purpose hiking in various climates
Most Affordable: Columbia Saturday Trail Pant, a budget-friendly, comfy option that comes with Omni-Shield rain and stain repellency. Plus, they have UPF 50 sun protection.
Best for: casual hikers and weekend warriors
Best Fit Range: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are available in a wide range of sizes (0 – 24 with short, regular, and tall inseams). The stretchy fabric fits virtually all body types comfortably—without pinching or sagging. These best hiking pants are also praised for their comfort, durability, and no-slip waistband, so you can move freely.
Best for: petite, tall, plus-size, and curvy body types
Most Comfortable: Outdoor Voices RecTrek Pants are soft, stretchy, and flattering. While they feel like your favorite athleisure for lounging, they hold up well to light hikes or strolls around the campground.
Best for: trail walks, RV life, and travel
Best for Hot Weather: Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle Pants are super light and breathable with a comfy waistband and just enough stretch.
Best for: summer hikes, desert weather, and humid climates
Best for Cold Weather: Fjällräven Kaipak Trousers are made from durable G-1000 Eco Fabric (recycled polyester and organic cotton) with stretch panels on the waist, crotch, and back of the knees so you can move freely. Plus, they’re waxable for greater weather protection and water resistance.
Best for: cold and windy conditions
Most Sustainable: Patagonia Hampi Rock Pants, made with organic hemp, recycled polyester, and spandex in a Fair Trade Certified factory, are tough, breathable, and trail-ready to help you keep your cool even when the weather (or conditions) heats up.
Best for: eco-conscious hiking and rugged trails or climbs
Best Natural Fiber Option: Salewa Fanes Hemp Pants are just as comfortable on sightseeing tours as they are on the trail. Made with a hemp and cotton blend, they’re breathable and durable. They may take time to soften but can quickly become a go-to pair of pants for all your travels.
Best for: lightweight hiking and travel
Best Hiking Leggings: Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights take traditional leggings to a whole new level with reinforced knee and rear panels. Additionally, they feature zip pockets to protect your valuables, making a pair of truly technical tights worthy of any trail.
Best for: steep trails, scrambling, and flexible movement
Your Fit, Your Trail
The right pair of hiking pants can make every step more comfortable, so you can fully enjoy the summit, loop, or wander off the beaten path. Remember, what works best for you is what works for you. Try different fits, fabrics, and features until you find your go-to trail companion—one that helps you feel confident, protected, and free to move. Let the adventure begin!
