While guys seem to have plenty of options, if you’re looking for the best women hiking pants it can be a little harder to find a pair that fit well, look good, and are comfortable for long periods of walking.
Gents, head over to the best hiking pants for men to see what we’ve got for you! In a rush to buy your pants, jump ahead to our Buying Advice below.
Hiking pants women love will have a variety of features, but most will fit into these 3 categories: all-purpose, convertible, and winter-weight pants. We’ve searched high and low and found the best women’s hiking pants for your figure and budget.
Table of contents
- What are hiking pants for women?
- Quick Guide to Choosing Hiking Pants
- Hiking Joggers
- Hiking Joggers Reviewed
- Convertible Hiking Pants
- Women’s Convertible Hiking Pants Reviewed
- Winter Hiking Pants for women
- When the cold weather hits
- Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
- Conclusion
- Stock Up on Outdoor Gear and Hiking Jackets
What are hiking pants for women?
Hiking pants are specially designed outdoor trousers that offer comfort, durability, and functionality for hikers. They are typically made from lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying materials with added features like reinforced knees, stretchable fabric, and multiple pockets for convenience on the trail.
General, All-Purpose Hiking Pants
A good pair of all-purpose hiking pants will be your best bet for most of your outings.
If you’re not expecting very hot or cold conditions, then all you really need is a pair that feels comfortable for long periods and is durable.
If you manage to find a pair that does this and looks good too, then even better. Here are the most important things to consider when choosing.
Quick Guide to Choosing Hiking Pants
What are good pants to hike in?
Choose good pants to hike in designed as hiking pants for women, as they are tailored specifically for the female body, providing a comfortable fit and allowing women hikers to enjoy their outdoor adventures with ease and confidence.
How do I choose the right size for women’s hiking pants?
It’s important to refer to the brand’s size chart and follow their specific measurements to find the right fit. Consider your waist, hip, and inseam measurements to ensure a comfortable and proper fit for your body.
Grab a measuring tape and your best pair of fitting pants. Lay down the pants on a flat surface like your bed, and measure the waist, thigh, and inseam (from the crotch to the bottom of the pant leg).
Next, measure your waist, hips, and inseam again.
Now you have the measurements to determine your hiking pants size.
Also, remember to consider leg length when making your purchase. Do you prefer to tuck the hiking trousers in the boots like hiking leggings, and wear them over your hiking boots, or do you prefer hiking joggers that land just above your ankle? Make sure you find a pair of hiking stretchy pants since they’ll fit comfortably while being able to move freely in different activities.
How comfortable are they?
There’s nothing wrong with looking out for an attractive pair of pants but you don’t want to sacrifice comfort for the sake of style.
You want them to fit comfortably around your waist with an inseam that allows for good mobility without feeling too long or baggy.
Your inseam is determined by the length of your leg and not your overall size or height.
To get your inseam measurement you need to measure the distance between your crotch and the bottom of your leg.
This measurement is critical if you want a good fit while allowing for comfortable walking.
If you’re not expecting cold weather then choosing a light fabric will make for more comfortable trekking.
It’s hard for manufacturers to make sure that their hiker pants cater to different types of female body shapes. If you’re curvier, then make sure you get a pair with an elasticated waist or one that allows for a fair amount of adjustment with a draw cord or integrated belt.
Can I move around easily?
If you’re just going to be walking, then a high level of mobility may not be a big deal for you. If that’s the case then a loose or regular fit women’s pants will be fine.
But, if you expect to be doing some high-stepping, or more intense activity such as rock climbing or bouldering then mobility is important. In this case, you’re going to want to choose breathable hiking pants with fabric that has good stretch or wear good-quality hiking leggings.
Loose-fitting ones aren’t great for climbing. If you’re going to be raising your knees then active-fit pants will be less restrictive.
Active fit isn’t the greatest for long-distance walking though, so decide which activity you’ll be doing more of and try to find a good compromise.
Are they rugged enough for where I’m going?
There’s always going to be a compromise between lightweight and rugged when choosing trekking pants. Very lightweight materials such as spandex and nylon are great for walking but will pill and wear a lot quicker.
If you know that you’ll be scrambling or making your way through brush then it’s best to choose a thicker material with good abrasion resistance so it doesn’t tear.
Some top rated women’s hiking pants will have reinforced knees and back panels so look for these if you want a really durable pair. They may be a little heavier to walk in, but at least you won’t have to replace them after your first hike.
Breathable fabrics
Breathability refers to how well the fabric of the hiking trousers allows hot, moist air to pass through it. Also known as moisture-wicking, the material moves the sweat from your skin to the outer layer of the fabric so it can evaporate.
When you perspire you want the moist air against your skin to be able to escape so that you stay cool.
Some synthetic fabrics are notoriously bad at doing this. Manufacturers of quality hiking and trekking pants have developed some clever ways to blend and weave these fabrics giving you a light, water-resistant fabric with good breathability.
Wearing fabric that doesn’t breathe well will trap the moisture against your skin and you’ll soon end up with chafing thighs and in a bad mood.’
Weather Resistance: what about when it rains?
Even if you don’t expect to be out exploring in rain, good water resistance is definitely something you want to look for. Walking in wet pants is no fun.
An unexpected downpour – or walking through a stream or falling in some water – and pants that don’t repel water can quickly make you grumpy. Fabric treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) will ensure that water will bead off the fabric rather than soaking it.
Besides water resistance, you also want to choose a quick-dry fabric for your women’s waterproof hiking pants.
Features: pockets, zippers, drawstrings, or velcro…
In an effort to retain a flattering cut and sleeker lines, slim fit hiking pants for women are often a little light in the pocket department.
Storage in pockets means less diving into your pack for snacks or your phone. Getting a pair with at least one decent-sized thigh storage pocket is always a good idea.
Zippers or snap closures on pockets are helpful for extra security.
Adjustable cuffs with drawstrings or velcro are also nice to have extra as they help secure and turn them into tapered hiking pants around your trekking boots to prevent tick bites and debris from entering your boots..
Reviews of Women’s Hiking Pants
After looking through loads of pairs we narrowed our favorites down to these top 5 all-purpose hiking pants for women and hiking joggers too!
Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants
These summer hiking pants are super light and their movement-mirroring stretch makes them extremely comfortable even when getting into some high activity.
If you’re planning on working up a sweat by climbing and scrambling in some warm weather then these will be great.
Even if you find yourself in some light drizzle the water-repellant fabric will just shed those drops.
The fabric dries really quickly when it does get wet, in these quick dry pants, and is stain-resistant too so you don’t need to worry about getting mud on them.
The drawstring cuffs make it easy to seal them around your boots or shorten them to Capri length if you’re getting a little too warm.
What We Like
- Light but durable polyester ripstop fabric
- Water resistant and quick-drying so great for showery conditions
- Brushed tricot-lined waistband for a comfortable fit
- Front slash pockets, zippered thigh pockets, zippered back pocket for storage of personal items.
What We Don’t Like
- Although they are wind resistant they don’t provide a lot of warmth on a very chilly morning
- Legs felt a little short
prAna Women’s Halle Pant
If you like your trousers with plenty of stretch, then the Prana Halle pants are a good bet.
The spandex gives these pants loads of ‘give’ so although they’re a relaxed fit, they do tend to hug the hips.
If you prefer a looser fit then get a size up from your usual size.
But, if they’re too loose on you, then you can use the concealed drawstring to make sure they stay up.
I don’t like low-rise waist hiking bottoms, so I really like that these are cut with a mid-rise. It’s just “mid” enough not to get in the way of your backpack’s hip belt, but not so high that you feel like you’re in the 1980s!
The roll-up leg feature is a nice touch. If it gets a little warm you just roll the leg up and snap the straps to keep them in place.
The reinforcement in the knees adds durability without detracting from the appearance or mobility.
What We Like
- Stretchy durable fabric with articulated knees providing great mobility
- DWR finish gives good water resistance
- Roll-up leg feature for fording streams or wet areas
- Upper right leg has a hidden zippered stash pocket for keeping cash safe
What We Don’t Like
- Sewing on the top buttons seems a little flimsy
- Material a little thicker so may be too warm on very hot days out.
Columbia Women’s Anytime Outdoor Bootcut Pants
I like active-fit pants but sometimes they can feel a little restrictive. Not so with these.
These long hiking pants are super-comfortable and versatile, having the kind of stretch and range of movement that even makes them great to use for yoga.
The fabric is water and stain-resistant and the tight weave provides UPF 50 sun protection.
They’re machine washable but the nylon fabric is so light that it makes them easy to quickly wash in a sink.
What’s more, they dry pretty soon after too. They’re not kidding when they call these “Anytime” pants for hiking, great for travel, the outdoors, and going for dinner in the city. These would be a good choice of hiking pants for curvy women.
They look so good that we’d happily wear these to casual or even semi-formal occasions.
What We Like
- Stretchy, active fit with boot-cut legs looks good as well as being practical
- Omni shade / omni shield UPF 50 sun protection
- One rear pocket and two deep side pockets give plenty of space for personal items
- Price
What We Don’t Like
- If you are a slim 5’9″ or so, then the legs may be a little short
Columbia Sportswear Women’s Saturday Trail Pant
The fabric of the Columbia Saturday hiking pants for women is really soft and has great stretch.
It’s made of lightweight Nylon and is surprisingly breathable making these ideal for summer trails.
Also, these best softshell hiking pants have some water and wind-resistant properties but they’re by no means waterproof. If you’re expecting heavy rain then you’ll need a lightweight rain shell.
They dry quickly though so even if you do get caught in a downpour you’ll be fine an hour or so later.
The Columbia Saturday are great lightweight hiking pants but if you’re expecting to be coming in contact with some rough surfaces then you’re going to need something a little more durable.
What We Like
- Stretchy fabric with gusseted crotch and articulated knees for comfort on the trail
- UPF50 sun protection
- Zippered security pocket
- Legs roll up to Capri-length making them more versatile for summer outings
- Price
What We Don’t Like
- Although the fabric stretches, the waist doesn’t. Make sure you get the correct waist size
Nonwe Water-Resistant, Quick-drying Outdoor Cargo Pant
If you’re expecting it to get hot but don’t like the idea of convertible pants then give these a go.
The fabric of these cargo hiking pants is very lightweight and breathable in spite of the Nylon.
They’re a little noisy when walking but the level of comfort easily makes up for that.
The straight leg cut is a regular fit so don’t expect to be able to wear other layers underneath.
Women’s walking pants are often a little shy with pockets so we really liked how many these have and how deep they were.
Even though they’re great for warm-weather backpacking they have good water resistance and dry quickly too.
What We Like
- Loads of pockets: 2 sides, 2 rear & 2 side hand pockets, great if you carry a lot of stuff
- Lightweight, breathable fabric making them ideal for warm weather
- Water resistant and quick-drying means you don’t need to worry about the odd shower.
- Price
What We Don’t Like
- Noisy – you’re not going to be sneaking up on anyone in these!
- Very little stretch
Eddie Bauer Guide Pro
These hiking pants were designed for outdoor activities in the mountains, trail running, hiking, and bouldering. Basically, our professional mountain guides’ choice for everything outside: from backpacking in the mountains to lounging at camp.
Eddie Bauer Guide Pro pants are lightweight, packable, two-way stretch Flexion nylon/spandex that provides mobility. The durable water-repellent finish is quick-drying, perfect for hanging off a tree branch after you work up a sweat.
It has a StormRepel DWR water-resistant finish that sheds moisture so it doesn’t soak into the fabric. FreeShade 50+ UPF sun protection. Small pack size for day hikes or multi-day trips. Two Secure Zip Cargo Pockets keep essentials accessible.
Eddie Bauer has partnered with Bluesign to ensure these hot-weather hiking pants were following environmentally safe and sustainable textile production.
You will want to try on several sizes to determine the best fit for your figure. Several reviewers have complained that the waist is too big on those with small waists and curvy bottoms.
What We Like
- Mid-rise, cut is flattering
- Inseams in different lengths for petite, regular, and tall women
- Sturdy zippers on pockets. Zipper pulls on cargo pockets lay flat
- Lightweight, thin, easy to pack
- Water and dirt-resistant.
What We Don’t Like
- Pants have a bit of a “swooshing” sound when walking if your thighs rub together
- No back pockets
- Zipper cargo pockets are a bit small and do not fit an average-sized smartphone
Hiking Joggers
If you’re a woman who hikes or backpacks, you’ve probably wondered: what are hiking joggers, and what makes them so special?
We’ve got the answers.
Hiking joggers are a cross between pants and sweats, in that both pants with elastic ankle cuffs. However, hiking joggers are made from a durable, lightweight fabric that’s ideal for hiking and backpacking. Additionally, women’s hiking joggers have hand pockets and possibly cargo pockets.
Are joggers good for hiking?
Absolutely yes!
Hiking joggers are designed specifically for women who want to be comfortable and agile when they’re out on the trail. Most have a performance fabric that wicks away sweat and dries quickly, so you won’t get too hot during your hike if you buy warm-weather hiking joggers. What’s more, they will also have sun protection built in, which is super important if you’re going to be spending time outside in the sun all day long!
Comfort Factor
So why should you consider buying a pair of hiking joggers?
They’re comfortable! Top-rated hiking joggers women love are made from soft fabrics that wick sweat away from your body and let you move freely in any direction, which means they won’t chafe or bind when you’re walking uphill or downhill. Plus, they have pockets where you can keep your phone and wallet safely tucked away while hiking so they don’t get stolen by bears (it happens).
Lightweight
They’re lightweight! Many hiking joggers weigh less than one pound per pair, which means they won’t weigh you down during your hike. This is important because when it comes to moving fast through rugged terrain, every ounce counts!
Versatility for Leisure and Errands
Hiking joggers are versatile, comfortable pants that can be used for everything from leisurely strolls around the neighborhood to rigorous hikes through the mountains. They’re also stylish enough to wear around town—you can wear them on a hike and then go out for lunch in them without feeling like you’re wearing gym clothes.
If you’re a woman who loves to hike and run, then you know how important it is to wear comfortable, proper fit, hiking clothes, no matter if it’s your winter hiking outfit or fall trail hiking look. Hiking joggers are the perfect blend of performance fabric and style, with features that make them versatile for leisure as well as running errands.
Womens Hiking joggers come in lots of different styles, from slim-fitting tapered legs to loose, straight-legged pairs. They can be made from performance material without sacrificing breathability, to keep you dry and cool. Additionally, some even offer sun protection or mesh vents so you won’t overheat in warm weather.
And they’re easy to care for: just throw them in the washing machine and hang dry!
Hiking Joggers Reviewed
Plus, there are so many great brands making women’s hiking joggers—they’re all different styles and colors.
Whether you’re looking for hiking joggers with a relaxed fit or something more fitted, there’s a pair out there for everyone.
Here are our favorites:
Athleta Trekkie North Jogger Pants Women
Ready for an adventure? These Athleta Trekkie Hiking Joggers are just what you need. Made with recycled nylon, a high-performance material that helps lessen impact on the world, these joggers are perfect for trekking or jogging.
They also feature a fabric that resists snags and tears and pulls sweat away from the body so it can evaporate faster. Rated UPF 50+ for excellent sun protection, these warm weather joggers are sure to keep you protected from the elements. Three secure zip pockets keep your essentials safe and close by, while a knit waistband holds you in comfortably. Fitted; mid-rise; sits below the natural waist. Imported.
The fit is great, extremely comfortable, high-quality fabric. The waistband has just the right amount of stretch and tightness, there is no poofiness to the front/pelvic area like on some other brands. perfect amount of room in butt/hips for athletic women. What’s more, the fabric is a little stretchy but also feels durable. lightweight. Really moves with you. squatting down and doing yoga feels natural and carefree in these trekking pants.
What We Like:
- 50 UPF rating
- Slim Fit
- Midrise with a comfortable waistband
- fairly thin, very stretchy, and super comfortable
- Great at blocking wind
- 3 secure zip pockets to stash your essentials
What We Don’t Like:
- Not water resistant
- Shows sweat and water easily. Fun times if you get sweaty in the crotch area
- Pet hair and lint cling to it
Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Women Jogger Pant
These Dynama hiking joggers are the perfect pants for a day on the trail. The lightweight nylon/spandex fabric offers stretch for easy mobility, and the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish on the fabric resists moisture and stains.
Another benefit of these women’s hiking joggers is the UPF 50+ fabric that shields you from harmful UV rays. You’ll also appreciate the flat and wide stretch waistband because this ensures a comfortable fit. Two deep hand pockets and a low-profile zippered security pocket stash your essentials, and the standard fit is not too tight or too loose.
Comfortable enough for a day hike or running to the grocery store. Durable (I slid down some granite rocks on my most recent hike and actually fell! I bruised, the lightweight hiking pants didn’t tear!!
Good lightweight. Nice slim fit (looks nice in town with sweater). Water rolls off unless you are hiking in heavy rain. Both are easy to wash and dry, hanging off a branch or on a guy line.
However, the only improvement would be to add a zipper to the side pockets. The leg pocket on the front has a zipper, which is great for a small daytime wallet.
What We Like:
- Comfortable and dry easily
- Use them as travel or lounging pants too!
- Waistband is comfortable under the backpack waist belt.
- Easy to pack and don’t take up much room
- lightweight pants for climbing
- tapered through the ankle
- moisture wicking and breathable.
- Thin but warm
What We Don’t Like:
- Wears down easily in the butt and inner thighs area
- A bit noisy
Libin Women’s Cargo Joggers for Hiking
These best hiking joggers are perfect for anyone who wants to get outdoors and enjoy the great outdoors. They’re crafted of a lightweight, quick dry polyester and spandex blend with a water-resistant treatment and UPF 50+ that repels light moisture and resists UV rays.
In addition, it has an adjustable drawcord on the waistband so you can cinch for a tighter or looser fit, and the smooth cuff at the ankle is elastic for easy on and off. Five multipurpose pockets offer plenty of space to stow your items, and the cute and stylish look is great for everyday wear or hitting the trail.
So whether you’re headed to the office or the trailhead, make sure to add these hiking joggers to your wardrobe. But, we do recommend sizing up and buying several colors and sizes, since sizing is not consistent across pants.
What We Like:
- Water resistant (not waterproof)
- Quick Dry
- Silky fabric feel
- Zippered cargo pockets
- Inclusive sizes from XS-3XL
- Fabric is cool and breathable
What We Don’t Like:
- Wrinkles like crazy
- Inconsistent sizing- Buy multiples to try
The North Face Laterra Utility Jogger Pants Women
The North Face Laterra Jogger Pants are the perfect way to keep cool and comfortable while you work out. If you need water resistance for some wet weather hiking, then these waterproof jogger pants feature a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish that helps moisture bead up on the surface, ensuring that you stay dry and comfortable.
Also, the North Face hiking joggers feature an articulated knee that enhances mobility, making them ideal for running or other athletic activities. Other features such as the soft knit fabric waistband and channeled drawcord allow you to tighten or loosen the waist.
Lattera cargo joggers also feature drop-in slash hand pockets and side-seam zippered welt pockets with double-needle topstitch detailing that can be used to store your essentials. What makes these women’s joggers both comfortable and stylish are the soft knit lining at the cuffs and the Y-yoke design on the back, which is super flattering.
All in all, definitely pick up a pair of North Face Laterra hiking joggers while they are available.
The waterproof hiking pants are available in a standard fit with tapered legs, making them comfortable and versatile.
What We Like:
- Quick Drying
- DWR finish- light water-repellant
- Relaxed fit
- mid-rise
- Drop-in slash hand pockets and side-seam zippered welt pockets with double-needle topstitch detailing stash your essentials
- Incredible quality, so comfortable,
- Sweat-wicking
What We Don’t Like:
- Wrinkles like crazy
- Inconsistent sizing- Buy multiples to try
Convertible Hiking Pants
“Convertibles” are a great option if you want to be able to cater to warm and cool weather without having to pack extra shorts.
Being able to go from long to short and back again with a quick pull of a zipper is great but make sure you take the following factors into account.
Choosing the best convertibles
Convertible walking pants are usually a loose or regular fit so for the most part they’ll be fairly comfortable. The main difference is the addition of a zip somewhere near your knees.
Make sure that your skin is shielded from the zipper so that it doesn’t chafe your knees while walking.
Check the length of the pants once the bottom legs are removed.
Some will be fairly short (above the knees) while others will zip off below the knees.
Whichever you prefer, make sure that the length of the short pants doesn’t end up exactly level with your knees. The weight of the zip will bump against your knee and drive you nuts in no time.
Mobility: shorts or long pants?
The shorter shorts will give you more mobility but will expose your knees to sunburn. If they zip off below the knees make sure that they won’t impede your mobility when climbing.
A loose-fit pair will be too baggy for the kind of mobility needed for scrambling. Choosing a pair with toggles to secure the trek pant legs once the bottoms are zipped off will help with this.
Breathability
When the bottom legs are removed breathability isn’t really an issue because your legs will feel nice and breezy.
If you’re wearing them long, however, that’s when you want to be sure that the fabric still has good breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
It’s not always going to feel hot enough to wear them as shorts but a brisk walk, even in cold weather, will still have you working up a sweat.’
The most versatile for warm weather activities
The versatility of being able to go long or short whenever you want is only of real benefit if it’s simple to switch between lengths.
Make sure the zippers are easy to use when removing or replacing the legs. Choosing a pair with quick-dry fabric will mean that you don’t have to pack an extra pair of shorts to swim in.’
What about the odd rain shower?
Convertibles are never going to be the greatest at keeping you warm in really cold weather but they should still do a good job on those cool mornings and evenings or in light rain.
Good wind resistance and DWR-coated fabric are features you should look out for.’
Color-coded zippers, ankle zippers & more
Color-coded zippers will make it easy to identify which leg bottom goes where and will save you time and hassle when trying to zip them back on.
Some hiking or walking pants come with this feature but if they don’t then marking the zippers with some nail polish is a good DIY fix.
Still, some manufacturers have designed the weave of their fabric to provide UV sun protection. Of little use when the bottoms are removed, this is a nice feature if you’re out in the full sun.
Getting the leg bottoms off over your boots can be tricky. Warm hiking pants with vertical ankle zippers make it a lot easier and will save you from having to take your shoes off each time.
Some hiking pants material have a bug-repellent treatment that is a great help to keep ticks and mosquitoes away.
Women’s Convertible Hiking Pants Reviewed
If we were heading out in some warm weather then these are our top choices:
prAna Women’s Sage Convertible Pant
If you like having plenty of options then you’ll love these zip-off hiking pants. Like regular convertible pants, you can go long or short.
With the Prana Sage, you have the added option of rolling up the legs and clipping them in place for a Capri length.
The inseam is long enough for a comfy fit but I would have preferred a waist with a slightly higher rise.
What We Like
- 3-in-1 lengths: Long, Capri or Shorts giving you great versatility
- 2 front pockets, 2 rear pockets, and 2 side cargo pockets
- Durable, DWR-treated fabric for water resistance.
What We Don’t Like
- No vertical zippers on the legs making them a bit difficult to get off over shoes
- Pants can get a bit hot in warm weather
- Buttons on pocket flaps can be fiddly
Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Convertible Pant
If you want a single pair of pants to cater for cool mornings and evenings as well as hot days then these Ferrosis are a good choice.
When you wear best zip-off pants long, they have great wind resistance and will keep you pretty warm. Once the sun is out, they’re cool, breathable, and comfy with the legs off.
The color-coded zippers make it easy to see which leg goes where when you’re zipping the legs back on.
The size on these convertible hiking pants runs a little large so consider going a size down when you buy them. They’ve got a good stretch in all the right places and the fit makes them great for climbing.
What We Like
- Different colored leg zippers for easy matching of upper and lower legs
- Durable, abrasion-resistant fabric which remains light and breathable
- Good wind-resistance
- Good stretch for high-stepping
What We Don’t Like
- Would have preferred more angle on the front pocket entry
- Cargo pocket is a little small
REI Sahara Guide Convertible Pants
I love the cut of these pants. The length and waist are cut so that if you’re a little curvy or full-figured, they feel really comfortable and look flattering.
The fabric has enough stretch in it to allow for high stepping and is durable enough to survive some scrapes on rocks.
You’ll really appreciate that the legs are color-coded for easy removal/ attachment and the ankles tighten. We wish more brands would make this style and function feature. I love the high, comfortable waistband-
What’s more is that the legs zip off above the knee, turning them into shorts that are flattering fit. They are both short and long enough but don’t bunch up!
What We Like
- Durable, abrasion-resistant fabric with just enough stretch for high-stepping
- Water-resistant and quick-drying
- UPF 50 rating
- All-inclusive sizing from XS-3X
- Shorts inseam: 4.25 inches
What We Don’t Like
- No leg zips
Outdoor Research Women’s Equinox Convert Pants
Finding a pair of outdoor hiking pants for women that has both a good fit as well as enough pockets can be a challenge.
These convertible hiking pants answer that challenge beautifully. The stretch and cut make them easy to climb or scramble, and the pockets are deep enough to hold a cell phone or GPS.
They’re not too baggy but still feel comfortable when sitting or squatting. Both the legs zip on and off easily and the ankle zippers mean you won’t have to remove your hiking shoes when you do so.
The fabric copes really well with water and dries quickly after getting wet.
What We Like
- Ankle zippers make it easy to remove lower leg sections over boots
- 2 front pockets, 2 rear pockets and a zippered side pocket make carrying your personal items easy
- Movement-mirroring stretch for comfort over all terrains
- DWR treated fabric for water resistance
- UPF50 sun protection
What We Don’t Like
- Would have preferred some more color options
ExOfficio Bugs Away Vanna Convertible Hiking Pant
These are great trousers if you are walking through areas with bugs, or you happen to be one of those people who always seem to get bitten no matter what.
The material is impregnated with insect repellant that will keep ticks, mosquitoes, and other bugs from making a meal of your legs. The repellant will apparently last for about 70 washes.
These are a loose fit and very comfortable on long hikes. The partial elastic waist felt comfortable during activities and the legs zipped on and off pretty easily. To sum it up, the ankle zippers mean you won’t need to take off your hiking boots.
What We Like
- Ankle-zippers for easy lower-leg removal over shoes
- Fabric treated with insect shield that actually works & UPF30 sun protection
- Color-coded zippers for easy identification
- 2 front pockets, zippered pocket on the right thigh, multi-tool pocket on the left leg
What We Don’t Like
- No rear pockets
Winter Hiking Pants for women
*.
You want a pair of pants that will cope with the wind, rain, and cold but still be comfortable to wear and easy to move in.
When the cold weather hits
When warmth is the top priority
Winter trekking pants are generally lined and insulated and this additional fabric adds to the bulk and weight of the pants.
If they’re made badly then you’ll be feeling seams rubbing on your legs or your mobility will be reduced.
A good pair of winter pants should provide warmth by virtue of the design and superior fabric, not just by using thicker material.
Make sure that the size you choose and the inseam allow you to comfortably wear a base layer under the pants.
What about snow sports?
Getting a relaxed fit pair will mean that even with additional thermal layers you should still enjoy free movement. If you prefer a regular or active fit then make sure that the cold-weather hiking pants are properly lined so that you can forego the additional layers and still stay warm.
Make sure that the fabric has some stretch. This is especially important for insulated and lined pants because the layers of fabric will make the pants thicker and more restrictive.
Breathability – a real challenge
It’s a real challenge to make a fabric that is warm and water-resistant while still being breathable. It’s even more difficult if you want the fabric to be waterproof and not just resistant.
When you look at winter pants you’ll see that some of them say that their pants are waterproof-breathable.
This means that they’ve used specially designed layers of fabric that repel water on the outside while still allowing moist air to escape.
If you only expect cold weather and not rain then choosing a fleece-lined pair of pants made from cotton or wool might be a good choice.
They aren’t water-repellant but will be very warm and comfortable. The natural fabrics also don’t make a rustling noise as some waterproof pants do.
Versatility is sacrificed
Winter hiking pants aren’t very versatile. They don’t tend to look great around town and aren’t any good in warmer weather.
A pair of waterproof-breathable pants will usually have a shell that doesn’t lend itself to being worn anywhere else but on the trail.
Don’t be tempted to let your desire for versatility lead to compromising on waterproofing if you’re heading into rain or snow.’
Weather Resistance: the most important points
Weather resistance comes down to insulation, lining, and waterproofing. Pants with well-designed insulation layers will keep the cold out while retaining heat.
Fleece linings are great if you’re going to be in very cold conditions and these fabrics will often have wicking properties that help to manage perspiration.
When considering the conditions you expect, decide whether you need waterproof or simply water-resistant pants.
Waterproof pants are essential in snow or rain but they do sacrifice some breathability and mobility. For most trips, you’ll probably need a separate pair of rain pants to wear over the top.
If you want to be sure to stay dry then make sure that the seams of your pants are critically or fully sealed. If you only expect some light rain, then rather go for water-resistant pants with DWR-treated fabric.
Features/Extras for your winter sports
Pants with reinforced cuff guards and hems will last a lot longer if you’re walking through mud and scrub.
Some pants will have snap closures on the gussets, on the lower legs, and gaiters that will help seal your boots and prevent snow and scree from getting in.
Adjustable velcro tabs on the cuffs also make it possible to get a good seal around your boots. If you hike with gloves, make sure that the pockets are easily accessible.
Women’s Winter Hiking Pants Reviews
If you want to stay warm and dry on your next winter hike then these 5 winter hiking pants for women are some of the best options available.’
Columbia Women’s Bugaboo Pant
These active-fit soft-shell pants have been designed to keep you warm and dry during high activity in wet, cold-weather conditions.
The fabric is waterproof-breathable and is fully seam-sealed to maximize your odds of staying dry in even the wettest conditions.
They were designed with skiing in mind but make for a great pair of winter hiking trousers.
Also, the legs are a bit long so they’re better suited to wearing with boots rather than lower-profile shoes. The insulation does a great job of keeping the cold out and the warmth in.
What We Like
- Comfortable nylon-embossed taffeta lining is breathable
- Waterproof with sealed seams preventing leaks
- Adjustable waist tabs for a comfortable fit even if you are wearing a base layer
- Lower-leg snap closures gusset and internal gaiter seals around boots keep snow and water out
What We Don’t Like
- Sizing a little off with the waist fit being a bit loose and the legs a little tight
G Gradual Women’s Fleece Lined Joggers
These fleece-lined pants are a great choice for backpacking, walking, or climbing in cold and wet weather.
The material is water-resistant and breathable so it’ll do a good job of keeping the water out while keeping you comfortable even if you work up a sweat.
Some winter pants can feel a little light but this fabric has a nice thick feel to them and is really warm.
We really liked that these outdoor winter walking pants have a lot of decent pockets. The sizing felt a little on the big side but this makes them comfortable when wearing some thermals as an additional layer.
What We Like
- Super Soft Fleece Lining: Feels like a warm hug from your favorite blanket.High-Waisted
- Design: Flattering fit that stays in place.
- Versatile: Great for lounging, light exercise, or casual outings.Deep Pockets: Perfect for carrying essentials or hiding snacks.
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly Baggy Fit: Might not suit everyone’s taste.
Columbia Women’s Modern Mountain 2.0 Pant
These lightly insulated pants work well to keep you warm while allowing for a high degree of mobility.
The waist rise in front was at a comfortable level while the rear waist came up a little higher for extra protection for when you take a tumble in the snow.
Also, the snap gusset and internal leg gaiter make them boot-friendly.
The adjustable waistband makes it easy to get a comfortable fit around the waist while being secure enough to keep water and snow out.
In addition, the fabric is very water-resistant and washed well too. These are an ideal choice if you’re heading out into the snow.
What We Like
- Water-repellent fabric with light, breathable insulation great for active days in the snow
- Internal leg gaiter and snap gusset make these great for wearing over boots
- Wide adjustable waistband with belt loops
- Zippered side entry front pockets
What We Don’t Like
- No rear pockets
- Not waterproof, so not suitable for very wet weather.
Columbia Sportswear Women’s Storm Surge Pants
If you absolutely have to stay dry then this is about as good as it gets.
These pants are waterproof-breathable and with the seams fully sealed, it will take a serious amount of rain before any water gets through them.
To maximize the water protection they’ve decided to have no pockets on these which is a pity.
They’ve got plenty of room in them though so you could easily wear another pair of pants with pockets underneath.
The Columbia Storm Surge is pretty waterproof these aren’t the warmest so you’ll want to be wearing another layer anyway.
The adjustable cuffs work well to get a good seal around your boots. If it looks like it’s going to rain then these are the waterproof hiking pants you want to be wearing.
Recommended Reading: Best Women’s Hiking Shirts For Hot Weather
What We Like
- Omnitech waterproof-breathable fabric with fully sealed seams really keeps you dry
- Elasticated waist with drawcord for a comfortable fit
- Hook and loop adjustable cuffs with velcro straps fit snugly around your boots
- Price
What We Don’t Like
- No pockets
- More of an outer-shell pant rather than one you’d wear on its own
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Yes, choose women’s hiking pants in hot weather to winter seasons, since each type is designed to be versatile and suitable for various weather conditions. Look for pants with adjustable cuffs or zip-off options for adaptability, and consider layering them with base layers for added warmth in colder climates.
Absolutely! Women’s hiking pants are versatile and can be worn for a range of outdoor activities such as camping, trekking, backpacking, or even everyday casual wear due to their comfort and durability.
Yes, there are women’s hiking pants available with waterproof or water-resistant features. Look for pants made with waterproof membranes or treated with durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes for enhanced protection against rain and wet conditions.
Some popular options for hiking pants slim fit include Columbia, Arc’teryx, prAna, Outdoor Research, Athleta, The North Face, Patagonia, and Mountain Hardwear.
Here are some options:
Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2
prAna: Women’s Halle Pants
Patagonia: Women’s Quandary Pants
Athleta Trekkie Pants
alder Open Air Pants
Vuori Ripstop pants
Conclusion
Each of the women’s pants we reviewed above is a great product in its own right. The different features are their waterproof options available for women’s hiking pants. The fabrics make them suitable for a range of different conditions.
A good pair of general hiking pants will probably be fine for most conditions. If you’re expecting very warm or cold weather then choose a pair better suited for those temperatures.
Your budget is obviously an important consideration but doesn’t try and save a few bucks by compromising on water resistance or comfort.
Buying the best women’s hiking pants for your budget is an investment that will reward you over and over once you hit the trails. If your next trip involves summer camping lakeside, we have our guide to the best water sandals.
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Last update on 2025-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API