Best Men’s Hiking Pants
Hey guys, are you really ready for your next hiking adventure? Take it up a notch with the best men's hiking pants!
Hey guys, are you really ready for your next hiking adventure?
Take it up a notch with the best men's hiking pants! The top rated men's hiking pants offer superior protection against harsh weather conditions, whether that be extreme heat, cold, rain, or wind. With a variety of fabrics and features like insulation and convertible styles, there’s something to meet every hiker's needs.
Don’t let yourself get stuck in the middle of nowhere without being properly outfitted – these stylish yet rugged bottoms will take you from the trail to town in great comfort and swagger. Plus, their breathable design ensures you stay cool even on hot summer days.
Take a look at our thoughts and recommendations while you search for the perfect top rated hiking pants for men today. We're your trail guide.
Hiking Pants
Hiking pants are a must-have for men who love to tackle the great outdoors. With trails that can lead them through rough country, comfortable and breathable hiking pants are essential - ensuring you'll have a safe and enjoyable journey.
Hiking pants provide fantastic protection for your legs, can keep you warm when temperatures drop and can provide differing levels of water resistance. If you are hiking a trail at low elevations, the chances of predicting the weather and trail conditions are considerably higher than hiking an alpine trail up to a fourteener.
When the weather can change in an instant and there is the potential for scrambling over rocks and scree, the best rated men's hiking pants will make sure you’re safe and sound while enjoying the great outdoors. Space is tight sometimes, so make sure you have the right gear and only the right gear.
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Feature Consideration
When selecting the perfect pair of hiking pants, there are a few features to consider such as lightweight material for breathability and flexibility, convertible options to easily adjust for different temperatures and terrain, and waterproof materials for those unexpected showers or streams. However, beyond these basic features, there are additional features that may be beneficial depending on your needs.
Cargo pockets provide extra storage space without adding bulkiness or weight to the garment. These pockets are typically located on either side of the hips and/or thighs with secure zippers so your items stay safe while you’re moving. These pockets can come in handy while trekking through nature when you want access to small items like snacks, water bottles, flashlights or other items without having to stop and unpack a backpack.
Rear pockets offer similar convenience but can be found at the back of the pant leg instead of on the sides. Rear pockets allow you to keep your hands free while still storing whatever item you need close at hand; they also help reduce strain on your lower back by eliminating the need to frequently bend over while grabbing things out of a backpack.
Of course, budget is always a factor when shopping for hiking pants and there are plenty of affordable options available that still provide quality performance features such as moisture-wicking material, vented knees for increased mobility, built-in sun protection, reinforced fabric at stress points like waistbands and hems for increased durability, and articulated knees for improved range of motion.
When it comes to finding the best pair of hiking pants that have all the features you need without breaking your budget, it pays to do some research before making a purchase. Reading product reviews from fellow hikers can help you decide which features will be most beneficial for your next adventure — whether it’s light weight material or cargo pockets — so you can choose wisely when picking out your next pair of hiking pants!
How We Choose Hiking Pants
Hiking pants are a necessary part of any hiker's wardrobe, but it can be hard to know which ones to buy.
With so many different hiking pants on the market, the challenge is knowing which ones are worth your money. Not all hiking pants are created equal, and some are better suited for certain climates or activities than others.
Outdoor Verified is here to help. We provide in-depth reviews of the best hiking pants on the market, as well as tips and advice on how to choose the right pair for you before purchasing hiking pants. Whether you're looking for a summer pair of hiking pants or something more heavy-duty for cold weather hikes, we've got you covered.
Keep in mind, we consider the use of the product with features and benefits and THEN price when recommending the best value. We do NOT simply find the least-expensive item out there and suggest it is a good value. The purpose being accomplished reasonably well is always first and foremost.
What we like
Active guys look no further – your ultimate outdoor staple is here! We chose this pair as our best value because it is affordable along with giving you the super flexibility of a convertible pant. Take on the great outdoors while staying light and comfortable in the Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pant.
These pants are made of 100% ripstop nylon that is durable no matter the weather conditions or activity. Not only is this one-of-a-kind pant strong, but with its signature wicking fabric and UPF 50 sunray protection technology, it will give you an all-day sweat-free, breathable experience!
And, with a zip on each leg, you can go from pants to shorts instantly– style and versatility at its best! So, when the hike starts out cool and ends up hot, you are prepared for both.
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Utilize the zippered pocket, side pockets with hook and loop closure, and mesh pocket bags – talk about having all your bases covered! What's more, a partial elastic waist and gusset detail give you maximum flexibility while the classic fit adds a layer of comfort.
And let's not forget the important stuff - Omni-Shade protection blocks UVA and UVB rays keeping you safe from long-term damage from exposure. So, check out these pants if you want the best budget hiking pants that are big on flexibility.
What we like
Introducing the Royal Robbins Alpine Road hiking pant - your space-age sidekick on all of your outdoor adventures whether they are on the trails or in town eating after a long day hiking. Not only are these pants designed with an Active fit to help you move freely through whatever landscape you might find yourself traversing, but the reinforced bartacks make it durable enough for even your toughest treks.
You won’t have to worry about getting soaked either - there’s water-resistant fabric and adjustable cords at the ankles to make sure that pesky rain doesn't interfere with your good time. Plus, you have zippered pockets so your valuables stay safe while you explore. This nylon/poly blend fabric keeps wrinkles at bay and is made using eco-conscious Bluesign Approved fabric.
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Now you can feel comfortable enough to hit your trekking routes without worrying about your clothing. And if urban travel is more your speed, have no fear; our pants still provide an edgy clean style for casual wear. With UPF 50+ protection from the sun’s harsh rays, you’re set for anything that comes your way.
Add in a security fly and soft interior waistband for added comfort and wicking, plus cleverly-placed pockets to keep all of your necessities accessible. It’s a total upgrade on outdoor wear - style meets practicality with the Alpine Road Pant in town or way out of it.
What we like
Guys, you don't have to venture far from civilization to stay on top of your game. With the prAna Stretch Zion II Pants, you'll be ready for any excursion out in the great outdoors. These pants are crafted from a durable and water-resistant original Stretch Zion fabric with roll-up leg snaps creating roll up hiking pants for max air circulation.
It is exactly the stretch factor that makes these our choice for the best pants for climbing or scrambling over scree. They also provide UPF 50+ sun protection against nasty rays so you can spend more time adventuring without worrying about UV skin damage.
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Made with quick-dry, water-repellent material and UPF 50+ protection, you can take on fun in the sun without worrying about sweat or harmful rays. With its classic fit, abrasion resistance, and adjustable leg snaps that let you roll up your pant legs for extra breathability, these pants will always be ready for action. Don't let the crag get you down. With these pants, you'll be able to make it up and down to celebrate after a peak run.
Mountain Trails
Hiking trails up in mountains can present some of the most challenging conditions a hiker can face. The weather is unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and rainfall. Additionally, the terrain can be very rocky and uneven, which makes it difficult to navigate. Snowy conditions can make it even more difficult to traverse, as icy patches and deep snowdrifts are common. It's also easy to get lost in these trails due to their sheer size and complex network of paths.
The physical demands of hiking on mountain trails can be intense and demanding. The incline and elevation make for tough climbs that put significant strain on your legs and back. If you're not physically fit or prepared for the journey ahead then it's likely that you'll tire quickly. Even experienced hikers will feel the impact of such long treks at higher altitudes.
Having the right gear is essential when tackling mountain trails. Hiking boots are a must-have since they provide excellent grip on slippery surfaces, while waterproof pants help keep you warm in wet conditions. A quality backpack with a backpack hip belt ensures that you're able to carry all necessary supplies while keeping your hands free to grip rocks or trees during tricky stretches of trail. Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunblock are essential too as UV rays are stronger at higher altitudes where there is less air to act as a shield against them. Personal locator beacon systems are also an important investment for any hiker who wants extra peace of mind when heading out into remote areas completely alone.
Ultimately, having the right gear on hand while hiking mountain trails can make all the difference between success and failure when tackling tough terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Packing wisely with proper clothing, footwear, and safety equipment will go a long way toward making your hike enjoyable instead of miserable!
What we like
These are the brand new Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pant Men's. A favorite icon of versatility just took a major upgrade. If you love to climb but are looking for maximum comfort and protection, this pant really has it all. With a hardwearing Fortius DW 2.0 softshell that resists water and wind plus light insulation, you'll stay warm - even when things get rocky and chilly on your final ascent.
And if it's an adventure you're after, tie your laces tight and hit the trails. With the promise of performance stretch with every step and a redesigned waistbelt that provides ultralow-profile support. There are plenty of secure pockets including an easily accessible pocket at the thigh. So let your wildest wanderings take you wherever you need to go knowing the Arc'teryx men's Gamma LT Pant will support you for miles.
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Its moisture-resistant outer fabric will keep you dry no matter what the weather throws at you and its lightweight but durable construction provides unrestricted freedom of movement. Featuring adjustable cuff drawcords, laminated cuffs, a gusseted crotch to allow for plenty of comfort and mobility, two zippered hand pockets, a thigh pocket that sits nicely under a climbing harness, and an adjustable low-profile webbing waistbelt that rides comfortably beneath any harness or pack. Plus, it contains materials that meet the Bluesign criteria for environmental sustainability. If you hike at higher elevations, these pants are just about a requirement.
What we like
Are you ready to take on any outdoor adventure like an expert? Strap on the Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Convert Pants for rock-solid performance. These pants are like no other because they can convert from pants to hiking shorts and back to pants again with just a zip of the legs when you get into hot weather.
And don't worry about packing room in your campers or bag because these pants will do the trick without taking up bulk or extra space. The award-winning and best-selling Ferrosi fabric makes these pants so comfortable while adding abrasion resistance, breathability, and weather protection.
If that's not enough, these convertible trousers contain 46% recycled material! Planning overnight hikes, gearing up for mountain climbs, or just off on a walk – these will make sure you have the endurance and comfort needed throughout the whole experience.
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Made with a harness-compatible waist and metal shank button closures for maximum comfort and utility, you’ll be ready for anything. When you want to go short, just zip your legs off and rock ‘em at 10” short!
Your adventure needs won't go unnoticed either thanks to two drop-in hand pockets, a right hip security zip mesh pocket, a back left drop-in pocket and a back right zip pocket. You can rest assured that any movements are smooth sailing due to the gusseted crotch and drawcord cuff adjustments. Plus the brushed tricot-lined waistband and internal drawcord make sure it fits just right too. All this is why we recommend its non-convertible little brother as our best overall hiking pants, coming up next.
What we like
Welcome to the world of Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants; your ultimate hiking buddy. These all-terrain pants are a must-have for all of you guys who love to conquer even the toughest trails. Durably constructed with UPF 50+ fabric and water resistance, they provide perfect lightweight breathability and quick-drying capabilities - so you can focus on the journey, not your clothes.
Lovingly designed with movement-mirroring stretchiness and articulated knees, the Ferrosi Pants keep things flexible while offering support in those tough ascents. Plus, a gusseted crotch means unrestricted leg mobility along with multiple pocket options that make sure you have everything within reach on the trail.
A quality partner should always be as dependable as possible, and these pants perform whether it’s time for the approach or you’re ready to climb! So, go ahead and commit to that hike for once in your life - and these pants will help you make it happen.
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These pants are designed with UPF 50+ sun protection that keeps out mud and debris, while made with a breathable material so nothing stands between you and your journey. Made with 14% spandex and 90D stretch woven rip-stop nylon, they not only move well but also resist the elements. So don't let anything stand in the way of conquering whatever terrain or activity comes your way.
FAQs For Men's Hiking Pants
It can be hard to know which hiking pants are best for you, especially if you're new to hiking. We want to remedy that as well.
Not all hiking pants are created equal. In fact, there are a lot of different features and benefits that you need to consider before making your purchase.
Outdoor Verified has the perfect solution for you. We have collected some of the best of the best in this article to get you on the way to the trails. An FAQ section will also help add more information to your decision-making process.
What type of pants is best for hiking?
Your choice of pants is an important one when out on the trail and should be made from durable, quick-drying fabrics such as spandex or nylon to ensure maximum comfort. Cotton will not help you stay warm and dry so should be avoided at all costs. Additionally, having a pair of pants that fit snugly and can adjust quickly to temperature changes could mean the difference between a pleasant journey and an uncomfortable one.
What length should hiking pants be?
When it comes to finding the perfect pair of hiking pants, you want to make sure they are long enough to cover the top of your boot, but not so long that you have to keep pulling them up as you step. If they're too short, you run the risk of them becoming caught in the back of your hiking boot or shoe as you walk – a potentially annoying situation if there ever was one! On the other hand, if they're too long, not only will it look a bit ridiculous, but you'll be constantly yanking them up all day.
Should hiking pants be tight or loose?
When you're shopping for a pair of hiking pants, it's important to consider how the hiking pants fit and other functional elements, especially for a longer backpacking trip. Generally speaking, you want to look for pants that are snug enough to remain anchored around your waist without restricting your breathing. Additionally, you want them to be made from fabric that is comfortable against the skin and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of trekking through the wilderness.
Do you wear anything under hiking pants?
When you’re hitting the trails on a cool day, it's always a great idea to keep yourself warm and comfortable by wearing a pair of long underwear as your next-to-skin layer. In addition to having plenty of wicking ability, make sure that your hiking pants have enough room to accommodate this base layer. This will help ensure that you're always prepared for any weather conditions that may come your way!
Are climbing pants and hiking pants the same?
Soft-shell climbing pants are an absolute must-have for any alpine adventurer. They are much more durable and resistant to tearing than traditional hiking pants, and they do an excellent job of blocking out wind, rain, and other elements that you might encounter while climbing mountains. Plus, their stretchy fabric gives you an unparalleled range of motion that is essential when performing difficult and technical mountain ascents. On a warm approach hike in the mountains, you'll want to wear your soft-shell pants over just your underwear for optimal comfort!
When should I wear skinny or wide belt?
Easy-to-follow Guidelines for your body type: If you are blessed with a long waist, choose wide belts and wear them on the narrowest part of your waist. This will help shorten the length of your body and create an enviable hourglass figure. On the other hand, if you have a short waist, go for thin belts as wider belts can make your torso seem even shorter.
What should I wear if I don't have hiking pants?
In summer, a good pair of lightweight running shorts can make for an ideal choice when hiking, as long as you won't be trekking through thorny bushes or encountering frigid temperatures or swarms of pesky mosquitoes. Leggings or flexible, breathable pants provide greater protection than shorts—just keep in mind that leggings are prone to tearing easily on sharp objects if you're not careful! Bottom line everyday pants are better than not hiking. There is no rule saying you HAVE to wear hiking pants.
Do you wear a belt with hiking pants?
When it comes to hiking, having a good belt to keep your outdoor gear and clothing secure is essential. A poorly performing belt can really hamper your ability to haul all of the necessary things for your next adventure, limiting your freedom of movement and making it impossible to utilize those convenient pockets in your pants. But, with a quality hiking belt, you'll be able to keep everything in place and truly maximize the use of your outdoor clothing for a better experience outdoors.
What specific details should I look for in hiking pants for men?
The best lightweight hiking pants for men have a zippered security pocket, cargo pockets, rear pockets, thigh pockets, integrated belt loops (maybe integrated belt), concealed zipper coin pocket, front pockets and are made from thin fabric. Other pants may have a relaxed fit or a waist belt and a slim fit but may not be great for hiking if they aren't stretch pants. Or they may be good as trail pants but don't have compartment pockets or a zippered thigh pocket. The technicality of the trail will require long pants that are more abrasion resistant, durable convertible pants or with an adjustable waistband. If you are at elevation that often has wet weather, rain pants may be a great option though most hiking pants for men have some amount of water resistance in the form of a durable water repellent treatment except the most budget hiking pants.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, if you are a solo mountain explorer or have the urge to summit steep peaks, investing in the best hiking pants is essential. Their flexible and lightweight design promotes maximum agility so that you can navigate tricky terrains with ease. The selection of fabrics available caters to winter climates or balmy summer days alike so you can pick the perfect choice based on what your adventure will take you.
The protection from rocks and twigs will bring you home with fewer scars to point out, but that might just be ok. Most hiking pants will hold their abrasion resistance when you actually use them as intended.
Time to suit up and hit the trail! And as always, remember-- safety first! Don’t forget to check out all the resources at your disposal. Tap on the buttons below the products to check current pricing and availability - and happy trails!
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~ Ron
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