Best Women’s Hiking Pants

Are you a daring woman who's searching for the ideal pair of pants for your next hiking excursion?

Best Women’s Hiking Pants
Photo by Matt Heaton / Unsplash

Are you an adventurous woman looking for the perfect hiking pants?

Outdoor Verified has got your back. These lightweight, stretchy, and durable fabrics offer great protection from the elements while allowing maximum freedom of movement. Plus, our pants come in a wide range of colors and designs to suit every style and preference!

With pocket reinforcements and knee paneling for extra durability to drawstrings and built-in belts, these hiking pants will keep up with your active lifestyle on the trails or no matter where you go! They are made from flexible materials that provide comfort for ease of movement - perfect for trekking through trails or climbing mountains.

Get ready to explore in style by checking out our recommendations for the best women's hiking pants today!

Hiking Pants

Hiking pants are essential for any woman's outdoor wardrobe, especially when traversing through rugged terrain. Hiking and lightweight hiking pants that women wear are lightweight and breathable fabrics are perfect for summer hikes, while heavier materials for cold weather hiking, sometimes including fleece linings can keep you warm against the colder elements.

Hiking pants are designed to help make your trail trek more comfortable and enjoyable. Many hiking pants feature special design elements such as abrasion-resistant material. articulated knees, belt loops, and even zip off legs that allow you to tackle even difficult terrain with maximum ease and comfort.

This type of outdoor gear really is essential for those who seek to explore the outdoors, and it can provide a great degree of protection while also allowing you to enjoy your journey.

These pieces of apparel also protect from the environment while allowing an unrestricted range of movement that is sure to have you tackling your next hike feeling confident and empowered. Having the right hiking pants gives you the comfort and fit you need to focus on the trail ahead.

Get your free downloadable camping checklist here!

How We Choose Women’s Hiking Pants

It's hard to know which hiking pants are the best for you.

With so many different types of hiking pants available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Do you need a light pair for summer hikes or something more heavy-duty for colder weather?

Outdoor Verified has the solution. We provide in-depth information on the best hiking pants available, and we use the experience and reviews from real hikers. Consider these recommendations as we help you choose the perfect pair of hiking pants for your needs.

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.

Most Versatile Pants

prAna Women's Halle Pant

Check price on Amazon

What we like

The all-new prAna Halle pants are designed for women who love to camp and explore all that nature has to offer from high up, these pants were made so you can spend your days in comfort and style. Crafted with stretch Zion fabric, they’re perfect for keeping you dry while you explore.

The durable water-repellent finish helps protect against those unexpected rain showers. With articulated knees and easy-roll pant legs, this relaxed fit straight leg mid-rise pant is meant for movement. Plus, with a button fly and a hidden zip stash pocket at the upper right leg, your valuables will be safe even when you’re on the go.

And lastly, no matter where your next adventure takes you — we have a specific size that works for you. Worthy of a mountain trail or restaurant break in town after hiking.

The other side of the prAna Halle Pants

More details

Crafted from our signature Stretch Zion fabric, these pants are designed to move with you, whatever heights you decide to go or rocks you have to climb over. With abrasion-resistant performance and articulated knees, these pants let you explore the great outdoors without worrying about durability.

The chic design in neutral colors pairs well with any ensemble, so you can go from hiking trails to casual mingling with friends in an effortless style. An added pocket at the upper right leg gives the perfect spot to stash your small belongings or phone when you need a break during a long day of adventuring.

Available in three inseam variations — short 30" (76.2 cm), regular 32" (81.3 cm), and tall 36" (91.4 cm) — these versatile pants ensure every woman will keep conquering the peaks in ultimate comfort and feminine style! PrAna's Women’s Halle Pant is a great choice for everyday wear and all your outdoor activities.

Best Full-Length Pants

Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Pants

Check price on Amazon

What we like

Are you ready to conquer the trail? With Outdoor Research's Women's Ferrosi Pants, you can take your hiking adventures to the next level! Designed for performance, these airy and stretchy softshell pants are just what you need for a day full of conquering mountains.

The UPF 50+ material is water-resistant, lightweight, and breathable; perfect for long days outdoors in any weather. Articulated knees and movement mirroring stretch give you more comfort as you conquer each peak.

Internal drawcord waist and multiple pockets including a zippered pocket make these pants suitable for carrying anything you might need while out on a journey through nature. Whether it’s an approach to the climb or a relaxing night by the campfire, these pants are the perfect companion for all of your favorite outdoor activities.

The other side...

More details

The sleek fit of these pants offers an unparalleled range of motion for any activity thanks to its movement-mirroring stretch seamlessly constructed into the design. Its articulated knee allows you to move around freely while an internal waist drawcord ensures a secure and flattering fit tailored just for you.

With practical hand pockets located both at the side hip and back drop in, you can securely stow away essentials within easy reach as you explore unknown territories. With its sleek but feminine look, we guarantee that this will be a go-to item in your outdoor wardrobe! So go ahead and gear up with Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Pants today – because life is too short to stay indoors!

Best Cool Weather Hiking Pants

Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pant

Check price on Amazon

What we like

For all the adventurous women out there, the Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pant is your must-have. A perfect balance of feminine and functional, these athletic and stylish pant provides everything you need for a full day outdoors. Built to move with you, these pants are crafted from Fortius DW 2.0 softshell fabric that provides breathability and protection from the elements.

Comfortably worn under your harness or hip belt, they feature an adjustable internal drawstring cuff and a secure thigh pocket that allows for easy access. This distinguished design offers unrivaled durability, wind protection, and advanced climate control while allowing you to freely enjoy performance stretches when hiking through rugged terrain or sitting around a campfire.

Softshell pants other side.

More details

Whether you're a hiker, camper, or backpacker these pants have it all! They are weather resistant and provide unbeatable coverage and protection when out conquering the great outdoors. Not to mention they have incredible breathability and unsurpassed abrasion resistance so you can go on even the toughest of treks without worry.

Don’t be fooled by the lightweight style either – they are structurally sound, performance-ready, and offer maximum protection all while looking fabulously stylish! Complete with air-permeable four-way stretch woven textiles that hug your every curve, these pants will keep you supported around every bend. These pants will ensure your focus is on the adventure instead of your clothing.

Best Convertible Pants

Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Pants II

Check price on Amazon

What we like

Looking for the perfect outdoor staple? The Columbia Women's Saturday Trail Pants II just might fit that bill. Crafted from lightweight and durable nylon and elastane fabric, these pants are sure to take you through any activity or cold weather that comes your way.

The superior materials, technical fabrics, and expert craftsmanship ensure the everyday wear of these pants provides optimal performance while keeping you comfortable in all situations. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, casual backpacker, or fervent camper/backpacker, the Columbia Saturday Trail Pants II will keep you safe from all elements as well as fashionably on-trend with its modern style. With quality construction, high-performance material, and reliable technology in one garment, you can stand confidently ready for anything Mother Nature throws at you.

Alt view.

More details

The signature water and stain-repellent fabric make them ideal for any activity, while UPF 50 shields you from harmful sun rays. Plus, you can easily adjust the partial elastic waist for maximum comfort as you move around.

And of course, nothing beats being able to convert into capri pants or even shorts when the temperature rises unexpectedly; just roll up the legs to switch up your look to roll up pants effortlessly! Enjoy long hikes, camping trips, and nature walks with these trusty convertible pants; they even come with two side pockets with hook and closure fastening plus two back pockets that secure your smaller items. Not only are these great, convertible hiking pants the best women's hiking pants around, but they are some of the most popular convertible hiking pants for women. The Columbia Saturday Trail convertible hiking pant; The Swiss Army knife of hiking pants perhaps? Maybe so...

Best Hiking Leggings

Eddie Bauer Women's Trail Tight Leggings

Check price on Amazon

What we like

These amazing tights provide the perfect combination of style, durability, and protection. They are specifically designed to keep you comfortable while hiking and scrambling, making them ideal for all your favorite outdoor pursuits. Their moisture-wicking fabric can handle any adventure with ease.

The unique UPF sun protection technology shields you from harmful UV rays, so you can stay in the great outdoors longer. With mesh detailing on the pant legs, you get maximum breathability during even your most strenuous activities. And our odor control technologies mean you can take long trips without worrying about the smell!

Eddie Bauer Women's Trail Tight hiking leggings look great while they keep up with every step of your journey. Whatever activity you choose, these trail leggings work by themselves or as a packable base layer for hiking trips.

Alt view.

More details

With a supportive and figure-flattering high-rise style, these flattering hiking pants are leggings that will move how you move without sacrificing comfort. Plus, two drop-in cargo pockets give you quick access to the most essential items during your adventures, while a secure zip vertical pocket keeps your items safe.

And if that weren't enough, a power mesh waistband ensures that the fit stays securely in place—no more worrying about having to adjust your outfit mid-activity! Available in heather Slate Grey with an inseam of 28" Reg | 25" Petite | 31" Tall | 28 Wos, made from 88% polyester/12% spandex for maximum durability and stretchable comfort.

Best Overall

Mountain Hardwear Womens Dynama X Ankle

Check price on Amazon

What we like

Look the part while dominating your outdoor adventures with the ultimate in comfort and style; the Mountain Hardwear Dynama X Ankle for women. This sleek, feminine-cut ankle is designed to transition from bouldering adventures one day to collecting groceries and getting fuel the next.

The stretchy fabric factor ensures that campers and hikers never have to sacrifice their mobility for fashion. Versatile, breathable hiking pants, the Dynama X Ankle from Mountain Hardwear are designed to keep up with women adventurers, no matter what their goal might be.

Alt view

More details

The super-stretchy nylon elastane fabric provides lightweight flexibility and comfort all day long - so you can trek without worrying about any limitations. Additionally, it’s been designed with a water-repellant DWR fabric finish that repels water and keeps you dry in rainy conditions.

On top of its function, it also features a regular fit with a low-profile, stretchy fabric waistband for extra comfort that allows you to move wherever life takes you. Speaking of movement, when it comes time to stow away snacks or store other essentials, multiple pockets will be at hand to do so quickly and easily.

Its limited lifetime warranty has your back if any defects arise in materials and workmanship for the practical lifetime of Mountain Hardwear brand products manufactured by Mountain Hardwear themselves! So trust in knowing that the Mountain Hardwear Womens Dynama X Ankle has you covered during travel, hikes, outdoor climbing expeditions, gym training sessions…and even lounging around.

FAQs For Women's Hiking Pants

It can be hard to know which hiking pants are best for you, especially if you're new to hiking or backpacking adventures.

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 hiking pants for women and you. We information on the features and benefits of the best hiking pants picks, as well as FAQs as a buyer's guide to arm you with knowledge when making the best decision for your needs.

What type of pants is best for hiking?

When choosing the right type of pants for your outdoor activities, it is important to make sure that they are constructed from durable and quick-drying fabrics such as spandex or nylon - a must for any situation where you might experience a decrease in temperatures or come across thick vegetation along the trail. It is also advisable to steer away from cotton material as it may be difficult to dry out once wet and can cause discomfort when exercising.

Should hiking pants be tight or loose?

When it comes to selecting the best tight for a longer backpacking trip, the fit of cargo pants is an important factor that you should take into consideration. You want to look for a tight one that has a snug and flattering fit, one that will keep it firmly anchored around your waist yet still allow you to breathe comfortably. Additionally, you'll want to evaluate other functional elements of the tight such as fabric and waterproofing ability.

What is the point of the best women's hiking pants?

Leg Protection That is “Cool” - Hiking pants provide optimal protection for your legs when you go off-trail while ensuring that your legs stay "cool" at the same time. This is because these pants are designed to be breathable and allow sweat to evaporate quickly, meaning that users don't have to worry about feeling too hot or uncomfortable – all while still protecting the legs from twigs, thorns, and other hazards found when hiking. More recently, breathable hiking pants, even convertible pants, are made as more flattering hiking pants for women as the demand has increased tremendously.

Is it better to hike in pants or leggings?

Leggings are often a great choice for short hikes in pleasant weather conditions and on easy trails, as they offer flexible movement and comfort. However, when it comes to multi-day backpacking trips and technical hikes, hiking pants are the ideal choice due to their superior durability and moisture-wicking capabilities. Hiking pants, even budget hiking pants, provide better protection from abrasive surfaces and extreme weather conditions while keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable throughout your trip. Hiking leggings are more specific to hiking over yoga pants due to their technical fabrics, thigh pocket, and internal drawstring while they can go under convertible hiking pants to provide a tone of options. Of course, if you have convertible hiking pants like the Columbia Saturday trail pants or hiking pants for women, you can have even greater flexibility and technical fabrics with your leggings.

Do you wear anything under hiking pants?

Taking a cool hike? If so, it might be a good idea to layer up with some form of long underwear for added warmth and comfort. Additionally, look for fabric with a wicking ability to ensure your next-to-skin layer is as comfortable as possible. When it comes to underwear, you can choose from options like boxers, briefs, boy shorts, bikini briefs, or something else – feel free to go with whatever style makes you the most comfortable.

Are climbing pants and hiking pants the same as convertible pants?

Soft-shell climbing pants are far more resilient and durable than regular hiking pants and they effectively block both wind and rain, making them ideal for outdoor adventuring. Best of all, their stretchy fabric allows for a greater range of motion which is essential when climbing mountains. During a very warm weather or approach hike, you'll be glad to wear these lightweight hiking pants over just your underwear to protect against the elements. Convertible pants on the other hand, have zip off legs so you can convert them to hiking shorts. There are budget hiking pants available for anyone desiring a flattering fit.

Are some flattering women's hiking pants completely waterproof?

Hiking pants for women can be durable hiking pants even with stretchy fabrics and two way stretch. Breathable hiking pants for women can even be found among a selection of budget hiking pants. Most hiking pants for women consist of technical fabrics and may have belt loops, and a zippered thigh pocket to secure your cell phone. This does add extra fabric to the pant, however. Some hiking pants for women that have the most flattering fit will likely have fewer pockets but may also be roll up pants; like the sahara pants. Tights generally have a thigh pocket for your phone.

Final Thoughts

With all that in mind, it’s clear why so many hikers love having pants specifically designed to make their treks safer and more enjoyable. Whether you’re taking a quick jaunt down the trail or going on a long adventure into unknown peaks, these hiking pants will give you a layer of protection and warmth that no other item can provide -– plus they look seriously good while doing it!

So what are you waiting for? As summer approaches, get ready to gear up with these stylish and comfortable hiking pants specifically designed for women. And don’t forget to tap on the buttons below the products to check current pricing and availability – happy shopping ladies!

If this article was helpful, consider becoming Outdoor Verified by subscribing so you won't miss any updates on camping and outdoor gear recommendations. We even send out sale items when we find them to subscribers!

~ Ron