We tested 31 pairs of women's hiking pants from popular brands like REI, Patagonia, Cotopaxi, and more.

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Travel + Leisure

What you wear on a hike is just as important as the gear you bring. A good pair of hiking pants is essential for any hiker, offering protection from the sun and other natural elements. I hike almost every week from spring to fall, and, while I prefer hiking shorts on hot days, I often lean toward pants because they’re generally more protective and versatile when it comes to unpredictable weather and trails. 

There are a lot of hiking pants on the market, and we know trying to find the right pair can be overwhelming. We have been testing hiking pants for women for two years now, trying out a total of 31 pairs in various outdoor settings. After each pair was evaluated on fit, comfort, design, durability, and value, we narrowed down the list to our favorites, including two I tested myself. These are the best options for all kinds of outdoor-loving women. 

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Title Nine Trailmix Hiking Pants at Titlenine.com Jump to Review Best Value: SALE Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Pants at Amazon $70 $52 Jump to Review Best Design: Gnara Go There Pants at Gnara.com Jump to Review Best High-waisted: Royal Robbins Wilder Pant at Royalrobbins.com Jump to Review Most Versatile: Kühl Freeflex Zip-off Pants at Kuhl.com Jump to Review Best Splurge: Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants at Amazon $200 Jump to Review Most Durable: Cotopaxi Women’s Salto Ripstop Pant at Amazon $80 Jump to Review

Best Overall

Title Nine Trailmix Hiking Pants

Credit: Title Nine View on Titlenine.com Why We Love It

• These comfortable pants have a four-way stretch and a flattering fit, with a unique, adjustable waistband.

What to Consider

• Plastic toggles on the side pockets swing while walking, which can be a bit annoying.

When I first slipped on these hiking pants, I couldn’t believe how comfortable they were. With a loose, wide-leg fit, they offer plenty of wiggle room without feeling bulky or overwhelming, and the four-way stretch material feels soft on the skin. My only concern was that they wouldn’t keep me warm enough when I embarked on an early spring hike with temperatures in the 40s. Fortunately, I was surprised to find that my legs were plenty warm—I don’t think these would be adequate for winter hiking, but they offered enough protection for shoulder season. When the sun later came out on my (challengingly steep) hike, the pants remained breathable and never made me feel hot or sweaty.

I also found the fit of these pants to be quite flattering—enough so that I’ve worn them on walks with my dog and to farmers’ markets around the city. The pants are also functional, with two standard front pockets that zip completely and two side cargo-style pockets that button close. They are adjustable at the waist and have a unique design that involves a button on the front that latches and two straps that are wrapped around the waist and attached to adjustable plastic hooks. This does take a few more seconds to undo during bathroom breaks, but the result is a perfectly fitted waistband that doesn’t stick out or dig into the stomach. My only gripe about these pants is the somewhat large plastic toggles that hang from the side pockets, which don’t seem to serve a purpose and are a little annoying while walking, but otherwise, I would recommend these pants to just about anyone. 

The Details: Size XS-XL | Nylon and spandex 

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Best Value

Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainier Pants

Credit: Amazon $70 $52 at Amazon View on Eddiebauer.com Why We Love It

• These pants are affordable, but don’t compromise on design, comfort, or durability.

What to Consider

• Some of the pockets are a bit small and the waistband is not adjustable.

We wore these pants in a variety of situations, from hiking to golfing, and found them to be just right for the occasion every time. The fit is excellent, and with a generous size range that also includes petite, tall, and plus sizes, it’s easy to find the perfect pair. They are comfy and move really well, whether you're hiking or hanging out, and remain plenty breathable. The smooth fabric is also designed so it doesn't bunch up behind the knees, making them particularly great for activities like climbing and biking.

The pants have handy front pockets for your essentials, and the zippered side pocket is great for keeping things secure, though it's a little snug for a phone when zipped. They feel durable and well-made, with double-stitching on all high-stress areas. After several weeks of regular use, we’ve seen no signs of wear or tear. They’re also quick-drying and have UPF 50+ sun protection.

The Details: Size 0-18 (regular, petite, tall, and plus) | Nylon and spandex | Water-repellent 

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Best Design

Gnara Go There Pants

Credit: Gnara View on Gnara.com Why We Love It

• The innovative GoFly Pee Zipper allows for discreet outdoor bathroom breaks.

What to Consider

• They are a bit more stiff than traditional hiking pants, and the drawstring waistband can dig into the waist when pulled tight.

I was immediately intrigued by the signature zipper technology of the Gnara Go There Pants, which involves an extra zipper that extends from the bottom of the front zipper fly to the back of the waistband. This allows for discreet outdoor bathroom breaks without being quite as exposed to the elements. I’ve used this feature a number of times over the past year, and have always been impressed with how well it works—the zipper runs smoothly and an extra flap of fabric keeps it from rubbing uncomfortably. While there is some stiffness in the crotch seam from this extra zipper that might get uncomfortable after extended periods of wear, I never found it to be such a problem that I wouldn’t wear these again.

Even if you don’t intend to use the GoFly zipper, these are solid hiking pants. The four-way stretch material is comfortable and allows for plenty of movement even though the pants are fitted. I’m 5-foot 5-inches tall and found these ran just a tad long, but the cuffs can be rolled up and buttoned if needed. The thicker material kept my legs warm on a chilly spring hike and while it isn’t heavy or restrictive, I don’t think I would wear these on hot days. The pants have five pockets, including one zippered side pocket that would be good for storing keys. These are on the pricier side, but worth the money if you’re searching for a great pair of pants that make going to the bathroom outdoors significantly easier.

The Details: Size 00-22 | Nylon and spandex | Water-repellent 

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The 11 Best Daypacks for Hiking, Tested and Reviewed

Best High-waisted

Royal Robbins Wilder Pant

Credit: Royal Robbins View on Royalrobbins.com Why We Love It

• The high-waisted pants are stylish and comfortable, plus they feature built-in mosquito repellent.

What to Consider

• The sizing might be a bit tricky for tall users. 

We took these Royal Robbins pants through the paces, wearing them on hikes in the Pacific Northwest, for work in the city, and even for bike commutes. Right off the bat, the fabric impressed us; it feels premium and smooth, plus it dries quickly and resists wrinkles, making it seem ideal for travel. We also appreciated the attractive design and the added bonus of mosquito-repellent fabric, which could be a real plus in bug-heavy environments. We did run into a few issues with the fit, noting that taller users might find the high waist, short inseam, and subtle barrel leg shape a little disproportionate. The lack of an adjustable waist could also be a problem for those who don’t fit into them perfectly. 

If you do like the design, the high waist is quite comfortable and makes the pants feel more secure. We also thought the fabric stood out for its smooth, cool, and breathable qualities, and has held its color and shape well after multiple washes. We also liked the deep hand pockets and the secure velcro closure on the back pockets. Overall, we think these are a great option for active travelers who want to prioritize lightweight, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant fabric in a stylish design that can transition from outdoor activities to casual city wear.

The Details: Size 2-16 (regular and short) | Nylon and elastane | Water-resistant

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Most Versatile

Kühl Freeflex Zip-off Pants

Credit: Kühl View on Kuhl.com Why We Love It

• These convertible zip-off pants can transition between shorts and long pants in seconds.

What to Consider

• The fabric that lines the zippers on the thighs rubs slightly while walking.

If you want a pair of hiking pants you can wear for just about anything, you’ll appreciate the versatility of the Kühl Freeflex Zip-off pants. Their most versatile feature is the zip-off design, making it easy to switch between pants and hiking shorts. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for hot or humid weather, while maintaining durability that resists snags. The thoughtful design also has other features we appreciate, including an adjustable drawcord on the waist for a customizable fit, two drop-in thigh pockets with bungee closures, and an additional zipper-secured pocket. We also like that the hems can be cinched, making them safer to wear while biking. 

During testing, we found the loose fit and lightweight feeling of the pants well-suited for hiking, keeping them soft, breathable, and stretchy. The only negative we noticed was that the fabric lining the zippers on the inside of the thighs rubbed slightly when walking uphill, although it only caused minor discomfort. After plenty of use and several washes, these still look brand-new, making us optimistic about their longevity. 

The Details: Size XS-XL | Polyester | Water-resistant

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Best Splurge

Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants

Credit: REI $200 at Amazon View on REI View on Arcteryx.com Why We Love It

• These pants feel incredibly well-made and are comfortable to wear in various settings. 

What to Consider

• The price point is high, so these may only be suitable for frequent hikers and campers.

The features and quality of the Arc’teryx Gemma Pants make them worth the splurge for regular hikers. We wore them for everyday errands, on chilly days layered with leggings for extra warmth, while shoveling snow in the rain, and on hikes. In every situation, they were comfortable and offered plenty of movement. They fit true to size, and we appreciated the built-in belt that gives a secure fit without dangling drawstrings. The slightly tapered leg is flattering as well, making these possible to wear outside of hiking-specific activities. 

We experienced no riding up or bunching while wearing these pants. The fabric feels particularly high-quality and the wind-blocking properties kept us warm even in below-freezing temperatures when paired with leggings underneath. We were also surprised by their water resistance; during a 90-minute rain shower, our lower half remained completely dry while our upper body got soaked. The four-way stretch kept us comfy while walking and driving, and other features like secure pockets and wrinkle-resistant fabric added to the overall quality of the pants. While we’d love to see a few more zippered pockets for secure storage, there’s no denying that these pants are worth every penny. 

The Details: Size 0-16 (short and regular) | Nylon and elastane | Water-repellent

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The 9 Best Hiking Boots for Women, Tested and Reviewed

Most Durable

Cotopaxi Women’s Salto Ripstop Pant

Credit: Cotopaxi $80 at Amazon View on Cotopaxi.com View on Thealpinistas.com Why We Love It

• The fabric is thick and durable, offering protection from the cold as well as twigs and branches. 

What to Consider

• We had issues with sizing and pant length, so be sure to review the size guide carefully.

Made from a blend of cotton, nylon, and elastane, these pants are durable and sturdy. The ripstop material lives up to its name, and we feel confident they could withstand snags from twigs or even a fall without tearing. The pants are impressively thick but surprisingly comfortable, and kept us warm in colder weather. They’re also technical enough for the average hiker, with two front pockets, two back pockets, and a zippered thigh pocket. Style-wise, we would wear them for casual outings as well as outdoor activities, although the lack of stretch means we probably won’t be lounging in them at home. 

We did run into a few sizing issues with these pants as we found them to be baggy in the waist area, even with the elastic waistband. While they were too large on top, we also found them a bit short, and they don’t come in tall sizes. We’d recommend these pants for users who are on the shorter side in order to get the best fit. Even with the sizing problems in mind, we still think these would be a good buy for frequent hikers and campers due to their durability. 

The Details: Size XS-XL | Cotton, nylon, and elastane 

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Other We Liked

Some of the pants we tested didn’t make our main list, but still offer benefits that might appeal to certain travelers. 

Patagonia Women’s Chambeau Rock Pants: These attractive pants are lightweight, breathable, and feel great on the skin. While we didn’t have any major issues with them, we thought the price point was a little high considering the lack of unique features.

Helly Hansen Women’s Brona Softshell Pants: We were highly impressed with the fit and overall quality of these pants that feature a four-way stretch and thick material that feels durable enough for any type of activity. However, we think they might be too warm for summer activities and we wish the waistband was adjustable.

Travel + Leisure

Our Testing Process

We’ve been testing women’s hiking pants for over two years, trying out 31 total pairs in real-world settings. We chose a variety of styles and designs, making sure to also include options with various sizes, lengths, and features. Upon receiving the pants, we examined them and tried them on, paying attention to fit, comfort, and noting any defects in the design or materials. 

After wearing the pants at home, we wore them on real hikes, walks, and camping trips. We evaluated each pair based on fit, comfort, design, durability, and value, wearing them in various climates and environments. All hiking pants will be worn for an additional six months after the initial testing period, and we will continue to update this list with new findings.

Travel + Leisure

Tips for Buying Women’s Hiking Pants

Prioritize lightweight, durable materials

When selecting hiking pants, look for materials that strike a balance between lightness and durability. Unless you’re hiking in below-freezing temperatures, you’ll want pants that are breathable and don’t weigh you down during hikes. Synthetic materials, like polyester and nylon, are often more lightweight than cotton, and tend to be more breathable. When woven correctly, these materials can be quite durable as well, especially when paired with double stitching and reinforcement on high-stress areas like the knees and seat. 

Think about water-resistance

If you frequently hike in rainy weather, you’ll want hiking pants that are waterproof or contain a water-resistant coating. Keep in mind that if a pair of pants is not fully waterproof, it will only protect your legs from a limited amount of moisture and won’t keep you comfortable in downpours. However, water-resistant pants can work well for light to moderate rain and are a good option for many hikers. 

Look for adjustability

No pair of pants will fit every person perfectly, so it’s smart to choose options that have adjustable features throughout the garment. Many pants have adjustable waistbands, which allow you to tighten or loosen the waist with a belt or drawstring, removing gapping that could cause the pants to sag. But customizable features aren’t limited to waistbands—you should also look for ankle cinches, zip-offs, and snap cuffs that make it easy to change the path leg length as needed. Not only are these useful for pants that don’t come in multiple inseam lengths, but they also make the pants more versatile for different kinds of weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anne Taylor is a writer at T+L where she tests and writes about many kinds of outdoor gear. She is an outdoor enthusiast and avid hiker who hits the trails almost every week from the spring through the fall, often testing new gear on her trips. For this story, Anne tested two pairs of hiking pants herself and combed through detailed notes to create this list of the best women’s hiking pants.

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