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When you’re hitting the trails you need trousers that are tough but still lightweight to move in (and also look cute!). TFG is sharing the top hiking pants women love that are sturdy yet nice enough to wear off-trail too!

 

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Best Womens Hiking Pants

Written By: Laura Pulling

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Table Of Contents

 

 

When taking a trip through a national park, or trekking the trails in Peru, you need hiking clothes for women that are up to the test. 

Nobody says you need to have “proper” hiking pants when you go on an outdoor exploration, but ladies hiking pants are designed with rigorous walking in mind.

 

 

 

Women’s hiking pants are great in all types of weather, keeping you cool when it’s hot, and warming you when it gets chilly. Most are made from lightweight and breathable materials that make them great for travel, plus they are often quick-drying and waterproof. 

And, long hiking pants are useful to save you from scratches and scrapes from rogue branches, or bites from pesky bugs! (Don’t leave the mosquito repellent at home though!).

 

TFG has investigated the best trekking pants, and these are our favorites!

 

 

Best Hiking Pants Womens Styles

 

 

Shop Sizes 2-18 Short, Regular, Long: Columbia

 

Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Convertible Pants

 

The Columbia Silver Ridge Utility convertible hiking pants are perfect for outdoor adventures with Omni-Shade UPF 50 for sun protection and Omni-Wick moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry. Designed with 2-way stretch and articulated knees, these pants offer flexibility and comfort. You can easily convert them to shorts with zip-off legs and roll-up cuffs with snap-button tab holders.

These pants also feature a drop-in pocket for small tools, hand pockets, a back pocket, and belt loops for added convenience. Crafted with recycled materials, they come in a range of sizes (2-16) and inseams (Long, Regular, Short).

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-3X: Columbia

 

Columbia All Seasons Trekking Pants Womens

 

Columbia’s all seasons trek pants are made from a poly blend fabric that allows for a comfortable stretch and comes in a variety of sizes (XS-3X). This women’s casual pant features an adjustable waistband and a bootcut leg for comfort and style. These breathable hiking pants features Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric for maximum protection against the sun and Omni-Shield technology for advanced water and stain repellency to keep you cool and dry.

Users love these pants and they have a ton of 5-star reviews, one shares, “Most comfortable walking pants ever. Very lightweight fabric with a lot of stretch to it makes it perfect for easy movement. Love the two side pockets and a single back pocket to secure your small items.” Also available in straight leg and capris. 

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-2X: The North Face | Backcountry | Dicks Sporting Goods

 

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Womens Cargo Hiking Pants

 

These North Face womens outdoor pants are durable for when you’re on the road or the trail. The rib-knit waistband makes them super comfortable for long hikes, or for plane travel. They have front hand pockets, plus a hidden zip pocket for keeping belongings close. 

The long straight legs suit almost any body shape, and they come in a variety of bush-friendly colors. One user shares, “These pants are the best! I love them and am planning to order at least two more pairs. They dry quickly, they’re light and easy to move in, and very flattering!”

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-26W: REI 

 

REI Co-op Trailmade Backpacking Pants

 

These REI hiking pants are good for all-round wear. They are light and 2-way stretch is breathable, quick-drying and treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) to shed light rain and stains and features 1 thigh pocket with long zipper pull at right leg to store essentials while 2 in the front and 2 back drop-in pockets for extra storage.

They have a UPF rating of 50 and are quick-drying if you get caught in a shower while on the trail. Users love these pants but say they run a tad big, so consider that when choosing a size. Overall though, wearers say these are also great for everyday wear too because they’re SO comfy! Comes in sizes 0-26.

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-26W: REI 

 

REI Co-op Sahara Women’s Convertible Pants

 

These REI womens pants are convertible, so have a zip-off design that makes them transition from pants to shorts easily. They are great for travel as they pack down into a tiny bundle and dry quickly. They have a ton of features too, including great stretch, UPF 50+ protection, a whole plethora of pockets, and they’re water-resistant too.

Users love these REI pants, and one explains, “These are, hands down, my favorite womens convertible pants. The fabric is light enough to breathe and allow for full movement, the pockets are deep, and a nylon cinch belt fitted within the waistband ensures a good fit.”

 

Check out our list of top hiking sandals!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Baleaf

 

Baleaf Cuffed Pants Womens

 

The Baleaf pants are excellent for hiking, or for climbing as they are flexible and offer full range of movement. The cuffs at the ankles and waistband are knitted for comfort and there are pockets everywhere! In the front, cargo-style, and welt back pockets. 

This walking pant has 4-Way stretch fabric features breathable and stretchy for comfy movement and ventilation, and they’re also quick-dry, and said to durable, so you won’t scrape them easily during a rigorous hike. Another popular from Baleaf is this cargo style which is perfect for all seasons.

Reviews ADORE these summer hiking pants, one raves, “I like the extra flexibility around the knees. The shape is flattering. There are pockets. There is everything to love and no negatives.” These are available in several colors and sizes XS-XXL.

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-16: Backcountry | prAna

 

prAna Halle Straight Walking Pants Womens

 

The prAna lined Halle pants are made from their special stretch Zion fabric, which is abrasion-resistant, quick-drying, and has UPF50. They have a durable water repellent finish too, so you won’t soak through when caught in a rain shower. They have handy roll-up legs, so you can convert them to capris if it gets hot, and the trouser styling at the front means they are sophisticated for daily wear away from the trails too. 

One wearer shares, “These pants are so comfortable and don’t restrict movement at all. I can wear them to work and look businessy and then work out in the field trudging in the mud.”

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Backcountry

 

Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants 

 

These Patagonia pants are like yoga pants and womens hiking attire combined! They are a pull-on style with a wide elasticated waistband. The elasticated cuffs can be worn down or pushed up the calves for a different look. The UPF 50 fabric protects you from the sun and also has a water repellent finish to prevent stains and splashes.   

Users warn they run big, but love these pants for their comfort, with one explaining, “These pants are very lightweight, will travel and pack well, and will dry quickly. An all-around, fabulous pair of camping pants that can tackle everything from yoga to hiking to dinner out from spring through fall.”

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-16: REI

 

KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pants

 

These KUHL lightweight hiking pants are versatile, so can be worn as long pants or also as a capris. They have a ton of stretch for being active without restriction but don’t sag or get baggy. The fabric is moisture-wicking and dries quickly, plus it has UPF 50 protection. The waistband has an inner drawcord to help you get the perfect fit. 

One reviewer shares, “These are amazing. They shed water and dirt, SUPER comfortable, breathable, and stretchy for hiking.” Comes in sizes 0-16, a good range for many women.

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Nordstrom

 

Vuori Jogger Pants

 

These Vuori pants are made to be comfortable and flexible. They’re super breathable, made from ripstop fabric, and have a they have a generous amount of stretch. The pockets allows you to stash keys and credit cards safely. 

One user shares, “These cute black pants are awesome. I bought them to wear out and about and to travel with. They are comfy and flattering.”

 

Find the best waterproof hiking boots for your needs!

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Backcountry | Mountain Hardwear

 

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Waterproof Hiking Pants Womens

 

These Mountain Hardwear lightweight hiking pants womens style are great for on or off the trail. They’re made from a lightweight nylon/spandex blend fabric that allows for lots of mobility and are built for all kinds of weather, with both sun protective UPF 50+ and rain resistant water repellent coating. They have deep pockets for keeping your belongings safe too!

Users rave about these hiking trousers, one sharing, “These are the most comfortable hiking pants I’ve ever purchased! Packed them for a five-day hiking trip and only wore these!! They dry quickly, are easy to move around in, and the slim ankle length is perfect and stylish!”

 

 

Shop Eddie Bauer: Sizes 0-16 Regular | 0-14 Petite | 6-18 Tall | 18W-24W

 

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Lined Pants

 

These Eddie Bauer winter hiking pants womens style are great for colder weather hiking and climbing. They have a durable nylon/spandex blend that is windproof and water-resistant, offering protection from the elements. The flannel-lined interior provides warmth without bulk, and the pants offer plenty of stretch for flexibility during mountaineering. The reinforced knees and seat enhance durability, while the adjustable waistband ensures a comfortable fit.

Users love these technical women’s field pants for more extreme adventures, with one explaining, “Perfect for hiking in colder weather. Fit just like the regular guide pro pants. Were very comfy on a cold winter hike and kept me warm without long underwear. But I can comfortably add long underwear for colder days.”

 

 

Shop Sizes 0-24 Regular, Tall & Petite: Athleta

 

Athleta Womens Cargo Hiking Pants

 

For a more fitted style, try these Athleta hiking cargo pants. They have an athletic, sleek look and offer great movement while being breathable and sun protective.

The high waistband won’t dig in or roll down, no matter how hard you push yourself on the trail. These stretch hiking pants also have multiple zippered pockets for keeping valuables close at hand.

One user says “These are the best pants that I have ever had for traveling! I love the comfy stretchy fabric. The zippered pockets are wonderful, too.”

 

 

Best Hiking Leggings Womens

 

 

Shop Regular, Petite, Tall and Plus Sizes: Eddie Bauer 

 

Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings 

 

Alex, founder of TFG, wore these Eddie Bauer leggings on a cabin trip to Red River Gorge in Kentucky and loved them – even calling them the best leggings for hiking! 

They are high-rise and created specifically for hiking and vigorous activity. The moisture-wicking polyester/spandex fabric has UPF sun protection and odor control properties meaning these leggings will hold up in the wild. 

 

 

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Backcountry | Mountain Hardware

 

Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Rock Hiking Leggings Womens

 

We’re loving these womens waterproof hiking pants from Mountain Hardwear. The fit is super comfy and they’ve been treated with DWR, so they totally repel water!

These are perfect for hiking, climbing, or more challenging trekking. And they’re definitely cute too! 

 

 

Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Backcountry | Dick’s Sporting Goods

 

Fjallraven Abisko Hiking Tights Womens

 

Fjallraven women’s hiking apparel is sturdy and practical (also nice-looking!). The tight fit design of these hiking leggings make them very flexible with a four-way stretch. The fabric is water-resistant and won’t get you wet, even if you sit or kneel on wet ground. They have a ton of pockets, including a large map pocket and zippered pockets for your hands and compass. 

They are a tad pricier than other womens trail pants, but users say they last forever and are technically wonderful. One shares, “The BEST hiking leggings Ever. True to size, incredibly tough, unbelievably comfortable, and totally wash and dry overnight.”

 

Check out this ultimate packing list for trekking!

 

 

Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

 

How to Pack Mountain Hiking Pants

 

If you’re planning a more faraway trek and want to take your stylish hiking pants along, start with packing cubes, they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. 

The Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!

If you want to learn how to use packing cubes, watch the video below. 

 

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!

 

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. This is the secret to packing carry-on only!  

 

 

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What do you think about these best women hiking pants women adore? What are your top picks—share below!

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For more tips on what to pack for hiking, please read:

• Need the Best Hiking Gear List for Female Trekkers? Here it is!
• What to Take on a Hike: Essentials, Gear, and Safety
• Hiking and Camping Supplies List for Overnight Trips
   

 

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