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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!
Best Womens Hiking Pants
Written By: Laura Pulling
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 2-16: Amazon | REI | Columbia | Zappos
Readers Favorite: Columbia Saturday Trail Pants
The Columbia Saturday Trail hiking pant is a huge TFG reader favorite. They have all the ingredients for a top outdoor pant, at a great price, and in a range of sizes (2-16). They’re water-resistant, stretchy, and have UPF 50 sun protection. Plus, the fit is flattering too.
One user shares, “These are comfortable and easy to wear. I love the pockets and feature which allows you to roll the pants into capris.” They come in regular, and short and long leg lengths as well right here!
Shop Sizes 2-16: Amazon
Columbia Just Right Trekking Pants Womens
Columbia’s Just Right trek pants are made from a nylon blend fabric that allows for a comfortable stretch and comes in a variety of sizes (2-16). They have a tailored seam down the front of the straight leg styling, which is not too slim nor too loose. These breathable hiking pants have a zip fly and snap closure and are great for active days when it’s hot or wet, as they are UPF 50 protected and water-resistant.
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 bit of stretch to it makes it perfect for easy movement. Love the side leg zipper to stash a card or cash.”
Shop Sizes XS-2X: Amazon | North Face | Backcountry
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 0-16: REI
REI Co-op Savannah Backpacking Pants
These REI hiking pants are good for all-round wear. They are light and stretchy, with pockets in the front and back (although users say the front ones are a little shallow).
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 0-16.
Shop Sizes 0-16: 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 0-14: Amazon | REI | Moosejaw
prAna Sky Canyon Cuffed Pants Womens
The prAna Sky Canyon 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 is treated with DWR, making them water-repellent, and they’re also quick-dry, and said to durable, so you won’t scrape them easily during a rigorous hike.
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 0-14.
Shop Sizes 0-16: Amazon | Zappos | 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-XL: REI | 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.”
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.
Vuori Ripstop Climber Pants
These Vuori pants are made to be comfortable and flexible. They’re super breathable, made from cotton and elastane, and have a two-way stretch. The pockets are useful, and a zippered hidden pocket in the leg allows you to stash keys and credit cards safely.
One user shares, “These cute khaki 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: Amazon | Mountain Hardwear | REI
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Waterproof Hiking Pants Womens
These Mountain Hardwear lightweight hiking pants womens style are great for on the trail or for travel. They have a wide waistband and are made from a lightweight nylon/spandex blend fabric that allows for lots of mobility. They’re 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 Sizes XS-XL: Amazon | Backcountry | REI
Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants
These Outdoor Research winter hiking pants womens style are great for colder weather hiking and climbing. They have a softshell fabric that is breathable and weather-resistant. They give a good amount of stretch for when you’re mountaineering and have a harness-compatible waist for comfort when climbing.
Users love these technical women’s field pants for more extreme adventures, with one explaining, “I got these pants for hiking in Peru on the Old Inca Trail up to Machu Picchu. They kept me very warm and comfortable day and night, have ample zippered pockets, the fabric allows for protection from the elements yet remains flexible to move in throughout a long day of hiking.”
Shop Sizes 2-26 Regular, Tall & Petite: Athleta
Athleta Trekkie North Pants
Popular with readers and a great go-to for your hiking trips, these Athleta hiking pants feel amazing and are super practical.
They’re a pull up (no zipper) style with an elastic waistband and have front zip pockets with a side cargo pocket to store essentials. The lightweight material offers plenty of stretch when climbing up steep mountains, plus they wick away moisture and are abrasion resistant, so if you snag on a bush or rock, they’’ll still look fab.
After a hike, take these pants from the dusty trails to the city for dinner with a simple change of shoes and top! Super versatile!
Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon | Backcountry
The North Face Hybrid Hiking Tights Womens
For a more fitted style, try these The North Face hiking leggings. They have an athletic, sleek look and offer great movement while being breathable and sun-resistant.
They have a high waistband that doesn’t dig in or roll down, plus all of the seams are flatlocked so it won’t rub or chafe anywhere, no matter how hard you push yourself on the trail. These stretch hiking pants also have a hidden secure thigh pocket for keeping valuables close at hand.
One user explains they are “comfortable, breathable, overall great pants to wear hiking (and everywhere else)!”
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon
Editor’s Top Pick: Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Rock Hiking Leggings Womens
Editor-in-chief Alex is loving these womens waterproof hiking pants from Mountain Hardwear. The fit is comfy, they pull on easily, and have a secure zip pocket at the perfect spot, right at the thigh.
They’ve been treated with DWR, so totally repel water! These are perfect for hiking, climbing, or more challenging trekking. And Alex says these are definitely cute! Comes in sizes XS-XL.
Shop Sizes XS-XL: Amazon | Eddie Bauer | Moosejaw
Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings
Editor-in-chief Alex wore these on a cabin trip to Red River Gorge in Kentucky and loves these Eddie Bauer pants, 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 mean these will hold up in the wild.
Alex particularly loves the three pockets (two cargo, one zip vertical) where she could slip in essentials like chapstick or an ID. Comes in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes right here!
Shop Sizes XXS-XXL: Amazon
Fjallraven Abisko Hiking Tights
Fjallraven women’s hiking apparel is sturdy and practical (also nice-looking!). The tight fit design of these is 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!
Women Hiking Pants Comparison Chart
| BRAND | MODEL | FEATURES | REVIEWS | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Best Hiking Pants Womens Styles | ||
|
Readers Favorite: Columbia Saturday Trail Pants |
“These are comfortable and easy to wear. I love the pockets and feature which allows you to roll the pants into capris.” | Check Price |
|
Columbia Just Right Trekking Pants Womens |
“Most comfortable walking pants ever. Very light weight fabric with a bit of stretch to it makes it perfect for easy movement. Love the side leg zipper to stash a card or cash.” | Check Price |
|
North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Womens Cargo Hiking Pants |
"They dry quickly, they’re light, and easy to move in, and very flattering!” | Check Price |
|
REI Co-op Savannah Backpacking Pants |
They are light and stretchy, with pockets in the front and back (although users say the front ones are a little shallow). | Check Price |
|
REI Co-op Sahara Women’s Convertible Pants |
"The fabric is light enough to breathe and allow for full movement" | Check Price |
|
prAna Sky Canyon Cuffed Pants Womens |
“I like the extra flexibility around the knees. The shape is flattering. There are pockets. There is everything to love and no negatives.” | Check Price |
|
prAna Halle Straight Walking Pants Womens |
“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.” | Check Price |
|
Patagonia Happy Hike Studio Pants |
"An all-around, fabulous pair of camping pants that can tackle everything from yoga to hiking to dinner out from spring through fall.” | Check Price |
|
KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pants |
“These are amazing. They shed water and dirt, SUPER comfortable, breathable, and stretchy for hiking.” | Check Price |
|
Vuori Ripstop Climber Pants |
“These cute khaki pants are awesome. I bought them to wear out and about and to travel with. They are comfy and flattering.” | Check Price |
|
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Waterproof Hiking Pants Womens |
"They dry quickly, are easy to move around in, and the slim ankle length is perfect and stylish!” | Check Price |
|
Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants |
"They kept me very warm and comfortable day and night." | Check Price |
|
Athleta Trekkie North Pants |
Popular with readers and a great go-to for your hiking trips, these Athleta hiking pants feel amazing and are super practical. | Check Price |
|
The North Face Hybrid Hiking Tights Womens
|
“Comfortable, breathable, overall great pants to wear hiking (and everywhere else)!” | Check Price |
|
Editor’s Top Pick: Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Rock Hiking Leggings Womens |
Editor-in-chief Alex is loving these womens waterproof hiking pants from Mountain Hardwear. The fit is comfy, they pull on easily, and have a secure zip pocket at the perfect spot, right at the thigh. | Check Price |
|
Editor’s Pick: Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings |
The moisture-wicking polyester/spandex fabric has UPF sun protection and odor control properties means these will hold up in the wild. | Check Price |
|
Fjallraven Abisko Hiking Tights |
“The BEST hiking leggings Ever. true to size, incredibly tough, unbelievably comfortable, and totally wash and dry overnight.” | Check Price |
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 slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in 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!
What do you think about these best hiking pants women adore? What are your top picks—share below!
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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I wear the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II tights and they are soooo good. They breathe, are moisture wicking and don’t rip/tear. I have worn them on multiple hikes in the USA (national parks and other trails) and on the Camino de Santiago in both Spain and Portugal. Highly recommend!!
Thanks for sharing your review of your Athleta pants with us!
Great article. They are always so helpful.
I have the. Columbia hiking pants.
Hi,
I am just curious about the Vuori Ripstop Climber Pants above. They are exactly what i’m after however just wondering if these are the men’s pants as the link takes me directly to the men’s range.
Hi Linda, whoops!!! Thank you for letting us know. ? You can find the women’s ripstop pants here: https://rstyle.me/+xCOF9gt9gqA7V0vhmwSAbw