An excellent pair of hiking trousers provide comfort, mobility, adaptability to work well in various settings, and endurance over time. For movement and defense against damp and windy weather, many of today’s top trousers are made of lightweight, flexible nylon. They also increasingly have features like zip-off legs and articulated knees.
What are the things to consider before buying hiking pants?
Materials
Most trekking trousers are made of nylon, polyester, and flexible materials like elastane or spandex. Specialty fabrics like hemp or Tencel, a rayon derived from wood strands, are also used in some. Cotton is one substance almost never found in the finest hiking trousers because of its propensity to hold moisture.
Insect Defense
In general, nylon trousers—especially ripstop nylon—will do a better job than polyester pants at keeping insects—including mosquitoes—away from your flesh.
However, you should spray your hiking clothes with permethrin for an additional layer of protection if you reside in a region where the mosquito is acknowledged as the official state bird.
Pockets
Men’s trousers can have sufficient (sometimes) excessive pocket covering, whereas some women’s pants are designed to hold only some chapstick, Pockets. There can be a significant difference between the pockets on men’s and women’s pants.
You’ll be grateful for your hiking trousers for the protection they give you from the sporadic graze against the rocks, which happens so much easier when the mountain is covered in snow. Like your down jacket, your hiking pants are your last defense against the chilly winter weather. We have listed down some of the best Hiking Pants for Men.
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Outdoor Research Ferrosi Cargo Pants
The Ferrosi Cargo Trousers are an excellent balance of comfort and functionality. Ferrosi trousers fit true to size and are lightweight but sturdy.
These trousers not only allowed enough air to pass through to avoid overheating while trekking. They are just as effective at blocking the weather as rain pants. Additionally, the flexible design at the midsection provides a snug fit without restricting movement, making the trousers perfect for any outdoor adventure.
Size: Waist up to 42 inches
Weight: 11 and a quarter ounces
Pros: A good fit that is accurate for measurement.
Safeguards from the chill on breezy days.
Cons: Not tough enough for the trek.
When trekking, front-facing cargo compartments occasionally got in the way.
Using button fasteners while traveling was challenging.
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Rei Co Cop Savanna Trail
Size: Waist up to 42.5 inches
Weight: 8 ounces.
Pros
Lightweight and cozy fit
with excellent water-repellency. Minimal cost available in extra sizes.
Cons: Unattractive trim
readily wrinkles.
A great pair of hiking pants at an affordable price is the REI Savanna. The REI Savanna Trails work on par with other, more expensive options, if not better. They are quite durable because of the high amount of nylon in them; even after several seasons of use, mine still appear brand new.
When the temperature drops, it is also simple to layer underneath. Thanks to the stretchy form of the spandex. These pants are a top choice for early morning forays through the brush because they are water-resistant and repel water better than most of the competitors.
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Kuhl Renegade Cargo Convertible
Size: Up to 42 inches
Weight:17 Ounces
Pros
The position of the convertible zippers was high, so they never got in the way while trekking.
Lower legs can be removed using zips at the cuffs without removing your shoes.
Cons: Neither a belt connected to the waist nor drawcords.
The Renegades are lightweight and form-fitting. They can be used quickly. Ideal for those people who don’t have a lot of time to get ready. In comparison, other convertible pants have a fit that is slightly too loose.
These are positioned in the usual location for cargo pockets, but they were angled more toward the back of the leg to keep them out of the way. Keep in mind that these pants lack a drawstring or an integrated waistband if you plan to size up to accommodate a base layer.
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The Columbia Silver Ridge
Size: 32 inches
Weight: 13 Ounces
Pros: Excellent pricing and plenty of pockets.
Cons: Materials and awkward fits won’t last eternally
The Columbia Silver Ridge is a great hiking pant for leisurely hiking and even summer backpacking. They work well because of their breathable and quick-drying fabrics. (this also makes them popular among travelers).
Additionally, there are plenty of storage options, including three enormous cargo pockets, two at the back and one on the right leg, as well as a zippered security compartment on the left thigh.
Overall, the functionality and comfort of these pants have delightfully surprised many hikers and the roomy storage design is the icing on the cake.
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The PrAna Halle Pant II
Size: 44 inches
Weight: 12.3 Ounces
Pros
Loose, at ease fit, Rollup buttons increased ventilation on warm days and utilized recycled nylon. Available in extra sizes
Cons: The right side seam zip compartment is challenging and might not fit some smartphones. Less successfully repels water than other trousers in this test.
One of the most comfortable trousers for adventures is the prAna Halle Pant II. Thanks to the warm fabric and a flowy, appealing cut. Additionally, these trousers have roll-up cuffs, which are great if you’re perspiring and your legs need to be able to breathe.
These pants absorb water more rapidly than the others do. The side zip entry makes the phone less likely to shift while hiking. These appear in larger sizes, just like the Savannas. The male counterpart is the Stretch Zion Pant II.
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Mountain Hardwear Trail Sender Pants
Size: 30 inches
Weight: 6.3 Ounces
Pros
Fit with taper has a look that suits both on and off the trail—zippered back compartment with space for a phone. There are no belt holes to obstruct the pack’s waist straps.
Cons: The size is a little snug. There are none
It is difficult to fasten the trousers with a single small snap at the waist.
just one back pouch
The thinnest and most permeable variety of pants is the Trail Sender Pants. The fabric has the feel of fine linen even though it is completely made of polyester. The shape was form-fitting but not restrictive, tapering from the leg to the calf.
There are four pockets: two big open ones on the front hips and thighs, one large zippered pouch the size of a phone on the back. Because they were so light and breathable with UPF protection, they performed well in warmer weather.
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Kui Attack Pants
Size: 28-42 inches
Weight: 6.3 Ounces
Pros
Six satchels, hip openings with zippers
thick, resilient substance. Colors, including camouflage DWR coating, are available.
Cons: Not intended for temperatures above. No cuff with an extendable zippe.
Male only.
These trousers are incredibly soft and stretchy in the right places, especially at the knees and crotch. The six pockets were more than big enough to contain keys, a phone, and a wallet while the two back and two thigh compartments zipped closed. Since each zipper has a long pull, putting on mittens doesn’t make it difficult to open or close them.
The pants have a durable DWR coating that successfully wicks moisture away in adverse weather situations. Offers superior defense against hordes of monster insects. There are vents for additional airflow in both of the big front sections (which lacked zippers).
If you’re looking for the best trousers for difficult terrain, these are the best.
Conclusion:
Years have been spent perfecting the finest hiking pants by big brands like Outdoor Research, Patagonia, prAna, Columbia, KÜHL, Arc’teryx, Mountain Hardwear, and Fjallraven, and the efforts are evident. The majority of hiking pants on the market today can be used in many different climates and will shield you from the sun, insects, rain, and breeze. Prior to making a decision, focus on the aspects that are most important to you (durability, compartments, comfort).
