The Best Hiking Pants for Women in 2024

The Ferrosi pants from Outdoor Research ($99) are top-sellers for a reason. Lightweight and versatile, with soft and stretchy fabric that is durable, water-resistant, and breathable, it’s hard not to fall in love with these pants. With a regular fit and straight style, the Ferrosi promotes freedom of movement. A mid-rise waist ensures the pants can fit underneath a backpack’s waist straps, and a bonus drawcord lets you dial in the fit even further. The pant legs can be adjusted with cinching cuffs, which is especially nice for rock climbing. 

Speaking of, while these pants fared excellently on backyard trails, dog walks, and up steep switchbacks in Bishop, Calif., we also wore them out climbing out in Pine Creek Canyon in California. We were impressed by their mobility and how well they fit underneath a harness. High-stepping was a breeze, and we didn’t feel restricted in the waist, even though we usually prefer an elastic waistband in our climbing pants. 

With 50+ UPF sun protection and a DWR finish, the Ferrosi pants are at home in hot, sunny weather and can also provide moderate protection during surprise showers. The 90D ripstop nylon is also made with 46% recycled material, which earns points in all of the products we review. 

These pants sport two deep front pockets and a bonus zippered pocket on the thigh, which can easily fit a phone or some snacks. While the pockets are deep, which we very much appreciate, the overall material of the pants is quite thin, making it awkward to load up any of the pockets with too many items. A wallet and a phone work well, but they will still poke out very visibly, which is something to keep in mind. If you’re looking for a more technical and durable version of these pants, we recommend checking out the Fjällräven Keb Curved Trousers. 

Their very light weight also raises questions about their overall durability over time, as they could be subject to abrasion. All in all, for their versatility, mobility, and comfort, OR Ferrosi pants earn a top spot and deserve a place in your closet!

Simple, affordable, and lightweight, we loved the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants ($70) and think they’re the best bang for your buck in our lineup. With a 94% nylon and 6% spandex construction, they’re durable, quick-drying, and pretty stretchy. UPF 50+ protection guards against harmful UV rays, articulated knees allow you to move with ease without fabric clinging to your legs, and a comfortable, mid-rise waistband has a classic button and zipper closure as well as stretchy elastic in the back for more freedom of movement and comfort. 

These pants are a standard, straight fit and have a choice of short or regular inseams. Two front and back sets of pockets, as well as an additional zippered thigh pocket, allow for ample storage space. However, we would have liked the thigh pocket to be a bit deeper to better accommodate large phones, like on the prAna Halle II pants.

One of the features we appreciated the most was the smooth and simple bungee mechanism for cinching the ankles. The soft piece of rubber on the elastic band makes cinching a breeze and did a great job at staying in place during our hikes. If you’re looking for affordable hiking pants that don’t sacrifice performance, look no further than the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants.

Possibly one of the best pants of all time, prAna’s Halle II Pants ($95) is everything you need for a variety of outdoor adventures. We have collectively rock-climbed, thru-hiked, climbed 14ers, commuted, traveled internationally, and more in these durable, well-equipped, versatile pants.

The recently upgraded prAna Halle II pants are made with prAna’s proprietary ReZion fabric. Made with 95% recycled nylon, this new prAna fabric is noticeably more lightweight than on the old Halle pants. The rise of the pants is higher than the old version and has more room in the upper thighs, making it more comfortable to hike in and fit backpack waist belts over.

The front button has a new lower-profile plastic closure that lays flat for added comfort, the pockets are now deeper than before, and the fabric is still treated with a water-resistant coating and UPF 50+ to protect against the elements.

Want to soak your feet in a creek, or need to climb or ride a bike without fabric holding you up? Just roll up the pants to capri length — prAna included handy snaps just for this purpose.

We’ll admit to owning four pairs of these pants. They function great, fit super well, and work every time, no matter the activity. However, if you prefer hiking pants with an elastic waistbelt, the prAna Kanab Pants are a great alternative. And while the Halle’s are great all-around summer hiking pants, we’ve even worn them in the colder seasons, too, making them some of the best women’s hiking pants on the market.

The Patagonia Quandary Pants ($89) offer everything hikers need to get out and explore, making them one of our favorite hiking pants for the second season in a row. Lightweight, comfortable, and durable — these pants do it all. Their hidden tabs at the knees allow them to roll up in addition to being light enough to wear in hot summer months.

They also provide UPF sun protection, and the DWR coating provides extra protection against unexpected light rain. Additionally, they are sturdy enough to use all winter long (add warmth with a thermal base layer), making them impressively adaptable.

These pants are designed to fit curves. Curvy women know it can be a pain to find pants that fit well (especially hiking pants). We were pleasantly surprised to find these fit perfectly in both the butt, thighs, and waist. And for those who may need added security at the waist, they come with an inner drawstring to keep them in place.

Despite all of our raves, the one thing we aren’t thrilled about about is the pockets. We wish they were a bit deeper to ensure our phones’ safety. Zippered front pockets for total peace of mind while scrambling would make them absolutely perfect.

The Quandary Pant’s lightweight fabric provides comfort for an all-day hike or backpacking trip while still being durable enough for off-trail slogs. We’re confident that you’ll love them as much as we do, though if you prefer a slightly more feminine fit, check out the prAna Halle II.

The Keb Curved Trousers by Fjällräven ($235) are ultra-durable for trekking. In fact, they should come with a warning that reads, “Once you put these on, be prepared to go do big things.”

The G-1000 material is abrasion-resistant, and the reinforced knees and rear provide extra protection where you need it most. Complete with long side vents and large snap-down cargo pockets, these pants are ready for just about anything. We also appreciate the strategically placed elastane, which allows for a full range of movement.

We have tested these in rain, frigid temperatures, and hot, sticky days. Thanks to the side vents, they’re very breathable in the hottest temperatures. For colder weather, it’s easy to throw on a thin pair of long underwear underneath.

Undoubtedly, these hiking pants come with a substantial price tag. If you’re looking for another technical pant that will put a smaller dent in your wallet, you can check out the Patagonia Quandary Pants. Aside from price, they aren’t light, weighing over one pound — although that’s what makes them pretty darn tough!

But, if you’re looking to buy just one pair of pants that you can wear hiking all year round and do practically everything in year after year, then the Keb Trousers are worth every penny.

The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Hiking Pants ($90) are a trusty choice for outdoor lovers who love combining practicality and comfort. These pants effortlessly transition from full-length pants to shorts without looking as dorky as the convertible pants you remember making fun of in middle school. You don’t even have to take your shoes off, which is such a bonus when you’re out on the trail wearing big hiking boots.

The zippers are thoughtfully color-coded, too, so you can easily match the legs back on when you need to. The lightweight and breathable material makes them perfect for warmer-weather hikes. The shorts have an inseam of 6.75-8.5”, making them a great medium length for trekking.

They’re comfortable, they dry quickly, and they’ve got plenty of pockets (6, in fact) for all the little things you need easily accessible on the trail. The biggest tradeoff with lighter-weight pants like these (and our award-winning Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants) is that they have less durability. The lighter, softer fabric is more prone to abrasion, especially if hiking off-trail through brush or scraping against talus.

Despite this, the REI Sahara Convertible Pants remain a solid choice, especially for their price point, since you essentially get a pair of pants and a pair of shorts for the price of one. They’re a go-to for anyone who values versatility and comfort on the trail.

With heavy-duty fabric and reinforced anti-abrasion paneling on the front that keeps you warm and protects you from dense foliage, the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tights ($119) have everything a hiker needs.

Fully functional six-zip pockets also distinguish them as great technical hiking pants. Even though they have “cargo” in their name, don’t let that fool you into thinking they’re bulky. The wide waistband sits high on the natural waist, which flatters the body’s curves while simultaneously giving the impression you’re ready to tackle some challenging terrain.

While these pants are robust and offer the kind of seriously impressive features we rave about, we do find them to be expensive, especially due to the thick material that doesn’t breathe well in hot weather. However, given the well-thought-out features, we understand the price point.

Ultimately, we were incredibly impressed with the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tights. We can’t recommend them enough for anyone who plans on taking their hiking to higher altitudes.

Sometimes, it’s nice to have a pair of hiking pants that look just as good worn casually for trips to the grocery store or dog walks in the park. The Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama Ankle Pants ($85) hits the sweet spot between style and function with its simple design, which is not as technical-looking as some of the other pants in our lineup.

But don’t let that fool you — these pants are still great for the trails. With their lightweight nylon and spandex blend, they are stretchy and soft for easy mobility on steep hikes. A durable water-repellent finish provides some protection against moisture and stains, and the fabric also provides UPF 50+ for bonus sun protection.

We loved wearing these pants out rock climbing because of their impressive stretch factor, and we often received compliments when out and about. The feminine fit is flattering; they aren’t too tight or too loose, and the tapered ankle-length looks great with a variety of footwear.

Because they are so thin and light, they could be prone to snags or tears, which was our only complaint. The REI Co-op Trailmade Pants are another great casual option with a slightly more durable fabric. But you won’t be disappointed by the comfort and style of one of the Dynama Ankle Pants, our top picks for trail-to-town use.

The Gnara Go There Pants ($168) are a real standout for women who love the outdoors but hate the awkwardness of finding a private spot to “go” while hiking. The big selling point here is the GoFly zipper technology — a brilliant feature that lets you pee without having to pull your pants down.

Imagine not having to fumble around with your gear or expose yourself to the elements when nature calls. It can be a real lifesaver for those who often wear climbing harnesses or trek in areas where privacy is scarce​.

Comfort-wise, these pants really hit the mark. They’re made from a blend of nylon and spandex, so they’ve got that perfect balance of stretch and durability. They’re also high-waisted, which means they’re flattering and keep everything snug, especially when you’re on the move.

However, they’re a bit heavier than typical hiking pants, so they’re perfect for cooler weather but might be too warm for mid-summer hikes​. If you’re between sizes, you also might want to consider sizing down since they run a bit generous​.

Now, let’s talk about the price. At $168, they’re definitely an investment. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, especially in challenging conditions like hanging off the side of a multipitch climb where this kind of functionality is a must, they could be worth every penny. But if you’re a more casual adventurer, the price might give you pause​.

All in all, if you value pants designed with a woman’s needs in mind, the Go There pants might just be a game-changer for you. They’re comfortable, practical, and designed by women for women. However, having a zipper down there might not be worth 68 more dollars than the average price of the other pants in our review, but that’s for you to decide.

Read Review: Gnara Go There Hiking Pants Review: First-Ever Women’s Pants With a Fly for Peeing.

Consider the KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pants ($99) if you’re not sure what kind of pants you need for your upcoming trek. These pants have withstood thru-hikes across various terrain and unpredictable weather, even on those sweltering 100-degree days, thanks to their sturdy polyester blend, UPF 50+ protection, water resistance, and moisture-wicking qualities.

We were also grateful for the 32-inch inseam that rolls up to a breezy 21-inch capri. These pants have many qualities we look for in a pair of hiking pants, which is why we consider them the best in versatility.

However, if you want front pockets to keep your cell phone or other items in place, you’ll be disappointed with these pants. And while they do have two back pockets with snap-button features, we still found the size inadequate to carry our phones. The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are of a similar design and have deeper pockets if that’s an important consideration for you. 

If you want just one pair of pants that can keep up with you on all of your outdoor excursions, including rock climbing, scrambling, hiking, backpacking, and everything in between, then you’ll want to get the KÜHL Freeflex Roll-Up Pants.

Our legging prayers have been answered, thanks to the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights HD ($175). It’s no surprise that we are big fans of leggings, but sometimes what works great in yoga class simply can’t withstand the rigors of a multiday trek.

Offering all the same comfort and stretch we expect from a legging, Swedish brand Fjällräven takes it a step further, adding reinforcement over the rear and knees. Two side pockets, one angled and one zippered, easily fit a phone and other small essentials. A drawcord in the wide waistband makes for easy size adjustments.

Fjällräven isn’t known for being budget-conscious, but in this case, you get what you pay for, and these leggings are durable enough to withstand the test of time. However, if you’re looking for something slightly less expensive, the Athleta Headlands Cargo II Tights are a decent pick.

If you want a streamlined look while trekking or cross-country skiing in the backcountry, you’ll want to get your hands on the Abisko Trekking Tights HD. These leggings could be the only ones you’ll ever need.

Can’t stand the stiff, noisy synthetic material of most hiking pants? Then The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants ($80) may be just what you’re looking for. Feather-light and soft against your skin, these pants are great for when you want coverage but also want that barely-there feel.

A stretch drawcord at the bottom of each pant leg allows for even more freedom of movement and breathability on strenuous hikes or the hottest of days. We’re also big fans of the wide, flat waistband with a drawstring for extra comfort. 

These are not the hardiest of pants, however, and would not be our top pick for off-trail hiking, where you might encounter bushwhacking or more extreme terrain. The lightweight material also seems prone to snags and tears, and it sacrifices durability for being lightweight. If you’re looking for something slightly more durable while still being lightweight, the Patagonia Quandary Pants are good pants to check out.

But if you’re looking for great mobility, comfort, and coverage without feeling weighed down, the Aphrodite 2.0 Pants are a great bet.

Sometimes, you want the stretch and comfort of lightweight hiking pants but don’t want to feel restricted by full-length legs. Enter the KÜHL Trekr Kapri Pants ($89). Not only do they stop at the calf for ultimate mobility, but the fabric is crazy stretchy and super soft. These capris use KÜHL’s proprietary REKOIL fabric, which offers tons of flexibility and ease of movement, making them ideal for hiking or scrambling.

A side seam cinches up on either leg to make them even shorter and adds a little style flair to the otherwise basic design. While this is a cute feature, we thought that it was a bit hard to figure out how to operate the cinch, which involves reaching deep into the pant leg and fishing out a loop to pull. The fabric is super light and soft to the touch but might not be the most abrasion-resistant. They are also not water-resistant, which is something to consider if you hike in environments prone to surprise showers.

These capri’s are great for the hiker who likes to feel some freedom and flexibility of movement without going full shorts. We typically prefer an elastic waistband and a higher waist, so we weren’t the biggest fans of the low-rise and button and zipper closure of these pants. But that’s more of a personal preference. If you want the versatility of having a full-length pair of pants and a pair of shorts, we suggest the REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Hiking Pants as a good alternative. Because then you get the option of one or the other instead of being stuck in the middle ground of capris, which can be harder in shoulder seasons when the temperature is variable.

But if you like a comfy, stretchy pair of ¾ pants, the Trekr Kapri Pants are a decently affordable option from a well-reputed company.