The Best Hiking Pants for Women of 2026

The Quick & Dirty: For lightweight stretch, all-day comfort, and scrambling-friendly mobility with solid DWR and breathability, the Ferrosi is the easiest one-pair quiver. Just keep pocket loads minimal and skip the gnarliest bushwhacks.

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants ($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.

Read Review: Pure Function, No Flash, Budget Price: REI Co-op Trailmade Pants Review

The Quick & Dirty: A wallet-friendly trail staple that feels soft and stretchy, dries fast, and cinches neatly at the ankles, with a roomier fit that works best for straightforward hiking rather than technical terrain.

Simple, affordable, and lightweight, the  REI Co-op Trailmade Pants ($70) are our favorite wallet-friendly pants. 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 standard, straight fit, and have a choice of short or regular inseams. However, they fit rather loosely, which can feel sloppy or even hinder movement on scrambles or technical pitches, so we suggest using them just for hiking.

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.

One of the features we appreciate the most is the smooth and simple bungee mechanism for cinching the ankles. The soft rubber on the elastic band makes cinching a breeze, and it did a great job 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.

The Quick & Dirty: If comfort is the priority but real trail performance still matters, these deliver a dreamy elastic waistband, four-way stretch, and packable durability, though they can feel too warm on peak summer hikes.

Ever wish you could go hiking in your pajamas? The Black Diamond Alpine Light Pants ($130) are way more technical than PJs, but they’re so light, airy, and comfortable that we didn’t mind sleeping in them while out on a light and fast backpacking trip in the Tetons.

Though billed as climbing pants, they quickly became our go-to for epic day hikes and overnights. The woven four-way stretch fabric allows full mobility on big step-ups and scrambles. A stretch knit waistband (which feels like you’re wearing leggings or PJs) fits seamlessly under a backpack or harness, adding to the comfort and ease of wearing these high-performance pants.

On a 12-hour hike up and over Paintbrush Divide in Grand Teton National Park, we experienced various conditions, including light rain, hot sunshine, creek crossings, scrambling, and snow-covered trails. We took full advantage of the cord lock adjustable hems to customize the fit and keep debris out in certain hike sections. And, despite our best efforts to rip or tear these pants while scrambling and bush-whacking, they held up.

No matter what Nature dishes out, the Alpine Light Pants, which have a PFC-free DWR finish, deliver perfect wind and water resistance. And, because they pack up extremely small, it’s easy to toss them in your pack on a multi-day trip or a day hike where the weather might change.

Their stylish, slim fit and fun color choices make them ideal for wearing off-trail or to the brewery after a significant effort. Plus, they’re so soft and light that it’s easy to forget you’ve even got them on.

Pockets abound on these pants. There are two front drop-in pockets, one back drop-in, and a zip thigh pocket. All are accessible while wearing a harness. Our only complaint is that the zip pocket on the front could be deeper. We couldn’t zip our phone in it despite having an outdated, smaller version than most.

If you’re looking for comfortable, stylish, durable three-season pants that can keep up with your adventurous spirit, the Alpine Light Pants are precisely what you need.

The Quick & Dirty: A true do-it-all hiking pant with a curve-friendly fit, roll-up versatility, and dependable sun and light rain protection, held back only by pockets that could be deeper.

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 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 Quick & Dirty: When the day starts cool and ends hot, these shine by converting to shorts without removing shoes, and the lighter fabric is the main compromise for abrasion-heavy routes.

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 (six, 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.

The Quick & Dirty: The travel pick that feels stretchy and easy under a pack and looks polished off trail, but it is not the right call for cold wind, rugged terrain, or anyone who wants lots of secure pockets.

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) hit the sweet spot between style and function with their 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 Quick & Dirty: A buttery soft, high-rise legging that wicks sweat and holds shape for high-output hikes and workouts, with the one glaring omission being side pockets.

The Vuori Clean Elevation Leggings ($110) are incredibly soft, yet durable, providing an excellent overall fit. They’re some of the most buttery leggings tested, which verifies Vuori’s claims of a soft suede feel (spot-on). Made from 87% recycled polyester and 13% elastane, they stretch without losing shape, wick moisture, and dry quickly for layering or high-output trails.

They are a go-to for higher-impact exercises as well as lounging and wearing out. Hikers will appreciate the ultra-high-rise waistband for added core support and the hidden zip pocket at the back, just right for stashing keys or a small phone. Plus, with moisture-wicking abilities, they’re great for extra-sweaty action. They’re functional enough for the trail, but comfortable enough for daily wear.

Truly innovative, the Clean Elevation Leggings combine unmatched comfort with high-level performance capabilities.

The Quick & Dirty: Built like a tank for tough terrain and messy shoulder season conditions, these shrug off moisture and abrasion, but the warmer, heavier feel and overbuilt pocketing make them less appealing for summer.

The Patagonia Terravia Peak Pants ($169) are stout but comfy and designed for long days. We like getting caught in these while navigating tough terrain and trudging through challenging conditions.

At first, we had our doubts about these hip-hugging pants due to the thicker fabric and rugged construction. However, we discovered they’re surprisingly stretchy during several snowshoeing adventures, spring day hikes, and fall backpacking trips in the Wyoming wilderness. Whether stepping up a steep snow bank, hopping over a downed log, or scrambling up a class 4 section of rock, we had full freedom of movement.

The Terravia Peak Pants have a highly durable, abrasion-resistant exterior with a DWR coating, which proved extremely effective at shedding moisture. They also endured abuse during multiple rainy and snowy bushwhacks through dense willows while en route to check strategically placed trail cameras.

We broke miles of snowshoe trail, tackled steep technical Teton climbs, and took leisurely strolls in these pants. Whether we wore trail runners or heavyweight winter hiking boots, the Velcro closure at the ankle and the small metal hook on the bottom of the pant legs allowed us to adjust the fit to accommodate our footwear. This detail quickly became a favorite, ensuring snow, dirt, rocks, and sticks couldn’t slow us down.

These pants are heavy in weight and in terms of warmth. Without any venting options, they aren’t our pick for toasty summer adventures. Instead, we’d point you to the Outdoor Research Ferrosi or the Patagonia Quandary Pants. Five pockets are overkill since we can’t comfortably store items in them all at once anyway. Making the thigh pocket deeper and removing one or two other pockets would be an ideal storage setup.

The sturdy Terravia Peak pants are now our go-to for shoulder-season adventuring or high-altitude exploits, especially when the temperatures don’t go much over 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Read Review: A Tight That Does It All: Stio Women’s Glide High Rise Tech Tight Review

The Quick & Dirty: A suede soft tech tight that manages sweat impressively and moves without restriction for running or hiking, though the back waistband pocket is less secure than the excellent thigh pocket.

If you want a tight that feels amazing next to your skin, grab the Stio Women’s Glide Tech Legging ($129). With a suede finish, the Fortis nylon-spandex fabric offers ample stretch and doesn’t feel restrictive, yet it’s technical enough for multi-hour runs.

While gutting out hard sprints, we found that the textile provides moisture management. We also appreciated the antimicrobial treatment for odor control.

The zippered thigh pocket is big enough for a phone or other valuables. Unfortunately, the back waistband envelope closure seems flimsy and loose compared to the other larger envelope pocket on the thigh. We suggest sticking the thigh pockets to store items.

Ultimately, the Women’s Glide is super-soft and an excellent option for aerobic pursuits indoors or outdoors.

The Quick & Dirty: A pull-on, travel-friendly pant that stays light and breezy in heat and does not scream hiking, with a tighter lower leg and mostly unsecured pockets that limit confidence on rougher trails.

Vuori’s Miles Ankle Pants ($108) are comfortable and easy to pull on, like something you’d wear for Thanksgiving dinner. They also appear more like something you’d wear to a casual work event than what most people would put on for a rigorous hike in the backcountry, which we view as both good and bad.

When we put them to the hiking test during a day trip to Pedernales Falls State Park west of Austin, they held up to the outdoors. The stretchy fabric looks and feels delicate, but even when we broke off a dead branch from a thorny mesquite tree and raked it over the pants, the material didn’t snag. The pants also dry quickly, wick moisture, and feel light and breezy, making them perfect for summer hiking in hot climes.

Personally, we prefer pants that extend all the way down to our shoes for hiking, rather than ankle-length pants. This reduces the risk of exposure to elements such as poison ivy, scratchy thorns, and fire ants. Our tester is 5 feet 8 inches tall, and these pants fall about 5 inches above her ankle bone. Also, the tapered fit felt too tight on her lower leg.

The front slash pockets are just big enough to hold a cell phone, but there are no zippers to secure the contents. A separate side seam pocket on one side is zippered, but the pocket itself holds things against your butt. That means if you sit down while wearing these pants, you might crush whatever’s in there.

If you like pull-on styling with a mid-rise waist, these pants will work for you. And when you’re done using them for hiking, they’ll do double duty at your next business lunch.

The Quick & Dirty: The long haul trekking option with reinforced protection, venting, and layering room for true four season use, as long as the heavier build and premium price are part of the plan.

The Fjällräven Keb Curved Trousers ($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 Quick & Dirty: For hikers who want soft, quiet, barely there coverage with a wide, comfy waistband and cinchable cuffs, these are a warm-weather winner, just not the most durable choice off trail.

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 its low weight. 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.

The Quick & Dirty: A stretchy, warm-weather capri that keeps movement free and breezy, with a lower-rise fit and an awkward cinch detail that can be divisive.

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 capris 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 these pants’ low rise and button and zipper closure. 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. You’ll have 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.

The Quick & Dirty: Designed for fast-paced mountain days, these stay cool and mobile with excellent breathability and useful zip pockets, but they offer minimal warmth, and many hikers will prefer the long inseam option.

Built for movement, the Rab Momentum Pants ($100) are lightweight softshell fabric with just the right amount of stretch. Designed for fast-paced mountain missions, the slim, articulated fit never feels restrictive when scrambling up talus, climbing switchbacks, or navigating blowdown. They’re trim but not tight, with a flattering cut that fits comfortably over a base layer.

During testing, the most noticeable feature was the breathability. They feel like cozy joggers, but we never overheated, even on warm spring hikes with full packs. The fabric sheds light wind better than expected and dries quickly after sweaty climbs or shallow creek crossings. The waistband sits comfortably under a hip belt, and the roomy zippered pockets easily hold a phone or snacks.

The design is not for cold or wet conditions. While the DWR coating handles light moisture, these pants quickly become soaked in steady rain and provide little insulation. The inseam also runs short. Our 5’7” tester found the regular length was an inch above the ankle. At least Rab offers short and long options to help dial in fit.

The Rab Momentum Pants deliver lightweight comfort and mobility for fast, high-output days. They help you stay cool and keep moving toward your next big objective.

The Quick & Dirty: A clean, tapered everyday pant that transitions from trail to travel smoothly, best for mild dry conditions given the minimal pocketing and limited wind and water protection.

The Stio Women’s Vallis Pants ($129) combine performance and style, making them one of the most versatile pairs we tested. They handle everything effortlessly, from morning hikes in the foothills to coffee downtown. The lightweight stretch fabric breathes well during activity but has a refined look that doesn’t appear overly technical. An athletic yet non-restrictive fit, articulated knees, and gusseted crotch provide full mobility. The soft, wide waistband remains comfortable under a pack. We wore them on easy summer hikes, travel days, and while guiding wildlife tours around Jackson and the Tetons.

While the minimal pocket layout keeps the design sleek, we noticed the absence of a zip thigh or back pocket for storing essentials. The fabric doesn’t repel water like the more technical Black Diamond Alpine Lights and lacks wind resistance, making these pants suitable mainly for dry, mild conditions. They are perfect for short hikes, dog walks, or lower elevations where the weather remains steady. Compared to the Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pants, the Vallis offers a more structured fit and a polished appearance, whereas the Dynama are softer and casual.

If you’re looking for an everyday trail-and-travel pant that effortlessly transitions between relaxed outdoor adventures and casual settings, the Stio Vallis is an excellent choice.