The 10 Best Hiking Pants for Comfort on Every Trail

Lightweight and extremely compact for easy stashing when not in use, the Stretch Ozonic pant lives up to its name. A tailored design and adjustable elastic waistband dial in a comfortable fit and avoid the boxy appearance of other waterproof hiking pants. Using 2.5 layer Dry.Q technology to keep you dry, the fabric also offers a much appreciated four-way stretch that accommodates movement in wild, uneven terrain.

These pants are a long-time favorite of many hikers. OR’s updated Helium pants are constructed from a 2.5 layer, tear-resistant ripstop fabric with Bluesign approved Pertex Shield Diamond Fuse. Fully seam-taped, windproof, and breathable–with a HH (hydrostatic head) rating of 3,000mm, and an MVTR (moisture vapor transmission rate) of 20,000–these pants will keep you comfortable and dry should it start pouring down on your hike.

Swedish brand Fjällräven produces a wide range of excellent outdoor-orientated pants, but the Kebs are a particularly good performer on hiking trails. Made mainly from Fjällräven’s G-1000 eco-material (fluorocarbon-free impregnation, organic and recycled)–which provides a good level of protection from scratchy and stinging plants, plus jagged rocks—they also have enough elastane in them to move dynamically with you when you’re walking.

This Swedish brand’s legwear has really created a stir in outdoor circles recently–and for good reason. The GP Pro trousers are rugged outdoor pants with a hybrid construction that incorporates softshell panels alongside a burly polycotton main fabric. The former features a four-way stretch, while the latter adds abrasion resistance at key areas like the knees and seat. Together, they offer good breathability and durability, while being reasonably quick drying.

These pants are rugged and durable enough to survive anything the outdoors throws at you, and feature a treated water-repelling finish and UPF 50+ protection. The Guide Pro pants offer a style reminiscent of a pair of stretch jeans and feature two hand pockets, a button waist, and belt loops. Zippered pockets on the thighs are big enough to hold a phone, wallet, or ID, too. They are mid-rise and come in seven different colors.

We love it when a pair of pants can do double-duty, whether you’re trekking across town or hiking local trails. The Sherpa Gurkhali Pants are a case in point. They’re stylish and well-made chinos with a contemporary straight cut and have a few added extras when it comes to performance and comfort. This makes them well-suited to more strenuous activities, while also great for grabbing a cup of coffee.

Hikers will love that the legs on these zip off, adding an extra layer of versatility, allowing you to switch to shorts if need be. When worn as pants, a subtle flap covers the zipper to avoid snagging on anything as you hike.

A gusseted crotch allows for full freedom of movement and the pant's articulated knees won't pull up or feel binding when you're stepping up or down. Side-zip security pockets safely hold an ID or credit card while leg hem cinches keep out bugs and debris. The fabric is rated for UPF 50, meaning you're able to wear these in the sun without having to worry about getting burned, too.

Montane’s Prism pants are designed for one thing: keeping you toasty. The Primaloft Silver Eco Insulation they’re stuffed with has awesome thermal properties, trapping a massive amount of air, which is then warmed by your body. The Pertex Microlight outer fabric is fairly tough too, and it boasts Durable Water Repellency (DWR), making them a practical pair of pants to use on the move in really cold conditions.

These stretchy, slim-fit pants don't scream technical trail attire and are perfect as travel pants, allowing you to wear them on a city tour, a hike, or while out to dinner with friends.

Stretchy and water repellent, the Briann stays comfortable no matter if you've been in them for hours or days, and they won't look saggy or worn down. Made from durable, abrasion-resistant stretch nylon, the pants offer SPF 50+ protection and repel water.

Who doesn't love the versatility of zip-off pants? These are made of breathable nylon that dries fast and delivers UPF 50+ protection, keeping you comfortable as you explore the trail in multiple conditions: wet, dry, hot, and cool. Seven separate pockets mean you’ve got plenty of room to stash your stuff, and the zip-off legs are there for when the weather heats up. The looser fit makes these pants a great choice for activities that require freedom of movement like climbing, bouldering, and hiking.