Top 11 Best Men’s Hiking Pants
A proper pair of pants makes a notable difference when hiking. Getting the perfect pair can be a challenge. Taking into account durability, weather resistance, comfort and fit, breathability, storage and aesthetics, we’ve compiled what we believe to be the top 11 best men’s hiking pants. The list is in no particular order and features quality hiking pants at a range of different price points.
The top 11 best men’s hiking pants are:
- Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants
- Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
- Prana Strech Zion Pants
- KÜHL Spekter Jogger
- Arc’teryx Gamma AR Pants
- Patagonia Quandary Pants
- KÜHL Renegade Convertible Pants
- Marmot Arch Rock Pants
- REI Co-op Activator 3.0 Pants
- KÜHL Radikl Pants
- Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants
In this article, we’ll discuss each of these pairs to better understand why they rank at the top for men’s hiking pants.
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Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants
Fit: Regular
Fabric: 86% nylon (46% recycled) and 14% spandex
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Rock climbing, alpine climbing and mountaineering
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are durable and rugged softshell pants that can get you through strong winds and rain with a DWR finish and stretch woven fabric.
A few notable features are that there are five pockets: two front, two zippered rear and one zipped thigh. There are drawcords at the ankles to help keep out debris, snow and cold air. Not to mention, if you roll up the ankles, these drawcords can keep them in place. In addition, these pants have a UPF 50+ for sun protection, a harness or pack-compatible waist and a drawcord at the waist for easy adjustability and functionality.
These are lightweight pants while also being highly durable, flexible and breathable. They will help keep you cool on warm days while reducing the impact of wind when at a higher elevation. It is no wonder why the Ferrosi pants are award-winning and one of the comfiest pants on this list.
Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
Fit: Relaxed
Fabric: Ripstop nylon
Water-resistant: No
Best use: Hiking
The Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants are versatile pants that can easily be converted to shorts on the fly. These are a great affordable option for those who want convertible pants but do not want to spend the money on a higher-end pair like the KÜHL Renegade Convertible pants.
They feature UPF 50+ sun protection and have a special Omni-Wick™ fabric treatment that helps reduce the amount of sweat from sticking to your skin and allows it to dry quickly. There are six pockets for ample storage, and it comes with a removable belt.
The reason these are not up to the Renegade level is that they lack a water-resistant finish, making them not ideal for wet conditions. However, this should not discourage you from these pants. They are durable, lightweight, and an excellent budget-friendly option for dry climates and hiking trails.
Prana Strech Zion Pants
Fit: Relaxed
Fabric: 97% nylon and 3% spandex
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Backcountry, hiking and rock climbing
The Prana Strech Zion Pants are great pants that can be worn on and off the trails. These pants are rugged enough to withstand rock climbing and abrasion without limiting movements. In fact, they have quite a bit of stretch as they are made from 3% spandex and feature articulated knees and gusseted crotch for enhanced mobility.
The relaxed fit, simple design, and adjustable waistband make these pants a comfortable and versatile choice. They are water-resistant with a DWR finish and resist wrinkles, so they will hold up well in a variety of different conditions and travel well. When the temperatures get warmer, leg snaps help keep your pants rolled up and vent holes near the crotch for added breathability.
There are five pockets: two rear, two front, and one cargo thigh. The thigh pocket features two entries to reach items from the top or side zipper. This is great for on-the-go access. In addition, these pants also feature an integrated belt for an adjustable waistband and belt loops to add your own belt. Overall, the Prana Stretch Zion pants are a great choice for those seeking comfortable and stretchy pants for climbing activities, trails and everyday wear.
KÜHL Spekter Jogger
Fit: Relaxed with tapered leg
Fabric: 60% polyester, 25% cotton, 12% lyocell, and 3% elastane
Water-resistant: No
Best use: everyday comfort, hiking and running
The KÜHL Spekter Jogger may not be your traditional hiking pants, but we feel they are worth adding to the list for people like Arthur, who love wearing joggers while doing outdoor activities and on the trails. Although joggers might not be your first pick for rugged areas and mountaineering, they are great for day-to-day wear, groomed hiking trails, running and layering. If you are looking for impeccable comfort and flexibility in a pair of pants that you can wear indoors and outdoors, these are for you!
Besides being lightweight and soft, the Spekter Jogger is temperature-regulating for different conditions, making it great for various activities and temperatures. However, we should note that they will not repel water as there is no DWR finish. Additionally, they feature three zipper pockets for added security, with a hidden phone pocket in the back zipper.
Since these are joggers, they taper around the ankles, which can be hit or miss depending on your preferred style. Nonetheless, these pants are designed with ultimate comfort, mobility and everyday versatility in mind. These pants are a superb choice whether you are hitting the trails, camping, doing yard work, or just relaxing at home.
Arc’teryx Gamma AR Pants
Fit: Slim
Fabric: 46% nylon, 46% polyester and 8% elastane
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Hiking, rock climbing and mountaineering
The Arc’teryx Gamma AR Pants are the perfect all-around weather pants. They are notably above the rest with their wind-resistant fabric and a DWR finish that will keep you dry during wet conditions.
The cuffs feature drawstring cuffs to fit over boots or can be used to help hold pants in place if they are rolled up and lace hooks to attach to boot laces. They have three pockets: one thigh and two front with no rear pockets. While this is not many compared to other pants in the review, they are all zippered for added security. Additionally, these pants have a gusseted crotch and articulated knees for unrestricted mobility and flexibility while performing activities. Lastly, there is a built-in belt to adjust the fit around your waist, but there are no belt loops to add your own belt.
These softshell pants are durable and can withstand rugged terrains and abrasions while also being comfortable enough for long-term wear. The combination of features with weather durability makes these pants an incredible option for rugged activities and wet or cold conditions.
Patagonia Quandary Pants
Fit: Slim
Fabric: 94% nylon (62% recycled) and 6% spandex
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: hiking, outdoor use and casual wear
The Patagonia Quandary Pants are an excellent choice of hiking pants for those who want multifunctioning pants that are also crafted to have a reduced environmental impact. Patagonia aims to use as much recycled nylon and materials as possible to be more environmentally conscious, which is why these pants are made with 62% recycled nylon.
These pants are incredibly versatile as they are functional, comfortable and stylish enough to wear on and off the trails. As for features, there are six pockets: two front, two rear, one coin and one zipped thigh. There is also a drawstring waistband that lets you adjust the fit around your waist. In addition, they have a DWR finish to repel water and are UPF 50+ for sun protection, making them suitable for various weather and terrains.
Patagonia recommends that these pants are best suited for lean to medium builds as they are slim-fitting. They are made from lightweight fabrics and are quite breathable despite not having a large amount of ventilation. The thinness of these pants may not hold up as well on high-friction activities but works well for hiking, biking and everyday use.
KÜHL Renegade Convertible Pants
Fit: Straight leg
Fabric: 95% nylon and 5% spandex
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Hiking, rock climbing and everyday use
The KÜHL Renegade Convertible Pants are arguably the most versatile hiking pants in this review. When the trails get too warm, the zip-off design lets you easily transform these pants into shorts. These are great for hiking trails, climbing and everyday outdoor use due to their adaptability and breathable material.
Rest assured that these pants will be able to withstand various weather and terrains with their quick-dry fabric, water-resistant finish, anti-abrasion technology and UPF 50+ for added sun protection. In addition, they feature eight pockets with compartment pockets inside and mesh, providing ventilation and plenty of room for everything you will need while on the trails. The cargo pockets are a great addition that allows you to carry important gear close by rather than in your pack.
Although they are pricier, these are the ultimate pants for versatility and features. If you are looking for the perfect hiking and everyday pants that can conveniently be converted into shorts, then these are for you!
Marmot Arch Rock Pants
Fit: Relaxed
Fabric: 94% nylon and 6% elastane
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing
The Marmot Arch Rock Pants are lightweight and flexible pants that let you move freely through any obstacle while still being breathable. They feature articulated knees and a gusset crotch, increasing mobility range. Whether you are climbing cliffs or hiking, these pants are sure to keep you comfortable and cool the entire time.
While these pants may not be the best choice for colder temperatures, they can withstand various climates and conditions as they feature a water-repellant finish, quick-drying fabric, a moisture-managing waistband and UPF 50+ sun protection. They also have five pockets: two front, two rear and one zippered thigh.
The fit is relaxed, which is great for those who do not like pants that are too snug to the body and makes them suitable for adding layers. What helps make these pants stand out is that they are abrasion-resistant, meaning they can withstand wear and tear from friction and rougher activities such as rock climbing.
REI Co-op Activator 3.0 Pants
Fit: Regular
Fabric: 63% nylon, 26% polyester, and 11% spandex
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: cooler weather, hiking, and snowshoeing
The REI Co-op Activator 3.0 Pants are perfect for shoulder seasons and cooler weather, as they are a bit warmer than your average hiking pants. These pants are soft-shell, water-resistant with a DWR finish, and wind-resistant up to 35mph, making them comfortable yet durable in various terrains.
The Activator 3.0 pants have a few features worth noting. The first is that, unlike the previous model, the Activator 2.0, these pants come with belt loops rather than a sewn-in belt. They also have drawcords at the cuffs that can tighten around the ankles to keep out debris, snow and ice. These can even be used to clinch your pants in place if you choose to roll them up. In addition, there are five pockets: two rear with buttons, two zippered front and one zippered thigh.
When it comes to comfort and flexibility, these pants are top-notch. The design has articulated knees and a gusseted crotch to allow unrestricted mobility, enabling you to take on any adventure and terrain. While the fabric may be too thick for warmer climates, these pants are a great option for cooler months and snow adventures.
KÜHL Radikl Pants
Fit: Relaxed
Fabric: 68% cotton, 29% nylon and 3% spandex | Knit material: 88% nylon and 12% spandex
Water-resistant: No
Best use: Everyday use and hiking trails, preferably dry weather conditions
The KÜHL Radikl Pants are perfect for everyday use and hiking all year round. They feature anti-abrasion and UPF 50+ sun protection. So you will be protected from the sun’s rays no matter your adventure or activity.
While most of the pant materials s are made from a cotton blend to simulate a sweatpant-like comfort, the knit portions are made of 88% nylon and 12% spandex to allow full range mobility and flexibility. The knit portions also help with ventilation, increasing breathability.
Something to note is that these pants do not have a DWR finish, making them not water-resistant. Therefore, they are not the best in wet conditions as they will absorb rather than repel water. However, they are an excellent option for people seeking comfortable hiking and everyday pants for dry weather conditions.
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants
Fit: Regular
Fabric: 35% cotton and 65% polyester
Water-resistant: Yes
Best use: Bushwhacking, camping and hunting
The Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants are fantastic outdoor trousers constructed to withstand even the harshest conditions. They feature six pockets and two knee pad openings for optimal storage and ventilation.
The Vidda Pro pants are incredibly durable, with Fjallraven’s own outdoor fabric, G-1000. This fabric is infused with Greenland wax treatment to help make them water and wind-resistant. Fjallraven recommended purchasing additional wax to add layers to these pants on a regular basis to enhance water resistance and block the wind.
These pants are a bit heavier than others in this review, so they are better suited for cooler weather. They are perfect for people looking for tough pants that can withstand bushwacking, hunting, or any other rugged outdoor activities. That being said, if you want a lighter version of these pants with better ventilation for warmer temperatures, you are in luck! Fjallraven also has a ventilation version of these pants called Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers.
