When it comes to hiking, we as fellow outdoor climbers know that the right outdoor gear can make all the difference beween comfort and performance. This is where hiking pants come right at the top of the list. Whether you’re scaling mountain peaks in snow or wandering through serene damp forests, the comfort and functionality of your pants matter. Below, we’ll trek through the world of hiking pants, highlighting the best options out there for adventure seeking men. We’ve got the ins, the outs, and everything in between to ensure your next hiking expedition is not just good, but great.
What are the Best Hiking Pants for Men?
We have compiled for you the top 8 Best Hiking Pants for Men in 2024. In this article we go through the products that we have used ourselves, checked what other users thought about them and we ranked them accordingly.
With years of experience with men’s pants for hiking and having used several hiking pants for men you can trust our review.
Moreover, you can scroll to the end of this review to see our mini buying guide as well as the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about hiking pants for men.
1. Gash Hao Waterproof Hiking Pants
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 95% Polyester Lining Material: granule fleece Waterproof: Yes |
The Gash Hao Waterproof Hiking Pants are multi-functional trousers made from durable materials. It has a quick-drying soft shell surface layer that is windproof and water-resistant.
It is insulated and comes with zippers on the bottom of the legs to keep you warm. The zipper design allows you to zip your pants over your boots comfortably.
It has an adjustable and stretchy waist that provides a customized experience. The pants come with 2 large capacity side pockets and a zip pocket on the back to protect your belongings. It is suitable for a range of activities like hiking, cycling, skiing, climbing, traveling, camping, mountaineering, hunting, fishing, snowboarding, snowmobile, and cycling.
Pros
- Zipper bottom legs to avoid snow and coldness,
- A special film in the middle of the knee that blocks wind and water,
- Made from a quick-drying softshell fabric,
- Fitted with elastic bands on the waist,
- Comfortable and fleece-lined to keep you warm,
- Stretchy materials make it right for winter sports
Cons
- Does not perform well in extremely wet situations,
- Tighter for people with wider ankles
2. Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 65% polyester, 35% cotton Lining Material: 63% nylon, 26% polyester, 11% elastane Waterproof: Water resistant |
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers are one of the best hiking pants for warm weather. They are made from durable materials that are wind and water-resistant.
It has ventilated zips for improved comfort and coolness. It also has practical pockets, including a knife pocket. It also has a loop on the side of the waist for an ax. Plus, the button strap adjustment at the leg endings can be removed. However, some said the legs run small, so keep that in mind.
Pros
- Ventilated zips for comfort and coolness,
- Reinforced knees with openings for knee pads,
- Button closure for comfort,
- 5 pockets including a knife pocket,
- Stretchy crotch for a range of movement,
- Regular leg length
Cons
- Sizes may run smaller than average,
- May be tighter in the leg for bigger lower build
3. Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 100% Nylon Lining Material: Mesh Waterproof: No |
The Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants is perfect for hiking in the summer. It is made from 100% nylon and remains lightweight in any weather.
The interior layer is made from wicking fabric to ensure dry comfort while the exterior layer has UPF 50 properties that shield from UVA and UVB sun rays. The pants are durable and comfortable as they convert to shorts easily. Its gusset crotch and hook and eye features ensure a personalized fit. Though some liked the mesh lining in the pockets, some said they aren’t very comfortable.
Pros
- UPF 50 fabric that protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays,
- Can convert to shorts,
- Wicking fabric pulls moisture away to keep you cool and dry,
- Wind-resistant fabric,
- Stretchable material with a relaxed waist,
- Stains on fabric wash away quickly
Cons
- Normal sizes may be tight for people with a large build,
- Mesh liners not as comfortable as other materials
4. Jessie Kidden Mens Waterproof Hiking Pants
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 94% Nylon & 6% Spandex Lining Material: 100% Polyester Waterproof: Yes |
The Jessie Kidden Men’s Hiking Pants is made from waterproof and breathable materials that repel water while keeping you cool and warm. It has a moisture-wicking technology that quickly transfers sweat and allows the flow of cool air.
It has a 3 layered fabric that consists of a waterproof coating, a quick-drying elastic exterior, and an inner fleece layer to keep you warm in cold environments. Its lotus leaf waterproof coating prevents the penetration of water droplets while accelerating the sliding off of it. It has articulated knees for ease of movement and a closed boot fit that prevents cold air from getting into your legs. The pants can be tucked into your boots without restricting your movement. It comes with a detachable belt. Its ripstop fabric protects your leg from scratch and keeps the pants in good condition.
Pros
- Comes with a partial side elastic waistband and a detachable belt,
- Stretch materials for excellent fit and increased mobility,
- 6 zippered pockets for keeping your valuables,
- 3D cut in the knee for improved movement,
- Fleece-lined thick knees provide tear-resistance and warmth,
- Triple-layered for waterproofing and breathability,
- Slim fitted to look fashionable
Cons
- Cut and fit are based on Asian sizing so it may differ from actual sizing,
- Pockets may run shallow
5. Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 86% nylon, 14% spandex, and 90D stretch woven ripstop Waterproof: Water resistant |
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi is the best hiking pant on our list. It is made from durable materials that provide UPF 50+ protection. It is also lightweight and breathable. Ferrosi hiking pants are water-resistant and have quick-drying properties. This makes it perfect for any weather. It has drop-in pockets at the back and a right hip security zip pocket to keep your belongings safe.
Not hiking? The Ferrosi pants can be worn for any occasion including travel, fishing, and work.
Pros
- Can be casually used as office wear,
- Gusseted crotch and articulated Knees for increased athletic mobility and comfort,
- Tricot-lined waistband for added comfort,
- Lightweight and water-resistant,
- Abrasion and tear-resistant,
- Drawcord cuff closures to keep out mud and debris
Cons
- May run a little longer than advertised,
6. The North Face Paramount Trail Convertible
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 88% Polyester, 12% Elastane Waterproof: No |
The North Face Paramount Trail Convertible is one of the best hiking pants for winter. It is made from 100% nylon materials so it is durable, lightweight, and breathable.
It has a double water repellent finish that offers UPF50+ protection from harmful UV rays. It has a relaxed fit that gently drapes off the body and does not stay on the skin. It comes with a button closure for comfort and has an elastic waistband to fit. However, you may want to be careful with the zipper as it is not the most durable.
Pros
- Secure-zip cargo pocket on the left leg,
- The cuffed zipper allow pants to be rolled up easily,
- Relaxed fit that gently drapes off the body,
- Made from 100% nylon so it is lightweight,
- Elastic waistband with adjustable buckle closure in front,
- Do not shrink after machine wash
Cons
- Displayed sizes may differ from the actual size,
- Zippers may be weak in durablity
7. Mountain Khakis Men’s Camber 107 Pant Classic Fit
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex Waterproof: No |
Featuring double-layer knees and reinforced heel cuffs, these Mountain Khakis hiking pants for men are great for a day outdoors doing what you love.
It is made from heavy stretch canvas materials that are comfortable and built to last. It has an optional nylon webbing belt that is quick-drying, stain-resistant, and durable. The buckle also doubles as a bottle opener.
It comes with 6 pockets, including a quick-draw cell-phone pocket on the right thigh. It has reinforced pocket bags and an angled back pocket.
Pros
- Triple-stitched seams,
- Articulated knees and reinforced heel cuffs,
- Optional nylon webbing belt with a buckle that doubles as a bottle opener,
- Reinforced pocket bags,
- Quick-draw cell phone pocket with snap closure,
- The snug waist stays up
Cons
- The displayed size may differ from the actual size,
- Limited colors available
8. CQR Men’s Lightweight Hiking Pants
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Material: 64% Cotton, 32% Nylon, 4% Elastane Waterproof: Water resistant |
The CQR men’s lightweight hiking pants are constructed with a hint of military and law enforcement performance design. It is made from duratex, so it repels dirt, liquid, and other contaminants.
It has a dual-layered seat pattern that protects your lower body when sitting on rough terrains. So, if you need to sit down for a minute on your hike, you are protected. Though you should keep in mind – the fabric isn’t very stretchy, so don’t do any major exercises. Its hatched back pocket design has a velcro tape that makes it accessible even when you wear gloves. It also has a non-flap magazine pocket for quick storage of your valuables; along with a flap pocket for more secure storage.
Pros
- Tactical pants suitable for extreme situations,
- Duratex Fabric repels any contaminant,
- Fade and tear-resistant,
- Non-flap multi-purpose cargo pocket for carrying tools,
- Form-fitting elastic waistband for a comfortable feel and support,
- Inner pockets for insertable knee pads
Cons
- The fabric is not stretchy,
- May get uncomfortable in warm weather
Verdict
To summarize, we have gone through dozens of hiking pants for men and decided that 8 are worth your consideration. Out of these, the absolute Best Hiking Pants for Men is Gash Hao Waterproof Hiking Pants which we highly recommend as our overall best.
If money is not an issue, you can consider Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers as this is our Premium Pick.
Otherwise, there’s no shame in spending prudently, Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pants is the Budget Option.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying hiking pants for men
Durability
The wilderness can be challenging, with its unpredictable terrains and elements. Hence, to ensure your pants survive the seasons and extensive usage, durability should be top of mind. Seek pants with reinforced stitching and bonus points for ones with robust fabric patches in high-wear areas, like the knees. These enhancements ensure your pants remain unscathed even when you’re traversing through rough patches.
Material
The foundation of any good hiking pant lies in its material. Nylon and polyester dominate the market because of their breathable and quick-drying properties. They effortlessly wick away moisture, ensuring that even if you break a sweat, your pants won’t stick uncomfortably or weigh you down. When choosing, touch and feel the material’s texture and thickness for your desired comfort.
Flexibility
The trails and mountaineering routes often demand flexibility and agility. Pants with a bit of elastane or spandex give that extra stretch, ensuring no movement is restricted and you don’t end up with split pants as well. Whether it’s a challenging climb or a simple stride, flexible pants move with you, not against you.
Fit & Comfort
Of course, your hiking pants need to fit well and comfortably. Features like an adjustable waistband, gusseted crotch, or articulated knees aren’t just fancy terms – they significantly contribute to how comfortable you’ll feel during your hikes. A good fit ensures you’re focused on the journey and not adjusting your pants every few steps.
Questions and Answers About hiking pants for men
How do I find the right fit in hiking pants?
To get the right fit in hiking pants, we recommend making a list of the pants you are interested in and then visiting your local sporting goods store to try them on.
When you figure out what size is right for you, you can go ahead to order it online. Keep in mind that pants sizes may differ from brand to brand.
What is the best material for hiking pants?
The best materials for hiking pants are breathable materials like nylon and polyester. They are lightweight, keep you dry, and wick excess moisture.
What is the best weight for hiking pants?
The best weight for hiking pants is 15 ounces or less. The best hiking pants are lightweight like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi pants weighing just 10.7 ounces.
Do I need a belt for hiking pants?
If your chosen hiking pants do not have an elastic waist, you need a belt for them. This is to prevent them from sliding down while hiking. There are a variety of lightweight hiking belts to choose from.
How many pockets should my hiking pants have?
Most hiking pants have at least 2 pockets. These are the typical pockets where you can warm your hands. However, many pants specifically designed for hiking also feature large cargo pockets. These are great as long as the pockets do not restrict movement.
Do I really need waterproof pants for hiking?
If you are hiking in a climate where it rains frequently and/or you will be exposed to cold wind or snow, wearing waterproof rain pants is advisable.
Is it better to hike in pants or shorts?
If you are going on a low-altitude summer hike, shorts are better as they keep you cooler than most pants. However, should the trail be rugged, overgrown, high-altitude, or full of mosquitoes, we strongly recommend long hiking pants for complete protection.
