The 7 Best Hiking Pants of 2025

If you are looking for the best hiking pants in 2025, then the right pair can make your outdoor trip much easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re walking through wet areas, climbing hills, or navigating thick forests, good hiking pants help keep you comfortable and protected. They are strong, stretch well, and protect you from rain and wind so you can move freely and stay dry. In 2025, there will be many great choices for both men and women. Some pants are light and cool for summer, while others are made for cold or rainy places. There are also strong tactical options for tough outdoor adventures. Top brands like Outdoor Research, Arc’teryx, Fjallraven, and Columbia have made new and improved designs this year. In this guide, we have tested the best pants on real hikes. Here you can also check the product review of the Best Hiking Daypacks. Also, don’t forget to check Best Running Shorts.

We looked at how tough they are, how comfortable they feel, and how well they handle bad weather. Whether you’re a light traveler, a long-distance hiker, or just someone who enjoys weekend trips, this list will help you choose the right hiking pants for your needs and the places you plan to explore.

Top Best Hiking Pants Review

When picking the best hiking pants, it is important to think about a few things: how comfortable they are, how well they fit, how they protect you from the weather, how strong they are, and how easy it is to move in them. We chose the best pants for all types of hikers, whether you are just going for a short walk or hiking up a big mountain. Our top pick is the Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants. They stretch easily, dry fast, and feel good even after wearing them all day. If you are going somewhere cold or rainy, the Arc’teryx Gamma Pants are a great choice. They block wind, light rain, and keep you warm. For rough and rocky hikes, the Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants are very strong and last a long time. If you don’t want to spend too much, go for the CQR Tactical Pants. They are tough and have lots of pockets. 
For light hiking or backpacking, try the Rab Incline Light Pants; they are breathable and move with you. If you want a pair for both men and women, the Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Pants are light, great in hot weather, and budget-friendly. And for women who want comfort and flexibility, the Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants are soft, stretchy, and dry fast, perfect for day hikes or casual outings.

Best Overall Hiking Pants for Men – Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are a top choice for hikers because they are strong, stretchy, and breathable. They are made from a mix of nylon and spandex, so you can move easily without worrying about rips or tears. These pants are great for short walks, long hikes, or even mountain adventures. The fabric blocks wind and light rain but still lets heat escape, so you stay cool and dry.

During our testing, these pants were super comfortable on hot, sunny hikes and dried quickly when it rained. They also protect your skin with UPF 50+ sun protection. Because they’re lightweight and easy to pack, they’re great for backpacking. The pants fit well with adjustable waist and cuffs, and the knee design helps with climbing or bending. Plus, they look good enough to wear in town after your hike.

Best Weather Resistance – Arc’teryx Gamma Pant

If you are hiking in places where the weather can change quickly, like in the mountains, the Arc’teryx Gamma Pant is one of the best choices. These pants are made with strong Fortius DW 2.0 softshell fabric, which keeps out wind and light rain but still lets your body breathe when you’re moving a lot. They have a slim fit that moves easily with you, which is perfect for climbing or walking over rough ground.

The waistband is flat and works well with a climbing harness. The fabric is tough and won’t tear easily, even when you brush against rocks or bushes. There are zippered pockets to keep your things safe, and the design allows for good airflow. These pants cost more than some others, but they’re worth it if you want strong, mountain-ready gear.

Most Durable – Fjallraven Vidda Pro

If you are going deep into the wilderness, doing bushcraft, or spending long days in thick forests, you need pants that can handle it all. The Fjallraven Vidda Pro is built for these tough adventures. These are some of the strongest hiking pants out there, made from G-1000 Original fabric, which is a mix of polyester and cotton. They are treated with special wax to resist water and can be re-waxed for even more durability. The reinforced knees and seat make them perfect for rough use and long-lasting wear.

These pants have lots of helpful features, big pockets (even one for a knife), gear loops, and adjustable leg hems. While they don’t stretch much, their roomy fit gives you space to move and layer up in cold weather. The Vidda Pro isn’t the lightest option, but it’s a top pick if you want hiking pants that are strong, reliable, and built to last.

CQR Men’s Tactical Pants

If you want strong, reliable hiking pants without spending too much, the CQR Tactical Pants are a smart pick. These pants are popular with hikers, outdoor workers, and even law enforcement because they offer great value for the price. Made from a polyester and cotton ripstop fabric, they have a water-repellent finish that helps keep you dry in light rain or morning dew. The fabric is tough and resists tearing, making it perfect for rough trails or off-road treks. The fit is slightly snug but still comfortable, with a gusseted crotch and reinforced knees for better movement and durability. One of the best features is the 8+ pockets, which give you plenty of space to carry tools, snacks, maps, or your phone. The waistband is flexible and allows for ease of motion, whether you’re climbing, crouching, or walking for hours.

While they don’t offer the best airflow, especially in hot or humid weather, they shine in dry, rugged conditions. These pants are a great match for hikers who want tactical function at a low cost. With solid design and reliable performance, the CQR Tactical Pants are hard to beat in their price range.

Best Men’s Hiking Pants for Backpacking – Rab Incline Light Pants

If you are a backpacker or mountain hiker who wants pants that feel light and move easily, the Rab Incline Light Pants are a perfect match. These ultralight softshell pants weigh less than 10 ounces, so they’re great for long-distance hikes or climbing where every ounce matters. Made with Matrix double-weave fabric, they are strong enough to resist scrapes and dry quickly when wet, ideal for changing terrain and weather.

The design offers a slim, athletic fit that stays secure with a semi-elastic waistband and articulated knees that help you move freely. Even though they are not fully waterproof, they handle light rain and mixed weather very well. You also get useful YKK zippered pockets to keep small items safe, plus extra ventilation to help keep cool on steep climbs. With their low-bulk design, these pants pack down small and don’t take up much space, making them perfect for minimalist hikers. Whether you’re climbing hills, crossing valleys, or hiking for days, the Rab Incline Light Pants are built for comfort, movement, and performance on the trail.

Silver Ridge Utility

The Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Pants are a long-time favorite among hikers who want solid performance at an affordable price. Built for casual hikes and warm-weather adventures, these pants are lightweight, breathable, and full of practical features. They come with Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection to shield you from harmful rays, and Omni Wick technology to pull moisture away from your skin and keep you dry.

Made from nylon ripstop fabric, they are light yet durable. The roll-up leg feature gives you the option to turn them into capris when the temperature rises, while the articulated knees help you move comfortably on uneven trails. Available in both men’s and women’s styles, these pants offer a relaxed fit that’s ideal for easy movement.

While they are not designed for wet or cold conditions, they are perfect for dry environments. Zippered pockets, cargo storage, and belt loops add convenience for carrying essentials. If you are planning day hikes or outdoor trips in the heat, the Columbia Silver Ridge Utility Pants give you comfort, protection, and great value all at a very reasonable price.

baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants

The Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants are a top pick for women who want comfort, performance, and value in one affordable package. These pants are perfect for day hikes, travel, or light backpacking, thanks to their lightweight, quick-drying fabric that includes spandex for four-way stretch. This makes them super flexible and comfortable for all kinds of outdoor movement. They feature a soft elastic waistband with a drawcord, tapered legs, and adjustable ankle cinches offering both style and a secure fit. The fabric is water-resistant and includes UPF protection, helping shield you from the sun on bright hiking days. You also get five functional pockets to hold your phone, keys, or trail snacks.

These pants are great for warm or mild weather and strike the perfect balance between comfort and practicality. If you are looking for budget-friendly hiking pants that still offer impressive performance, the Baleaf Women’s Hiking Pants are an excellent choice for women who love to stay active outdoors.

How We Tested Hiking Pants

To find the best hiking pants of 2025, we took each pair out on real hiking trails through hot deserts, rainy forests, and rocky mountain paths. We checked how comfortable they were during long walks, how well they stretched during climbs, and how they handled wind, rain, and heat. We also looked at the fabric quality, how light or heavy they felt, how breathable they were, and whether the pockets were actually useful.

We tested their durability by rubbing them against rocks, packing and unpacking them many times, and washing them again and again. We also checked how well they fit different body types and whether the sizing was consistent. Every pair was tested in real outdoor conditions, not just in a lab, so you can trust that these pants are ready for your next adventure.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Hiking Pants

• Weather Protection

If you often hike in rainy, windy, or sunny places, it’s important to choose pants that protect you from the elements. Look for hiking pants made with water-repellent (DWR) coating or softshell fabrics to help keep you dry in light rain and shielded from the wind. For sunny days, some pants also come with UPF sun protection, which helps block harmful UV rays and keeps your skin safe during long hours outdoors.

• Pant Length & Versatility

When hiking in changing weather, convertible pants (that zip off into shorts) or roll-up styles can be very handy. They let you cool down quickly on hot days by turning your pants into shorts. On the other hand, full-length pants are better for colder hikes or when walking through tall grass, bushes, or rough terrain, as they give you more protection from scratches, bugs, and cold air. Choosing the right length depends on where and when you plan to hike.

• Mobility

If you hike on rough trails, climb over rocks, or scramble up steep paths, you’ll want pants that let you move freely. Look for ones that include spandex or elastane, which give the fabric stretch. Features like articulated knees and a gusseted crotch are also important; they are designed to move with your body, making it easier to bend, stretch, and climb without feeling restricted.

• Additional Features for Hiking Pants

The best hiking pants often come with helpful extras that make your hike easier. Look for things like multiple pockets to carry your gear, ankle cinches to keep bugs or dirt out, and ventilation zippers to help you stay cool. Some pants also have reinforced knees for extra strength and built-in belts for a better fit. Think about which features are most useful for your hiking style and the places you go.

How Should We Size Hiking Pants?

Hiking pants should fit comfortably, not too tight, but close enough to move with your body. You want enough room to bend, stretch, and walk without feeling restricted. Look for pants with adjustable waistbands or built-in belts so you can get the right fit. If you plan to wear base layers underneath (like thermal leggings), you might need to size up. Some brands like Columbia and Baleaf make women-specific fits, which offer better comfort and shape. Tactical pants like CQR may run smaller, so it’s always smart to check the size chart before buying.

Why You Trust Us

At Outdoor Searcher, we are not just writers; we are real hikers, backpackers, and outdoor lovers who use the gear we review. We test every pair of hiking pants on real trails, in different weather, and over long distances to see how they perform. Our reviews are honest and unbiased. If something does not work well, we can tell you. While we may earn a small commission if you buy through our links, that never affects our opinions. You can count on real advice from real hikers, not just marketing talk.

Conclusion

The Best Hiking Pants can truly change how you experience the outdoors. Whether you are walking through wet forests, dry deserts, or rocky mountains, you need pants that are comfortable, breathable, and built to move with you. That is why we tested and picked the best hiking pants of 2025 so you can hike with confidence. For the best overall option, go with the Outdoor Research Ferrosi. 

If you are hiking in cold or wet conditions, the Arc’teryx Gamma will keep you protected. Need something extra tough? The Fjallraven Vidda Pro is built to last. On a tight budget? The CQR Tactical Pants give you great value. For those who like to keep it light, the Rab Incline Light is perfect. If you want a versatile everyday hiking pant, the Columbia Silver Ridge won’t let you down. And for women looking for comfort and performance, the Baleaf Hiking Pants are a smart and stylish choice.

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