7 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Tested & Reviewed)
Tired of hiking in leggings that slip, snag, or wear out too fast? The best women’s hiking pants are built to last, and I’ve found the ones worth your money.
I grew up spending time outdoors hiking, backpacking, and exploring, and I know the struggle of finding pants that actually fit. After countless trips to the store, hours of online shopping, and reading endless reviews, I was still left disappointed.
What I wanted seemed simple: pants that are durable, comfortable, squat proof so I am not constantly pulling them up, and built to last. For reference, I am 5’7″, 145 lbs, with an athletic build, larger legs, and a smaller waist, which makes fit especially tricky.
That is why I set out to find the best women’s hiking pants. I have personally worn each pair on this list, and I am sharing my honest reviews so you can skip the frustration and hit the trail with confidence.
In a hurry? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Best Overall: Coalatree Trailhead Pants & Outdoor Voices RecTrek
7 Best Women’s Hiking Pants
1. Coalatree Trailhead Pants: Best Overall
These are one of my favorite pairs of pants because they are so versatile. They are great for hiking or just hanging out at home.
I’ve worn them for a week straight in Iceland without washing them, hiking in the summer, and hanging out at the campsite. I love the high-rise, elastic waistband, and drawstrings at the ankles to keep the bugs and dirt out.
The Coalatree Trailhead pants surprised me from the beginning because I wasn’t sure of the fit. A lot of times, unisex clothing fits oddly on me, but not these pants! They are some of the best pants I’ve ever hiked, climbed, or lounged in. They’re warm when you need them to be, but also perfect for moderate hikes or sunny walks.
Specs:
– Water resistant + stain-proof
– Breathable & stink-proof
– Packable (packs into front pocket)
– Deep pockets
Recommended Activities: Hiking, backpacking, lounging, camping, & more
2. REI Trailmade Pants: Best for All Weather
I’ve worn these pants for days on backpacking trips, in both warm and cold weather, and even while traveling in Europe and the PNW, they never disappoint. Unlike a lot of pants that bunch up or feel tight around the knees, these have articulated knees for easy movement.
Plus, they’re super lightweight and quick-drying, which comes in clutch if you spill food or need to wash them on the go.
Specs:
– Quick Drying
– Mid-rise
– Lightweight & durable
Recommended Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, wearing around for casual attire
3. Eddie Bauer Rainier Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants: Best for Cold Weather
These pants are great for curvier fits. They’re comfortable through the hips and thighs without feeling restrictive, and I never have to fuss with them, even with gloves on after a long day in the snow.
I was unsure about the fleece lining at first, but it turned out to be super cozy, keeping my legs warm like they were wrapped in little sleeping bags.
Specs:
– Polyester fleece lining
– Mid/High-rise
– Water resistant
– UPF sun protection
Recommended Activities: Backpacking, snow activities, camping, casual wear
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4. KUHL Freeflex Roll-Up: Best Roll-Up Pants
I had to try a couple of sizes before finding the right fit, but once I did, these pants were super comfortable.
I’ve worn them on multi-day backpacking trips, up Mt. Elbert, and even just hanging out car camping. They keep me warm in the snow while hiking, and the roll-up feature with a button snap is clutch for summer water crossings.
Specs:
– Mid-rise/relaxed fit
– Water resistant
– Quick drying
– UPF 50+ Protection
– Snap secures for roll-up
Recommended Activities: Backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, casual wear
5. Libin Women’s Cargo Joggers: Best Hiking Joggers
These were my first relaxed-fit joggers, and I instantly loved how easy they were to move in. At first, I wore them casually. Dog walks, flights, everyday stuff, and then started taking them on hikes and even workouts.
They stay put, have big pockets for snacks, and are light enough to keep cool on summer days.
Specs:
– Elastic waistband with drawstrings
– UPF 50+ protection
– 5 functional pockets (this alone is a huge selling point)
Recommended Activities: Travel, hiking, walking, workouts, casual wear
6. Arc’teryx Gamme LT Pants: Best Splurge
These pants are designed to actually fit a woman’s body, which makes them super comfortable on long days outside. They’re a splurge, but if you’re looking to invest in top-quality gear, they’re worth it.
I’ve found they hold up really well on rugged, muddy trails, and thanks to the DWR finish, they stay surprisingly clean even in wet or grimy conditions. Huge bonus for those hiking in the PNW!
Specs:
– Mid-rise
– Wind & water resisant
– Stretchy fabric
Recommended Activities: Hiking & backpacking
📍 Similar Posts:
Best Women’s Backpacking Backpacks of 2025: Tested in the PNW
Best Women’s Hiking Boots (2025): Personally Tested
7. Outdoor Voices RecTrek: Best Zip-Off Pant
When I was growing up, I was a sucker for zip-off pants. Over the years, I tried to find a pair of hiking pants that were easy to zip on and off. I was out of luck for a long time, until I found the RecTreks.
These pants are perfect for all kinds of weather, terrain, and comfort. I have 3 pairs of these and am telling myself that I don’t need another pair.
They are practical, and you get the luxury of having pants and shorts all in one. The pockets are deep, the pants stay up, and they have a button closure with a built-in belt.
Specs:
– Wind & water resistant
– 3 ways to wear (pants, capris, or shorts)
– Relaxed, high-rise
Recommended Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, snowshoeing, walking, casual wear
FAQ: Women’s Hiking Pants
💡 Should hiking pants be loose or tight-fitting?
Somewhere in between is best. You want enough room to move comfortably without them feeling baggy or restrictive. I usually go for a relaxed fit with a bit of stretch, especially around the thighs and knees.
💡 What to wear: shorts, leggings, or pants?
Everybody has different preferences, but my advice is simple: wear whatever makes you comfortable. Personally, I like pants or shorts. Before hitting the trail, I always check AllTrails for current weather conditions and any updates on the trail terrain.
Learn from my mistakes: If you’re hiking in heavy vegetation, you may want to wear pants so it doesn’t look like you got attacked by a cat. Trust me, it wasn’t ideal dealing with all of those scratches for the rest of my hike.
Conclusion: Best Women’s Hiking Pants
It takes time to find women’s hiking pants that fit well, stay up, and don’t rub on your hip bones. These pants have got you covered, literally from waist to ankle.
I’ve enjoyed each of these pants and wouldn’t recommend them if I didn’t truly believe that they are great. I hope that you found a pair (or two) from this list that meet your needs.
Happy Trails,
Mindful PNW Travels
