All Outdoors Guide

    14 Best Hiking Pants for Women [2020]

    If you’ve ever gone hiking and backpacking in denim or sweatpants, you probably found out the hard way that these types of pants just aren’t cut out of hiking activities.

    When it comes to gear for a backpacking trip, hiker clothes are just as important as your boots, jacket, or your backpack and the travel pants you choose are no exception.

    Here are 5 of the best hiking pants for women (speceifically designed as women’s pant options) that want to stay cool, comfortable and protected, with some durable pant for hiking  or backpacking on the trail (trail pant).

    Short Answer – Best Hiking Pants for Women

    1. Prana Halle: Best Overall
    2. North Face Paramount
    3. Marmot Lobo
    4. Kuhl Kliffside: Best Convertible
    5. Arc’teryx Gamma LT
    6. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants: Best for Windy Conditions
    7. Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants: Most Durable
    8. Montane Terra Ridge: Best Lightweight
    9. Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Pant II: Best Pocket Storage
    10. Marmot PreCip Pant: Best Waterproof Pants
    11. Patagonia Quandary Pants
    12. Arc’teryx Sylvite Pants
    13. Columbia Saturday Trail Pant
    14. Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pant

    Top 3 Best Hiking Pants for Women Compared

    Image
    Product
    Best Overall
    Prana Halle
    • Beautifully designed
    • UPF rating of 50+
    • Prana’s Stretch Zion technology
    CHECK PRICE |
    Best Fit
    North Face Paramount II
    • Excellent designs that fit the curves
    • Ten size options in Slim fit
    • Three inseam options
    CHECK PRICE |
    Best Fabric
    Marmot Lobo’s
    • Abrasion resistant fabric
    • Durable water resistant finish (DWR)
    • Fast drying when wet
    CHECK PRICE |

    Here’s the full analysis of the best women’s hiking pant options:

    #1 Prana Halle Hiking Pants

    Our Pick
    Why go with the Prana Halle Pants?
    Why go with the Prana Halle Pants?

    Excellent pairing of quality, durability an affordable mid-range price point. The relaxed fit and proprietary Stretch Zion fabric make the Halle pants comfortable fits both on the trail and in casual everyday outdoor settings.

    Buy Now Learn More
    We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

    Prana may not be as much of a household name as Marmot or TNF, but don’t let that fool you.

    This brand makes some beautifully designed hiking pants for women that are just as comfortable and attractive around town as it is in the backcountry for his durability.

    It’s tough to choose only one pair for backpacking, but this Halle pant model comes pretty close to perfect.

    Hiking Pant Details & Features:

    • Five color options – Cargo Green, Black, Coal, Dark Ginger & Dark Khaki
    • Nine size options in Relaxed fit – 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16
    • Three inseam options – Short (30″), Regular (32″) and Tall (36″)
    • Made of a 97% Nylon and 3% Spandex blend
    • Designed with Prana Stretch Zion technology
    • Trim is 100% Polyester
    • UPF sun rating of 50+ with a DWR finish 
    • Non-convertible design offers roll up cuffs instead
    • Straight legs with articulated knees for movement
    • Mid-rise fit with comfortable waistband
    • Hand pockets + back pockets + hidden zippered pocket on right leg

    Having three inseam options is always a huge plus but taller women will really find the 36″ inseam to be a huge benefit. While most “Tall” inseams stop at 34″, the extra 2″ can really provide the coverage some women need with sturdy belt loops if needed.

    The Relaxed fit is a little slimmer compared to other pants due to the straight legs, but this gives the pants a flattering look on the body. The use of Prana  Stretch Zion and articulated knees ensure that you don’t feel restricted while getting over tricky spots on the trail or having to do some climbing.

    The Prana Halle pant isn’t a convertible style, which can either be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on what you like as a hiker. Some women much prefer the look of regular pants versus convertible so if that is your preference, the Halle is a great choice.

    These pants do have roll up cuffs with built-in tabs to keep them in place so if you need to cool off or cross very shallow water, you can do so easily making it a great choice for hiking and backpacking.

    Halle Hiking Pants Prices & Where to Buy:

    #2 The North Face Paramount II

    Similarly to Marmot, The North Face is another famous outdoor apparel brand – perhaps even one of the most popular.

    Women with a love for outdoor adventures are probably already aware that TNF is known for their excellent designs that fit the curves of a woman’s body well. The brand certainly kept the design in mind when they created the North Face women’s hiking pants Paramount 2.0.

    Hiking Pant Details & Features:

    • Two color options – Dune Beige & Sedona Sage Grey
    • Ten size options in Slim fit – 00, 0, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 12, 14 & 16
    • Three inseam options – Short (30″), Regular (32″) & Long (34″)
    • Made of a 96% Nylon & 4% Elastane Stretch Woven blend
    • Treated with a DWR coating
    • Concealed zipper for short conversion
    • Shorts have a 5″ inseam
    • Internal drawcords
    • Hand pockets + side mini cargo pockets + rear patch pockets

    While at first glance the Paramount ll travel pants might look like any typical convertible hiking pant, these actually have a lot more going for them. A few key differences in features, like their pockets, make this model a great choice for women that aren’t yet fans of these style of hiking pants for women.

    First off, there is a huge range of sizes available, from 00 up to 16. Most women will be able to find the perfect size and comfort. Not to mention that unlike many other outdoor pants, the Paramount ll has three inseam sizes. This is an instant selling point for women that find the typical 32″ inseam to be too short or too long.

    A common complaint of some convertible pants is that when zipped down to shorts, the inseam of the convertible hiking pant as shorts is unattractively long, especially for women on the petite size. While many other models end up at knee-length the Paramount ll is at an excellent 5″ inseam.

    This is long enough to provide coverage and help prevent chafing while still enough leg to keep you cool and looking great. Not to mention you can cool off easier in a pond, lake or creek without worrying about soaking your shorts making it a great piece of women’s outdoor gear.

    Lastly, the Paramount 2.0 has some great little features that really make them a favorite. Numerous pockets, including the mini cargo pocket options, are perfect for stowing small gadgets or snacks for later. The DWR finish also helps keep you dry in mist, fog or a light drizzle while still being breathable enough for quick drying..

    Pricing: You can check out prices on the Paramount 2.0 at this Amazon listing.

    #3 Marmot Lobo’s

    Marmot makes some amazing apparel like pants for men, women and children alike, so it’s no surprise that their pants for hiking are a firm favorite for women’s hiking and backpackers.

    The Lobo convertible pant are an excellent choice for women that will be hiking backpacking over a variety of terrain or in shifting weather conditions (functional as a rain pant with the quick drying technology).

    Hiking Pant Details & Features:

    • Seven sizes in Regular fit – 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 & 14
    • Four color choices – Desert Khaki, Stone Green, Dark Steel & Black
    • Made of a blend of 94% Nylon & 6% Elastane Plain Weave Peached fabrics (Bluesign approved)
    • DriClime Interior Waistband
    • Stretchy materials for movement + inseam gusseted crotch panel
    • Average weight under 10 oz
    • Offers UPF sun protection (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50
    • Treated with a durable water resistant finish (DWR coating) + fast drying when wet (although not fully waterproof hiking pants)
    • Durable 1brasion resistant fabric ideal for backcountry adventures
    • Three ways to wear – full length pants, rolled up cuffs for capris or unzip for shorts (ultimate breathability)
    • Pants have a 32″ inseam with a zipper for 9″ inseam shorts
    • Front hand pockets + a zippered side pocket

    A convertible pant is always a great choice for backpacking since you get the best of both worlds – the protection and durability of long pants but the ability and comfortable fit to switch to hiking shorts when things get warm or you want to wade through water. The Lobo’s by Marmot is perfect all-around convertibles for the adaptive hiker.

    These are real workhorse pants and most women will find that the comfortable fit, between sizes 2 and 14, is excellent.

    “The fit is great. can’t wait to try them hiking.” -Amazon review

    These pants have a Regular fit which tends to be a little on the loose side so it doesn’t impede movement. While most convertible pants only allow to zip off to shorts, the added bonus of being able to cuff up the pants is ideal for women that prefer the Capri look.

    The combination of Nylon and Elastane is perfect in this convertible pant. The Nylon ensures your legs stay protected from brush and rocks while the small amount of Elastane keeps the pants flexible making it a great piece for your hiking gear. The Driclime Interior Waistband is rigid enough to stay put on the waist but stretchy for when you have to bend or climb for an incredible comfort.

    The Lobo’s may not the be the most feminine fitting pants or have the option for Short or Tall inseams, but for the average woman, these workhorses will keep you comfortable day in and day out as all hiking pants for women should.

    Marmot Lobo Pricing & Where to Buy:

    Best Women’s Convertible Hiking Pants

    #4 Kuhl Kliffside Pants

    Summary: If you are moving through multiple elevations, or just want a good set of multipurpose hiking pants, the Kuhl Kliffside pants are the way to go (nylon and spandex combo). 

    Best Women’s Softshell Hiking Pants for Alpine Use

    #5 Arc’teryx Gamma LT

    Summary: If you are looking for something durable enough for Alpine (or winter) use, but flexible enough for vigorous hiking, the Gamma LT by Arc’teryx is a GREAT option (available at REI Co-Op right now)

    Best Women’s Hiking Pants for Windy Conditions

    #6 Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants

    Summary: Great nylon and spandex combination trousers, extremely TOUGH, breathable and wind resistant, available directly via Outdoor Research here.

    Best Durable Women’s Hiking Pants

    #7 Fjallraven Vidda Pro Pants

    Summary: Great for abrasive outdoor conditions where you are bushwacking or traveling through dense underbrush, available here via Moosejaw.

    best hiking pants for women

    Best Lightweight Hiking Pants for Women

    #8 Montane Terra Pack Pants (Now Replaced as Montane Terra Ridge)

    Summary: The lightest pair of TRUE backpacing pants (not leggings / hiking ights), but extremely lightweight pant variety (trekking pants) at 8.04 oz, available here via CampSaver. 

    Best Hiking Pants with Pockets & Storage for Women

    #9 Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Pant II

    Summary: Great hiking trousers for extra storage, deep cargo pockets, security pocket, with convertible zip offs, available directly via Columbia Sportswear here. 

    Best Waterproof Hiking Pants for Women [Rain Pant]

    #10 Marmot PreCip Pant

    Summary: The ONLY 100% waterproof hiking pant (not just water resistant or quick drying), also extremely lightweight at just 9 oz, available here via Moosejaw.

    Other Options to Consider | Honorable Mentions

    Best Climbing Pants

    Best Hiking Leggings & Hiking Tights

    Similar to the best hiking pants for women, the above guide is exclusively dedicated to hiking leggings, hiking tights and legging activewear. 

    Final Stretch: Parting Words on the Top Hiking Pants for Women

    Our Pick
    Why go with the Prana Halle Pants?
    Why go with the Prana Halle Pants?

    Excellent pairing of quality, durability an affordable mid-range price point. The relaxed fit and proprietary Stretch Zion fabric make the Halle pants comfortable fits both on the trail and in casual everyday outdoor settings.

    Buy Now Learn More
    We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

    Going to yoga class wearing jeans (instead of a yoga pant) makes just as little sense as wearing them on a hike.

    If you are serious about backpacking, invest in some high-quality pants made for that activity.

    Most women should be able to find their perfect fit within these 10+ excellent hiking pants, whether used as a base layer on a winter hike or for casual outdoor wear.

    Further Reading Hiking Clothing, Hiking Gear, and Hiking Shorts:

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