The 10 Best Hiking Pants for Women of 2023

Best Overall

Columbia Saturday Trail Pant

4.9

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The Columbia Saturday Trail Pant takes our top women’s hiking pants spot, thanks to its outstanding comfort, performance, and versatility. Constructed with water-repellent fabric, they provide excellent protection against wind and light rain but are also breathable and quick-drying in sweat-inducing weather.

The two-way stretch material and partial elastic waist allow you to move freely without distraction. With two side pockets and two back pockets, the pants have plenty of room to securely stash small items you might need as you’re hiking.

And if the weather becomes unexpectedly hot, they easily convert to capris by rolling up the legs and snapping them in place. We also like that they come in a wide range of sizes, from 2 to 24, as well as regular, short, and tall lengths.

Price at time of publication: Starting at $44

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: 4 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 2 to 24, short, regular, tall}

Best Budget

Baleaf Hiking Pants

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For hiking and other outdoor adventures, the Baleaf Hiking Pants are a great value. The quick-drying material is breathable and has UPF 50+ protection, so they’re an excellent choice for warm-weather hikes. The four-way stretch fabric moves with you for an easy, comfortable fit.

With four pockets with zip closure, they’re also not lacking in storage. The hand pockets and front and back cargo pockets offer plenty of space for your phone and other essentials you might want close by. What’s more, the pants come in a wide range of sizes and have an elastic waistband with a drawstring for an adjustable, secure fit.

Despite being high-quality and durable, especially for the price, the pants’ material is relatively thin and won’t provide as much weather protection as some more expensive options. However, if you want lightweight, water-resistant pants with generous storage and an affordable price, they’re a solid pick.

Price at time of publication: $34

^{Key Specs:
Material: Polyester, spandex | Pockets: 4 | Care: Machine wash, air dry | Sizes: XS to 3XL}

Best Lightweight

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Softshell Pants

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Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi pants are a lightweight option with the perfect blend of stretch, durability, and a high degree of mobility. They’re designed with a ripstop fabric that’s stretchy and unrestrictive, so they’re ideal for hiking, running, and other outdoor pursuits.

What’s more, these thin, breathable pants have drawcord cuffs so you can cinch them up on your calves—perfect for when the temperature starts to rise. And if you get a little wet during a river crossing, the fabric will be dry in no time. However, the pants’ lightweight feel makes them less suitable for cold or windy days.

With five pockets in total, there are plenty of storage options, including a zippered cargo pocket on the thigh that can fit most phones. Plus, the pants’ sleek style and comfort make them a versatile choice for traveling or casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $89

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, spandex | Pockets: 5 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 14}

Best Quick-Drying

L.L. Bean Women's Water-Repellent Comfort Trail Pants

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Whether you’re hitting the trails or heading out for weekend errands, these L.L. Bean trail pants will keep you comfortable. Made with a quick-dry, breathable blend of nylon and spandex, they’re lightweight and stretchy to allow for easy movement. The material is also abrasion-resistant, so they can handle trail dirt and brush. Plus, the pants have a water-repellent finish, so the water simply rolls off.

Despite their sturdiness and functionality, these pants are sleek and stylish enough for everyday wear. With a wide range of sizes and color choices, it’s easy to find a pair that works for you. The adjustable inside tabs allow for a custom-like, secure fit. They also have five pockets to store essentials, although they may not be roomy enough for some larger phones.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, spandex | Pockets: 5 | Care: Machine wash and dry | Sizes: 4 to 26W, regular and petite}

Best for Storage

REI Co-op Savanna Trails Pants

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If you like to have essentials in your pockets for easy access, the REI Savanna Trails Pants are a perfect option for your next hike. In addition to the standard two front cargo pockets with a hidden stash pocket in the right pocket, you get a zippered pocket and a secure snap pocket in the back.

The pants offer a generous amount of stretch and articulated knees, allowing for good range of motion as you’re hiking or climbing. The combination of durable, comfortable materials and reliable design makes them ready for anything on the trails. The fabric is treated with a durable water repellent, so it sheds light rain and resists stains.

Although the waistband is elastic on the back, it doesn’t have a drawstring for those who like a very secure fit. However, the pants’ overall comfort, functionality, and performance make them a solid pick for outdoor adventure lovers.

Price at time of publication: $55

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, spandex | Pockets: 5 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 16}

Best Water-Resistant

Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pants

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Known for their durable, high-quality outdoor apparel, Arc’teryx delivers a comfortable, weather-ready pair with their Gamma LT Pants. Their water- and wind-resistant fabric make them an ideal choice for wet-weather hikes and activities. They’re also equipped with a drawstring at the cuff, so if the weather improves, you can roll them up to keep your legs cool.

With a women-specific design and fit, these pants are made with stretchy fabric that allows for unrestricted mobility. They also have three pockets for storage, including a zippered one on the thigh that’s ideal for stashing your phone. An integrated belt in the low-profile waist allows for a secure, comfortable fit.

The main downside of these pants is that they’re pricier than many other options, but they’re a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts who want well-made, durable gear.

Price at time of publication: $180

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: 3 | Care: Machine wash, hang dry | Sizes: 00 to 16}

Best for Summer

Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle Pants

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If you’re looking for lightweight pants that are suitable for hiking, traveling, and casual wear, the Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Ankle Pants provide a nice balance of function and style. The pants offer good stretch and an athletic fit that’s comfortable all day long. For extra comfort, they have a wide, elastic waistband that provides a secure fit.

The fabric is lightweight but tough, with a durable water-repellent finish and 50+ UPF rating for sun protection. Meanwhile, the pants are also very breathable, so you won’t overheat. For your essentials, two deep hand pockets and a zippered front cargo pocket provide plenty of storage space. The pants come in several cool colors and patterns, but we’d love to see a wider range of sizes, including petite and plus sizes. 

Price at time of publication: $79

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: 3 | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: XS to XL}

Best Plus-Size

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Hiking Pants

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For a wide range of sizes, you can’t go wrong with The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 hiking pants. They come in extra-small to 3XL, as well as two different lengths, so it’s easy to get the right fit. Made with soft, breathable, and stretchy fabric, these pants are perfect for women who prioritize comfort and mobility. An extra-wide elastic waistband with drawcord closure keeps the pants from slipping down and enhances the overall comfortable feel.

With two hand pockets and a small, discreet zippered pocket, the pants offer some storage options without looking like cargo pants. Plus, the UPF 50 fabric and water-resistant finish provide added protection, no matter the weather. While these pants are soft and lightweight, they’re not as durable as some other thicker options. However, for traveling, hiking in mild terrain, and even casual wear, they’re a go-to pair.

Price at time of publication: $69

^{Key Specs:
Material: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: 3 | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry | Sizes: XS to 3XL}

Best Convertible

Athleta Trekkie Convertible Hike Pant

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Convertible hiking pants that turn into shorts are versatile for those days on the trail that start cool and turn sunny and warm by early afternoon. This pair from Athleta features a convertible construction that allows three options for wear: straight-leg pants, crop pants, or shorts. For even more versatility, a bungee cord at the hem converts the straight-leg pant to jogger style.

With an elastic, belted waistband, the pants are easy to adjust for a secure, comfy fit. The ripstop material is lightweight, breathable, and tear-resistant, so the pants can handle rough terrain. Plus, the fabric is rated UPF 50+ and dries quickly if it gets wet. All of the pants’ six pockets zip or snap shut and are roomy enough to fit a phone.

We also like that the pants are constructed with recycled nylon, so you can feel good about wearing a sustainably made product. We only wish they came in more color options.

Price at time of publication: $139

^{Key Specs:
Material: Recycled nylon, nylon, spandex | Pockets: 6 | Care: Machine wash and dry | Sizes: 0 to 26; petite, regular, tall}