We’ve tested a wide range of hiking pants over the years, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better combination of comfort and performance than with Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi. What we don’t: Doesn’t come with a built-in belt not as around-town-friendly as some. What we like: Standout fabric that's stretchy, breathable, and tough. Best Rain Pant for Hiking: Marmot PreCip Ecoīest Overall Hiking Pant 1.Best Softshell Pant for Alpine Use: Arc'teryx Gamma.Best Convertible Hiking Pant: Kuhl Renegade Convertible.Best Budget Hiking Pant: Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo.Best Overall Hiking Pant: Outdoor Research Ferrosi.Of note: This article includes picks for both men and women, but we’ve also written a dedicated round-up on the best women’s hiking pants. For more information, see our comparison table and buying advice after the picks. Below are our favorite hiking pants of 2023. Depending on the season in which you will be hitting the trails, thickness and breathability matter as well.

In terms of materials, many of today’s top pants are made from lightweight and stretchy nylon for mobility and protection from wet and windy weather, and increasingly come with features like zip-off legs and articulated knees. A great pair of hiking pants offers comfort, freedom of movement, the versatility to perform well in a range of environments, and durability over the long haul.

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