In addition, the zippers certainly aren’t the smoothest we tested, and the cheaper materials won’t hold up as well as the more premium designs here. What are the shortcomings of the Columbia Silver Ridge? Despite being reasonably well built for the price, the materials feel relatively thin and don’t provide as much weather protection as some of the pricier options on this list. All in all, we’ve been pleasantly surprised with the performance and comfort of these pants, and the generous storage layout is the cherry on top. Storage isn’t lacking either, including deep and easily accessible hand pockets, three massive cargo pockets (two at the back and one on the right leg), and a zippered security pocket on the left thigh. Offered at a reasonable $60 and often available for considerably less on Amazon, these pants perform well with breathable and quick-drying fabrics (this also makes them popular among travelers). What we don’t: Awkward fit and materials won’t last forever.įor casual hiking and even summer backpacking, the Columbia Silver Ridge is a great value in a hiking pant. What we like: Great value and lots of pockets breathes well in the heat. Materials: 100% nylon, polyester mesh panels See the Men's Outdoor Research Ferrosi See the Women's Outdoor Research Ferrosiīest Budget Hiking Pant 2. Of note: The Ferrosi line has expanded recently and now includes a convertible option, jogger and travel variations, and the climbing-ready climbing-ready Crux Pant that features reinforced Cordura on the knees. That said, for hitting the backcountry, it’s as good as it gets on the market currently. Additionally, the thin fabric and basic pocket layout make the Ferrosi less appealing than alternatives like the prAna Stretch Zion II below for everyday wear and travel. First off, you don’t get a built-in belt, and the drawstrings along the inside of the waistband are a less effective solution (they’re harder to quickly access and adjust if you need to tighten or loosen the fit). The Ferrosi takes our top hiking pants spot for 2023, but we do have a couple nitpicks with the design. It’s worth noting that the Ferrosi was recently updated, with highlights including a bump in sustainability-the fabric is now bluesign-approved and 46% recycled-but the winning formula has gone largely unchanged for years, which is a good thing. In addition, it excels at temperature regulation: We’ve found it’s tough enough to cut the wind and shed light rain but dries quickly and breathes when the thermometer starts to climb. Featuring the brand’s signature Ferrosi Fabric, this semi-trim-fitting pant provides an excellent mix of weight, durability, stretch, and all-around mobility. 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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