Hiking is a popular outdoor activity that allows you to explore nature, get some exercise, and enjoy fresh air. Having the right hiking gear, especially a good pair of hiking pants, can make your hikes much more comfortable and enjoyable. Women’s hiking pants are designed specifically with the female hiker in mind, offering features like a tapered fit, articulated knees, and stretch fabric.

When shopping for women’s hiking pants, there are a few key factors to consider:

Fit
A proper fit is crucial for comfort and mobility on the trail. Look for pants that are form-fitting but not too tight or restrictive. Key areas to evaluate are the waistband, rise, thigh, knee articulation, and leg opening. Pants with a gusseted crotch also allow greater range of motion.

Fabric
Synthetic, abrasion-resistant fabrics like nylon and polyester blends work best. Look for pants made of quick-dry material that wick moisture and dry fast. Soft, stretchy fabrics add comfort while ripstop construction makes them durable.

Features
Handy features like zippered pockets, utility loops, adjustable waist tabs, and roll-up leg snaps add function. UPF sun protection, water-repellent
finishes, and reinforced knees/seat are also useful.

Climate
Consider the conditions you’ll be hiking in. Lightweight pants work for warm weather while softshell and insulated pants provide warmth in cold weather. Convertible pants offer versatility for variable conditions.

Price
Hiking pants range in price from $50 to over $200. In general, expect to pay more for greater durability, technical features, and weather resistance. Sales can help you find deals on quality pants.

With these factors in mind, we’ve put together this list of the best hiking pants for women in 2023:

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Reviews of best hiking pants for women in 2023

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants

The North Face Women's Aphrodite 2.0 Pants
  • Lightweight and breathable woven 86% nylon, 14% elastane fabric.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Partially elastic waistband with belt loops and zippered hand pockets.
  • Roll-up leg snaps to convert into capris.
  • Relaxed fit through hips and thighs avoid restrictive feel.

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants are a tried and true favorite among female hikers and backpackers. Built from durable, quick-drying nylon with stretch for mobility, they provide UPF 50 protection from the sun. The relaxed fit is flattering and comfortable for active pursuits like hiking, climbing, and travel. Large hand pockets hold small essentials while roll-up leg snaps allow you to adjust to changing temps. These do-it-all outdoor pants represent a great value for the performance features.

Pros

  • Durable yet comfortable woven fabric.
  • UPF sun protection.
  • Relaxed fit allows a free range of motion.
  • Zippered hand pockets for storage.
  • Roll-up snaps convert to capris

Cons

  • Only come in basic colors.
  • Don’t have reinforced knees.
  • Limited weather protection.

Bottom Line

For warm weather hiking and general outdoor wear, the North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants offer versatility, breathability, and protection at an affordable price point. They make a great choice for easy day hikes and travel.

prAna Halle Pants

prAna Halle Pants
  • Stretch Zion fabric (97% nylon, 3% spandex) is durable and moisture-wicking.
  • Gusseted inseam allows unrestricted movement.
  • Roll-up leg snaps convert to capris.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Bluesign certified eco-friendly production.

Made from prAna’s signature Stretch Zion fabric, the Halle pants are abrasion resistant while offering comfortable four-way stretch. They hold up to tough hiking and climbing activities while wicking moisture to keep you cool and dry. The gusseted crotch eliminates binding when taking big strides. With UPF 50 protection, utility pockets, and a flattering fit, these rugged yet stylish pants are ideal for backcountry adventures. Bluesign certified construction makes them an eco-friendly option.

Pros

  • Durable nylon fabric with spandex stretch.
  • Unrestricted mobility from gusseted inseam.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Bluesign approved eco-friendly production.
  • Roll-up leg snaps for capris option.

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than other hiking pants.
  • Only two color options.
  • Price is on the higher end.

Bottom Line

For female hikers seeking a durable, stretchy, and sustainable pant, the versatile Halle from prAna is a top performer. They offer outstanding mobility along with sun protection for active pursuits.

Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants

Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi Pants
  • 86% nylon, 14% spandex soft shell fabric.
  • Water and wind resistant yet breathable.
  • Elastic waist with belt loops and zip cargo pockets.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Relaxed fit in hips and thighs.

The Ferrosi pants from Outdoor Research deliver soft shell performance in a stretchy, lightweight package. Abrasion-resistant 86% nylon blended with spandex stretches in all directions for unimpeded mobility. Durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps water bead up and roll off the pants. Partial elastic waist, gusseted crotch, and articulated knees further enhance movement. With UPF 50 protection and zippered cargo pockets, these do-it-all soft shell pants transition from hiking trails to daily wear.

Pros

  • Soft shell fabric provides weather resistance.
  • Four-way stretch allows full range of motion.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Zippered cargo pockets fit small essentials.
  • Flattering relaxed fit.

Cons

  • Not fully windproof or waterproof.
  • Must reapply DWR treatment over time.
  • Only hip belt loops for no backpack waist belt.

Bottom Line
Blending comfortable stretch fabric and weather protection, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi pants offer versatility for hiking, climbing, travel, and everyday wear. Their well-designed features and relaxed fit complement an active lifestyle.

Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants

Arc'teryx Gamma LT Pants
  • Nylon soft shell fabric with durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
  • GORE-TEX fabric provides waterproof protection.
  • Athletic relaxed fit allows freedom of movement.
  • Elastic waistband with adjustable belt.
  • Two hand pockets, two thigh pockets.

Designed for alpine pursuits, the Arc’teryx Gamma LT pants provide soft shell weather protection in a stretchy, breathable package. The main body uses FortiusTM 1.0 soft shell fabric treated with DWR to repel moisture while remaining air permeable. Strategically placed GORE-TEX INFINIUMTM panels add lightweight weatherproofing at the seat and knees. These technical hiking and climbing pants allow freedom of movement while keeping you dry in wet conditions.

Pros

  • Durable water repellent soft shell fabric.
  • GORE-TEX knee and seat panels for weatherproofing.
  • Athletic relaxed fit won’t impede motion.
  • Easy-adjust waistbelt and belt loops.
  • Zippered thigh and hand pockets.

Cons

  • Expensive price tag.
  • GORE-TEX panels add some stiffness.
  • Limited high-visibility color options.

Bottom Line
With strategically placed weatherproof GORE-TEX panels, the Arc’teryx Gamma LT pants handle wet terrain and conditions while offering impressive comfort and mobility. Their technical design makes them ideal for backcountry hiking, climbing, and skiing. The premium price reflects outstanding construction quality and materials.

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pants

Mountain Hardwear Dynama Pants
  • 88% nylon, 12% elastane woven fabric.
  • Durable water repellent (DWR) finish.
  • Straight fit through hips and thighs.
  • Hidden waist stash pocket.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.

The Mountain Hardwear Dynama pants blend the comfort of stretch woven fabric with weather resistance for hiking and everyday outdoor wear. The quick-drying nylon blend has a DWR finish to repel moisture while allowing great freedom of movement thanks to its elastane content. The straight fit sits close to the body without impeding mobility. Features include zippered hand and thigh pockets along with a hidden inner waist stash pocket. As an added bonus, they provide UPF 50 sun protection.

Pros

  • DWR-treated woven stretch fabric.
  • Straight athletic fit.
  • Hidden inner waist pocket.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Budget-friendly price.

Cons

  • Limited color selection.
  • Not fully waterproof.
  • Thigh pockets are on the small side.

Bottom Line
Offering performance features like stretch fabric, moisture resistance, and UPF 50 sun protection, the Mountain Hardwear Dynama pants are ideal for hiking, climbing, and outdoor activities. Their combination of function, fit, and value make them a women’s hiking pant worth considering.

Columbia Saturday Trail II Pants

Columbia Saturday Trail II Pants
  • 100% nylon mesh fabric.
  • Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Omni-Wick moisture wicking technology.
  • Built-in belt, elastic waist with drawcord.
  • Zip-off legs convert to shorts.

The Saturday Trail II pants from Columbia deliver cooling comfort and convenience for hiking on sunny days. Made from featherweight nylon mesh, they dry extremely fast while pulling moisture away from the skin via Omni-Wick treatment. Omni-Shade UPF 50 blocks harmful solar radiation. The zip-off leg design converts them into shorts in warmer conditions. Stash pocket, utility loop, and adjustable built-in belt offer functionality.

Pros

  • Ultra lightweight nylon mesh construction.
  • Zip-off legs easily convert to shorts.
  • Built-in belt for customized fit.
  • UPF 50 sun protection.
  • Budget-friendly price point.

Cons

  • Mesh fabric is delicate and prone to snags.
  • No reinforced knees.
  • Minimal weather protection.

Bottom Line
As a versatile zip-off pant with cooling comfort and sun protection, the Columbia Saturday Trail II works great for summer hiking and warm weather adventures. The ability to convert them into shorts makes them extremely adaptable.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights
  • 88% polyamide, 12% elastane fabric.
  • G-1000 Eco stretch fabric with durable water repellent finish.
  • UPF 50+ sun protection factor.
  • Reinforced knees and ankles.
  • Flatlock seams minimize chafing.

Specifically designed for trekking in changeable weather, the Abisko tights from Fjallraven combine rugged construction with comfortable stretch. The main G-1000 Eco fabric is tightly woven from recycled polyamide and organic cotton, providing wind resistance and breathability. Stretch synthetic panels and articulated knees allow complete freedom of movement. With UPF 50+ protection and reinforced ankle cuffs, these technical tights are equally suited to light trails or alpine terrain. The flattering fit also makes them a favorite for everyday wear.

Pros

  • Tough yet stretchy eco-friendly fabric.
  • Durable water repellent (DWR) treatment.
  • UPF 50+ sun protection.
  • Reinforced knees and ankles.
  • Flatlock seams prevent chafing.

Cons

  • Expensive price tag.
  • Bottoms can ride up over time.
  • Limited color selection.

Bottom Line
Offering a premium blend of performance, protection, and eco-conscious materials, the Fjallraven Abisko trekking tights excel in colder conditions. Their technical design features make them a top choice for serious hikers and backpackers.

What to Wear Hiking Pants For

Once you invest in a quality pair of women’s hiking pants, you can wear them for a wide range of activities beyond just hitting the trails. Some of the uses for women’s hiking pants include:

  • Day hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Trekking
  • Climbing
  • Trail running
  • Walking and urban use
  • Travel and outdoor recreation
  • Work and everyday wear

Having pants that transition seamlessly from the trailhead to the town makes hiking pants useful beyond just outdoor pursuits. Their comfort, durability, and functionality translate well for errands, casual office wear, and daily use.

Many of the best hiking pants for women utilize versatile features like zip-off legs, DWR coatings, and UPF protection. This adaptability allows you to modify them depending on the conditions and activity.

Features to Look For in Women’s Hiking Pants

To meet the demands of an active hiking lifestyle, women’s pants offer useful features that enhance performance, protection, and functionality. Here are some key features to look for when evaluating hiking pants:

Abrasion Resistance

Hiking involves scrambling over rocks and rubbing against vegetation, so abrasion-resistant fabric is crucial for durability. Nylon blends resist tears and withstand abrasions better than cotton.

Stretch Fabric

Some percentage of stretchy fabric like spandex makes hiking pants more comfortable, improves mobility, and allows them to better contour to body shape.

Moisture Wicking

Quick-dry treatments cause moisture to disperse across fabric instead of soak in. This is important for staying dry from sweat, rain, and dew brush.

UPF Sun Protection

Ultraviolet protection factors (UPF) block the sun’s harmful radiation, preventing sunburns. UPF 50 is recommended for extended outdoor activity.

Insect Shield Treatment

Some pants are pre-treated with EPA-registered insect repellents like permethrin to fend off ticks, mosquitoes, and other bugs.

Water Repellent Finishes

Durable water repellent (DWR) coatings make water bead up and roll off the fabric while maintaining breathability. However, DWR finishes require occasional restoration.

Convertible Zip-Off Legs

Legs that zip off quickly convert pants to shorts in warmer weather, adding ventilation and versatility.

Roll-Up Leg Snaps

When it’s hot, pants can be rolled up and snapped in place to make capri length. This allows more airflow to cool down.

Cargo & Utility Pockets

Zippered side leg pockets and back pockets provide accessible storage for items you need close at hand like phone, compass, snacks, wallet, keys, etc.

Reinforced Knees

Strategic use of abrasion-resistant fabrics over the knees prevents premature wear and tearing in these high-friction areas.

Articulated Knees

Pants shaped with pre-bent knees mirror the body’s natural range of motion, preventing binding and improve mobility.

Gusseted Crotch

A diamond-shaped insert in the crotch eliminates stress points and allows greater freedom of movement in the hips and groin.

Partial Elastic Waistband

Adding stretch panels to just the back half of the waist prevents gaping in front when bending yet allows comfortable flexing.

Adjustable Waist Tabs

Customize fit at the waist with small velcro, button, or snap tabs on the sides or back of the waistband.

Belt Loops

Belt loops allow you to add a belt for a more secure fit and to distribute weight better if carrying a pack.

Hiking Pant Fabric Technologies

The fabric is the foundation of performance for hiking pants. Technical fabrics blended from different materials deliver beneficial properties. Here are some key technical fabrics used in hiking pants:

Nylon – Extremely durable, abrasion-resistant, and quick drying. The most common fabric blended into hiking pants.

Spandex/Elastane – Provides four-way stretch for maximum mobility and comfort. Blended in small percentages into nylon.

Soft Shell – Tightly woven but stretchy fabric with DWR coating that resists wind and light moisture while remaining breathable.

UPF Fabrics – Tight weave construction blocks ultraviolet rays for sun protection. Ratings of UPF 50+ recommended.

Treated Polyester – Dries quickly and resists pilling and shrinkage. Often blended with other fabrics for performance.

Organic Cotton – Breathable and comfortable but not as durable as synthetics. Often blended with polyester or nylon.

Merino Wool – Natural fabric that provides warmth and wicks moisture but less durable. Better for cooler weather.

GORE-TEX – Waterproof yet breathable membrane fabric for weatherproof areas like knees and seat. More expensive.

Consider the primary activity and conditions to select pants with the optimal fabric technology. Synthetic blends prevail for their performance and quick drying properties.

Caring for Your Hiking Pants

Investing in quality hiking pants represents a significant apparel purchase. Follow these care tips to get the most longevity out of your pants and keep them performing at their best:

  • Check washing instructions. Most hiking pants are machine washable but may need washing in cold water, gentle cycle, and air or line drying.
  • Wash pants after each use. Salt, dirt, and sweat can abrade fabrics if left on.
  • Treat stains promptly. Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Don’t use fabric softener or bleach.
  • Restore DWR treatment. Washing removes durable water repellent coating over time. Restore water resistance with wash-in or spray-on treatments.
  • Avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets. They leave residues that negate moisture wicking and breathability.
  • Hang up pants between uses. Allowing them to air out prevents odors from sweat and bacterial buildup.
  • Patch holes or tears promptly. Use an adhesive patch kit or sewing repair kit to fix minor rips before they spread.
  • Store pants properly when not in use. Fold loosely and keep in cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

With proper care and maintenance, a quality pair of hiking pants can deliver years of performance through all your adventures.

Conclusion

When selecting hiking pants, consider when and how you plan to use them. Look for abrasion resistance, breathable and quick-drying fabrics, and details like gusseted crotch, UPF protection, and cargo pockets that enhance performance on the trail. Test different brands and fits to find your optimal pair – the more comfortable you are, the better your hike will be. With proper care, high-quality hiking pants can deliver lasting performance through all your outdoor adventures.

Alexendra

"Hello, I'm Alexandra, a seasoned hiker with over a decade of experience exploring the great outdoors. My love for hiking was sparked on the Appalachian Trail, and since then, I've embarked on numerous hiking adventures, from dense forests to towering peaks. I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and expertise through HikingCare.com to help hikers of all levels make the most of their outdoor experiences."