AdventureiteBest Hiking Pants for Men 2025 Shopping Guide
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For years, we were die-hard shorts hikers until we realized how much better hiking pants can be. The first surprise was how much they cut down on insect bites and sunburn. The second was moving to New Mexico, where thorny plants and harsh sun can turn even shorts hikes into a scratchy, sun-baked ordeal. Like a good sun hat, hiking pants feel like a necessity that we always bring in our packs. The right pair keeps you comfortable, protected, and moving freely in any terrain.
Whether you are navigating rocky scrambles, crossing streams, or hiking under a blazing summer sun, the right hiking pants help you focus on the adventure and not your outfit. We have tested and researched some of the top-rated options available now, combining our own trail experience with community feedback and expert reviews. This list covers every style and budget so you can find your perfect match.
tldr; The Best Overall Hiking Pants For Men
Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Pants The Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants are the perfect all-around softshell stretch pant. With water-resistant UPF 50+ material that is lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, there isn’t a trail they can’t conquer. Features movement mirroring stretch, articulated knees, a gusseted crotch, and multiple pocket options. Built to perform from the approach to the climb, these pants are your next hiking companion.
Key Features to Look For in Men’s Hiking Pants
- Fabric Performance – Breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying materials like nylon blends are ideal.
- Weather Protection – UPF sun protection, water-resistant coatings, and some wind-blocking ability are worth having.
- Mobility & Comfort – Stretch fabrics, articulated knees, and gusseted crotches improve range of motion.
- Versatility – Convertible zip-off legs or roll-up tabs help you adapt to temperature changes.
- Durability – Reinforced knees and abrasion-resistant fabrics extend the life of your pants.
- Special Features – Insect-repellent treatments, odor control, and sustainable fabrics are great extras.
- Fit & Sizing – Tall, short, and extended sizes ensure a better fit right out of the box.
Our Top Picks by Category
Best Overall Performance: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants
Breathable, stretchy, and abrasion-resistant, the Ferrosi Pants are a trusted choice for everything from desert trails to high alpine routes. The fabric blend offers weather resistance without feeling restrictive, and the waistband is soft against the skin even under a pack hip belt. Buy Here ➡️
Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Pants The Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants are the perfect all-around softshell stretch pant. With water-resistant UPF 50+ material that is lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, there isn’t a trail they can’t conquer. Features movement mirroring stretch, articulated knees, a gusseted crotch, and multiple pocket options. Built to perform from the approach to the climb, these pants are your next hiking companion.
Pros:
- Excellent breathability and stretch for all-day comfort.
- Wind- and water-resistant, dries quickly.
- Soft waistband and articulated knees for mobility.
- Made with recycled materials and bluesign®-approved fabric.
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof.
- Mid-weight fabric may feel warm in extreme heat.
Best Value / Budget-Friendly: Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pant
A lightweight, affordable staple for summer hikes, the Silver Ridge Cargo pants offer impressive UPF 50+ sun protection and moisture-wicking ripstop nylon fabric. Multiple cargo pockets add plenty of storage for maps, snacks, and small gear. Buy Here ➡️
Columbia Sportswear Silver Ridge Cargo Pant Advanced Omni-Wick® technology wicks sweat and breathes beautifully, while Omni-Shade® UPF 50 provides enough sun protection to be recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Elastic waistband inserts at either side create the perfect fit without restricting. A buffet of multi-functional pockets keep your essentials secure. Active fit.
Pros:
- Affordable price point with great value.
- Lightweight, breathable, quick-drying ripstop nylon.
- UPF 50+ sun protection.
- Multiple roomy pockets.
Cons:
- Thinner fabric can snag or tear on rugged trails.
- Fit can run large in the waist and may require a belt.
Best for Ultralight Hiking: Rab Incline Light
If you want the light pants without sacrificing performance, the Rab Incline Light is a standout. Built from Rab’s Matrix fabric with a DWR finish, they are made for warm weather hiking where weight and packability matter. Buy Here ➡️
Rab Men's Incline Hiking Pants For those days that might involve everything from bushwhacking to exposed ridgelines to summit scrambles, the Rab Men’s Incline Pants can handle it all. A tough, midweight softshell face fabric is burly enough to handle the most rugged adventures without weighing you down. Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch give you the freedom to move while you're out and about, and the highly-breathable design helps you keep cool on hot days. Technical enough to wear for any hike or multi-day trip yet casual enough to wear around town, the Incline is guaranteed to be your new go-to for any day out.
Pros:
- Very lightweight and highly packable.
- Excellent ventilation and moisture-wicking.
- Stretchy Matrix fabric moves easily with you.
- DWR finish sheds light rain.
Cons:
- Less abrasion-resistant than heavier hiking pants.
- Minimal insulation and best for warm conditions.
Best Convertible Option: Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible
This convertible version of Columbia’s popular hiking pant offers the same lightweight ripstop nylon fabric, UPF 50+ protection, and moisture-wicking comfort, but with zip-off legs for flexibility in warm weather. Buy Here ➡️
Columbia Men's Silver Ridge Convertible Pant Ridge Convertible Trousers are made from 100% nylon. Features are: Omni-Shade Up 50 Sun Protection. Omni-wick. Partially elasticated waistband. Adjustable outer belt. Zippered security pocket. Zippered legs convert pants to 10" length, gusset detail, straight leg and regular fit.
Pros:
- Zip-off legs for instant conversion to shorts.
- UPF 50+ sun protection and quick-dry performance.
- Plenty of pockets for gear and essentials.
- Affordable and widely available on Amazon.
Cons:
- Zippers can feel bulky around the knees.
- Fabric is thin and less durable for bushwhacking.
Best for Rugged Terrain: Arc’teryx Gamma Pants
Designed for technical trails, climbing approaches, and rough terrain, the Gamma Pants offer softshell durability and weather resistance in a streamlined fit. Buy Here ➡️
Arc'teryx Gamma Pant Men's Lightweight, durable softshell pants designed for a range of outdoor activities. Technical Features - Moisture-resistant outer face fabric - Lightweight - Durable Construction - Stretchy fabric provides freedom of movement - Hardwearing Fortius 2.0 softshell fabric has increased warmth to weight ratio and durability with wind resistance and a DWR finish Cuff & Sleeves Configuration
Pros:
- Excellent abrasion resistance.
- Weather-resistant softshell fabric.
- Built-in belt and articulated fit.
- Long-lasting durability.
Cons:
- High price point.
- Heavier and warmer than ultralight pants.
Best for Buggy or Tropical Areas: Craghoppers Men’s Insect Shield Adventure Pant III
These pants combine lightweight hiking comfort with built-in Insect Shield® permethrin treatment that lasts the life of the garment. Ideal for buggy trails, tropical destinations, or anywhere insect-borne illnesses are a concern. Buy Here ➡️
Craghoppers Men's Insect Shield Pro Pant III Lightweight, stretch trail pants for men that are ideal for warm, summer weather with added protection from bugs and sun. Quick-dry Nylon material with a touch of stretch for exceptional mobility, easy wear, and durable protection. SolarShield fabric treatment provides UPF40+ to product from harmful UV rays.
Pros:
- Built-in permethrin insect protection.
- Lightweight and breathable for hot-weather hiking.
- Provides sun protection along with bug defense.
- Durable enough for long-term use.
Cons:
- Requires special care to maintain treatment effectiveness.
- Higher price point than untreated pants.
Best Jogger-Style Hiking Pants: Baleaf Lightweight Hiking Pants
Amazon’s best-selling hiking joggers, these pants balance casual style with trail-ready performance. They are quick-drying, breathable, and have adjustable cuffs for a secure fit. Buy Here ➡️
baleaf Men's Hiking Pants made of water-resistant, quick-dry, and lightweight fabric that keeps you dry and protected from light rain and stains. UPF 50+ fabric shields you from harmful UVA/UVB rays, helps you get ready for hiking, camping, running or casual work.
Pros:
- Lightweight jogger style transitions from trail to town.
- Breathable, stretchy, and quick-drying.
- UPF protection for sunny hikes.
- Affordable and highly rated.
Cons:
- Not as abrasion-resistant as heavy-duty hiking pants.
- Slim fit may not work for all body types.
Comparison Table
| Pants | Fabric | Weight | UPF | Convertible? | Sizes | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi | Recycled Nylon/Spandex | — | — | No | XS–3XL | $$ | All-around |
| Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo | Ripstop Nylon | ~11 oz | 50+ | No | S–XXL | $ | Budget |
| Rab Incline Light | Matrix Nylon | ~8.4 oz | — | No | XS–XXL | $$ | Ultralight |
| Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible | Ripstop Nylon | ~12 oz | 50+ | Yes | S–XXL | $ | Convertible |
| Arc’teryx Gamma | Nylon/Elastane Softshell | 12.5 oz | — | No | XS–XXL | $$$ | Rugged terrain |
| Craghoppers Insect Shield Adventure Pant III | Nylon Blend | — | Yes | No | S–XXL | $$ | Bug/tropical |
| Baleaf Lightweight Hiking Pants | Polyester/Spandex | — | Yes | No | S–XXL | $ | Jogger style |
How We Chose These Pants
We tested pants in varied conditions from desert heat in New Mexico to chilly alpine mornings and compared our findings with trusted gear reviewers and customer feedback. Our picks balance performance, comfort, and value, with bonus points for sustainability, inclusive sizing, and availability on Amazon.
Sustainability & Ethical Choices
Look for pants made with recycled materials, bluesign-approved fabrics, or fair trade certifications. A well-made pair can last years, reducing waste and your environmental impact.
Fit & Sizing Notes
Many of these brands offer short, tall, and extended sizes, which makes a big difference in comfort and performance. Several also provide more accessible sizing options, including a wider range of waist and inseam combinations so hikers can find a fit without heavy alterations. Columbia, Baleaf, and Craghoppers in particular have inclusive ranges up to 3XL and multiple inseam lengths. Outdoor Research and Rab provide consistent fits in both slim and standard profiles.
Check sizing charts carefully. Some fits run slim such as Arc’teryx and Baleaf, while others are more relaxed like Columbia and Craghoppers.
Conclusion & Call to Action
A great pair of hiking pants is an investment in your comfort and performance on the trail. Whether you need rugged durability, ultralight packability, or versatile trail-to-town style, the right fit is here.
We would love to hear your go-to hiking pants, so share them in the comments. And do not forget to follow Adventureite on social media and share this guide with your hiking friends.
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By Summer and Bill
Summer and Bill are the dynamic duo behind Adventureite.com, a blog dedicated to inspiring others to explore the great outdoors. With a combined lifetime of experience traveling and adventuring across America, they have a wealth of knowledge to share. From hiking to camping, kayaking to travel, Summer and Bill are passionate about helping others discover the beauty of the natural world.