When it comes to women’s hiking pants, the right pair should offer comfort, durability, flexibility, and protection from the elements. Whether you’re trekking through rugged terrain or enjoying a casual day hike, having reliable hiking pants is essential. Here are some of the top brands that manufacture women’s hiking pants, including options made in the USA:
8 Best Women’s Hiking Pants
1. Patagonia
Patagonia is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and high-quality outdoor gear. Their women’s hiking pants, like the Quandary Pants and Simul Alpine Pants, are designed with lightweight, durable fabrics that offer flexibility and breathability. While not all Patagonia gear is made in the USA, the brand is renowned for its ethical manufacturing practices and use of recycled materials. The Happy Hike Studio Pants are a popular choice for comfort and versatility on the trail.
2. Prana
Prana focuses on creating sustainable, eco-friendly outdoor apparel. Their women’s hiking pants, such as the Halle Pants, are crafted from durable, stretchy fabric that moves with you on the trail. While Prana’s products are not exclusively made in the USA, the company emphasizes ethical production and sustainability. The Halle Pants feature a water-repellent finish and articulated knees, making them perfect for both casual hikes and more intense excursions.
3. Kuhl
Kuhl offers a range of rugged and functional women’s hiking pants that are designed for outdoor performance. The Durango Pants and Splash Roll-Up Pants are popular options, featuring durable stretch fabric, UPF protection, and quick-dry technology. Kuhl is known for its thoughtful design, including features like roll-up legs and reinforced knees, which make their pants versatile for various weather conditions and terrains. While not all of their products are made in the USA, Kuhl maintains a high standard of quality and outdoor functionality.
4. Outdoor Research
Outdoor Research creates technical outdoor clothing designed for harsh environments, and their women’s hiking pants are no exception. The Ferrosi Pants are highly regarded for their durability, lightweight feel, and weather resistance. Designed to handle tough trails and variable weather, these pants offer excellent mobility, breathability, and abrasion resistance. Outdoor Research focuses on performance and protection, making them a go-to choice for serious hikers and adventurers.
5. Columbia Sportswear
Columbia is a trusted name in outdoor gear, offering affordable and durable options for women hikers. The Saturday Trail™ Stretch Pants and Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants are both top choices, providing moisture-wicking fabric, sun protection (UPF 50), and stretchy materials for comfort on long hikes. The convertible pants allow for quick adjustments during changing weather conditions by easily converting into shorts. Columbia is known for creating versatile, reliable gear that performs well in various environments.
6. Topo Designs
Topo Designs, an American company based in Colorado, manufactures some of its outdoor apparel domestically, and their hiking pants are no exception. With a commitment to creating durable, functional outdoor gear with classic styling, Topo Designs offers pants like the Women’s Dirt Pants. Made from organic cotton with a bit of stretch for comfort, these pants are suitable for light hiking and casual outdoor activities. They’re designed for versatility and durability, making them a good option for eco-conscious adventurers.
7. Filson
Filson, a brand that specializes in rugged, American-made outdoor gear, produces high-quality hiking pants designed to withstand the harshest conditions. Although they are primarily known for their men’s apparel, Filson offers women’s outdoor pants as well. The Filson Women’s Scout Pants are made from tough fabric designed for durability and comfort in the wild. While not every product in their lineup is made in the USA, Filson is known for producing long-lasting, reliable outdoor wear.
8. Mountain Khakis
Mountain Khakis is another outdoor brand offering durable hiking pants for women. While not all of their products are made in the USA, their emphasis on rugged, high-quality gear is reflected in the design of their pants. The Women’s Trail Pant and Granite Creek Convertible Pant are great options for both lightweight hiking and more intense adventures. These pants offer moisture-wicking properties, sun protection, and quick-dry fabrics, making them excellent for multi-day hikes and changing weather conditions.
What to Look for in Women’s Hiking Pants
When choosing the best hiking pants for women, consider the following features:
- Durability: Look for materials like nylon or a nylon-spandex blend for strength and flexibility.
- Comfort & Fit: Pants should offer a comfortable fit with stretch to accommodate movement. Articulated knees or gusseted designs can enhance flexibility.
- Water-Resistant/Wicking Fabrics: Pants with moisture-wicking or water-resistant properties will keep you dry and comfortable during unpredictable weather or sweaty hikes.
- Convertible Options: Convertible pants that zip off into shorts can be helpful on hikes where the weather may fluctuate.
- UPF Protection: Many hiking pants offer built-in UPF sun protection, which is especially useful for long days on exposed trails.
By choosing from the best brands and looking for pants with key features like durability, stretch, and protection from the elements, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. Whether you are looking for hiking gear, for example footwear, GPS watches, handheld GPS, trekking poles, pants we have the top recommendations for you.
