Hiking is that welcome break from the day to day slog and your doorway to nature’s grandeur. It’s a very easy sport to get into but, like any adventure, requires the right gear. When it comes to choosing gear, pants might not be the first thing on your mind. But, the right pair can mean the difference between a comfortable walk in the woods and a struggle day filled with chafing and discomfort. What makes for the best men’s hiking pants? We dove deep into all of the options available to bring you this comprehensive guide. Whether you’re hitting the trails for the first time or looking to upgrade your old pair, we have options and buying advice that is sure to help. Lets gear up and take a look at some of the options we liked best!

Our Top Picks for Best Men’s Hiking Pants

• Best Overall Hiking Pants: KUHL Renegade Rock
• Best Convertible Hiking Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible
• Fastest Drying Hiking Pants: Vuori Meta
• Best Water Resistant Hiking Pants: Patagonia Quandary
• Best Minimalist Hiking Pants: Arc’teryx Gamma
• Most Comfortable Hiking Pants: Outdoor Research Ferrosi
• Best Every Day Hiking Pants: The North Face Wander

Best Overall Men’s Hiking Pants

1. KUHL Renegade Rock Pants

What We Love:

1. The Renegade rock pants are made with DURALUX, a unique blend that’s softer than cotton and way more durable. It’s lightweight and is quick-drying, making them perfect for those unexpected rainy hikes.
2. These pants have a tapered fit, which has just the right balance between comfort and style. They’re not too baggy or too tight, a perfect middle ground.
3. These pants have plenty of pockets, including zippered ones, which come in handy for all your little essentials.

Things to Consider:

1. The material is breathable, so might not be the best choice for extremely cold conditions. We would recommend adding a base layer.
2. They are a little pricey. But for the quality and durability they offer you get what you pay for.

KUHL Renegade Rock Pants are just tough. From weekend hikes to month-long treks, they’ve stood the test of time, terrain, and anything else we threw at them. We especially loved how they performed on rocky terrains, living up to their name.

If you’re in the market for a pair of hiking pants that are both stylish and functional, the KUHL Renegade Rock Pants should be on your radar. While they might not be perfect for every scenario, they come pretty close. It’s clear that KUHL has put a lot of thought into designing these pants. So, if you’re looking to invest in a pair of pants that’ll last you many hikes to come, these might be the right ones for you.

Best Convertible Men’s Hiking Pants

2. REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Features We Loved:

1. With a quick zip, one minute they’re pants and the next they’re shorts. This adaptable design ensures that you’ll be comfortable when chilly mornings turn into hot afternoons.
2. The Co-op Sahara pants are made with a nylon-spandex blend, so they promise durability and comfort. Plus, they are moisture-wicking which is a lifesaver on those sweaty treks.
3. With a UPF 50+ rating, they shield you from harmful UV rays. Meaning less sunscreen on those sunny day hikes.

Things to Consider:

1. While the convertible feature is fantastic, the zippers can sometimes be a little difficult to slide
2. They tend to run a bit on the tight side. If you’re between sizes consider going up for a more relaxed fit.

My pair of REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants have seen a good amount of use. They’ve been put to the test in different terrains and temperatures. Their performance hasn’t dissapointed. They were comfortable in many different weather conditions. The convertible feature is a must if your days start cold but heat up later.

The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants might not be without their small quirks, but their positives heavily outweigh the negatives. They are exactly what a versatile pair of hiking pants should be. Adaptable, durable, and comfortable. If you’re seeking a pair of hiking pants that combines functionality with comfort, these are definitely worth trying out.

Best Quick Drying Hiking Pants

3. Vuori Meta Pants

Features We Love:

1. Made for the modern adventurer its fabric is both tough and comfortable. This means more freedom in movement, whether you’re rock scrambling or grocery shopping.
2. Sooner or later everyone will be caught in a sudden downpour. These pants dry impressively quick, ensuring you’re not left with damp pants for hours.
3. Thoughtfully placed pockets ensure that essentials like your map, compass, wallet or a snack bar are always within reach.

Points of Improvement:

1. Though generally comfortable, some may find the waistband a bit stiff. Don’t worry, within a few wears it tends to fit more comfortably.
2. While the available shades are good, we would love to see even more variety to cater to every hiker’s preference.

Having put the Vuori Meta Pants to the test on numerous trails, we’re pleased with their performance. They’ve held their own against some of the more established brands, offering durability without compromising comfort. The versatility of these pants, ready for both urban outings and outdoor adventures, is particularly commendable.

All in all, the Vuori Meta Pants make a compelling case for themselves. While no gear is without its minor flaws, the positives here far outweigh any negatives. For those in the market for a pair of hiking pants that strike a balance between style and performance, these should definitely be your next buy.

Best Water Resistant Hiking Pants

4. Patagonia Quandary Pants

What We Adore:

1. One of the best features of the Quandary Pants is their ability to offer protection without weighing you down. This is especially noticeable during long treks or climbs over rocky terrain.
2. These pants come with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. While not entirely waterproof they definitely help with the occasional light rain, ensuring you remain dry.
3. These pants also have an impressive UPF 50+ rating. Sunburnt knee’s and calfs are a thing of the past.

Areas For Improvement:

1. Some of you might find the ankle area a bit tight. This is especially noticeable when trying to pull them over hiking boots.
2. Given the Patagonia branding and the quality, they are a bit on the pricier side. However, the durability and performance is enough to justify the investment.

Having taken the Patagonia Quandary Pants on bunch of adventures we’ve come to appreciate their consistent performance. Their durability, even in the most demanding conditions, is amazing. And while we’ve encountered a few minor area’s for improvement, the overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

In the quest for the best men’s hiking pants, the Patagonia Quandary Pants definitely deserve their spot in the mix. They encapsulate what Patagonia stands for: quality, sustainability, and performance. For seasoned hikers or even beginners who are willing to invest in premium gear, these pants are certainly worth considering.

Best Minimalist Hiking Pants

5. The Arc’teryx Gamma Pants

Features That Impress Us Most:

1. These pants are not just designed for one type of terrain. From the dry rocky trails to the wet woodsy trails, the Gamma Pants adjust to all conditions thanks to their adaptive fabric.
2. Rain or shine, these pants will deliver. Their quick-drying capability and wind resistance make them a reliable companion in unpredictable conditions.
3. The aesthetic appeal of the Gamma Pants is in their minimalist design. Functional and stylish for a combination that’s hard to come by in the usual rugged hiking pants.

Areas For Improvement:

1. Quality often comes at a price. While the Arc’teryx Gamma Pants offer exceptional value, the price might be too steep for the occasional hiker.
2. Arc’teryx has a unique sizing chart. You should check the measurements carefully before making a purchase.

Our time with the Arc’teryx Gamma Pants has been nothing short of spectacular. Having tried them on multiple hikes across varying terrains, we’ve put a lot of use into assessing their grit. Their ergonomic design paired with lightweight material ensured comfort, even on the toughest trails.

The Arc’teryx Gamma Pants seamlessly blend functionality with a sophisticated look. While they cater perfectly to the avid hiker, they’re equally at home in urban settings. Making them a nice addition to any wardrobe. Their minor drawbacks are overshadowed by the many benefits we found in them.

Most Comfortable Hiking Pants

6. The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants

What Grabbed Our Attention:

1. Made with a blend of fabrics that allow for ample stretch, the Ferrosi Pants are super comfortable.
2. They are lightweight yet resilient. These pants have breathability without compromising on toughness.
3. These pants have plenty of pockets with a place for everything you need on a hike, bike or stroll. The design of the pockets makes sure all your stuff is secure.

Areas For Improvement:

1. Some have noted that after extensive use and multiple washes the color may fade a bit. We think that can add to the charisma, but some may not like the wear.
2. We found the belt loops a touch narrow for certain heavy-duty belts.

The Ferrosi Pants have been our trusty companions across various terrains and climates. From desert dunes to alpine meadows, we’ve put a lot of use into analyzing their functionality. Their ability to provide unrestrictive movement, especially during challenging climbs, has left us quite impressed.

In Conclusion: There’s a reason the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants often grace the lists of best men’s hiking pants. Their commitment to providing hikers with an experience that marries comfort with function is commendable. While they’re not without their quirks, their strengths are undeniably powerful.

Best Every Day Hiking Pants

7. The North Face Wander Pants

Key Features We Liked:

1. The Wander Pants have a design that effortlessly transitions from rugged trails to casual outings.
2. They are made with a special blend of fabrics so these pants guarantee comfort throughout your day.
3. Synonymous with The North Face brand, these pants offer unmatched resistance against the elements while being impressively durable.

Considerations Before You Buy:

1. For those looking to tackle colder environments, it’s worth noting that the Wander Pants are more geared towards warmer days on the trail.
2. We didn’t have any issues but some reviewers have commented on the stitching around certain areas, suggesting they could benefit from reinforcement.

We like to think every piece of gear has its own story, and the Wander Pants have carved a special chapter in our hiking tales. We love how they handle whatever we throw at them. Whether it be technical terrain or just a casual day outdoors they’ve excelled in keeping us cool and comfortable.

The North Face’s legacy of delivering quality is evident in the Wander Pants. While they have their unique strengths and quirks, it’s hard to deny their rightful spot in our list of the best men’s hiking pants.

Buying Advice: Best Men’s Hiking Pants

Q: What should I look for in hiking pants?

A: Normally, we suggest first considering comfort and fit, and then looking at factors such as material, weight, breathability, and protection against the environment. Above all else, be certain that the pants you choose allow for ease of movement.

Q: Are there any brands that you’d recommend?

A: Brands such as Patagonia, REI, The North Face ,and Arc’teryx top the list of hiking pants that are consistently dependable. Don’t take our word for it though — check out reviews, talk to friends, or head to the store and try them on for yourselves. Remember hiking is about personal preference and only you will know what feels best.

Q: I’ve heard convertible pants are popular among hikers. Should I go for them?

A: Convertible pants are especially popular for those hiking in varying climates. They offer a lot of versatility. But, it boils down to personal preference. If you’re someone who values adaptability, they might be perfect for your next hike. On the flip side. If you don’t like the idea of zippers around your thighs, traditional pants with a pair of shorts in your backpack might be the better option.

Q: Are there any specific models you’d recommend for men and women?

A: We feel strongly that the best pants are those that feel right for you. However, the Arc’teryx Gamma Pants top most lists for men, and most women seem to favor the Patagonia Quandary Pants for their fit and durability.

Q: How important is the price when it comes to hiking pants?

A: Many believe that price is the only indicator of quality, but that isn’t always the case. There are many affordable options available that don’t skimp on quality. When in doubt, we always recommend reading the positive and negative reviews for the pants you are considering.

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Message To Our Readers

When you click on certain links within our blog, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This allows us to continue to bring valuable content to you. We always choose our affiliate partners carefully and for most of our gear we favor REI. REI sells quality gear, clothing, and footwear for outdoor recreation, with all products backed by a 100% guarantee. We’re confident in the quality and integrity of the products that REI offers. Our recommendations are based on our love for the outdoors and the products that enhance your experiences.

Other Expert Takes on Men’s Hiking Pants

The picks above were compiled through market research and the combined decades of experience of Run Climb Explore’s gear testing team. For additional expert opinions on Men’s hiking pants, check out Outdoorgearlab.com The 5 Best Hiking Pants and Switchback Travel Best Hiking Pants of 2023https://www.switchbacktravel.com/best-hiking-pants