When it comes to hiking, having the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience. While many hikers focus on choosing the right footwear and backpack, one often overlooked item is hiking leggings. Hiking leggings offer a versatile and practical alternative to traditional hiking pants, providing comfort, flexibility, and protection in various terrains and weather conditions.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 hiking leggings available on the market. We will delve into the factors to consider when buying hiking leggings, including material and fabric technology, fit and comfort, durability, moisture-wicking capabilities, sun protection, and storage options. By understanding these key features, you can make an informed decision and select the perfect pair of leggings for your hiking adventures.

Factors to Consider When Buying Hiking Leggings

When buying hiking leggings, there are a few factors you should consider:

Material and Fabric Technology

The material of your hiking leggings is important for both comfort and performance. Some popular materials for hiking leggings include:

Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fabric that is lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking. It is a good choice for most types of hiking.
Spandex: Spandex is a synthetic fabric that is stretchy and comfortable. It is often added to nylon to make it more comfortable and to improve its stretch.
Merino wool: Merino wool is a natural fiber that is soft, warm, and odor-resistant. It is a good choice for hiking in cold weather.

Fit and Comfort

Your hiking leggings should fit snugly but not too tight. They should also be comfortable and not restrict your movement. You may want to try on a few different pairs before you buy to find the perfect fit.

female sporty jogger climbing stones 1 — Image by Freepik

Durability and Longevity

Your hiking leggings should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of hiking. They should be made from a strong fabric that will not easily tear or rip. You may also want to look for leggings with reinforced seams.

Moisture-Wicking and Breathability

Your hiking leggings should be moisture-wicking and breathable. This will help to keep you cool and comfortable while you hike. Look for leggings that are made from fabrics that are designed to wick away sweat and moisture.

Sun Protection

If you are hiking in sunny weather, you will need to choose leggings that offer sun protection. Look for leggings that are made from fabrics that have a UPF rating of 30 or higher.

Pockets and Storage

If you need to carry gear with you on your hike, you will need to choose leggings with pockets. Look for leggings with at least two side pockets and one back pocket.

Top 10 Hiking Leggings and Pants Reviews

1: Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights

The Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking leggings. They are made from a blend of recycled polyester and spandex, which makes them both durable and breathable. The leggings have a high-rise waist that provides a comfortable and supportive fit, and they have a flattering, tapered leg. They also have two side pockets for storing small items.

The Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, yoga, and Pilates. They are also machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and breathable
High-rise waist for a comfortable and supportive fit
Flattering, tapered leg
Two side pockets for storing small items
Machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
Not as warm as some other hiking leggings

Overall, the Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking leggings. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

2: The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are made from a blend of recycled nylon and spandex, which makes them both durable and breathable. The pants have a high-rise waist that provides a comfortable and supportive fit, and they have a flattering, tapered leg. They also have two side pockets and a back pocket for storing small items.

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, yoga, and Pilates. They are also machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and breathable
High-rise waist for a comfortable and supportive fit
Flattering, tapered leg
Three pockets for storing small items
Machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
Not as warm as some other hiking pants

Overall, The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

3: Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants

The Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are made from a blend of nylon and spandex, which makes them both durable and breathable. The pants have a relaxed fit that allows for plenty of movement, and they have two side pockets and a back pocket for storing small items.

The Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, yoga, and Pilates. They are also machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and breathable
Relaxed fit for plenty of movement
Three pockets for storing small items
Machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant
Affordable

Cons:

Not as warm as some other hiking pants

Overall, the Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants for a variety of activities. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

4: REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants

The REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are made from a blend of recycled nylon and spandex, which makes them both durable and breathable. The pants have a relaxed fit that allows for plenty of movement, and they have two side pockets and a back pocket for storing small items. The legs can be zipped off to convert them into shorts, making them a great option for warm-weather hiking.

The REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, yoga, and Pilates. They are also machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and breathable
Relaxed fit for plenty of movement
Three pockets for storing small items
Legs can be zipped off to convert to shorts
Machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant

Cons:

Not as warm as some other hiking pants

Overall, the REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants for a variety of activities. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

5: Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants

The Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are made from a durable, water-resistant, and breathable fabric that is perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, and climbing. The pants have a relaxed fit that allows for plenty of movement, and they have two side pockets and a back pocket for storing small items.

The Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants are perfect for a variety of activities, making them a great choice for women who are looking for a versatile pair of pants. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and water-resistant
Breathable
Relaxed fit for plenty of movement
Three pockets for storing small items
Machine-washable

Cons:

Not as warm as some other hiking pants

Overall, the Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Pants are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of hiking pants. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

6: Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings

The Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of leggings. They are made from a durable, breathable, and stretchy fabric that is perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, and yoga. The leggings have a high-rise waist that provides a comfortable and supportive fit, and they have two thigh pockets for storing small items.

The Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings are perfect for a variety of activities, making them a great choice for women who are looking for a versatile pair of leggings. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them easy to care for.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings:

Pros:

Comfortable and versatile
Durable and breathable
Stretchy fabric
High-rise waist for a comfortable and supportive fit
Two thigh pockets for storing small items
Machine-washable

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
Not as warm as some other leggings

Overall, the Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings are a great option for women who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of leggings. They are durable, breathable, and machine-washable, making them a great choice for a variety of activities.

7: prAna Women’s Halle Pants

The prAna Women’s Halle Pants are a versatile pair of pants that can be worn for a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to running errands and running around town. They are made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that will keep you dry in the rain or snow, and they have a comfortable, relaxed fit that allows you to move freely.

The Halle Pants also have a number of features that make them ideal for outdoor activities, such as articulated knees for added mobility, and a hidden zip pocket for storing valuables.

Pros:

Durable, water-resistant fabric
Comfortable, relaxed fit
Articulated knees for added mobility
Hidden zip pocket for storing valuables
Available in a variety of colors and sizes

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
May not be as breathable as some other pants
Some people may find the fit to be too relaxed

Overall, the prAna Women’s Halle Pants are a great choice for women who are looking for a versatile, comfortable, and durable pair of pants that can be worn for a variety of activities. They are available in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can find the perfect pair to suit your needs.

8: Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms

The Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms are made from 100% merino wool, which is a naturally soft and warm material. They are also moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, which helps to keep you dry and comfortable even when you are working up a sweat. The bottoms have a relaxed fit that allows for freedom of movement, and they are available in a variety of colors and sizes.

Pros:

Warm and comfortable
Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant
Durable and long-lasting
Available in a variety of colors and sizes

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
Not as breathable as some other base layers
May be too warm for some activities

Overall:

The Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Bottoms are a great choice for women who are looking for a warm, comfortable, and durable base layer. They are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and skiing. However, they are a bit more expensive than some other base layers, and they may not be as breathable for some activities.

9: Black Diamond Women’s Notion Pants

The Black Diamond Women’s Notion Pants are made from 98% organic cotton and 2% elastane. They have a relaxed fit and a comfortable elastic waistband. The pants have two hand pockets and two back pockets. They also have reinforced knees for added durability.

Pros:

Comfortable and relaxed fit
Made from organic cotton
Durable and long-lasting
Available in a variety of colors and sizes

Cons:

Not as breathable as some other pants
May be too warm for some activities

Overall:

The Black Diamond Women’s Notion Pants are a great choice for women who are looking for a comfortable, durable, and versatile pair of pants. They are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and lounging around the house. However, they are not as breathable as some other pants, so they may not be the best choice for hot weather.

If you are looking for a comfortable, durable, and versatile pair of pants that is perfect for a variety of activities, then the Black Diamond Women’s Notion Pants are a great option. However, if you are looking for a pair of pants that is more breathable, then you may want to consider a different option.

10: Icebreaker Women’s Comet Leggings

The Icebreaker Women’s Comet Leggings are made from 100% merino wool. They have a slim fit and a comfortable elastic waistband. The leggings have two hand pockets and a back pocket. They also have flatlock seams for added comfort.

Pros:

Soft and comfortable
Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant
Durable and long-lasting
Available in a variety of colors and sizes

Cons:

Can be a bit pricey
Not as breathable as some other leggings
May be too warm for some activities

Overall:

The Icebreaker Women’s Comet Leggings are a great choice for women who are looking for a soft, comfortable, and durable pair of leggings. They are perfect for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, and yoga. However, they are a bit more expensive than some other leggings, and they may not be as breathable for some activities.

If you are looking for a soft, comfortable, and durable pair of leggings that is perfect for a variety of activities, then the Icebreaker Women’s Comet Leggings are a great option. However, if you are looking for a pair of leggings that is more breathable, then you may want to consider a different option.

Comparison of the Top 10 Hiking Leggings and Pants

Here’s a comparison table for the best hiking leggings:

Legging Model	Material/Fabric	Fit	Durability	Moisture-Wicking	Sun Protection	Pockets/Storage
Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights	Polyester/Spandex Blend	Form-Fitting	High	Yes	UPF 50+	Hidden Waist Pocket
The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0	Nylon/Elastane Blend	Relaxed Fit	Moderate	Yes	UPF 50	Zippered Pockets
Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch	Nylon/Elastane Blend	Regular Fit	High	Yes	UPF 50	Zippered Pockets
REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible	Nylon/Spandex Blend	Convertible	High	Yes	UPF 50	Zippered Pockets
Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi	Nylon/Spandex Blend	Slim Fit	High	Yes	UPF 50+	Zippered Pockets
Arc’teryx Women’s Oriel Leggings	Nylon/Spandex Blend	Form-Fitting	High	Yes	UPF 50+	Zippered Pockets
prAna Women’s Halle Pants	Nylon/Spandex Blend	Regular Fit	High	Yes	UPF 50+	Zippered Pockets
Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer	Merino Wool/Elastane Blend	Slim Fit	Moderate	Yes	UPF 50+	Zippered Pockets
Black Diamond Women’s Notion Pants	Cotton/Nylon/Elastane Blend	Relaxed Fit	Moderate	Yes	No	Hand Pockets
Icebreaker Women’s Comet Leggings	Merino Wool/Elastane Blend	Form-Fitting	High	Yes	UPF 50+	Zippered Pocket

Please note that this table provides a general overview of the features of each legging model. Actual availability and specific features may vary depending on the brand and season. It’s always recommended to research and read detailed product descriptions to get the most accurate and up-to-date information before making a purchase decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the selection of hiking leggings plays a vital role in ensuring comfort and performance on the trails. Among the options reviewed, the Patagonia Women’s Centered Tights stand out with their moisture-wicking fabric, high durability, and UPF 50+ sun protection.

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pants offer a relaxed fit and versatile functionality. Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pants provide a regular fit and excellent durability. REI Co-op Women’s Sahara Convertible Pants offer convertibility and zippered pockets.

Each brand, including Outdoor Research, Arc’teryx, prAna, Smartwool, Black Diamond, and Icebreaker, provides unique features suitable for different hiking needs. Consider your preferences and requirements to make an informed decision for your next adventure.