Hiking sans pants is not recommended, both for the sake of your legs and the sanity of your trail mates. We’ve rounded up our three favorite women’s hiking pants in three different styles so you can be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. So go, explore the unknown; we’ve got the perfect pair of pants, shorts or capris for whatever adventure you’ve got up your sleeve (or pant leg).
Patagonia Happy Hike Shorts - Women's $29.04 - $39.15
A gloriously stretchy blend of polyester and spandex, this breezy short is all about easy movement. They’re quick dry, so feel free to splash-stomp through any river/stream/lake you come across. Complete with four pockets to hold smaller essentials, these shorts were made for long-weekend summer treks and trips.
Best For: Summer days that never end.
These PrAna capris are blissful indeed. UPF 40-rated, these pants provide much needed sun protection on scorching days while still offering the ventilation of a ¾ pant. Made of lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabric, these capris ensure you keep looking and feeling cool. The DWR coating also keeps rain and oversized puddles from becoming an unwelcome problem. All this while remaining comfortable enough to scale a mountain? PrAna Bliss Capris for the win.
Best For: Capri worthy treks, regional travel.
The North Face Women's Venture 1/2 Zip Pant
These pants were made for walking—no matter the weather. Waterproof and lightweight, these pants keep legs dry with HyVent 2.5-layer fabric and fully taped seams. In addition, they’re also insanely breathable and comfortable. An elastic waist, a relaxed fit, and bottom ankle zips make them ideal for constantly changing climates (example: Active Junky’s home state of Colorado).
Best For: Bagging summits without the baggy pants.