As an avid hiker, I’ve learned a few things through experience and the most important of these is: the right gear can make or break your hiking adventure. And when it comes to comfort and performance on the hiking trails, nothing beats a fantastic pair of hiking leggings. Forget those restrictive, uncomfortable hiking pants of yesteryear which make you look like a relic from the past! We’re living in a golden age of outdoor apparel where leggings offer unparalleled freedom of movement, breathability, and style. And do not worry, we will cover the leggings suitable for hiking.
But with so many options out there, how do you find the best hiking leggings for you? Fear not, fellow trail blazers! I’ve spent countless hours, and more than a few scraped knees on some of my favorite trailsl, testing various brands and styles to bring you this comprehensive guide for selecting the best leggings for hikes. We’ll delve into everything you need to know, from materials and features to my top picks, ensuring your next hike makes you look like trendy and is as comfortable as it is memorable.
Why Choose Leggings for Hiking? (The Great Debate!)
I remember a time when even the thought of hiking in leggings would have been scoffed at because either they were no considered durable or not protective enough and of course missing those much needed pockets. “What about durability? Protection from thorns? Pockets?!” Oh, how times have changed. While traditional hiking pants still have their place (especially in extreme conditions), leggings have undeniable advantages. And here are the top pros for going with leggings, preferring over pants:
- Unrestricted Movement: This is a game-changer and perhaps the biggest plus point of leggings. Scrambling up rocks, navigating tricky descents, or even just taking a huge stride feels completely natural in leggings. No more fabric bunching or feeling like your movement is restricted. My first long-distance hike in dedicated hiking leggings felt like I’d unlocked a new level of trail agility!
- Breathability & Moisture-Wicking: These days, most quality hiking leggings are designed with advanced synthetic fabrics that excel at wicking away sweat which you will be having in abundance on any serious hikes, keeping you dry and comfortable. This is crucial for preventing chafing and staying regulated on those strenuous climbs.
- Lightweight & Packable: Great space savers. They take up minimal space in your pack, making them ideal for multi-day trips where every ounce counts.
- Versatility: Many athletic leggings for hiking seamlessly transition from the trail to town, or even to your yoga mat which makes it reallly convenient to shift beween different modes of acitivity. It’s like having multiple outfits in one!
- Chafe Prevention: Though it might appear that leggings can cause chafing but the close fit can actually reduce chafing compared to looser pants that can rub during repetitive movements.
Of course, they’re not without their limitations on a challenging outdoor hike. For bushwhacking through dense thorns, a more robust pair of pants might still be preferred. But for 90% of my hiking adventures, leggings are my go-to.
What to Look for in the Best Hiking Leggings
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s break down the key features that make a pair of leggings trail-worthy.
1. Material Matters: Durability, Stretch & Wicking
Most high-performance hiking leggings are made from a blend of synthetic fabrics but you need to look for those made with durability and wicking in mind. Here are three good fibers that are suited for hiking:
- Nylon: Often provides excellent durability, abrasion resistance, and a good amount of stretch.
- Polyester: Known for its moisture-wicking properties and quick-drying capabilities.
- Spandex/Elastane/Lycra: This is the magic ingredient for stretch and shape retention, ensuring your leggings move with you and don’t bag out.
However, a perfect legging will be a mix of all these qualities. A good blend will offer the best of all worlds: tough enough for the trail, stretchy enough for dynamic movement, and quick-drying for comfort.
2. Pockets, Pockets, Pockets!
This is where the rubber meets the road for many hikers. Traditional athletic leggings often lack sufficient pocket space. The best leggings for hiking with pockets will offer:
- Thigh Pockets: Essential for quick access to your phone, map, or snacks. Look for deep, secure pockets – bonus points if they have a zipper or flap closure to keep your belongings secure. My phone once tumbled out of a shallow pocket on a steep descent, and let’s just say it wasn’t a pretty sight!
- Waistband Pockets: Great for keys, cards, or smaller essentials.
- Back Pockets: Less common but can be useful for items you don’t need immediate access to.
3. Waistband Comfort & Fit
A comfortable waistband is non-negotiable in any kind of pants and leggings are not exception. Look for:
- Wide, Flat Waistband: This distributes pressure evenly, preventing digging or rolling, especially under a pack’s hip belt.
- Drawstring: A nice addition for a customized, secure fit, especially if you’re carrying a heavy pack.
- High-Waisted: Many hikers prefer high-waisted styles for added coverage and support, which can be particularly welcome when bending and stretching.
4. Durability & Reinforcement
While leggings won’t offer the same level of protection as heavy-duty pants, good hiking leggings should still be robust and not be reeady to torn at first sight of a resistance.
- Abrasion-Resistant Fabric: Some brands use specific weaves or treatments to enhance durability.
- Reinforced Knees/Seat: A fantastic feature for those who frequently kneel or slide on rocks. This can significantly extend the life of your leggings.
5. UPF Protection
Spending hours in the sun? Look for leggings with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to shield your skin from harmful rays. It’s an often-overlooked feature that offers great peace of mind.
My Top Picks: The Best Hiking Leggings on the Market
Based on countless miles and rigorous testing, here are some of my top recommendations that consistently deliver on comfort, durability, and features.
1. REI Co-op activātion Fleece-Lined Tights
These are my absolute favorite for cooler weather conditions. The fleece lining on these leggings is surprisingly warm without being bulky, and the outer fabric is incredibly durable and well suited for my most hikes. I’ve scrambled through thorny bushes in these with minimal snags. The thigh pockets are perfectly placed and secure, fitting my larger smartphone without an issue. Plus, as a sustainable choice, they often incorporate recycled materials. You can check out the latest deals on the best hiking leggings from REI right here.
2. Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights
Patagonia consistently delivers on performance and sustainability, and their Pack Out Hike Tights are no exception to their commitment to creating high quality products. Striking an excellent balance between durability and stretch, these leggings are ideal for a wide range of conditions. The fabric feels robust, and the zippered thigh pockets are a huge win. They also feature reinforced panels on the knees and seat, which is crucial for durability on rough terrain. Read more about Patagonia’s commitment to ethical manufacturing on their website.
3. Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights
If you’re looking for ultimate durability and an impressive amount of storage, the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights are worth the investment. These are practically a hybrid between leggings and technical pants. They feature tough reinforcement panels on the knees and rear, offering superior protection against abrasion and moisture. The multiple large pockets (including a dedicated map pocket!) are incredibly functional. They feel a bit more substantial than other leggings, which is a trade-off for their incredible toughness.
4. Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight
Though known more for yoga, the Wunder Train in Everlux fabric is a surprise contender for athletic leggings for hiking, especially in warm weather. They are incredibly lightweight like most leggings, breathable, and excel at moisture-wicking and quick-drying which are essential in hot weather conditions. The high-rise waistband with a continuous drawcord provides excellent security, and the deep side pockets make them practical for the hiking trail. Check out the comfort and fit on the Lululemon website.
Tips for Maximizing Your Hiking Leggings Experience
- Layer Up: For colder weather, wear a thin thermal base layer underneath your leggings.
- Consider a Baselayer Short: If your body is prone to chafing, a pair of lightweight, moisture-wicking cycling shorts underneath can provide extra protection.
- Wash with Care: Follow the washing instructions! This usually means cold water and air drying to preserve the fabric’s integrity and elasticity.
- Pack an Emergency Repair Kit: A small sewing kit or even just some tenacious tape can be a lifesaver for minor snags or tears on multi-day trips.
The Future of Trail Comfort
The evolution of women’s hiking leggings (and men’s, though the market is still catching up!) has been a joy to witness as an enthusiastic hiker and advocate of using leggings for hikes. Manufacturers are constantly innovating with new fabric technologies, pocket designs, and sustainable practices to support hikers. The days of sacrificing comfort for function are long gone.
So, whether you’re embarking on a challenging multi-day trek or simply enjoying a leisurely walk through your local park, investing in a high-quality pair of hiking leggings will undoubtedly enhance your outdoor experience and most likely make it more comfortable. They offer the perfect blend of freedom, protection, and style, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the beauty of the trail and the joy of movement.
Happy trails!
What are your favorite hiking leggings? Share your recommendations and experiences in the comments below!
If you liked reading it, you may also like to have a look at best women shorts for hiking.