Hiking is an activity through which one can escape their busy schedules and go roam around in nature, do some physical activities and relax their mind. However one can enjoy every bit of it if they are comfortable. It is mostly observed that leggings, if not comfortable, can actually create great discomfort and ruin one’s mood.
In this blog post, I will take you through an ultimate guide on the best hiking leggings, where I will share the importance of leggings, how to select one and some great options that you can consider for your hiking. If you are from the midwest, I recently wrote about best hikes in the midwest. So you may like to read that.
Why should one wear leggings?
- Comfort is the prime reason for which leggings are designed. They are made with material that keeps one cool and dry when one sweats during the hike.
- They also provide protection by preventing the skin from exposure to UV rays and scratches, insect bites and twigs.
- For some people it is vital to carry their fashion sense even if they hike so leggings along with protection and comfort are designed with fashion-forward colours and patterns so you can express your style.
Things to consider while buying leggings
- It is vital to know the fabric you are buying. Always go for the one with moisture-wicking, UV protection and breathable qualities. You can find these features in nylon, polyester and a mixture of synthetic fibres.
- Go for the one that fits you and keeps you comfortable as it will keep you relaxed so you can enjoy your long hikes.
- Look for leggings that are durable so you do not have to invest in leggings regularly.
- Some fabrics have the ability to regulate temperature, go for ones according to the hike you are about to take. The ventilation features will keep you cool during summer and the insulation feature will keep you warm.
- My personal advice will be to look for leggings that have minimal stitching. It will reduce the risk of irritation and chafing.
Top five best hiking leggings
Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo II Tights – Women’s
The reason these leggings are my favourite ones and they deserve to be on the top of this list is the fact that they are super comfortable. Moreover, they look more like normal pants than athletic wear thus, maintaining my fashion sense. The material used is 91% recycled nylon which gives it the basic properties every hiking legging must have: UPF rating of 50 and water repulsion property.
Its six pockets ensure I keep all the essentials safe inside my pockets. Some of the reviewers have shown their adoration for the leggings in the following words that they were looking for good leggings but these are so much more. Another one mentioned that she loves the look, feel and functionality of these leggings. Thus, overall it is my favourite. You can check it out on Amazon as well.
Pack Out Hike Tight – Women’s
If you are ready to spend some extra dollars on some of your hiking leggings but also want them to be very comfortable then Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights are the right ones for you. Though expensive they offer comfort and durability like no other thus, you can be carefree and wild during hiking.
You can also wear them every day however they are a little warm for summer days. The number and size of pockets are excellent but they are a bit heavier than other leggings. One of the reviewers mentioned that she liked everything about the leggings but the seat of the pants flattened her ‘assets’ which she does not appreciate.
IUGA High Waist
If you are looking for affordable, premium quality and supportive leggings then IUGA High Waist is made for you. These ultra stretchable leggings are made of thick material so they do not reveal your body when you stretch. Moreover, they come in multiple colours though they may not be durable but as they are quite inexpensive you can go and buy new ones. For yoga and short hikes, I usually wear these leggings.
They are super comfortable and complement my style with their vibrant colours. I like everything about this trustworthy brand but only one thing l would like to change and that is the pocket size. Pockets are small and would like to increase their sizes. Some reviewers have stated that the leggings are soft, quite comfortable and deserve to be the highest rated leggings. So in short if you want affordable, comfortable and stylish leggings you must try these.
Athleta Elation 2 in 1
These leggings come with a built-in skirt. They are extremely soft, breathable and very comfortable. The skirt provides extra coverage so you can wear them anywhere without feeling exposed. The soft breathable material makes it extra comfortable and you will not be worrying about removing them as soon as possible.
You can stay in bed, watch a movie and even cook with these leggings on. The only problems are that they do not have pockets so you can not keep your phone or basic necessities right beside you and secondly, they come in limited colours so you will not have many options. Some of the reviewers have expressed their liking for the material, extra coverage and inclusive sizing.
Eddie Bauer Trail Tight
Other under-budget leggings are offered by Eddie Bauer Trail Tight. Unlike other affordable leggings, these are quite durable. They also come in multiple pretty colours and flattering fits. They will save you from the hustle of cleaning frequently as they are made to resist odours. However, the material dries slowly but I believe it is fine as we do not wash them frequently.
These leggings moreover, are a little heavier than some but overall the cost, durability and comfort are worth appreciation. Few reviewers have commented that the mid-rise waist can easily slide down which they detest but still, these leggings are worth trying.
Conclusion
Leggings are worn by many people but their comfort, durability, affordability, and size are of prime importance. No one wants to wear uncomfortable dresses for hiking and ruin their adventure time. Therefore I have shared some of the Best Hiking Leggings available in the market along with the factors that need to be considered before shopping. Thus, this blog post is your brief guide into the world of leggings.
If you liked reading it, you may also like to have a look at best women shorts for hiking.