Hiking is a great way to boost your cardiovascular health and get your heart rate pumping. Wearing the right apparel, especially pants, is mandatory to achieve maximum hiking momentum.
Being outside, especially in winter, exploring the different terrains, your legs might want extra room to move around easily.
Let’s find out the thighs you need to keep in mind when buying winter hiking pants. As a bonus, we have also found some cool options for you.
Types of Winter Hiking Pants
As mentioned, just any pants won’t do. You need something that’s mainly designed to accompany you on hikes.
Here are the five main types of hiking pants that you should look for:
Traditional Hiking Pants
These pants are your regular straight-leg styles that focus on breathability and elasticity. They protect your legs from bruising, abrasions, and insects out there. Because of their full coverage, traditional hiking pants also help you avoid weather changes. We are talking about sunlight, rain, wind, and even snow.
These pants are suitable for people who want to hike while writing. The material is stretchy with a DWR coating to make them resistant to cold water. You can wear them at all hikes and even style them for certain casual events.
- Wranglers’ authentic Premium men’s hiking pants have a traditional straight design and authentic zipper closure. They are made from cotton, which ensures breathability as you hike on chilly days for long hours. It is available in different colors and sizes to cater to different body types. You also get extra pockets to store necessary items.
- Lee men’s performance hiking pants have enough flexibility to help you maintain good motion during the hike. It is easy to wash and does not lose its quality even after consistent use. Several color options are available for those who love to style and pair their outfits.
Convertible Hiking Pants
If you want a pair that converts into shorts, pants, or capris whenever you wish, convertibles are your go-to product. They are an ideal option that lasts throughout the year. Convertible hiking pants are easy to manage and wash.
You can wear leggings underneath and remove one section of the pants to look stylish and add an extra layer of clothing. Convertible hiking pants can be tricky to put back together, but they are an exquisite alternative to traditional options. You can also section out the dirty sections for washing instead of putting the entire thing in the washer.
- Columbia silver ridge winter hiking pants are made from soft, stretchy nylon that provides warmth. These pants are easy to wear and come with extra pockets and space to store your basic belongings like a mobile phone and wallet. They feature a tight weave construction that protects you from any drastic changes in weather.
- Arctix trail convertible pants are known for their versatile options regarding sizes. It has quick dry and moisture-wicking properties to keep you warm and cozy regardless of what the outside weather says. These pants are suitable for all types of outdoor activities.
Softshell Hiking Pants
From professional hikers to plus-size fellows, softshell pants are a priority choice for many. The synthetic blend makes these pants more durable and resistant to wear and tear. You can wear them on all types of trails. Softshell hiking pants are water-resistant yet breathable for you to remain comfortable. Most winter hiking pants are warm, but due to lack of breathability might suffocate you a bit.
They have different layers to keep your legs cozy while you explore the trails. These pants are great if you plan to hike where the altitude is constantly changing. They can be a bit more expensive than other options, but what’s a couple of extra bucks in front of wintery comfort?
- Arctix advantage softshell hiking pants are a quick dry product for different body types. It comes in various shades of neutrals to match your overall hiking apparel properly. These pants are resistant to water and keep you dry from wintery moisture and discomfort.
- DAFENGEA women’s softshell pants are suitable for all outdoor activities, from hiking to skiing. It is resistant to abrasion and damage, allowing you to hike on all passages. They are available to people of different body types.
Tights
If you like nothing conventional, opt for tights. What started off as a thing for women is now appreciated by men worldwide who appreciate comfort and fashion. Instead of your standard cotton tights, opt for yoga leggings, which are more flexible and act as a solid body shaper.
The thing about tights or leggings is that they stick to your body and insulate it in a much better way. Plus, you can move freely without worrying that the pants will stick to plants or thorns.
There are so many color and style options that you will feel confused about which one to grab. They are durable, long-lasting, lightweight, breathable, and boast moisture-wicking properties. You can also move around without feeling restricted — wherever your legs go, the tights go.
- Armor Heat Gear leggings are made from a blend of polyester and elastane, which gives a breathable and flexible finish. These leggings come in so many colors that you can easily pair them with all kinds of tops. It has a simple pull-on closure, eliminating the stress and sizing issues caused by buttons and zippers. They can easily absorb moisture and sweat almost instantly.
- Reflex high-waist leggings are optimal for anyone who likes to work out. They have a fleece lining to keep your legs warm and protected in the cold. Additionally, these leggings come with a side pocket to store smaller belongings in one place. These leggings have multiple color variants and sizes to match certain body types.
When you go for hikes in winter, it is essential to pick a pair of pants that keep you warm and allow you to hike comfortably for as long as you like.