by Jo Vartanian

I’ve been hiking with women professionally for over ten years and I’ve learnt a thing or two about what women like and don’t like in their hiking pants. Whether you choose shorts, long pants, or leggings there are important things you need to know.

From hiking in your local National Park to trekking the trails in Nepal, you’ll appreciate hiking pants that are up to the task. There is no rule that says you must have ‘proper’ hiking pants. However, there are some pants that you should avoid and pants that are specifically designed for the outdoors that will serve you well.

The first question to ask yourself is what type of activity and weather conditions you are likely to encounter.

Staying dry and warm is essential in alpine environments.

For general hiking on bush or mountain trails, you will need pants that are durable, lightweight and easy to move in. I like mine to look nice too so I can wear them travelling or out for dinner after my hike!

TOP Features to look for when purchasing hiking pants.

· Synthetic fabrics like polyester, spandex, elastane or nylon

· Wicking properties to move sweat away from your skin

· 4-way stretch fabric to allow for good movement (think rocky scrambles and big steps)

· Breathability/lightweight for managing hot temperatures

· Quick dry fabric

· DWR (durable water repellent) finish – if you expect to encounter wet weather

· 50+ UPF sun protection

Other considerations?

· Pockets – zip pockets are very useful for items like your phone, lip balm, tissues etc.

· Waistband options – include elasticised, flat, belt hooks – be mindful of how your backpack will feel pressing against the band.

· Odour control fabric

· Insect repellent fabric

· Zip-off bottoms to convert pants to shorts (good for a range of weather conditions)

· Can they convert to capris pants?

What to avoid?

· Fabrics like cotton and bamboo – when these fabrics get wet, they become heavy, very cold and take a long time to dry. NOT SAFE in the OUTDOORS. (no jeans)

· Pants with no stretch – being able to move freely is essential in outdoor environments

Love the colours you can choose when you wear leggings.

What about leggings?

· Many women enjoy hiking in leggings or in shorts with leggings underneath and these are a great option for hiking. Ensure that the fabric has the qualities listed above. Due to their tight fit and added thermal properties, be mindful of fabrics that could make you too hot.

Are long pants essential?

· Not always – I love hiking in shorts and teaming them with knee-length gaiters for added leg protection.

· Long hiking pants are useful to save you from scratches and scrapes from branches and rocks, and are added protection from insect bites!

Finding the right fit is tricky, but essential!

· We all want pants that are comfortable, look good and are easy to wear on our hiking adventures - that need to have the right pockets, fit your body shape and tick most of the boxes above.

· I’ve tried many brands and styles to get the perfect hiking pants and I love how they make me feel on my hikes. It’s worth the extra effort to get it right.

What about hiking in extreme conditions?

If you’re heading to an alpine environment or other extremes including snow, high winds, heavy rain, extreme cold or rough, rocky terrain, then lightweight hiking pants will most likely let you down and could put your safety at risk. You’ll need to consider the following options.

· Rain over-pants – these are worn over your regular hiking pants to keep you dry. Make sure they have a long zip so you can put them on and off over your hiking boots.

· Thermal leggings – long thermal pants (polyester or merino wool) can be worn under your hiking pants for added warmth

· Softshell pants – these are made of a sturdier fabric that can withstand abrasions from rough terrain. They are stretchy, breathable and suitable for cold weather environments. They are also water-resistant.

· Gore-Tex pants – these are the top of the tree when it comes to extreme conditions. Durable, waterproof, windproof and breathable. They will give you full protection in extreme conditions. Great for the snow.

A FINAL WORD

Shop around! Finding your favourite pair of hiking pants is fun, but you’ll have to spend the time to get it right. Good luck.