In this guide, I’ll break down how to choose the best insulated skirts for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and running.

I’ve got everything you need to know about insulated skirts including:

• Why would you want an insulated skirt? Why are puffer skirts great for winter sports?
• My picks for the Best insulated skirts in several categories: Which puffy skirts are best for cross-country skiing, budget shoppers, ultralight freaks, and more?
• How to choose an insulated skirt: What insulation type and features should you look for?

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

My Quick Picks

• Most comfortable insulated skirt: Smartwool Smartloft Pull-On Skirt
• Best down-insulated skirt: Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Skirt
• Best insulated skirt for running and cross-country skiing: Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt
• Best budget insulated skirt: MoFiz Quilted Puffer Skirt

Why Should You Wear an Insulated Skirt?

The first time I saw an insulated skirt I laughed. They seemed like a frivolous item you’d wear for fashion reasons.

But then a few outdoor women in my life started raving about them. They said no matter what they wore, they often found that their butt and thighs got cold when they were skiing, snowshoeing, or winter running. And an insulated skirt solved that problem.

I was skeptical, but also hate having cold thighs so I got a puffy skirt. Having owned one for three winters now, I can honestly say I can’t imagine going without one. I love being able to slip on extra warmth when I’m cold, then take it off when I warm up.

You can layer an insulated skirt over ski pants, hiking pants, leggings, or even your base layer, so they work in lots of situations. Every time I wear my quilted puffer skirt, other women ask me about it, so I figured it was time to take the answers to all those questions and combine them into one article.

How I Picked

I’ve been hiking for over two decades. I also worked in an outdoor store for three years and wrote marketing materials for a large outdoor retailer for six yars. I spent a ton of time learning from their design team so I got really familiar with the properties of outdoor fabrics and garment construction.

For this guide, I drew on my outdoor industry experience as well as my personal experience with trying out insulated skirts. But since I haven’t tried all of the skirts in this guide, I also talked to friends, asked the members of several large women’s outdoor Facebook groups, and read dozens of online reviews.

There are lots of puffer skirts out there, so it can be difficult to choose. Lots of insulated skirts are designed for fashion or city use. But in this article I’m going to focus on puffy skirts designed for winter sports, specifically downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, running, and hiking.

The skirts I chose are all made with outdoor-ready materials that are water-resistant, wind-resistant, and warm. They are also designed for movement with waistbands that stay in place and stretchy panels to allow for long strides. All of these insulated skirts are also easy to take on and off when the temperature changes.

My Picks for the Best Insulated Skirts

Most Comfortable Insulated Skirt: Smartwool Smartloft Pull-On Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Insulated wool front and back panels. Stretchy fleece side panels and waistband. Merino wool lining. Side pockets.

This pull-on style insulated skirt from Smartwool is my go-to warm layer. My favorite part is the stretchy fleece side panels. They move with me so well that I forget I’m wearing it!

The cozy merino wool lining is super soft and adds a bit of warmth too. It’s such a nice contrast from the slippery nylon fabric that most skirts use.

The quilted front and back panels use unique recycled wool insulation that holds its warmth even when wet. Compared to other skirts on this list, it has a moderate amount of insulation. However, the wool insulation isn’t the lightest or most compressible compared to down or even synthetic.

This skirt also has two deep side pockets that are big enough to hold my phone. The wide waistband is comfortable and has a drawstring adjustment.

Note: The older version of this skirt is called the Smartwool Smartloft 60 Skirt. The only thing that has changed is the name.

Check prices:

Best Down-Insulated Skirt: Mountain Hardwear StretchDown Skirt

Warmth: High

Features: Insulated with 700-fill power down. Water-resistant fabric. Kangaroo handwarmer pocket

Mountain Hardwear’s StretchDown line of jackets, pants, and this skirt use an interesting stretchy fabric that has baffles woven right into it. That means that it doesn’t have tons of little stitch holes where down can escape and cold air can get in. The stretch aspect also makes it extra comfortable to wear when you’re moving.

The StretchDown Skirt uses 700 fill power RDS-certified down, which means that the down is traceable and meets animals welfare standards. It’s also fairly lightweight and compressible for the warmth.

This skirt is a pull-on style, which keeps the weight down. But it does have zippered handwarmer pockets on the sides and a zippered pocket on the back.

Check prices:

Best Insulated Skirt for Runners and Cross Country Skiers: Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Synthetic insulation. Stretchy side panels. Full-length 2-way side zip.

Swix is a Norwegian cross country ski brand, so they understand how to make clothes that work when you’re working hard. The Swix Mayen Quilted Skirt moves with you, even if you’re taking long strides.

It has stretchy jersey side panels for lots of range of motion. You can also open up the 2-way full-length zip on the side to give you more room to move. The elastic waist helps it stay in place and the inside of the waistband is a soft, brushed material.

The skirt uses Primaloft synthetic insulation that stays warm when wet, which is great for sweaty sports like nordic skiing and winter running. It uses a moderate amount of insulation since this skirt is designed to be worn during aerobic activities.

Check Prices:

Best Budget Insulated Skirt: MoFiz Quilted Puffer Skirt

Warmth: Moderate

Features: Synthetic insulation. Stretchy fleece side panels.

If you’re not sure if an insulated skirt is right for you, the budget-priced MoFiz Quilted Puffer skirt available on Amazon is a good way to try it out. It uses inexpensive synthetic insulation and has stretchy fleece side panels.

It also has a full zipper to make it easy to put on and take off. There are also two zippered side pockets. Honestly, this thing has a lot of features for such a low price.

I’ve tried other Amazon puffer skirts (the Baleaf one I have is discontinued now), and I think the biggest reason they are so inexpensive is that they use low quality synthetic insulation… and they don’t use very much of it.

That means the budget Amazon skirts aren’t as warm as others on this list. And it means they aren’t as compressible so they take up more room in your pack.

Check prices:

Best Plus-Size Insulated Skirt: Nothing!

In previous years I was able to recommend plus-size insulated skirt options. Unfortunately, I can’t find any plus-size skirts to recommend this year. Columbia used to make one (and in general, they are a great option for plus-size hiking gear), but they discontinued it!

I’ve scoured the internet, and I’m very unhappy to report that I can’t find anything to recommend. Some of the budget skirts on Amazon come in XXL… but if you look at the measurements, they are actually more like an XL since they are made in Asian and run small.

If you’ve got a plus-sized puffer skirt to recommend, please message me and let me know. I’d love to update this post to add an option!

How to Choose an Insulated Skirt

Not all insulated skirts are created equal. Here’s a quick run-down on what to look for when you’re shopping for a puffer skirt.

Understand the Insulation

Synthetic insulation is made with polyester fibres that retain warmth when wet. It is less expensive than down, but it is also heavier and bulkier to achieve the same warmth as down. Some higher-end synthetic insulations like ThermoBall and Primaloft can mimic the properties of down, but they cost more.

Down insulation is made from the fluffy fibres found underneath the feathers of geese and ducks. Down is lighter and more compressible than synthetic insulation, which means you can use less of it to achieve the same warmth. But down is much more expensive.

If you are purchasing a down garment, choose ones that are Responsible Down Certified for animal welfare.

Regular down is useless once it gets wet. Look for down skirts with water-resistant fabrics or hydrophobic treatments that protect the down from moisture.

Down is also available in different qualities, known as fill-power. The higher the number, the fluffier it is, and therefore, the warmer it is. The most premium skirts use 800 or 900 fill-power down.

Wool insulation is another option. It is made of loose wool fibres that retain warmth. It is heavier than down or synthetic, but it provides warmth when wet.

Estimate Warmth

It can be tough to tell how warm an insulated skirt will be. But some brands publish specs for their insulation, which can help.

For synthetic insulated skirts, 60g insulation provides moderate warmth, while 100g insulation provides lots of warmth.

For down skirts, it’s a bit more tricky. In general, skirts with higher fill-power down will be warmer. BUT you can also achieve a warm skirt by using lots of lower fill-power down.

Have a look at the product description and reviews. Some puffer skirts are designed to be worn while doing aerobic activities like cross-country skiing, so they don’t need to be super warm. Others are ideal for staying warm while walking or standing still.

Get a Good Fit

Skirts can be tough to fit since they have to fit both your waist and your thighs and stay in place while walking, running, or skiing. Look for puffer skirts with stretch panels and comfortable waistbands. Zippers you can open to create a slit and get more range of motion are also great.

Easy On-Off

The beauty of an insulated skirt is that it functions as part of your layering system. You want it to be easy to put on when you get cold and take off when you warm up.

For really easy on/off, consider a skirt with a zipper closure. That way you don’t have to take off your skis or snowshoes to get it on.

The only disadvantages to zippered skirts is that some people find that the top of the zipper is uncomfortable at the waist or the zipper opens up while they are moving.

I wear a pull-on Smartwool skirt that has stretchy side panels – I find it easy enough to step into with my boots on (although I do have to take my snowshoes off).

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know to find the best insulated skirts for snowshoeing, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, running, and hiking. If you have any questions or alternative recommendations, leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings of 2022
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men

The post Best Insulated Skirts For Hiking and Snowshoeing in 2026 appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Different conditions and preferences call for different hiking pants. In this guide, I’m just going to focus on regular hiking pants – you won’t find any waterproof hiking pants or winter hiking pants. And if you’re looking for hiking tights, check out my hiking leggings guide.

In this post, I have everything you need to know about women’s hiking pants, including:

• Details and reviews for 9 different pairs of women’s hiking pants
• Best women’s hiking pants in several categories including petite, tall, plus-size, high-rise, with big pockets, and lots more
• Hiking pants vs. hiking leggings – which is better?
• How to choose hiking pants – tips on fit, fabric, and features

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

How I Picked

I’ve been hiking and backpacking for over two decades and I’ve written two hiking guidebooks. I also worked at an outdoor store for three years and writing marketing materials for a large outdoor retailer for seven years. I spent a ton of time learning from their design team so I got really familiar with the properties of outdoor fabrics and garment construction.

For this guide, I drew on my outdoor industry experience as well as my personal experience with hiking pants both on day hikes and backpacking trips.

But since hikers come in all shapes and sizes, I also asked other adventure travel writers, talked to friends, asked for reviews on Facebook and Instagram, and read dozens of online reviews.

I was tired of reading reviews of women’s hiking pants that were all written by slim, athletic women of average height. Those reviews aren’t that helpful to huge segments of the population!

There are lots of hiking pants out there, so it can be difficult to choose. In this post, I’m going to focus on pants with features and fabrics designed for hiking. For a run-down on how to choose hiking pants, skip to the bottom of this post.

You also won’t find any hiking leggings in this post. That’s because I have an entire guide to the best hiking leggings. If you’re curious about the pros and cons of hiking pants vs. hiking leggings, you can find that at the bottom of this post.

Best Women’s Hiking Pants: Quick Picks

Best Petite Women’s Hiking Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Tall Women’s Hiking Pants: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants

Best Plus Size Women’s Hiking Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Curvy Women’s Hiking Pants: Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

Best High-Waist Women’s Hiking Pants: Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

Best Elastic-Waist Women’s Hiking Pants: The North Face Aphrodite 2.0

Best Zip-Off Convertible Women’s Hiking Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Women’s Hiking Pants That Roll-Up Into Capris: Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants

Best Women’s Hiking Pants With a Phone Pocket: Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

Best Women’s Jogger Hiking Pants: prAna Halle II Joggers

Best Lightweight Women’s Hiking Pants: Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

Best Durable Women’s Hiking Pants: Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Trousers

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Pants: REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Splurge Women’s Hiking Pants: Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Petite Women’s Hiking Pants (More petite recommendations)

Best Zip-Off Convertible Women’s Hiking Pants (More zip-off convertible recommendations)

Also great for: Tall women, plus size women, curvy women

Pros: Elastic waist in back; petite and tall size options; lots of pockets

Cons: Some people preferred the older version without an elastic waist. Women with larger thighs say the convertible shorts zippers dig in.

Fabric: Stretchy and quick-drying nylon with a water-resistant DWR finish and UPF 50 sun protection

Features: Convertible to shorts; ankle zips; elastic waist with zippered fly and drawstring adjustment; lots of pockets

Fit: Mid-rise, straight leg

Sizes: 0-26 in petite, regular, and tall lengths

Heather Kasvinsky from This Noshtalgic Life says “The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants offer the perfect fit for shorter active curvy women such as myself. I’m middle-aged, 5′ 1″, with a 27” inseam. Size 2 petite fits me like a glove with no need to hem them! I recently wore my Sahara Convertible Pants while on a backpacking trip in McCarthy, Alaska. They were ideal to wear while hiking across the Root Glacier. The pants kept me comfortable and protected me from the fluctuating elements while allowing for agility and flexibility throughout the glacier camping trip.”

On Instagram, Amanda (@amanda.tuey) messaged me to say “I have big hips/thighs (size 10-14). I find pants generally are tight in my hips/thighs and loose in my waist. The Sahara Pants fit me well as they have adjustments in the waist and legs. I found the zipper in other convertible pants would dig in, but these don’t do that.”

The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants are my pick for the best petite women’s hiking pants as they get consistently good reviews amongst petite women. With a 28.5″ inseam and a rise adjusted for petite women’s shorter torsos, they provide the best fit.

The Sahara pants are also my pick for the best zip-off convertible women’s hiking pants. Reviewers found that the zippers didn’t dig in and were easy to use. They also liked the mid-length inseam on the shorts (6.75″ in petite, 7.5″ in regular; 8.5″ in tall).

Check prices:

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants

Best Tall Women’s Hiking Pants (More tall recommendations)

Also great for: Petite women, plus size women, curvy women, durability, zip-off convertible pants

Pros: Durability; available in tall sizes, great fit for curvy figures

Cons: Stretch-out on long trips (but tighten up after washing)

Fabric: Quick-drying, water-resistant nylon and spandex stretch woven with UPF 50+ sun protection

Features: Zippered fly with internal drawcord and brushed waistband, lots of pockets, drawcord hem

Fit: Standard fit with articulated knees

Sizes: 0-24 in short, regular, and tall lengths. There is also a convertible version.

Carrie from Trains, Planes and Tuktuks says “I hiked and backpacked over 1,200 miles last year – and almost every step I took, I wore Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi pants. They’re lightweight, insanely breathable, and dry literally within minutes. They’re my go-to pants for everything from backpacking on the Appalachian Trail to creek walks and bushwhacks to remote waterfalls. As a stubby-legged woman, the 4 short fits me perfectly – it’s the only pair of outdoor pants I own that doesn’t run too long. Plus the button/drawstring combo means I never have to wear a belt, even at the end of a 100-mile backpacking trip when I’ve dropped a few pounds.”

Lots of other women on Instagram and Facebook raved about how well these pants fit their curvy figures and accommodated people who have a small waist and bigger butt.

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants are my pick for the best tall women’s hiking pants because multiple women reached out to me on Instagram to recommend the Outdoor Research Ferrossi pants since they come in a 34″ inseam.

Check prices:

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

Best Curvy Women’s Hiking Pants (More curvy recommendations)

Best High-Waist Women’s Hiking Pants (More high-waist recommendations)

Also great for: petite women, tall women, plus size women, hiking pants with a phone pocket

Pros: Great fit for lots of body types, big pockets, often on sale

Cons: Stretches out over time

Fabric: Nylon with a bit of spandex for stretch, a water-resistant DWR finish and UPF 50+ sun protection

Features: Two zippered cargo pockets are large enough to fit your phone

Fit: Curvy fit through hip and thigh. Regular version is mid-rise, but a high-rise version that sits at the natural waist is also available.

Sizes: 0-24 with some sizes available in petite and tall lengths.

Kiran Basra (@bkazra on Instagram) says: “Eddie Bauer’s Guide Pro Pants are pretty good. I run warm so I appreciate how breathable and light they are. They also fit people with hips! Hip, hip, hooray! Expect the downside is they tend to stretch out, so now the waist is quite loose and I could use a belt.”

When I asked for recommendations on Instagram, lots of women messaged me to say how much they loved these pants. The through-line in their responses was how much they liked the fit – and the comments were about so many different body types since they have tall, petite, and plus sizes as well as a high-rise option.

I own the shorts version of these and like how they fit my curvy waist. I also love the big side pockets, which fit my phone.

The Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants are my pick for the best curvy women’s hiking pants. I can personally attest to their great fit for women who have big hips. And hundreds of reviewers agree.

Since they come in a dedicated high-waist version with great reviews, these are also my pick for the best high-waist women’s hiking pants.

Check prices:

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants

Best Elastic Waist Women’s Hiking Pants (More elastic waist recommendations)

Also great for: petite women, plus size women, curvy women, lightweight hiking pants

Pros: Comfortable waist, breathable fabric, great fit for curvy bodies

Cons: Tend to run long, even in short length

Fabric: Quick-drying nylon stretch with water-resistant DWR finish and UPF 40+ sun protection

Features: Rib knit elastic waist with drawcord, zippered pockets, drawcord adjustable cuffs

Fit: Standard fit, straight leg with articulated knees

Sizes: XXS-3XL in short and regular lengths

Jody Phifer from My Travel Obsession says “The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants are one of the most comfortable pairs of pants I own (including pajama pants). These pants dry super-fast and are thin enough to wear in warm, humid climates. This came in handy when we were hiking in the rain on Kauai! I have a small waist and bigger hips. These pants fit great because they have a drawstring to cinch up the waist & they are a little stretchy, so they will work for just about any body type. I also like the straight leg because they fit well over hiking boots.”

I agree with Jody – I also have a pair of TNF Aphrodite 2.0 Pants. They work well for my curvy, plus-sized figure. And since they don’t look that technical, I also love them as casual pants for travelling.

I think that the elastic waist on these is so comfortable, and lots of reviewers agree, which is why The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants are my pick for the best elastic waist women’s hiking pants.

Check prices:

prAna Halle Pant II

Best Jogger Hiking Pants (More jogger recommendations)

Also great for: petite women, tall women, plus size women, curvy women, hiking pants that roll-up into capris

Pros: Comfortable, stretchy fabric, good fit for curvy women

Cons: Pockets are too small, inseam in regular and tall sizes runs short

Fabric: Nylon stretch with a water-resistant DWR finish and UPF 50+ sun protection

Features: Zippered fly with internal drawstring, lots of pockets, snaps to roll up into capri length

Fit: Mid-rise with a boot cut

Sizes: 00-22 in short, regular, and tall lengths. Also available in straight-leg and jogger cuts.

Chelsea from Adventures of Chels says: “As a 5’4 woman with an average body type, these pants fit me like a glove. They’re comfortable, made of quick dry material, and (my favorite part) can be rolled up at the bottom and secured with a snap to create capris pants. I packed these pants for a trip on the Trans Siberian Railway. They came in handy for hiking up dunes, riding on camels, and exploring rock formations in the Gobi Desert.”

Melissa on Instagram says: “I love these pants. I wear size 12 and have large hips. They have a bit of stretch so they are very comfortable, and that along with the articulated knees is great for hiking/scrambling. They are durable too – I still have my first pair from 2014. I also like that water beads off them.”

The prAna Halle II Pants are an all-around favourite for so many people. Lots of women also love the jogger version for a less technical-looking fit that translates well to travel or apres, which is why they are my pick for the best women’s jogger hiking pants.

Check Prices:

ArcTeryx Gamma LT Pants

Best Splurge Hiking Pants (More splurge recommendations)

Also great for: petite women, tall women, durability, hiking pants with a phone pocket

Pros: Great water resistance, stretch, and durability. Thigh pocket fits a phone.

Cons: Expensive, stretch out over time, slim cut is not for everyone

Fabric: nylon and spandex stretch woven softshell with a water-resistant DWR finish and a bit of wind resistance

Features: Zippered fly with integrated webbing waistbelt, zippered hand pocket, adjustable cuffs

Fit: Fitted and close to the body with a straight leg

Sizes: 00 to 16 in short, regular and tall lengths

Dinah from my Facebook group, Backpacking in BC says: “They feel so comfortable and are light and airy. I’m 5 ‘1” with big thighs, butt and calves, and I purchased the short length in size 8. Wore then backpacking the Juan de Fuca Trail and it was so muddy. They dried quickly and they didn’t seem to hold on to the mud. Love them so much I’m gonna get them in more colours! LOL”

A few other women on Instagram and Facebook praised the durable fabric and big zippered pocket that fits a phone.

Like all Arc’Teryx products, the Gamma LT Pants certainly aren’t cheap. But the durable fabric and impeccable design make them my pick for the best splurge women’s hiking pants.

Check prices:

Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Pants

Best Women’s Hiking Pants with a Phone Pocket (More pants with a phone pocket recommendations)

Best Lightweight Women’s Hiking Pants (More lightweight recommendations)

Also great for: plus size women, jogger hiking pants, elastic-waist hiking pants, high-waist hiking pants

Pros: Comfortable, elastic waistband; stretchy lightweight material; pocket holds a phone

Cons: Some reviewers feel they run big and are too baggy, others don’t like the low rise

Fabric: Stretchy nylon and spandex with a water-resistant DWR finish, anti-odor treatment, and UPF50 sun protection

Features: Wide and flat stretch waistband, lots of pockets

Fit: Standard fit with a mid-rise that is on the low side. Available in a straight leg version, a jogger version, an ankle version, and a high-waist version.

Sizes: XS-3X. The straight leg version is available in petite and tall lengths.

Kristen from Bearfoot Theory says: “The Mountain Hardwear Dynama/2 Ankle Pants have been a staple of mine for hiking and backpacking trips for a few years now. They are lightweight and super comfortable due to the soft, wide waistband and loose fit. I’m curvy up top and have thinner legs so these are a bit baggier on me than they might be for others. They pack down small making them easy to bring along on any adventure. I also love that these pants have just the right amount of stretch for easy mobility but are also plenty durable. I most recently wore these on a 6-day backpacking trip in Sequoia National Park and they held up very well. Plus they have hand pockets, are UPF 50, and water-resistant.”

When I asked for women’s hiking pant recommendations on Instagram, a few people reached out to say how much they loved the Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants. Most mentioned how much they liked the smooth elastic waistband that is much more comfortable under a hip belt than a traditional zippered fly.

A few people also mentioned that the fabric was thin and breathable, so they felt cool. As well, they didn’t smell after a few days in the backcountry. That’s why they are my pick for the best lightweight women’s hiking pants. (Psst! Read my guide to getting the smell out of hiking clothes.)

The big zippered pocket that fits a phone was also a big selling feature – so many women’s hiking pants have tiny pockets! The Mountain Hardwear Dynama2/Ankle Pants are my pick for the best women’s hiking pants with a phone pocket.

Check price: $85

Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants

Best Women’s Hiking Pants That Roll-up Into Capris (More roll-up into capri recommendations)

Also great for: petite women, tall women, curvy women

Pros: Soft, comfortable fabric that dries quickly

Cons: Small pockets don’t fit a phone, some reviewers find the waist too low-rise

Fabric: stretchy and soft polyester with a water-resistant finish and UPF 50+ sun protection

Features: Zippered fly, snap-closure cargo pockets, roll-up to convert to capris

Fit: Mid-rise at the front, contouring to a high rise at the back. Fitted through hip and thigh, relaxed lower leg

Sizes: 0-16 in 30″, 32″, and 34″ inseams

In my Backpacking in BC Facebook group, Naomi said “I recently bought a pair of Kuhl Freelex Roll-Up Pants. They are perfect for hiking and kayaking. I am 5’10” and I have a 34” inseam. I wear a size 8-10. Finding pants that are long enough but not oversized has been an issue my entire life.”

I also have the Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up pants and love how soft the fabric feels while also being durable. I also like how easy it is to roll these up into capris – which makes them my pick in that category.

Check prices:

Fjallraven Abisko Trail Trekking Trousers

Best Durable Women’s Hiking Pants (More durable recommendations)

Also good for: curvy women, splurge, petite

Pros: durable fabric that breathes, big pockets

Cons: heavy, expensive

Fabric: Stretchy nylon and elastane with Fjallraven’s super durable and water-resistant G-1000 polyester/cotton fabric in high-wear areas.

Features: Ventilation zippers from hips to knees; lots of pockets; adjustable cuffs with boot hooks

Fit: Mid-rise with higher cut in the back, tapered legs, technical cut

Sizes: 26″-37″ waist and 30″ or 32″ inseam

Hannah from That Adventurer says “As someone with a slightly bigger waist-thigh ratio, I often find it tricky to get pants that I can get past my thighs that aren’t super loose on my waist. The Fjällräven Abisko trekking pants have a stretchy fabric that’s both perfect for people with a bigger hip/thigh yet isn’t then too loose on the waist. Plus there a belt loops so you can add a belt if needed. With many years living in BC and more recently hiking in the Lofoten Islands in Norway and Scotland, the water resistance and windproof factors are very valuable to me and make them my favourite hiking pant over leggings for sure! Plus, there are large pockets (some with zips) which are great for snacks!”

Fjallraven’s gear all has traditional Scandinavian styling, which lasts a long time. That’s why the Abisko Trail pants are my picks for the most durable women’s hiking pants.

Check prices:

Best Women’s Hiking Pants by Type

Best Petite Womens Hiking Pants

REI Co-op Sahara (28.5″ inseam)

More Petite Women’s Hiking Pants:

• Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants (29″ inseam)
• prAna Halle II Pants (30″ inseam)
• Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants (29″ inseam)
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants (29″ inseam)
• Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants (30″ inseam)
• Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants (30″ inseam)
• Fjallraven Abisko Lite Trousers (30″ inseam)

Best Tall Womens Hiking Pants

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants (34″ inseam)

More tall women’s hiking pants:

• REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants (34″ inseam)
• prAna Halle II Pants (34″ inseam)
• Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants (34″ inseam)
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants (35″ inseam)
• Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants (34″ inseam)
• Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants (34″ inseam)

Best Plus Size Womens Hiking Pants

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants (sizes 0-26)

More plus size women’s hiking pants:

• Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants (sizes 0-24)
• prAna Halle II Pants (sizes 00-22)
• The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants (sizes XXS-3XL)
• Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants (sizes XS-3XL)
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants (sizes 0-24)

Best Curvy Womens Hiking Pants

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

More Curvy Women’s Hiking Pants:

• REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants
• Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants
• prAna Halle II Pants
• The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants
• Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants
• Fjallraven Abisko Lite Trekking Trousers

Best High-Waist Womens Hiking Pants

Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

More High-Waist Women’s Hiking Pants: Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

Best Elastic-Waist Womens Hiking Pants

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 Pants

More Elastic Waist Women’s Hiking Pants: Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

Best Zip-Off Convertible Womens Hiking Pants

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

More Zip-Off Convertible Women’s Hiking Pants: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Convertible Pants

Best Womens Hiking Pants That Roll-Up Into Capris

Kuhl Freeflex Roll-up Pants

More women’s hiking pants that roll into capris:

• prAna Halle II Pants

Best Womens Hiking Pants With a Phone Pocket

Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

More Best women’s hiking pants with a phone pocket:

• Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants
• Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants
• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

Best Womens Jogger Hiking Pants

prAna Halle II Joggers

More Women’s Jogger Hiking Pants: Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

More Best Lightweight Womens Hiking Pants

Mountain Hardwear Dynama2 Pants

More Lightweight Women’s Hiking Pants: The North Face Aphrodite 2.0

Best Durable Womens Hiking Pants

Fjallraven Abisko Lite Trekking Trousers

More Durable Women’s Hiking Pants: Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Pants

REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants

Best Splurge Womens Hiking Pants

Arc’Teryx Gamma LT Pants

More Splurge Women’s Hiking Pants: Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Trousers

Hiking Pants vs Hiking Leggings – What’s the Difference?

For a long time, most running or workout leggings weren’t durable enough for hiking, so hikers had to wear pants. However, that changed a few years ago.

Now, you can buy leggings specifically designed for hiking with durable fabrics and a fit designed for the trail. Some of them even have great pockets. Check out my hiking leggings guide for all the details.

Whether you choose to hike in pants or leggings comes down to personal preference for fit and features. Here’s a brief look at hiking pants vs. leggings

How To Choose Hiking Pants

Not all hiking pants are created equal. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you shop for hiking pants.

Fit

Fit is the most important factor to keep in mind when choosing hiking pants. If your pants are falling down or rubbing you in a weird way, you won’t have a good hike. On a multi-day trip, this can slow you down or cause painful chafing and rashes.

Read reviews and look for hiking pants designed for your body type. Many brands make pants in petite and tall lengths, as well as plus sizes. Some also have both a curvy and straight fit.

Expect to try on a few pairs of hiking pants before you find the perfect ones. Go to a good outdoor store with a wide selection. Or order a bunch to try on at home.

When you try on hiking pants, be sure to walk around in them and see how they feel. Do some squats and lunges. And try climbing up onto a bench or chair. You want to make sure they are comfortable doing all sorts of movements.

Fabric

Most hiking pants are made of woven nylon or polyester with spandex or elastane for stretch. The stretch means that the pants move well as you hike or scramble. But too much spandex can mean that the pants get saggy and stretch out between washes.

Nylon and polyester are durable, moisture-wicking and fairly breathable. However, more durable pants are usually thicker, which means they will be less breathable.

Hiking pants usually have a DWR finish applied to add water resistance. This means that splashes of water will bead up and run off and that they dry quickly. It doesn’t mean they will keep you dry in a rain storm – you need waterproof rain pants for that.

Some hiking pants have an additional odor-resistant treatment. On their own, nylon and especially polyester can hold on to smells. This can be a problem on backpacking trips. (Have stinky pants? Read my guide to getting smells out of hiking clothing.)

Most hiking pants provide good sun protection due to the durable fabric. Some brands chose to have their pants certified to get a UPF sun protection rating. But even unrated pants should offer good sun protection.

Waistband

The most important place that hiking pants should fit is your waist. Make sure they aren’t too tight or too loose. And make sure that the rise works for you – some people and body types find that a high rise or low rise works better for them.

There are two main types of waistbands – elastic and adjustable. Elastic waists sit flat under your hip belt and don’t have any buttons, zippers, buckles, or drawstrings to chafe. However, pants with elastic waists often come in small-medium-large-etc. sizes rather than numerical sizes, which means it can be harder to find the right fit.

An adjustable waist is helpful for a precise fit. It is especially useful on multi-day hikes where your pants might stretch out with multiple wears between washes. Most hiking pants have a standard zippered fly and belt loops.

However, many pants also add an internal drawstring so you can cinch them without a belt. A few hiking pants have a built-in belt or even a hook and ladder adjustment system.

Pockets

Like most women’s pants, women’s hiking pants often have terrible and tiny pockets. If you have been hiking awhile, you likely have a system for where you carry things and have an idea of what kind of pockets you are looking for.

I typically don’t carry much in my hiking pants pockets since not much fits in there! I want to make sure I have enough room for lip balm, and that’s it. My phone and snacks go in the hip belt pockets in my backpack to hold my phone and snacks.

Read reviews of pockets carefully and bring the things you want to store in them with you when you try on the pants. Be sure to walk, bend, and stretch to see if the pockets actually work when you’re moving. Sometimes stuff falls out or the fit is too tight.

Do You Want Convertible Pants?

Hiking pants often come in a convertible version with zip-off legs. And some hiking pants have buttons, snaps, or tabs to roll them up into capris. Whether you will like or use these features comes down to fit and personal preference.

Zip-off pants are great if you don’t want to carry both shorts and pants on the same trip. However, the zip off aspect can be hard to get right. For some women, the length of the zip-off shorts is too short or too long for what they prefer.

As well, sometimes the zippers can chafe or rub your thighs. I’ve never found a pair of women’s zip-off hiking pants that work for me!

A feature that lets you roll or cinch up the pants into capris can be a nice feature. But you can roll up any pants and they usually stay put – you don’t need the added fastener to keep them there.

Final Thoughts

I hope this post helped you find some hiking pants for women that will work for your body, whether it is petite, tall, plus-size, or curvy. If you have questions or other hiking pants to recommend, leave them in the comments.

MORE WOMEN’S GEAR POSTS:

• 19 Best Hiking Leggings
• How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?
• How to Camp and Hike on Your Period

The post Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’m a plus size hiker and it’s a struggle to find things that fit me. In this article, I’ll give you the low down on where to find women’s plus size hiking clothes in sizes up to size 22 and 3X. It includes a list of the best plus size hiking clothing brands and tips on where to buy them.

While there are a few niche and cottage brands, unfortunately they seem to crop up and then go out of business regularly – it’s a tough industry. While I encourage you to support niche brands, especially in the plus size space, in this post, I’m going to focus on brands that are widely available.

Hey there: Some of the brands mentioned in this article sent me clothing to try. You will find only my honest opinion below. As well, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

What Sizes are Plus Size?

In general, sizes larger than size 12 are considered plus size in the outdoor industry. Some brands may carry up to a size 16. Traditionally, most hiking clothing companies have not made apparel in size 18 or larger.

However, a few companies now recognize that plus sizes make up a huge part of the clothing market. From what I’ve read, nearly 70% of American women wear a size 14 or larger so it makes sense that outdoor brands are beginning to offer clothing in extended sizes. This is in part because of the work of plus size outdoor activists like Mirna Valerio, Fat Girls Hiking, and Unlikely Hikers.

I want to be clear that I recognize that as a size 16 to 18, I still hold a lot of privilege in the plus size community. Many companies make hiking clothes in my size. The fit and style may sometimes suck, but at least my size is offered.

Active Wear Isn’t Designed for Hiking

In this article, I’m going to focus mainly on brands and companies that make plus size women’s clothing designed specifically for hiking. There are lots of places to source plus size activewear, from big box stores like Walmart and Old Navy to niche small businesses.

Thankfully, it’s much less challenging (although still not easy) to find plus size leggings and quick dry tops, mostly designed for working out or yoga.

Active wear pieces work fine for casual hikes, but they will rip on sharp rocks or pointy branches. And for all-weather hiking you will need base layers, a waterproof rainjacket and warm layers made of fleece, down, or synthetic insulation. And it’s MUCH more difficult to find those in plus sizes.

So that’s what I’m going to focus on here: a list of brands that make quality women’s plus size hiking clothes and info on where to find them.

Just a quick note: I recognize that hiking clothing can be expensive. But it doesn’t have to be! Check out my tips for saving money on hiking gear.

The Best Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothing Brands

REI

In 2017, REI committed to offering more sizes in an effort to fit more women. Since then, they have had a dedicated plus size section on their site that usually includes over 1000 items of clothing from lots of different brands in sizes up to 26/5XL.

They also offer over 100 plus size items in their own REI Co-op brand including everything from hiking pants to rain jackets to quick dry shirts to base layers in sizes up to 5XL

For the full selection, you’ll have to shop online, but some of their larger stores do have a good plus size selection. Every time I’m in Seattle, I go to the giant downtown REI store. I’ve found great plus size hiking shorts there, as well as long-sleeved trekking shirts.

MEC

If you’re in Canada, MEC is probably your best bet for women’s plus size hiking clothing. They have been quietly expanding their assortment from a few different brands.

They used to just carry up to a size 14 or XL in most things, but in the last few years they’ve added a LOT of styles in size 16, 18 and XXL and a few up to size 4XL. However, most things over size 16 are online only. They’ve also started to offer a bigger size range in their house MEC brand.

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research launched a huge extended size collection in 2021 with input from plus size outdoor influencers including Sam Ortiz and Kaila Walton. And unlike some brands that started offering plus size and then scaled back production, OR has kept making plus sizes every year since then.

Their range is available up to size 3X and up to 24W. They are also committed to charging the same price for all sizes, which is great.

They make all kinds of technical clothing in plus sizes, including the popular Echo sun hoodie – one of my favourite sun hoodies.

prAna

prAna used to make quite a few plus size styles, but in the last few years they have scaled back their extended size collection.

I’ve been a fan of their Halle pants for hiking for years. They used to stop at size 16 but now they are available up to size 22 as well! Find them on my list of the best women’s hiking pants.

Patagonia

After years of offering a pretty small range of sizes, Patagonia has quietly launched an extended size collection with sizes up 3XL. I have the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody, which I wear as a sun shirt – the fit is great.

Smartwool

If you’re looking for cozy warm base layers, Smartwool makes awesome ones made of moisture-wicking and antimicrobial merino wool. They offer plus sizes in a few of their styles up to size 3XL.

Their patterns are really cute too! I love my snowflake-patterned long underwear! I also love their merino wool hiking tops.

Columbia

Columbia is a great source for women’s plus size hiking clothes with over 200 items in their collection! S

Columbia has everything from rain jackets to snow pants to hiking shirts in extended sizes. Compared to some other brands, their clothing is pretty reasonably priced too.

The North Face

The North Face has an extended size range that includes jackets, tops, and pants in sizes up to 3X.

I have their Aphrodite Motion 2.0 Capris. They are meant for hiking, but I love them for travel too since they look a bit more like casual pants. They are stretchy and they breathe really well. I wore them a LOT during my trip to Australia. They are on my list of the best women’s hiking pants.

Helly Hansen

Scandinavian sailing brand Helly Hansen also makes great hiking clothing. They have a plus size collection that includes rain jackets, base layers, fleece, and ski clothing. I have the Helly Hansen Daybreaker Fleee. It’s a great basic.

Eddie Bauer

While Eddie Bauer makes lots of great casual clothing, they also have a huge selection of plus sized hiking clothing. So far I’ve tried their Trail Tight leggings, Guide Pro shorts, and the MicroTherm down jacket and love them all.

Athleta

Athleta is The Gap’s athletic apparel brand. They have a huge selection of clothing available up to size 3X. They make lots of work out clothing, but they also make great hiking pants and fleeces.

My favourite winter hiking tights are their Altitude Stash Tights are my favourite. (They made my list of the best hiking leggings.)

The Best Plus Size Hiking Gear Brands

Gregory

Gregory has been making backpacks since 1977. A few years ago they a launched a series of plus size backpacks. They have shoulder straps and hipbelts that are designed to fit bigger bodies. The packs also have lots of adjustability since people’s bodies come in lots of different proportions. The plus size collection includes both day packs and backpacking packs.

Osprey

Osprey also makes a handful of plus size packs as part of their extended size collection. They offer a few day packs, backpacking packs, and waist packs with lots of adjustability, longer straps, and repositioned pockets.

Marmot

While they aren’t labelled as plus-size, Marmot makes lots of plus-size-friendly sleeping bags. Just look for their sleeping bags available in “wide” sizes – they have a few extra inches around the hips and shoulders to fit bigger bodies.

REI

In addition to making lots of plus size clothes, REI also makes plus size sleeping bags. Their popular Magma sleeping bags, along with a few other models, come in wide sizes that will fit most plus size people.

Plus Size Sleeping Pads

While you won’t find them labelled as plus-size, many brands make plus-size-friendly sleeping pads. Look for pads labelled as wide or long. In general, look for pads that are over 22″ wide.

A few brands to consider are NEMO, Therm-a-Rest, Big Agnes, and Sea to Summit. I love my long and wide Sea to Summit Ether Light XT pad.

Final Thoughts

So there’s my list of the best places to find plus size hiking clothes for women. I hope you find it helpful. If you have a women’s plus size hiking clothes brand to recommend, please tell me in the comments. I’d love to add more resources to this list!

READ NEXT: MORE ADVICE FOR FEMALE HIKERS

• Which Women’s Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying? (and which can you buy unisex?)
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• How to Camp and Hike on Your Period
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings

The post Where to Find Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes and Gear appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve got everything you need to know about underwear for hiking including:

• What is the best hiking underwear for women? Broken down into all-around, merino, seamless, and budget categories
• What is the best hiking underwear for men? Broken down into all-around, pouch, merino, and budget categories
• How to choose hiking underwear: What fabrics, features, and fit should you look for?

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

My Picks

Best All-Around Women’s Hiking Underwear: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Best Seamless Women’s Hiking Underwear: Patagonia Active

Best Merino Wool Women’s Hiking Underwear: Branwyn Essential

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Underwear: Under Armour Pure Stretch

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear Without a Pouch: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear With a Pouch: Saxx Kinetic HD

Best Merino Wool Men’s Hiking Underwear: Icebreaker Anatomica

Best Budget Men’s Hiking Underwear: New Balance Mesh

How I Picked

I’ve been hiking for two decades. I’ve also spent three years working in an outdoor store and six years writing marketing materials for a large outdoor retailer. I wrote website descriptions and gear guides for thousands of different products. I spent a ton of time learning from their design team so I got really familiar with the properties of outdoor fabrics and garment construction.

For this guide, I drew upon my outdoor industry experience and my personal experience with trying lots of different types of underwear for hiking. But I also talked to friends, asked the members of my 12,000-member strong Backpacking in BC Facebook group, and read dozens of online reviews. The result is a comprehensive look at the best hiking underwear out there for every person.

Best Hiking Underwear for Women

Best All-Around Women’s Hiking Underwear: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Price: $15-24

Styles: bikini brief, hipster, boy short

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% elastane mesh is breathable and lightweight.

Features: Anti-odor treatment, flatlock seams, flat waistband.

Weight: 30g (bikini briefs)

I had heard a lot of positive reviews about the Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh hiking panties but for some reason, I didn’t try them until last year. I was worried that since they aren’t seamless, they might chafe. So far, I’ve worn the bikini brief version on three backpacking trips and lots of day hikes. They are super comfortable, stay in place, don’t absorb sweat, and dry really fast. They also seem very breathable, thanks to the mesh fabric. Also no chafing!

They start to pill a little bit over time, but they seem to be moderately durable anyway. I accidentally washed them with my ankle brace and the velcro from it got caught on them. That section looks a bit scuffed, but otherwise, they survived fine.

After a few years of fairly heavy wear, I’ve also noticed that the elastic waist band and leg edging is getting a bit saggy as the elastic stretches out. But that’s to be expected with elastic – it breaks down.

They are also fairly reasonably priced for technical underwear, and I know I’ll be picking up a few more pairs. And great news for plus-sized women: they come in sizes XS to 3XL.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best Seamless Women’s Hiking Underwear: Patagonia Active

Price: $29

Styles: briefs or hipster

Fabric: 88% nylon, 12% spandex is soft, lightweight, and stretchy

Features: Totally seamless construction, anti-odor treatment

Weight: 33g (briefs)

Patagonia’s Active Hipsters have been my go-to hiking underwear for years. I love that they are completely seamless so they don’t chafe or rub. They are also really soft. Over time, I’ve also found them really durable: I have some pairs that are nearly ten years old! The only downside with these is that they are frequently out of stock.

They have a wide waistband that doesn’t move and they provide a fair amount of rear coverage. However, if you like a higher rise cut, you may want to go with the briefs since the hipsters sit pretty low.

Where to buy: Patagonia | Patagonia Canada

Best Merino Wool Women’s Hiking Underwear: Branwyn Essential

Price: $38

Styles: Thong, bikini, or hipster

Fabric: 81% merino wool, 12% nylon, 7% elastane doesn’t itch. The merino wool wicks sweat while the nylon adds durability and stretch.

Features: Naturally odor-resistant thanks to merino wool

Weight: Not available.

If you’ve followed my content, you know that I don’t really love merino wool since it absorbs more water than synthetics. Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for more thoughts.

BUT… these Brandwyn Essential underwear pleasantly surprised me. I’ve worn them for a whole season and so far they haven’t chafed me or felt too damp. In fact, I liked them so much that they made my list of my favourite gear of 2024.

My other main beef with merino is that it isn’t very durable, but my Branwyn underwear has held up really well so far – no tiny mystery holes like I’ve gotten with other merino underwear. I think the secret with these is the fabric. It’s a bit thicker than most other merino underwear that I’ve tried, which adds to the durability.

I also really love the fit on these. Most hiking underwear tends to be fairly low-waisted, but these are a bit higher, which feels more comfortable for me.

Where to buy: Branwyn

Another good merino option: I previously recommended the Icebreaker Merino Siren in the merino hiking underwear category. They are still great, but I like the Branwyns more.

Best Budget Women’s Hiking Underwear: Under Armour Pure Stretch

Price: $20-30 for a pack of three

Styles: Hipster or thong

Fabric: 68%nylon, 32% elastane fabric with a cotton gusset is soft, stretchy, and very thin

Features: Laser-cut edges mean no seams at waistband or leg openings, anti-microbial odor-resistant treatment

Weight: 20g

For the price, the nearly seamless Under Armor Pure Stretch panties are great for hiking. They dry super-quickly and feel like you’re wearing nothing. However, the fit is a bit hit-or-miss. I find that the hipster style is a bit cheeky and doesn’t have great coverage – they give we a wedgie sometimes.

They are also a bit more low-rise than I’d like. From reviews I’ve read and my experience, it seems like curvier women may want to size up. I also don’t love the cotton gusset as it absorbs water and isn’t that comfortable.

But if you do like the fit of these Under Armour hiking underwear, they are a great budget option. Tons of online reviewers (and members of the Backpacking in BC Facebook group) love them.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best Hiking Underwear for Men

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear Without a Pouch: Exofficio Give-N-Go Sport Mesh

Price: $13-26

Styles: Brief or boxer brief

Fabric: 90% nylon, 10% elastane mesh is breathable and lightweight

Features: Anti-odor treatment, flatlock seams, wide waistband.

Weight: 40g (boxer briefs)

When I was researching the best hiking boxers for men, these Exofficio underwear just kept coming up in recommendations. They are made of the same fabric as the women’s version which means they wick sweat and dry quickly. Reviewers say they fit snugly and don’t ride up or bunch. They are also really breathable so you won’t overheat.

These men’s underwear are available in both briefs and boxer briefs. And the boxer briefs are available in 3″, 6″, and 9″ inseams so you can choose the amount of leg coverage you like. With thousands of positive reviews online, it’s easy to say these are the most popular men’s hiking and adventure travel underwear.

Where to buy: Amazon

Best All-Around Men’s Hiking Underwear With a Pouch: Saxx Kinetic HD

Price: $35

Style: boxer brief, long leg boxer brief

Fabric: 85% nylon, 15% elastane is stretchy, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying

Features: Anatomical pouch supports the package and prevents chafing, flatlock seams are soft on skin, nine-panel construction creates an ergonomic fit, odor-resistant fabric, anti-roll waistband

Weight: 72g

Pretty much every guy I asked about hiking underwear recommended the Saxx Kinetic (including a bunch in my Backpacking in BC Facebook group). Saxx is the first company to offer under with a game-changing pouch that keeps the package separate from the legs. They are based in my hometown of Vancouver too!

The men I talked to raved about the pouch and the comfortable, quick-drying fabric. Most of my male hiking friends switched to these years ago and said they can never go back to regular underwear. Most people love the regular boxer briefs that have a 5″ inseam, but if you want more coverage, they also come in a long leg version with an 8″ inseam.

Where to buy: Amazon | MEC | Saxx USA | Saxx Canada

Best Merino Wool Men’s Hiking Underwear: Icebreaker Anatomica

Price: $45-60

Style: brief, boxer brief, long boxer brief

Fabric: 83% merino wool, 12% nylon, 5% elastane is soft, stretchy, and doesn’t itch. The merino wool wicks sweat while the nylon adds durability and stretch.

Features: Naturally odor-resistant thanks to merino wool, contoured pouch, flatlock seams

Weight: 80g (boxers)

Lots of people love merino wool underwear since it is really stink-resistant. Merino wool also wicks sweat and is soft on the skin. If you look up reviews of merino wool men’s hiking underwear, you’ll find lots of people complaining that they get small holes on the inner thighs from rubbing against pants.

However, that doesn’t happen as fast with these Icebreaker ones since they have nylon and elastane blended in with the merino for increased durability. (Read my thoughts on Merino wool in my Is Merino Wool Worth it? post.)

If you want merino wool boxers for hiking, you’ll love these Icebreaker Anatomic underwear. The boxer briefs are available with or without a fly and they come in briefs too.

Where to buy: Amazon | MEC | Icebreaker USA | Icebreaker Canada

Best Budget Men’s Hiking Underwear: New Balance Mesh

Price: $19 for a pack of three

Style: boxer brief

Fabric: 90% polyester, 10% spandex mesh is soft and lightweight

Features: Wide elastic waistband, supportive pouch, flat locked stitching, available either with or without a fly

Weight: not available

If you’re looking for some basic and inexpensive men’s hiking underwear, these New Balance boxer briefs fit the bill. They are fairly lightweight and wick moisture. The flatlock stitching and wide waistband reduces chafe. Hundreds of online reviewers and a few members of the Backpacking in BC Facebook group raved about them.

Where to buy: Amazon

How to Choose Hiking Underwear

When I first started hiking, I didn’t think I needed to worry about what underwear to wear. But then things got hot, sweaty, and…. uncomfortable. I learned that for me (and for lots of other people), underwear choice can make or break a hike. So what should you look for when shopping for hiking underwear?

Which Fabric is Best?

Cotton underwear is great for everyday use. It’s soft and comfortable. But it absorbs water and dries really slowly. When you’re hiking, cotton is a great recipe for rubbing, chafing, and being generally uncomfortable.

The best fabrics for hiking underwear are synthetics (nylon or polyester) or merino wool since they wick sweat and dry quickly. You may also see underwear for hiking made of rayon or Tencel. Both of those fabrics are incredibly soft, but unfortunately, that means they aren’t that durable and may not stand up to inner thigh rubbing.

To ensure a good fit, look for hiking underwear with stretch. That means that the fabric should have some elastane. (It’s also sold under the brand names Spandex and Lycra.)

Moisture-Wicking

Hiking is sweaty, so choose underwear that is moisture-wicking to move wetness away from your body. Avoid cotton which absorbs water. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are great at wicking moisture. Merino wool also wicks well.

Quick-Drying

The last thing you want is to sit around in a pair of wet underwear. That makes quick-drying fabrics key, especially for backpacking underwear. Nylon and polyester dry the fastest.

Merino wool wicks moisture but holds some of it in the core of the fibres. That means it doesn’t dry quite as quickly as synthetics, but as a bonus, it will keep you cooler in hot weather.

A Comfortable Fit

You want to make sure your underwear isn’t moving around while you are hiking. Choose hiking underwear that fit well. You want them to stay in place, but you don’t want them to be too tight. You also don’t want them to be too loose because then they will bunch up and rub. Keep in mind that in order to wick sweat, the fabric needs to be in contact with your skin.

Prevents Chafing

Seams, tags, waistbands… they can all dig in, get wet, and then chafe your skin until it’s red and angry. Close your eyes and run the underwear through your fingers before you wear it. Really FEEL it. Look for hiking underwear with no tags and with comfortable flat waistbands. Seamless underwear or ones with flatlock seams will also prevent chafing.

Durable

Hiking underwear isn’t cheap, so you want to choose a pair that won’t fall apart. Super-thin material is appealing since it’s lightweight, but it may also fall apart faster. Merino wool is also MUCH less abrasion-resistant than synthetics so it can develop holes easily.

Odor Resistant

Butts and crotches get smelly, especially on multi-day trips. Some synthetic underwear for hiking often comes with antimicrobial treatments that reduce odors. But they do wear off over time. Merino wool is naturally antimicrobial.

Got stinky hiking underwear? Read my guide to getting the smell out of hiking clothing.

A Style You Like

Hiking underwear comes in many different styles. For men, you can choose between briefs, boxers, and boxer briefs. Women’s underwear for hiking is available in seemingly endless cuts from tiny thongs to full-cut boyshorts and everything in between.

Choose a style that is most comfortable for you. If you find that you experience inner-thigh chafing, opt for boxer brief or boy short styles that provide some protection in that area.

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know to find the best hiking underwear. If you have questions or alternative recommendations, leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings
• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• How to Get the Smell Out of Hiking Clothes
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• Backpacking Checklist: Gear You Need To Go Backpacking
• 40 Best Gifts for Backpackers

The post Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I got a pair of hiking leggings about five years ago (followed by several more pairs), and now I love to wear leggings on hikes. They’re so comfortable!

In this post, I’ve got everything you need to know about hiking leggings including:

• Recommendations for the best hiking leggings in four categories: stretch-woven leggings, reinforced leggings, durable knit leggings, and winter leggings
• Why hike in leggings instead of pants? What are the pros and cons of hiking in leggings?
• How to choose hiking leggings: What features should you look for?

Psst! Looking for recommendations for hiking pants instead of leggings? Head over to my Best Women’s Hiking Pants post. It has picks for every body type.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

How I Picked

There are literally thousands of pairs of leggings out there. But most are made for running, yoga, or casual wear. Some of them are fine for hiking, and if you already own leggings you like hiking in, that’s great. But in this post, I’m focusing only on leggings designed specifically for hiking.

That means that all the leggings on this list are designed to wick sweat and use durable fabric that will stand up to scrapes and scuffs. No one wants to poke a hole in their tights or sit down on a sharp rock that creates a big tear in the butt of their leggings. (Both have happened to me when hiking in running leggings!)

Hiking leggings use a few different types of construction and fabric to make them more durable than regular leggings. I’ll explain each type and give you my picks for the best hiking leggings in four different categories.

Best Durable Knit Hiking Leggings

The hiking leggings in this category might look like regular running tights or yoga leggings. Like those leggings, they are made with knit fabric.

But in these hiking leggings, the knit fabric is a little thicker and made with more durable threads to resist abrasion. They also have hiking-specific features like pockets and a contoured fit.

Patagonia Pack Out Tights

Features: Durable knit fabric, thigh pockets

These Patagonia hiking leggings have a soft and stretchy fabric that is also abrasion resistant because it’s a double-knit that is a bit thicker than normal yoga tights. They also have a sweat-wicking finish and a durable odor-control treatment.

The Pack Out Tights have a wide waistband, but it is mid-rise, unlike most of the hiking tights on this list.

Two drop-in thigh pockets are big enough to hold your phone and a zippered pocket at the hip holds keys or cards.

Psst: These leggings are also available in plus sizes. If you’re looking for a more durable version, check out the Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights (reviewed below).

Check prices:

Ibez Lizzi Tights

Features: Compression fit, big thigh pockets, made with anti-itch, anti-microbial merino wool fabric

I got a pair of these Ibex Lizzi merino wool hiking leggings a few years ago and I like them a lot. To be honest, I was pretty skeptical of them at first. Merino wool is not known for being a durable fabric so I thought they would get ripped easily. (Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for my strong opinions on Merino wool.)

I’m happy to report that they have stood up quite well – no rips or tears yet! They are made with merino wool that is blended with nylon, which adds lots of strength, and elastane for stretch.

I do find that the fabric is quite thick (which it likely has to be for durability) so they run a little hotter than many other hiking tights. I only wear them in spring and fall or mild winter weather.

The fit is pretty good too, with a wide waistband that stays in place. The side pockets are big enough to comfortably fit my phone.

Check prices:

Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings

Features: Compression fit, moisture-wicking fabric, odor-control treatment, zippered thigh pockets

I’ve had a pair of these Eddie Bauer hiking leggings for a few years and I wear them fairly often on easier hikes.

While they are more durable than regular running leggings, they aren’t as abrasion-resistant as some other tights on this list so I don’t wear them if I expect any rock scrambling or brush.

The compression fit and high-rise waist holds them in place while I hike, which I like.

The thigh pockets have zippers, which makes it a little harder to get my phone in and out, but also holds it a lot more securely.

Psst: They’re also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Reinforced Hiking Leggings

If you’re looking for tights that are a bit more durable, check out reinforced leggings for hiking. These hiking tights have fabric overlays or treatments on high-wear areas like the knees and butt. That makes them much more abrasion-resistant.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights

Features: Reinforced patches on knees and seat, lots of pockets

I’ve had a pair of these Fjallraven Abisko tights for the last couple of years and they’ve made their way into my regular hiking pants rotation. I even took them as my primary bottoms on my week-long Bowron Lakes Canoe Trip.

The main material is soft and stretchy like running tights. But they have reinforced fabric on the knees and butt since those are the places where you’re most likely to rip your leggings.

The other thing that I love about these hiking leggings is all the pockets. Both the thigh pockets are big enough to hold my phone. They also have a little loop for attaching your keys. I used it on my canoe trip to clip on my phone leash – that way it was impossible to drop my phone in the lake!

The wide waistband is also really comfortable and has a drawstring.

These hiking tights are definitely on the spendy side, but after wearing them a ton, I think they’re worth it.

Check prices:

Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights

Features: Durable reinforced panels, big pockets, comfortable waistband

These reinforced hiking leggings from Patagonia are the burlier version of their Pack Out Tights (reviewed above). They use the same stretchy double knit fabric for most of the leggings. But they also have reinforced water-resistant panels at the knees and seat for extra durability.

Two big drop-in pockets on the thighs hold your phone. There’s also a small zippered pocket for keys or other small items.

The wide waistband is made of a ribbed material that is comfortable under a hip belt.

Check prices:

Best Durable Stretch Woven Hiking Leggings

The hiking leggings in this category don’t use stretchy knit fabric like you’d find in yoga leggings. Instead, they use stretch woven fabrics that you would more commonly see in summer weight softshell pants but cut like leggings.

That makes these hiking leggings much more breathable than others on this list, while also being super durable. Most of these leggings use panels of stretch knit to create a better fit, especially around the waist.

Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights

Features: Abrasion-resistant fabric, lots of pockets

These Athleta leggings are made with a durable stretch woven fabric that stands up to scrapes and sharp branches. It’s a thicker fabric, more like what you might find in hiking pants, but cut like a legging.

The wide waistband is comfortable and has a drawstring.

They also have a DWR (durable water repellent) finish so they’ll resist light rain.

With six pockets (two front, two back, and two thigh), they carry everything you need.

Psst: These hiking tights are also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Winter Hiking Leggings

Hiking in regular running tights can be cold since the wind blows right through them. The durable fabrics of the hiking leggings on this list make them a bit more windproof, but they still aren’t warm enough for winter hiking.

That’s where fleece-lined hiking leggings come in. These cozy warm tights are designed for winter hiking.

Athleta Altitude Tights

Features: Made of stretchy Polartec fleece, wide waistband

I got a pair of these Athleta fleece tights a few years ago and I wear them all winter long. I’ve worn them hiking and snowshoeing, and just around the house.

The fabric is high-end Polartech Power Stretch fleece. It has a soft fleece inner and a smooth outer. It wicks moisture really well too and is a little bit wind resistant, which helps on blustery days.

The high-rise waist is really comfortable.

The original version didn’t have pockets, but I recently got a pair of the newer ones that do have thigh pockets that fit my phone.

Psst: These winter hiking leggings are also available in plus sizes.

Check prices:

Best Hiking Leggings with Pockets

Most of the leggings on this list have at least one pocket. However, if you’re searching for hiking leggings with pockets, you probably want thigh pockets big enough to hold your phone. Here are all the leggings on this list with phone pockets:

• Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights
• Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights
• Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights
• Patagonia Pack Out Tights
• Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings
• Ibex Lizzi Tights

Best Plus Size Hiking Leggings

A few years ago it was rare to see hiking clothing for women in plus sizes. Thankfully, that is changing a little bit. Many of the hiking leggings on this list are available in plus sizes (larger than an XL/16).

• Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo Tights (available in sizes 0-26)
• Patagonia Pack Out Tights (available in sizes XS-XXL)
• Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings (available in sizes XS-XXL)
• Athleta Altitude Tights (available in sizes XXS-3X)

READ NEXT: Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them

Hiking Pants vs. Hiking Leggings

Are hiking pants better than leggings?

Traditional hikers will tell you they only hit the trail in hiking pants. But newer hikers often prefer to hike in leggings or tights. What’s the difference?

In general, hiking pants are more durable than leggings. They breathe better since they don’t trap as much air and moisture directly against your skin. They also have better pockets, adjustable waists, and are easier to roll up to cross streams or to vent in warm weather.

Looking for hiking pants recommendations? Head over to my best women’s hiking pants guide. It has options for every body type from petite to tall to plus size and more.

Running and yoga leggings are often made with lightweight material that is prone to snagging and tearing. They have a close fit that is designed for compression and comfort, but that can impede breathability. The stretchy knit of leggings and their close fit also means that it’s easy for bugs to bite right through leggings!

Hiking leggings take the best of hiking pants and yoga leggings and fuse them together. Hiking tights use durable fabrics that are abrasion-resistant. (But that does mean they often aren’t that breathable, which some brands offset by putting in panels of lightweight fabric.)

Leggings for hiking often have great pockets. High-end hiking leggings use body-mapped construction to ensure they stay in place and fit all your curves. I find it’s easier to find hiking leggings that fit me compared to hiking pants since they are so stretchy.

For me, hiking leggings work best for day hikes in moderate weather. In hot weather, I find leggings too hot so I wear shorts or hiking pants. On backpacking trips, I prefer hiking pants since they are more durable, breathe better, and don’t get stretched out or baggy the way leggings do.

How to Choose Hiking Leggings

There are a few features to keep in mind when choosing hiking leggings.

Durability

It should go without saying, that you need more durable leggings for hiking than you do for running or yoga. All of the leggings in this post are durable, but the ones with reinforced patches and the ones made from stretch-woven fabrics are the most durable.

Durable fabric is the main difference between hiking leggings and regular leggings.

Breathability

In general, leggings aren’t as breathable as hiking pants since they hold hot air and sweat next to your skin. And hiking leggings are often less breathable than running leggings since they are made of thicker fabric to resist abrasion.

I find that hiking in leggings is best in moderate temperatures (not too hot and not too cold). If you’re concerned about breathability, look for leggings with panels of thinner material for breathability. Stretch woven leggings also tend to be a bit more breathable than knit ones.

Sweat-Wicking

Hiking leggings are made with sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester, and nylon (also called polyamide). They sometimes also have chemical finishes to help them wick sweat even better.

Yoga and running leggings are often made with these fabrics too. But more casual leggings might use cotton, which absorbs sweat. That can be gross on a long hike!

Odor-Control

If you’ve ever done a sweaty workout in leggings, then forgotten to wash them right away, you know how badly they can pick up stink. The nylon and polyester fibres in leggings are prone to odors, which can be a problem on long trips. Look for leggings with anti-bacterial odor-control finishes.

Already own stinky leggings? Read my guide to getting smells out of hiking clothing.

Fit

Cheap leggings often have a generic fit with straight-up-and-down side seams. This often doesn’t work for the athletic moves that you need to do while hiking, including high stepping and squatting.

Regular leggings also sometimes are prone to bunching up in the crotch or behind the knees. The waistbands also droop or roll over.

Hiking leggings are cut to move with you. This means lots more panels and seams, placed in an intentional way to create a great fit.

Hiking leggings often also have an internal drawcord. That can be useful on longer trips where the fabric relaxes.

Weather Resistance

Some hiking leggings have a DWR (durable water repellent coating) that makes them a bit more water-resistant. However, they won’t keep you dry in a rainstorm, and the coating wears off over time.

So far, waterproof hiking leggings don’t exist. (Stretchy material is impossible to make totally waterproof while also being comfortable to wear.) You’ll have to buy a pair of rain pants to layer over top of your leggings if you plan to hike in wet weather.

Pockets

One of the biggest reasons I like to hike in leggings (besides the comfort) is to have easy access to my phone. Many hiking leggings come with great thigh pockets that are sized to fit your phone. (They are also a great size for carrying a granola bar.)

Final Thoughts

So that’s everything you need to know about hiking leggings. If you haven’t tried leggings designed for hiking, give them a go – they’re so comfortable! If you have questions or can suggest an alternative pair of hiking leggings, leave them in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 12 Best Women’s Hiking Pants (Picks for Every Body Type)
• Is Merino Wool Worth It? Pros and Cons
• Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them
• Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?
• Best Hiking Underwear For Women and Men
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear

The post Best Hiking Leggings of 2025 appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

READ NEXT: Female Hikers Recommend Women’s Hiking Clothing to Fit Your Body Type

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Boots and Shoes

Best Women’s Boots for Wide Feet: Zamberlan Ultra Lite Hiking Boots

Kathi of Watch Me See loves her Zamberlan Ultra Lite hiking boots (even though they are leather) since they fit her wide feet. She says:

Last year I got myself a pair of Zamberlan Ultra Lite hiking boots and haven’t looked back. I have quite wide feet and “generous” ankles. So it can be tricky to find hiking boots which are comfortable and give me the right amount of support. The Zamberlan boots had a great fit from day one and the leather softened to the shape of my feet really quickly.

I’ve worn the boots on day hikes as well as short walks in the Scottish hills, and on long-distance hikes in Scotland and Sweden. Even with the added weight from my backpack, the shoes gave me great support and I never had blisters! This year I’m actually taking them on a 150-mile trek across the Outer Hebrides! As a vegan, I’m of course not happy that the boots are made of leather, but I doubt that I could find any better hiking boot than this one!

Check prices on the Zamberlan Ultra Lite hiking boots: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

For more about these boots, read Kathi’s full review of her Zamberlan hiking boots.

READ NEXT: Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?

Best Women’s Light Hiking Boots for Narrow Feet: Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX

I have hard-to-fit narrow feet with narrow heels. I’ve found a few options for narrow hiking boots, but most of them are high cut and heavy full leather boots like the Scarpa Kailash Boots, which I wear for snow and off trail travel. On most hikes I prefer to wear lightweight and lower cut boots since they don’t weigh me down. I’m on my second pair of Salomon X Ultra Mid Hiking GTX Boots now. I’ve worn them hiking and backpacking all over the world including to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal, into a glacier ice cave in Iceland and on after work hikes in the mountains near Vancouver (like in the pic above).

I like that they are narrow enough for my feet without being too tight and that they come up high enough to give me a little ankle support without feeling constricting. They have an internal Gore Tex waterproof breathable membrane so they keep my feet dry in wet weather. Plus while my older ones were boring black, but my newer ones are a fun bluish-purple colour!

Check prices on the Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX hiking boots: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

Best Women’s Minimalist Trail Running Shoes: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG Shoes

Nora of Those Fearless Feet loves trail running in her Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG shoes. She says:

The Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG shoes are perfect for very muddy runs that need a lot of traction while still providing the flexibility and minimalism of barefoot shoes. I most often use them for OCRs or very muddy trail runs. Due to the mesh on the sides, they are very easy to wash off. They provide a high level of traction but I would not recommend them for road running. These are a good barefoot replacement for trail runners. A few downsides of these shoes is that the cinch laces can add some discomfort for those with very high arches or side bunions. They also lack in the extreme flexibility of some other barefoot shoes but are overall highly satisfactory.

Check prices on the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG shoes: Amazon

READ NEXT: How to Prevent Blisters When Hiking

Best Women’s Barefoot Style Hiking Shoes: Vibram Trek Ascent Light Hiking Shoes

Lyric of Asher and Lyric loves to be barefoot, but on rockier trails, she turns to her Vibram Trek Ascent Light Hiking Shoes. She says:

Vibram Toe Shoes are #1 on my never-leave-home-without hiking gear list. I love to hike barefoot, especially when the earth is smooth and soft. But when the terrain gets really rocky, rough or cold I always go to my toe shoes first so that I can continue to feel the terrain under me. I’ve used my toe shoes for over a decade now: hiking the San Gabriel Mountains, exploring 10,000 feet up in Jackson Hole, WY, and even circumambulating Mt. Kailash in Tibet (pictured) just to name a few. I’m a small woman with narrow feet, and for many years I suffered from back problems. I find the fit of these shoes to be really comfortable, great for my posture and alignment. They have really helped strengthen my arches too. Overall, these shoes have been fantastic for me and I would recommend them to anyone looking to connect with the earth they are hiking on.

Check prices on Vibram Trek Ascent Light Hiking Shoes: Amazon | REI

Backpacks

Best Multi-Day Pack for Plus-Sized Women: Gregory Deva 70

Mara from Right Kind of Lost loves her Gregory Deva 70 backpack since it fits her plus-sized body. She says:

I love my Gregory Deva 70 pack! One of the main things I love is that the hip belt and shoulder straps pivot while your body moves: a great plus for backpacking. This backpack doesn’t pinch my shoulders like others have. And the hip belt fits great for my curvy figure. It’s really comfy.

I feel that I don’t have a typical hiker’s body type, although I go all the time. I’m five foot five and weigh in right at the 200 mark.  I mostly hike around Arkansas, which is where I live. But I’ve also used the pack in Washington State, Montana, Texas, New Hampshire, and Michigan.

Check prices on the Gregory Deva 70 backpack: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

You can follow Mara’s adventures on the Right Kind of Lost Facebook page.

READ NEXT: Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them

Best Multi-day Pack for Petite and Curvy Women: Osprey Viva 65

Thea from Zen Travellers likes hiking with her Osprey Viva 65 since it is adjustable to fit her petite and curvy body. She says: 

I’m a short and curvy gal who lives for adventures outside. I typically spend my summers backpacking and hiking in the Canadian Rockies and my Osprey Viva 65 Litre backpack has been with me on many multi-day trips. It’s great because you can adjust it to match your torso length and then the hip and shoulder straps can be tailored to a perfect fit. Since you can get a great fit, it almost makes carrying 3 days worth of food and your shelter on your back a pleasant experience. Currently, I am filling it up for a 14 month trip around the world, so I can let you know if it’s the perfect backpack for that too!

Check prices on the Osprey Viva 65 backpack: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

Thea is currently on a round-the-world trip that you can follow on her Instagram.

Best Multi-Day Pack for Petite Women Who Travel: Thule Versant 60 Womens

Melissa of The Family Voyage travels with her family so she needs to carry a lot of gear. She likes the way her Women’s Thule Versant 60 carries big loads on her petite frame. She says:

When we were leaving for our family gap year, I knew my backpack needed a serious capacity upgrade since our kids are too small to carry their own gear. My challenge? As a petite woman with a short torso, so many backpacks on the market overwhelmed my short frame and bonked me annoyingly on the head at every step. Fortunately I happened upon the Thule Versant 60L and it’s been with me ever since – now across six continents! The main compartment holds all of our family’s clothing, neatly stacked in packing cubes.

There are two important reasons why I love using this backpack. First, it has an adjustable harness height to fit any woman’s body perfectly! It can adjust several inches shorter than most competitors on the market. Second, even though it has 60L capacity, its relatively short frame height and tons of external compression straps allow it to look like a sort of normal hiking daypack if need be. Especially when carrying several layers of clothing plus lunch and water for four, the main pack makes for a very practical daypack. It has traveled with us through Croatian waterfalls and Patagonian mountains!

Check prices on the Thule Versant 60 Women’s backpack: Amazon

Head on over to Melissa’s blog to read more about this pack and her thorough reviews of the best women’s travel backpacks.

Best Overnight Backpack for Curvy Women: REI C0-op Flash 45 Pack Women’s

Natasha from The World Pursuit loves her women’s REI Co-op Flash 45 Pack since it fits her curvy frame, but she thinks it’s a great pick for most women. She says:

I love REI backpacks and have been using them for years! The REI Co-Op Flash Pack is one of the best small hiking backpacks on the market. At just over 2 lb this pack is seriously light and great for hiking. It is also affordable for a good hiking backpack.

The Co-Op Flash Pack is made out of heavy duty ripstop nylon and is a great trekking backpack. With 45L it’s manageable for a gear-heavy day hike or even an overnight. It has all kinds of attachments to allow for ice axes, poles, and other tools to be stored as well as snappable water bottle pockets on the hip belt. It fits my curvy frame perfectly, but most women will love it regardless of size.  I’ve used the Flash 45 backpacking around Europe and hiking in Thailand. Seriously it’s perfect!

Check prices for the women’s REI Co-op Flash 45 Pack: REI

Natasha is a bit of backpack expert: check out her review of the Best Hiking Backpacks of 2018.

Best Travel Backpack for Hikers: CabinZero Urban Backpack

Inma from A World To Travel travels and hikes with a Cabinzero Urban backpack that she thinks is a great option for travellers who like to hike too. She says:

Do not be fooled by its name (Urban), this bag is one of the sturdiest and best suited to go outdoors with I’ve came across since I started traveling over 15 years back. Waterproof and adjustable, it never hurt my back (I have scoliosis, an average body and measure 170cm). I’ve been using it for a year now in very different situations. From trekking the eco-lodge circuit in the Annapurnas (a 5 day trek I took last year) to walking the Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago de Compostela, I couldn’t be happier with it! The best part is that it allows me to travel without checking luggage, something I always look for in a bag.

Keep up with Inma’s travels on her Instagram.

Best Hydration Pack for Tall Women: CamelBak Octane Dart

Annie from Today We Adventure loves getting outside with her CamelBak Octane Dart hydration pack since it fits her tall frame without slipping off her narrow shoulders. She says:

From 20-mile runs, to high alpine hikes, to multi-pitch climbs, to long walks when I don’t want to carry a water bottle, the CamelBak Octane Dart has filled a lot of roles in my outdoor life. With a 1.5L capacity reservoir and 2 moderately sized zipper pockets, this minimalist pack is meant for a day where you’ll need water and just a few snacks or necessities.

The Dart is a near perfect fit for me – as a tall girl, that can be difficult to find! Many packs for women are too short in the torso, and packs for men are typically too wide in the shoulders. The Dart is just right. It fits tightly against my back without pinching or tugging, with minimal bounce even when running. The shoulder and chest straps allow you to mold it to your body. The pocket on shoulder harness is handy for easy access to snacks or a cell phone, and the tube clip keeps the bite valve in place for sips on the move. I highly recommend the CamelBak Octane Dart for long runs and moderate day hikes – basically, times when you need to carry water and not much else.

Check prices for the CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

You can keep up with Annie’s outdoor adventures on her Instagram.

READ NEXT: 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear

Best Day Pack for Curvy Women: Gregory Maya 22

As a curvier woman, I like women’s specific packs like the Gregory Maya 22 day pack that are built to accommodate my breasts and hips. The shoulder straps also have a unique stretchy attachment point where they meet the body of the backpack so they flex and move with you. One of my favourite features of the Maya is the hip belt pockets since I can access snacks or lip balm without having to take off the pack. It also has a dedicated hydration sleeve to keep my reservoir separate from the rest of my gear. The 22L size is big enough to carry everything I need for a long day hike. I’ve had this pack for about 5 years (mine is an older version) and it’s still going strong.

Check prices for the Gregory May 22 Daypack: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

Best Child Carrier Backpack for Most Women’s Body Types: Deuter Kid Comfort 3

Celine from Family Can Travel kept hiking after having a baby thanks to her Deuter Kid Comfort 3 child carrier backpack. She says:

Good hiking gear is so important and aside from my hiking boots, my favourite piece of hiking gear is my Deuter Kid Comfort 3 child carrier backpack. It’s my top recommendation for women who want to keep hiking after having a baby. This backpack carrier can be adjusted to fit any body type. It’s worth taking the time up front to play around with the adjustments to get it right. I’m 5’4” with more of an athletic build and I have no problems getting it to fit properly so I’m carrying the weight on my hips and not hurting my back.

The carrier itself is comfortable for my kids, which keeps them happy. (Every mom knows that if the kiddos aren’t happy it’s not going to make for a very enjoyable hike!) With all of us happy and comfortable, I can easily carry either kid for an extended period of time. Additionally, I love that it has all the space I need to carry water and snacks for everyone without having to carry an extra bag. There’s no way we would have been able to do some of the more difficult hikes we have done around the world without our backpack carriers.

Check prices for the Deuter Kid Comfort 3 child carrier: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

Head on over to Celine’s other blog, Baby Can Travel to read her complete review of the Deuter Kid Comfort 3.

Accessories

Best Sun Protection Hat for All Women: Barmah Canvas Drover

Natalie from The Educational Tourist loves her Barmah Canvas Drover hat since it keeps her cool and protects from the sun. She says:

I am a big believer in sun protection when out enjoying nature. My favorite travel hat is the Barmah Canvas Drover. It comes in wonderful colors and now even has a selection of scarves to jazz it up a bit. Wearing a hat can keep you cool in the summer by giving your own shade. This hat even has a mesh crown so the wind can breeze through and cool you off. I love the cord which lets me just toss of my hat when I’m inside and lets it hang behind me leaving my hands free. There are lots of hats on the market but I love this one because of the look. It can be worn when wearing hiking gear and it can be worn when wearing dressier stuff like golf attire. I never leave home without it no matter where I’m going. I even took it to tea at the Ritz in Paris.

Since the hat comes in several different sizes, it’s easy to get the right fit. The hat lasts forever but after putting a million miles on them I buy a new one that looks spiffy. I’m on my third one – each one lasting many years. I can’t say enough GREAT things about this hat!

Check prices on the Barmah Canvas Drover hat: Amazon

For more of Natalie’s travels , follow her on Pinterest.

Best Trekking Poles for Petite Women: Black Diamond Trail Back Poles

Retha from Retha the Roaming Nanny loves her Black Diamond Trail Back trekking poles since they are the right height for her petite frame. She says:

I hike, a lot, and as a result I’ve been through my fair share of hiking poles. I’m petite, but have knee issues which results in tough downhills and lots of pressure on my poles. What’s great about the Black Diamond Trail Backs is they don’t slowly get shorter the longer my hike is because of the pressure I put on them, a BIG problem I’ve had with so many other poles. Plus, they’re super adjustable for all heights expanding up to 55 inches! And to put a cherry on top, for something so durable they’re only 1 lb 5 oz for the pair, making them easy to pack or carry when not using them. I’ve really beaten on these bad boys and they’re holding up great from multi-day backpacking on the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail to my most recent hike to Everest Base Camp. We’ll see how they do in Peru next month, but I’m sure I won’t have any surprises.

Check prices on the Black Diamond Trail Back trekking poles: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com |BlackDiamond.com

Follow Retha on Instagram to see more of her adventures.

What is your favourite piece of hiking gear and how does it work for your body type? Share your women’s hiking gear finds in the comments.

Read Next:

• Female Hikers Recommend Women’s Hiking Clothing to Fit Your Body Type
• Which Women’s Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?
• 20 Women’s Adventure Books That Will Inspire You
• 80+ Women’s Adventure Films You Can Stream
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Women’s Plus Size Hiking Clothes: The Best Brands and Where to Find Them
• 18 Best Hiking Leggings of 2022

The post Women’s Hiking Gear to Fit Your Body Type – Recommendations From Female Hikers appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve teamed up with eleven other female hikers and adventure travelers to highlight our favourite women’s hiking clothing and why it works for our particular body type. All types of women get outside: curvy women, petite women, tall women, slim women, plus size women, etc. And we should be able to find hiking clothing that works for us.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Jackets and Tops

Best Women’s Rain Jacket for Straight Figures: The North Face Resolve Jacket

Laura from An Ordinary Existence loves her The North Face Resolve Jacket since it fits her straight figure and keeps out the rain. She says:

I have a hard time finding functional jackets that fit well. It seems that in an effort to make women’s clothing more “flattering,” many gear companies go overboard with cinching the waistline and that just doesn’t work with my body type (think more ruler than hourglass). The North Face Resolve Jacket is one of the few I’ve found that fits comfortably, packs well, and actually keeps the rain off. The interior mesh lining helps with breathability and the high neckline keeps the elements out when the weather gets really nasty. I’ve gotten loads of use out of this jacket and it’s proven to be very durable. Not only is it my go-to spring and fall coat, but I’ve also worn it while backpacking the Chilkoot Trail, hiking in the Canadian Rockies, working on the farm, and playing at the cabin. It’s gotten me through everything from a light drizzle on a city street to driving rain and sleet while navigating a mountain pass.

Check prices for the The North Face Resolve Jacket: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

Follow along with Laura’s adventures on Instagram.

Best Women’s Rain Jacket for Slim Builds: Berghaus Paclite Jacket

Becky of Becky the Traveller raves about her Berghaus Paclite Jacket. She loves that it packs down small and looks stylish on her petite frame.  She says:

The Berghaus Paclite Jacket is perfect for my hiking trips. For starters, it’s pink and I love pink haha. But it’s also super lightweight so easy to pop into your bag on those hiking trips when you’re not sure what the weather is doing, very common here in the UK! As a slim build, I love a jacket that fits me well so that I’m comfortable but also that it looks nice too. There’s nothing wrong with looking stylish when you’re hiking (or trying to!!) At the moment, I’ve worn the jacket mainly on my UK hiking trips to the lovely Peak District and Wales. But it was also very handy on my latest trip to Berlin, when you’re taking cabin luggage only you need to pack light, this jacket easily fits in and saves you getting wet! I’d certainly recommend this jacket to any fellow hiker, it’s good piece of clothing to have for most weather conditions.

Check prices for the Berghaus Paclite Jacket: Amazon | Backcountry.com

To read more of Becky’s thoughts on this jacket, head on over to her blog to read the full review.

READ NEXT: Which Women’s Specific Hiking Gear is Actually Worth Buying?

Best Rain Jacket for Curvy Women: Helly Hansen Kirkwall Rain Coat

Liza from Tripsget recommends her yellow Helly Hansen Kirkwall Rain Coat for curvy women who go on less strenuous hikes. She says:

I really like my yellow rain coat from Helly Hansen. It suits any body type (hey, who looks bad in a really nice and bright rain coat?) and even though I’m quite curvy, I still look good in this coat. It’s perfect for hiking in colder and rainier countries, like Ireland and Scotland – that’s where I used the rain coat the most. It’s absolutely waterproof and if you wear it together with some rubber boots, you will be dry even during a heavy rain (especially if you’re hiking on the Isle of Skye). The only downside is that it gets really hot when you climb the hills or really tall mountains, so it’s more suitable for hiking in rather flat territories.

Check prices for the Helly Hansen Kirkwall Rain Coat: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

See more of Liza’s travels on Instagram.

Best Women’s Puffy Jacket for Long Torsos: Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody

Lauren of Outside Vibe Photography finds that her Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody fits her long torso and keeps her warm on all her adventures.

The Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody has become one of my go to pieces of outdoor clothing. It’s lightweight, packable, windproof, water resistant and warm. I carry it on day hikes and backpacking trips in Alaska for a “summit shell” and as my warm layer/camp coat. It goes in my paddling dry bag and my airline carry-on. I wear it as a mid-layer when downhill skiing. I pretty much take this jacket everywhere.

I’m 5’4”, have an average build and a long torso – some tops are too short and leave part of my low back exposed when bending over. Not my Nano Puff. It’s a roomy enough that I can fit extra layers underneath, but slim enough that I don’t feel bulky wearing it as a layering piece.

Check prices for the Patagonia Nano Puffy Hoody: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com | Patagonia.com

You can see more of Lauren’s outdoor adventures on her Instagram.

READ NEXT: 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear

Best Midlayer for Curvy Women: SCOTTeVest Chloe Glow Hoodie

Micki of The Barefoot Nomad likes how her SCOTTeVest Chloe Glow hoodie transitions easily from trails to sidewalks and fits her curves. She says:

I do a lot of day hiking as I travel, so I’m always on the lookout for gear that can go effortlessly between the airport and the hiking trail. My favorite article of double duty hiking gear is my women’s SCOTTeVest Chloe Glow hoodie. The best feature is all the pockets (15 of them!) that can easily hold my phone, passport, wallet, sunscreen and a few snacks for the trail. As a curvy woman, I love that it’s tapered to fit women well, and that it looks just as good in the city as on the trail. My only negative is that it gets too hot for hiking anywhere the temperature is above around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so I use it almost exclusively in cooler weather like we gave at home in the mountains of British Columbia, Canada.

Check prices on the SCOTTeVest Chloe Glow Hoodie: Amazon

To hear more about much Micki likes this hoodie (including why she wore it every day for a month), check out the full review on her website.

Best Women’s Fleece for Pear Shapes: Icepeak Sesil Midlayer

Tereza from Czickontheroad loves wearing her Icepeak Sesil midlayer for hiking since it fits her wide hips and narrow torso. She says:

I wear my Icepeak hoodie on every hike. Its defined as a midlayer but I mostly use it as an upper layer when it gets a bit colder. I have wider hips and narrower torso, and often, jackets are too tight around my hips and too loose around my chest, but this one fits perfectly. I also sweat a lot during hikes, no matter the temperature, this midlayer dries quickly so I don’t have to carry another one with me.

Check prices for the Icepeak Sesil midlayer: Amazon

Best Women’s Vest for Petite Hikers: ExOfficio Flyq Lite Vest

Meghan of Meghan the Traveling Teacher loves all the pockets her in ExOfficio Flyq Lite Vest and that it fits her petite frame.

As a petite girl who loves adventure, I’ve been lucky enough to try out a lot of different pieces of gear. My favorite by far has to be my ExOfficio Vest that I bought before my trek to Machu Picchu. I love this vest and have used it over and over on my big adventurous trips like a safari in Botswana and hikes through the Grand Canyon. The reason I love this vest is because it is so versatile and really saves you from having to carry a ton in your pack. The vest itself has a really nice lining and keeps you warm enough while hiking without over heating. It also includes 11 pockets which makes it easy to carry the gear you need on you without having to constantly go into your pack if you’re on a longer trek like to Machu Picchu.  I’ve used mine over and over – I’m so happy I have it!

Check prices on the ExOfficio Flyq Lite Vest: Amazon | Backcountry.com

See more of Meghan’s adventures on Instagram.

Bottoms

Best Hiking Shorts for Curvy Women: Black Diamond Valley Shorts

I’ve always had trouble finding quick-drying hiking shorts to fit my curvy body. I want shorts that aren’t too tight, fit over my wide hips, don’t leave a gap at my lower back and aren’t too short. I’ve had my Black Diamond Valley Shorts for a few years now and they fit all my requirements: They are made of a lightweight material that stretches and breathes well. There’s no gap at the waist since they have a built in waist adjustment strap. And they come in a longer length that gives me more coverage and protects my legs from scratches. These are my go-to shorts for day hiking and backpacking in British Columbia and they were essential on my trip to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal.

Check prices for the Black Diamond Valley Shorts: Amazon | Backcountry.com | BlackDiamond.com

Find out more about what to pack for trekking in Nepal in my complete Annapurna Base Camp packing list.

Best Hiking Capris for Petite Women: Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Capris

Margie from DQ Family Travel loves the way her Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Capris fit her petite body that she has then in three different colours! She says:

I have these capri pants in 3 different colors (light gray, tan and charcoal). They are my “go-to” bottoms. I love that they are lightweight, water repellent, barely wrinkle and have a side pocket for storage. They fit me perfectly. I am petite (5″3) and wear a size 2. Columbia Sportswear is very accurate with its sizing (meaning I can rest assured that I am a 2 in every bottom I buy from them). I use these capri pants all the time to travel, hike and just go about my daily life. I live in Miami (where it is hot year round), and they are a constant in my outfit rotation. In the picture above, I used them while day hiking in Acadia National Park.

Check prices for the Columbia Silver Ridge Stretch Capris: Amazon | Backcountry.com | Columbia.com

You can follow Margie’s family travel adventures on her Instagram.

Best Hiking Pants for Petite and Curvy Women: Prana Halle Pants

Melissa from The Family Voyage likes her Prana Halle pants for hiking and travel since they fit her petite, curvy body. She says:

I love my new(ish) Prana Halle pants! They fit much nicer than my old men’s and boy’s pants, but are still extremely comfortable for even the longest trails. The best part? They come in tons of sizes and three different lengths to fit lots of body shapes. The waist closes with a button AND a hidden drawstring inside to fit my petite, hourglass body. I wore them all over Patagonia and New Zealand and look forward to wearing them in America when we return from our family gap year!

Check prices for the Prana Halle pants: Amazon | REI | Backcountry.com

To hear more about her family trip to Patagonia, check out her 2 week itinerary for visiting Patagonia with kids.

Best Hiking and Travel Pants for Tall and Thin Women: Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants

Kristin of Be My Travel Muse loves her Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants for trekking all over the world since they fit her tall and thin body type. She says:

These pants are amazing. They’re thick, flattering, and they dry quickly. I love that the fabric is breathable, and while they’re not waterproof, I still love them for trekking because they don’t cause me to sweat like Gore-tex does. I have put them through all kinds of rough terrain and weather, and they’ve lasted me for years and dozens of treks, including several 8-day backpacking trips. They’re yoga pants, so they fit nice and snugly and can flatter most body types. They’re a snug, skin-hugging fit all the way down, with fabric that expands to fit rather than squeeze. I have a tall and thin frame and I find they’re just long enough on me, bunching a little bit at the bottom. 

Check prices on the Lululemon Wunder Under Yoga Pants: Amazon

Read more about Kristin’s hiking adventures in her guide to the 20 Best Hiking Trails in the World.

Best Winter Hiking Pants for Curvy Women: Quechua Warm Snow Hiking Trousers

Tereza from Czickontheroad likes the way her Quechua Warm Snow Hiking Trousers fit her wide hips. She says:

Buying trousers is always a horror for me because I have wider hips compared to the rest of my body. Most of the trousers are therefore too big or too tight. Quechua winter pants fit perfectly, the trousers legs are not too wide, so it doesn’t make that hippies look, but they are wide enough to pull them over big alpine shoes. The back part is slightly elevated, which is great to tuck in undershirts for better coverage of my lumber part. They are very comfortable to wear and flexible – even for an ice-climbing. If they weren’t so warm, I would wear them every day, because they make me feel good and pretty 😀

Read more about Tereza’s ice climbing adventure on Huayna Potosi, a 6000m peak in Bolivia.

READ NEXT: What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Best Insulated Skirt for Petite Women: Marmot Pip Insulated Skirt

Amanda of Every Two Pines likes to snowshoe with an insulated skirt to keep her butt warm. What an awesome idea! She likes the way the Marmot Pip Insulated Skirt fits her petite frame. She says:

I stood next to a frozen lake with wind whipping through my legs as I attempted to scarf down a sandwich. As I grabbed my down jacket and wrapped it around my freezing buttocks, I suddenly realized the genius of a down skirt. I am a petite woman who loves to snowshoe, often trying to ride the line between overheating while ascending a snowy mountain and freezing as soon as I stop moving. A zip-on down skirt allows me to quickly layer up and keep my core warm, while keeping hypothermia at bay. It insulates my legs when I sit on the snow, and provides the perfect extra layer when snow camping. When it is time to start moving again, the easy zipper system allows it to come right off. It packs small, is easy to carry, and I never leave home without it during Washington’s winters.

Check prices on the Marmot Pip Insulated Skirt: REI

What is your favourite piece of hiking clothing and how does it work for your body type? Share your women’s hiking clothing finds in the comments.

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The post Female Hikers Recommend Women’s Hiking Clothing to Fit Your Body Type appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.