BUYER'S GUIDE AND BEST BUYS
Walking trousers
BUYER'S GUIDE
AND BEST BUYS
Walking
trousers
A well-designed pair of walking trousers should balance durability and comfort with good looks and protection, whatever the weather and terrain. From the best technical materials to handy extra features to look for (including multiple pockets), our guide has you covered for all budgets and climates
Walking trousers are an essential but often overlooked piece of kit. Get them right and you’ll barely notice they’re there; get them wrong and you risk having a walk ruined by legwear that’s too tight, too warm or, worse still, lacking in pockets…
The most versatile trousers strike a balance between offering protection, durability, comfort and breathability. When you’re looking for the perfect pair, it can be helpful to remember the three Fs: fabric, fit and features.
What fabric is best for walking trousers and why?
The composition, weight and weave of a fabric determine how it performs under different conditions, from protecting from weather and undergrowth to regulating moisture and temperature. Polyamide (nylon) and polyester are the most commonly used fabrics, offering quick-drying comfort and durability, often coming with a little added elastane for stretch. Some brands also use cotton, which is tough, breathable and often feels more pleasant to wear, as well as being naturally biodegradable.
Unlined, lightweight trousers are probably the most versatile option, becoming part of a layering system – under a waterproof shell and/or over a cosy base layer – when it’s wet and cold. For winter use, a lined option can be good, such as Rab’s Vapour-Rise softshell fabric (see below), which teams a close-weave, durable outer with a cosy fleece inner.
Whichever fabric you go for, be sure to check it’s free from harmful PFAS ‘forever’ chemicals, once ubiquitous in durable water repellent (DWR) coatings on outdoor clothing and equipment. All trousers featured in our review are PFAS free. Some fabrics and products are bluesign® certified, assuring responsible production throughout the chain.
What fit should your walking trousers have?
While you won’t want walking trousers to be overly loose and baggy, those that are too tight can feel uncomfortable and restrictive. Multi-panel construction, an articulated cut through the knees, an elasticated waist and areas of breathable and stretch fabric all help to ensure comfort and freedom of movement. Check the fit throughout, including when sitting, standing and stepping up and down.
Which features should you look out for?
Whether you’re someone who likes lots of features or you prefer a more streamlined look, there are a few key features to look for on walking trousers. A range of pockets, including some with zip fastenings, offers easy access to essentials and secure valuables storage. Adjustment at the waist and ankles allows you to customise the fit. Vents add breathability and cooling airflow, while reinforced panels in high-wear areas keep them in use for longer and are easy to repair. For extra versatility, zip-off models give you the option of shorts and trousers in one – although, depending on the design, this can mean the worst, rather than the best, of both worlds.
As always, we’ve included the recommended retail prices (RRP) in the reviews. Shop around for discounts or use your Ramblers members’ Cotswold Outdoor discount to pay less.
OUR EXPERTS
Sim Benson is an outdoor author and photographer with an environmental science background. He’s a kit expert who’s spent more than 15 years working, testing and reviewing in the outdoor industry.
Jen Benson is an outdoor adventure writer and researcher with an MSc in sport and exercise medicine. She is happiest when she is outdoors, and is passionate about exploring Britain’s wild places on foot.
Watch our video for Sim’s tips on what to consider when choosing new walking trousers.
Walking trousers
WOMEN'S BUDGET • WOMEN'S MID-PRICE • WOMEN'S HIGH-END
MEN'S BUDGET • MEN'S MID-PRICE • MEN'S HIGH-END
CHILDREN'S TROUSERS
Women's budget
Mountain Warehouse Monte Cargo Hiking Trousers
£49.99
mountainwarehouse.com
Size range: UK4–24
Made from a durable cotton-polyester blend ripstop fabric with UPF 50+ UV protection, these quick-drying, stretchy trousers feature two zip pockets and handy side-leg pockets. The fabric is on the heavier side, so they’re not ideal for hot weather walking, but they’re a good value, versatile choice for the cooler seasons. Comfortable and unrestrictive in use, but the fit is on the snug side, so you may need to size up.
Craghoppers
Kiwi Pro Cargo Trousers
£75
craghoppers.com
Size range: UK8–24
With simple, fuss-free looks, these cargo-style trousers feature two zipped handwarmer pockets and two large side pockets. Made from recycled nylon with a little elastane for stretch, they offer UPF 50+ protection, a plant-based water-repellent treatment and NosiDefence – tightly woven fibres which are too tough for biting insects to penetrate. A little restrictive in use, the fit is small so you may need to go up a size.
Adidas Terrex Multi Liteflex Joggers
£75
adidas.co.uk
Size range: XS–XL
Soft, comfortable, packable and quick-drying, these lightweight yet durable tracksuit-style trousers are great for lower level and everyday walking. They’re unrestrictive to wear and easy to put on/take off, so great for a quick change. Features include two handy hip pockets, a back pocket and drawcord adjustment at the waist and ankles. Made from recycled nylon with elastane for stretch, the fit is fairly generous, so you may need to size down.
Jack Wolfskin Hikeout Pants
£80
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
Size range: UK6–18 in short, regular or tall lengths
These lightweight, stretchy trousers combine sleek looks, superb comfort and great weather and sun protection thanks to Jack Wolfskin’s TEXASHIELD CORE fabric – a tough nylon and elastane outer with a polyester lining. Two zipped hip pockets and a hidden zipped thigh pocket offer subtle, secure storage. The fit is excellent – unrestrictive around the waist, hips and knees but tapered towards the ankle – and available in three lengths. Great value, versatile, year-round trousers for travel, mountain adventures and everyday walking.
Women's mid-price
Haglöfs L.I.M
Fuse II Pant
£95
Size range: UK6–18
A similar style to the Hikeout Pants (above), these excellent trousers are lighter and more relaxed, with more features. A stretch waistband offers belt loop-free comfort under a rucksack hip belt, with no pressure points, while drawcord adjustment at the ankles offers a customised fit. Handy zip pockets at the hip and one on the thigh provide easy-access, secure storage. Finished with reflective details for low light visibility, the Climatic Lite fabric is soft yet durable and protective.
Montane
Mossa Pants
£100
Size range: UK6–18 short, regular or long lengths
Designed for protection and comfort on technical mountain terrain, the practical and versatile Mossa Pants is made from Montane’s lightweight yet durable and abrasion-resistant Granite Flex recycled nylon fabric. There’s enhanced articulation throughout for excellent freedom of movement, and a low-profile waistbelt for comfort under a harness or hip belt. Comfortable open hand pockets and a zipped lateral thigh pocket for keeping valuables secure. Available in three leg lengths.
Sprayway All Day Rainpant
£100
Size range: UK8–18 in short, regular or long lengths
Designed to be worn as standalone trousers, these are a light and stretchy waterproof HydroDRY fabric with fully taped seams and soft polyester jersey liner with two handy zipped pockets. They’re good while it’s cold and rainy but lack breathability when the sun comes out. Great if you’ll be standing out in the weather all day, but for variable conditions, a combination of traditional walking trousers and waterproof over-trousers offers better versatility.
Smartwool Thermal Merino Jogger
£115
Size range: 2XS–2XL
Made from 100% responsibly sourced, super-fine merino wool with an interlock knit, these luxuriously soft and cosy jogger-style trousers are a year-round favourite, indoors and out. Ideal as a warm base layer in cold weather, worn under walking trousers or waterproofs, they’re also light, breathable and comfortable all-day standalone legwear for travel, post-walk relaxation or less technical routes. Features include two deep handwarmer pockets and elasticated waist and ankle cuffs for a snug fit.
Rab Incline Vapour-Rise Pants
£130
Size range: UK8–16
Rab designed its legendary two-layer Vapour-Rise softshell fabric in the 1990s, offering all-in-one temperature regulation, moisture management and protection for all-day mountain adventures. These trousers are made from the latest version, with a closely woven Matrix shell and soft, sweat-wicking fleece lining. They’re comfortable to wear, warm when it’s cold but comfortably breathable, with great freedom of movement. Finished with four zipped pockets, harness/pack-friendly waistband and adjustable ankle cuffs. We’d like to see a range of leg lengths.
Women's high-end
Helly Hansen Blaze Softshell Trousers
£140
Size range: XS–XL
Combining great looks with four-way stretch and an articulated cut for superb freedom of movement, these trousers are made from a smooth, abrasion-resistant nylon. The tapered cut and adjustable lower leg allow easy pairing with hiking boots, and their layer-friendly design ensures readiness for various weather conditions. You get two zip-free handwarmer pockets and a generous zipped thigh pocket, zips and popper fastenings on the ankles, and a low-profile, hip-belt-friendly waist. A certified bluesign® product.
Patagonia Terravia Peak Pants
£140
eu.patagonia.com
Size range: UK6–20 in short or regular lengths
Comfortable yet built for rugged conditions, these trousers are made from a durable midweight fabric with a comfortable amount of stretch and fully articulated cut for full freedom of movement. Reinforced knees and seat add extra abrasion resistance. Five zipped pockets – two hip, one thigh and two rear – offer lots of secure storage, while a removable quick-release belt allows a customisable fit. The ankles have Velcro adjustment and hooks to attach to your walking boot laces for snowy conditions.
Columbia Whistler Peak Hiking Trousers
£180
columbiasportswear.co.uk
Size range: XS–XL
Waterproof trousers with an active, articulated cut so you can wear them comfortably all day. Designed to be worn as standalone trousers or over a base layer when it’s really cold, ankle zips allow for easy on/off over boots while a generous thigh pocket closes with a waterproof zip to keep valuables dry and secure. Made from recycled nylon with a polyurethane overlay. Good protection for long walks in very wet weather.
Arc’teryx
Gamma Pant
£180
Size range: UK4–20 in short, regular and tall lengths
Combining the technical credentials required for serious mountain days with comfort and style for everyday use, the Gamma Pant justifies its price tag by being exceptionally versatile and hardwearing. The abrasion-resistant, breathable, recycled nylon softshell fabric has a soft brushed lining and a good amount of stretch for comfort and freedom of movement. Features three zipped pockets, ankle adjustment and a belt for customising the fit. The waist sits high and isn’t stretchy, which may not suit everyone. They size a little big, so you may need to size down.
Fjällräven Keb
Trousers
£215
Size range: UK6–22 in short, regular or long lengths and curved fit
Big on budget but ticks all the boxes when it comes to year-round, all-round walking trousers. The award-winning Keb teams G-1000 – a recycled polyester and organic cotton blend fabric – with lightweight stretch panels and reinforced high-wear areas for superb comfort and durability. Well thought-out features include two comfortable handwarmer pockets and two generous pockets, mesh-backed ventilation zippers, calf zips and ankle adjustment. Can be weatherproofed using Fjällräven’s Greenland Wax. A true classic for epic adventures and everyday walking.
Men's budget
Mountain Warehouse Elevate Elasticated Walking Trousers
£39.99
mountainwarehouse.com
Size range: 28–44in waist
Lightweight fabric and a fuss-free design make these good for walking, travel and outdoor lifestyle use. Best suited to warmer weather and gentle strolls where they feel cool, casual and comfortable. The nylon/elastane mix fabric is quite durable, dries quickly and offers good UV protection. An elasticated waist with drawcord adjustment fits comfortably under a rucksack hip belt, with three pockets for handy storage.
Ayacucho Adventure Softshell Trousers II
Size range: 30–40in waist in short or regular lengths
Good value trousers designed for cooler conditions or higher altitudes, the combination of a tough softshell fabric and soft, brushed inner are durable, protective and comfortable. The fabric is a recycled nylon/elastane mix; it’s abrasion-resistant, stretchy and water-repellent. Cut for full movement, they cope well with the bigger steps and scrambles typical of mountain terrain. Features include three zipped pockets, an adjustable waist, belt loops and cuff adjustment.
Craghoppers Kiwi Pro Cargo Trousers
£75
craghoppers.com
Size range: 30–42in waist in short, regular or long lengths
Kiwi trousers are established classics; this version uses a light, recycled nylon/elastane mix fabric. They feel tough and protective, with double-layered fabric on the seat and knees, reinforced heels and a water-repellent treatment called H2OShield. There are three zipped pockets plus two big, poppered cargo pockets and belt loops. Sized slightly small and a little rough against the skin initially, they soften up with wear. Great value with the Craghoppers’ Discover Pass (£52.50 in spring 2026).
Sherpa Tarcho Cargo Pants
Size range: S–2XL
New this spring, these cargo pants are super light, with an outdoorsy jogger style. The main fabric is a cotton/polyester mix, which feels great – soft, breathable and best suited to warmer walks and drier climates. The cut and fabric allow great movement, so these are also good for climbing in. The feature pockets are made from a ripstop nylon and add contrast to the style. No belt loops, just a comfortable elasticated waistband with a chunky drawstring as backup.
Inov8
Venture Pant
£95
inov8.com
Size range: XS–2XL
Inov8 clearly draws from its trail-running heritage with these light, stretchy and supremely comfortable hiking trousers. Cut to allow excellent freedom of movement, with articulated knees, stretch cuffs and an elasticated waist belt, they don’t ride up or feel restrictive at all. The nylon/elastane mix fabric is a tough and weather-resistant softshell, with an athletic cut that’s fitted but still has space for a base layer. Overall, they make excellent lightweight walking or cold-weather running trousers.
Men's mid-price
Berghaus
Caldbeck Pant
£95
berghaus.com
Size range: 28–42in waist in 30, 32 or 34in length
Made from a lightweight and stretchy nylon/elastane mix fabric, these are cut to aid movement with comfortable articulated knees, but the diamond gusset may not suit everyone, so try them around the house before committing to a long walk. The elasticated waist allows a good fit, with a low profile to avoid discomfort against a rucksack hip belt. Finished with elasticated cuffs, which pair well with boots or walking shoes, two handwarmer pockets and zipped pockets on the seat and right thigh.
Maier
Sports Nil Trousers
£99.95
Size range: 26–56in waist
A classic walking trouser: smart, functional, usefully featured, well cut, durable and reasonably priced. You won’t find anything unusual here – they’re just a practical, functional workhorse. They’re also available in the widest size range we’ve seen – a whopping 36 different options! The nylon/elastane mix fabric is water-repellent, the lower legs can be rolled up and secured at ¾ length, and they come with a webbing belt and feature four zipped pockets.
Tierra Lite
Track Pants
£109
Size range: 46–54 in regular or short lengths
Midweight softshell pants with a good cut and a host of useful features. The bluesign®-certified nylon/polyester/elastane mix fabric is tough, stretchy and reasonably weather resistant, with a waterproof seat and lower legs. Cut with articulated knees, they offer good movement but size fairly big. Features include zipped side vents, cuff adjustment, bootlace hooks, belt loops and three zipped pockets. These are a bit heavier than most on test, so best suited to colder weather or mountainous walking.
Outdoor Research Timberline Utility Pant
£110
Size range: 29.5–43in waist in 30, 32 or 34in length
An instant favourite, the Utility Pant combines a casual cut and stylish outdoor look with performance fabrics. The bluesign®-approved, abrasion-resistant, nylon and elastane fabric is light, stretchy and weather resistant. They feature five classic pockets, plus two useful zipped leg pockets. Built for technical walking with a great cut and articulated knees, they’re comfy all day. Great for year-round use, comfortable over base layers and/or under over trousers, tough enough for scrambles and stylish enough for everyday wear.
Rab Torque Mountain Pants
£110
Size range: 28–40in waist in short, regular or long lengths
These lightweight pants have a slim, athletic cut, which offers great freedom of movement. The tapered lower legs won’t snag on rocks or undergrowth; they work brilliantly with gaiters and feature ankle zips to offer more volume over boots. Made from a stretchy nylon softshell, they’re weather resistant and hard-wearing, light enough for summer use and tough enough for winter. Available in a range of great colours and featuring four zipped pockets, an elasticated waist and low-profile belt loops.
Men's high-end
Maier Sports Tajo
Zip Loop
£119.95
maier-sports.com
Size range: 28–46in waist
The lower leg zips off, transforming the Tajo into a pair of knee-length shorts. The classic, streamlined styling is comfortable and smart enough for travel. They feel light and soft, dry quickly and offer light rain protection. Available in a larger size range than most, with an elasticated waist and low-profile belt loops to guarantee a good fit. The Loop version of Tajo is 100% polyester (minimum 45% recycled), making them easy to recycle when they wear out.
Sprayway
Compass Warm
£120
sprayway.com
Size range: 30–40in waist in short, regular or long lengths
When it’s cold some extra insulation on the legs is most appreciated; these warm trousers use a recycled nylon/elastane mix softshell fabric with a brushed fleecy inner that feels soft and cosy. The softshell is durable, weather resistant and quick drying, perfect for misty and showery weather. There's a zipped thigh pocket, and two zipped hand pockets, which act as vents. They are cut to move freely, include a belt and feature zipped cuffs. Made to Fair Wear standards.
Páramo Velez Adventure Trousers
Size range: 30–40in waist in short, regular or long lengths
Waterproof and designed to be worn as standalone trousers, Páramo doesn’t use a membrane like Gore-Tex; instead, the fabric is water-repellent and uses a pump lining to move moisture away from the body. They’re breathable, comfortable and protective, warmer than most walking trousers, but generous thigh vents help temperature regulation. The wide cut allows easy movement but feels a little baggy. There are two zipped pockets, Velcro cuff adjustment and a belt. Made to Fair Trade standards.
Klättermusen Gere 3.0 Pants
£280
klattermusen.com
Size range: XS–2XL
The Gere pants are super tough, designed for endurance and performance in challenging environments. They nail the brief with all the pockets (six) and features you could need (side vents, adjustable cuff, boot hooks). The thick, protective fabric is Ultramid® Bio-Mass Balanced Polyamide (a more sustainable nylon) with some elastane for stretch; they feel stiff at first but soften up with use. The expense is justified by the durability, ethical production and superb function, but they are heavy, so best in cooler weather.
Children’s walking trousers
Mountain Warehouse Active Kids Zip Off trousers
£24.99
Age range: 2–13 years
Proper outdoor trousers for kids that look just like the adult version. Lots of pockets for important finds, and they zip off into knee-length shorts. The polyester/cotton mix fabric is light, tough and quick drying; the addition of cotton makes them softer against the skin and more breathable.
Helly Hansen Daybreaker Fleece Pants
£30
Age range: 1–9 years
Super-soft and cosy recycled polyester fleece trousers. Good on their own, but not wind or waterproof, so best for chilly still days. They are brilliant under waterproof trousers when it’s wet or cold, or as tent trousers to chill out after a walk. Comfy, elasticated jogger-style waist and cuffs.
Columbia Youth Trail Adventure II Pant
£35
Age range: 4–18 years
These are waterproof trousers and, although they’re lined, they’re most comfortable paired with base layer leggings or fleece/tracksuit-style trousers. The polyester fabric is light and tough; it stands up to all-day outdoor wear in the colder and wetter months. They feature a useful back pocket. The largest sizes overlap with small adults, which makes them excellent value – ideal for walking, forest schools and D of E.
Ayacucho
Craft Softshell Trousers
£48
Age range: 5–12 years
Designed to stand up to enthusiastic outdoor kids, these softshell trousers are tough, comfortable and well featured. Our kids love the lightly padded knees and comfortable elasticated waist; the three zipped pockets are well placed and useful. The quick-drying, weather-resistant fabric is recycled polyester.
We are the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity. We open the way for everyone to enjoy the simple pleasures of walking. And we step up to protect the places we all love to wander. Click to find out more.
The Ramblers’ Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company registration no. 4458492. Registered charity, England & Wales no. 1093577, Scotland no. SCO39799.
© Ramblers 2026
We are the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity. We open the way for everyone to enjoy the simple pleasures of walking. And we step up to protect the places we all love to wander.
Click to find out more.
The Ramblers’ Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company registration no. 4458492. Registered charity, England & Wales no. 1093577, Scotland no. SCO39799.
© Ramblers 2026
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