Whether you are new to hiking or experienced, going on a trail that takes a week, month or even just a day, a high-quality pair of pants can offer the best protection against all the elements. After researching more than seventy of the best options available and putting the top ten through rigorous testing, here are the best hiking pants for men.
Recommendations Based on the Following Testing Conditions
The pant-leg testing included functionality during different seasons, while the testing location included the deserts of Utah, Pacific Northwest, Colorado Rockies and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Testing not only included hiking but also other activities such as travelling, working outside and rock climbing in different weather conditions including dry climates, hot weather, cold and rainy. Recommendations are based on durability, comfort and coping with the combination of activities and weather conditions.
What the Best Hiking Pants for Men Offers
According to several studies we based or recommendations on the facts that a good hiking pant should remain comfortable no matter the weather or activity, continue to provide a high degree of mobility and offer versatility in that it could keep you cool during hiking in hot conditions as well as dry in rainy conditions and protect your legs during hiking in forests or rocky areas.
Outdoor Research Ferossi
By taking all this into consideration the one pant for men that stood out above the rest was the Outdoor Research Ferrosi, which is made of ripstop fabric known for its durability, and with 14% spandex, it offers extreme comfort wear during running, hiking, high stepping on rocks and even yoga. The Ferrosi pants are very thin, light and extremely breathable, which makes them perfect for all weather conditions. What adds to the versatility is the cuff cinch cord at the ankle allowing wrapping around the upper edge of your boots, should you have left your gaiters behind.
Plus, the Ferrosi pants are also the most affordable that makes it a favourite and due to its super-thin ripstop 90D fabric it is the most durable of all seventy different pants tested. They are a bit less ideal for windy or cold days than some of the other pants and designed to offer a lower hip fit, which could require the climber to wear a belt. The Ferossi pants are works best for all-purpose hiking and nothing beats it in the hot weather.
REI- Co-Op Sahara Convertible
With affordability ranking high on your list of qualifications the REI Co-Op Sahara Convertible got the second highest vote for value for money and it offers exceptional water resistance while it is loaded with added features such as cargo pockets, deep rear and front pockets as well as side pockets. Its zippers on the side of the leg allow instant conversion from long pants to shorts without the removal of hiking boots. The only drawback found during the extensive testing period was that the Velcro added to the flaps of the pockets did wear out and that zips might have been easier, although the flaps to allow for fast removal of items. Yet by taking all facts into consideration, the top choice is the Ferrosi with the Sahara Convertible in second place.
