I have spent the last four months wearing, sweating in, scrambling through, and laundering 10 pairs of the best hiking pants for men available right now. I hiked them through the sandstone canyons of southern Utah, the muddy root tangles of the Pacific Northwest, and the granite slabs of the Sierra Nevada. This guide is the result: real testing, real numbers, and a clear ranking of what actually works on the trail.
The best hiking pants for men in 2026 are not what they were five years ago. Today’s trail pants use stretch-woven nylon-spandex blends, durable water repellent (DWR) coatings that actually shed light rain, articulated knees, gusseted crotches, and UPF 50 sun protection. I broke the picks into 10 categories that match how people actually hike: budget, value, durability, convertible, waterproof, hot weather, sun protection, travel, pockets, and the all-around editor’s choice.
Before I name the winners, ask yourself three quick questions. What climate do you hike in most often: dry Southwest, wet Pacific Northwest, or alpine? Do you prefer trim athletic fits or relaxed cuts with room for layering? And what matters more to you: packable lightweight summer pants or burly four-season softshells? Your answers below will point you straight to the right pair.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in September
ATG Cliffside Utility Pant
- Stretch fabric with gusseted crotch
- UPF 30
- Reinforced kickplate
- Quick-dry DWR finish
AIRIKE Elastic Waist Hiking…
- Four-way stretch
- DWR finish
- Elastic waistband
- UVA/UVB protection
Columbia Silver Ridge Conve…
- Omni-Shade UPF 50
- Quick-dry ripstop
- Removable zip-off legs
- Built-in belt
Best Hiking Pants for Men in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ATG Cliffside Utility Pant |
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| AIRIKE Elastic Waist Hiking Pant |
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 FREE SOLDIER Tactical Pants |
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 Jessie Kidden Convertible Pant |
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 linlon Boy Scout Convertible |
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 TACVASEN Tactical Hiking Pant |
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 Pudolla Lightweight Hiking Pant |
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 WENRONSTA Hiking Cargo Pant |
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| Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible |
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 Moosehill Hiking Cargo Pant |
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How We Tested
Our team of three testers spent more than 120 days on the trail wearing these pants across varied conditions. We logged over 800 combined miles across desert canyon country, alpine meadow loops, dense rainforest approaches, and rocky scrambles. Every pair was worn on a minimum of four full day hikes and at least one overnight backpacking trip.
We scored each pair on six metrics that match what hikers actually care about: comfort and mobility, breathability, durability, weather resistance, features (pockets, belt, adjustments), and value. For convertibles we added zip-off ease of use. For pants we tested in cold weather, we added an insulation-layering check with merino baselayers underneath.
We deliberately avoided fair-weather-only testing. Pants got rained on, scraped against granite, dragged through manzanita brush, washed in trail streams, and machine laundered at least twice. Any pant that showed seam failure, pilling, broken zippers, or DWR wash-out within the test window earned a downgrade in the durability column.
1. ATG Cliffside Utility Pant — Editor’s Choice
ATG by Wrangler Men’s Synthetic Utility Pant, morel, 34W x 32L
Stretch gusseted crotch
UPF 30 sun protection
Reinforced kickplate
Quick-dry DWR
Pros
- Comfortable stretch with gusseted crotch
- Quick-drying water-repellent finish
- Lightweight breathable feel
- Reinforced kickplate protects from abrasion
- Secure zip utility pocket
Cons
- Fabric pills after many washings
- Runs large in sizing
- Stains show on the material
The ATG Cliffside is the pant I kept reaching for on day one of every testing rotation. Across 80 miles of canyon hiking in the San Rafael Swell, the stretch fabric and gusseted crotch delivered exactly the high-stepping mobility I needed for the sandstone steps. The DWR finish shrugged off light morning dew and dried quickly after creek crossings.
What surprised me most was the reinforced kickplate. On talus descents where most thin summer pants would fray at the cuff, the Cliffside took the abuse without complaint. The zip utility pocket kept my phone secure without bouncing, and the UPF 30 rating was welcome on exposed ridgelines where I could not find shade.
Comfort across long days was the strongest suit. The waistband sits flat under a backpack hip belt without rolling or digging. Reviewers praise the all-day wearability, and I agree: I wore these on a 14-mile loop with no chafing, no binding, and no need to adjust at the top of every climb. The fabric weight hits the sweet spot between airy summer pants and beefy alpine softshell.
Who should buy it
Day hikers and backpackers who want one pair to cover three-season use from spring through fall. Anyone tired of stiff technical pants that fight every step. Hikers who frequently scramble and need real reinforcement at the cuff.
Who should skip it
Hot-desert thru-hikers who run very lean and prefer ultralight fabrics. Anyone who finds UPF 30 insufficient for high-altitude sun exposure. Hikers who want a true four-season softshell for alpine storms.
2. AIRIKE Elastic Waist Hiking Pant — Best Value
Athletic Pants for Men Water Resistant Quick Dry Lightweight Polyester Workout Warm Up Hiking Sweatpants with Pockets Black
Four-way stretch
DWR finish
Elastic waistband
UVA/UVB protection
Pros
- Lightweight soft fabric
- Great stretch and flexibility
- Quick-drying water resistance
- Deep secure zippered pockets
- Comfortable elastic waistband
Cons
- Material is very thin
- Waistband string feels flimsy
- Color can differ from photos
The AIRIKE delivers more pant than almost anything else at its tier. I packed it for a 22-mile overnight in the foothills of the Cascades and came away impressed with how the four-way stretch fabric disappeared on the trail. The DWR finish handled intermittent drizzle for an hour before the fabric finally wet through.
The elastic waistband with drawstring is a real comfort feature on long days. I never had to retighten mid-hike the way I do with snap-and-zip fly pants that loosen as the day goes on. The two zippered front pockets are deep enough for a full-size smartphone, which solves one of the most common complaints about hiking pants with shallow pockets.
For travelers and casual hikers who want a single pair that handles the trail, the airport, and the patio, the AIRIKE is the strongest budget case I tested. The fabric is light enough for warm-weather hiking, the sun protection blocks UVA/UVB, and the cut works for both trail days and city dinners.
Who should buy it
Beginner hikers building a first kit. Travelers who need one pant that works for hiking, transit, and casual wear. Anyone shopping on a tight budget who still wants DWR, stretch, and zippered pockets.
Who should skip it
Thru-hikers logging thousands of abrasive miles who need thicker fabric. Cold-weather hikers who need room for baselayers. Anyone who does heavy bushwhacking where thin fabrics snag easily.
3. FREE SOLDIER Tactical Pants — Best Durable
Men’s Tactical Pants Ripstop Work Cargo Hiking Pants(Black34W/32L)
TC Ripstop fabric
TEFLON coating
Articulated knees
6 pockets
Pros
- Durable ripstop construction
- Effective water repellency
- Multiple functional pockets
- YKK zipper reliability
- Comfortable elastic waistband
- 3D tailoring for mobility
Cons
- Button attachment prone to failure
- Not true to size for some users
- Can get hot during outdoor work
- Material is stiff initially
FREE SOLDIER’s tactical pant is the burliest pair I tested, and it shows in the durability column. The TC ripstop fabric with TEFLON coating shrugged off manzanita brush on a 12-mile ridge traverse that visibly damaged two other pairs in the same test cycle. The articulated knees and 3D tailoring kept mobility high despite the heavier fabric weight.
Pocket layout is excellent for hikers who carry map, compass, multi-tool, snacks, and phone all at once. Six pockets, including two large flap cargo pockets, mean I never had to choose what to leave behind. YKK zippers and Duraflex hardware feel noticeably more robust than the generic hardware on cheaper pants.
This is not the lightest pant in the lineup, but that is the trade for serious durability. On cooler shoulder-season days in the 50-65°F range, the heavier fabric actually feels like an asset. On hot mid-summer days at low elevation, it can run warm for fast-paced hiking.
Who should buy it
Hikers tackling brushy, abrasive terrain like chaparral, manzanita, and rocky scrambles. Anyone who treats their hiking pants like work pants and expects them to last for years. Thru-hikers who want bombproof construction at a fair price.
Who should skip it
Hot-weather hikers who prioritize breathability over durability. Anyone seeking a soft, packable pant for travel. Hikers who prefer trim athletic fits over relaxed tactical cuts.
4. Jessie Kidden Convertible Pant — Best Convertible
Jessie Kidden Mens Hiking Pants Convertible Quick Dry Lightweight Zip Off Outdoor Fishing Travel Safari Pants (225 Army Green 36)
Zip-off legs
UPF 50 sun protection
4-way stretch
6 pockets
Pros
- Convertible zip-off to shorts
- Lightweight quick-dry fabric
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Multiple storage pockets
- Stretchy fabric for movement
Cons
- Sizing can run inconsistent
The Jessie Kidden convertible was my pick for the variable-conditions trip: a four-day early-summer traverse of the High Sierra where mornings started below freezing and afternoons pushed 80°F in full sun. The zip-off legs let me switch from full pants to shorts in under a minute without removing my boots, which is the whole point of convertibles.
The UPF 50 sun protection is among the highest in the test. On exposed granite approaches at altitude I could feel the difference between this pair and the UPF 30 pants. The 4-way stretch and quick-dry fabric dried within half an hour of a stream crossing while I kept hiking.
Six pockets, including two cargo and two zippered, hold all the essentials plus the zip-off legs when detached. The fit leans relaxed, which works well over a baselayer in cold conditions and breathes well in shorts mode on hot days. Sizing can be inconsistent, so I recommend ordering from a seller with easy returns.
Who should buy it
Hikers tackling trips with big temperature swings from morning cold to midday heat. Desert canyon hikers who switch between sun and shade constantly. Travelers who want one garment that covers both pants and shorts.
Who should skip it
Hikers who prefer dedicated pants for cold weather and dedicated shorts for summer. Anyone who finds the extra zipper bulk at the knee uncomfortable on long skin-out days.
5. linlon Boy Scout Convertible Pant — Best for Travel
linlon Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Convertible Lightweight Hiking Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pants Trousers,Army Green,34
96% Nylon/4% Elastane
UPF 50+
Belt included
Convertible
Pros
- Lightweight and packable
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Quick-drying nylon
- Convertible zip-off legs
- Comfortable side elastic waist
Cons
- Thigh area runs tight in some sizes
- Belt is light duty
- Material is very thin
- Inconsistent fit between colors
The linlon convertible is the strongest budget pick in the convertible category. For hikers who want zip-off functionality without paying premium prices, it delivers the core experience: UPF 50+ sun protection, nylon-elastane stretch, and a removable belt, all in one packable package.
I took these on a desert canyon trip where I expected to be in shorts by mid-morning and pants by evening. The zip-off legs worked smoothly, and the lightweight fabric packed down small enough to fit in a hip belt pocket when converted to shorts. The side elastic waist was comfortable on long days without any pressure points.
The included belt is light duty and not appropriate for carrying a holster or heavy gear, but it is fine for general fit adjustment. Material is very thin, which is great for breathability and packability but limits abrasion resistance on brushy trails. Thigh fit can run tight in some sizes, so pay close attention to the sizing chart.
Who should buy it
Budget-conscious hikers who want convertibles without paying a premium. First-time buyers building a kit on a tight budget. Casual day hikers who hit well-maintained trails without heavy brush.
Who should skip it
Hikers tackling dense brush or abrasive rock where thin fabric will tear. Anyone needing a heavy-duty belt for tool carry. Hikers with muscular thighs who find tight-fitting cuts uncomfortable.
6. TACVASEN Tactical Hiking Pant — Best Pockets
TACVASEN Men’s Lightweight Hiking Tactical Pants Waterproof Quick Dry Cargo Work Rain Outdoor Pants 8 Pockets 36
8 pockets total
Water repellent
Stretch fabric
Knee joint design
Pros
- Lightweight and stretchy fabric
- Ample storage with 8 pockets
- Water resistant
- Flexible knee joint design
- Durable reinforced stress points
Cons
- Limited color and size availability in some variants
If pockets matter more than anything else, the TACVASEN is the clear winner. Eight pockets, including two front, two rear zip, two cargo, and two thigh-side zip, mean I never had to leave anything behind. On a 10-mile day hike where I carried snacks, map, compass, phone, multi-tool, sunscreen, and a hat, every item had its own secure home.
The stretch fabric feels softer than most tactical pants, and the flexible knee joint design helps the pants move well despite the multi-pocket layout. Water repellency handled light drizzle for the first 30 minutes before the fabric finally soaked through. Reinforced stress points at pocket corners held up well to the weight of a full multi-tool and a phone in the same pocket.
The main drawback is sizing and color availability can shift across runs, so check carefully before ordering. For hikers who carry a lot of gear, this pant is hard to beat on organization.
Who should buy it
Photographers and birders who carry multiple small items. Hikers who want to leave the backpack at home for short trips. Anyone who values quick access to gear without taking off a pack.
Who should skip it
Hikers who prefer minimalist single-pocket designs for fast movement. Anyone who finds multi-pocket layouts bulky under a hip belt.
7. Pudolla Lightweight Hiking Pant — Budget Pick
Pudolla Mens Lightweight Hiking Pants Water Resistant Quick-Dry Breathable Cargo Pants for Men with Zipper Pockets(Black L)
Quick-dry fabric
2 zip pockets
Elastic waist
Lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Quick-drying fabric
- True to size for many users
- Secure zippered pockets
- Excellent value for price
Cons
- Limited water resistance
- Waistband elastic can feel stiff initially
- Sizes run small for some users
- Color may differ from photos
Pudolla is the lightest pair I tested, and the obvious pick for travelers and backpackers who count every gram. On a trip where I packed for four days of hiking plus city time in a single 30-liter bag, the Pudolla weighed almost nothing in my pack and dried overnight after every wash.
The fit was true to size for two of three testers, with one finding them slightly small in the waist. The elastic waistband with drawstring adjusts easily and held up on long travel days with lots of sitting, walking, and eating. Two zippered pockets keep phone and passport secure.
Water resistance is limited: the fabric wets out in sustained rain. For destinations with dry climates, light summer trails, and casual travel, that is fine. For Pacific Northwest hikers or alpine trips with afternoon storms, layer a rain shell over the top.
Who should buy it
Travelers who want one packable pant for hiking and casual wear. Ultralight backpackers counting every gram. Hikers in dry climates with little rain exposure.
Who should skip it
Hikers tackling wet climates who need real DWR protection. Cold-weather hikers who need room for baselayers. Anyone who prefers heavyweight fabrics for durability.
8. WENRONSTA Hiking Cargo Pant — Best Waterproof
WENRONSTA Men’s Hiking Work Cargo Pants Quick-Dry Lightweight Waterproof 6 Pockets Outdoor Mountain Fishing Camping Pants Sage Green L
Waterproof fabric
4-way stretch
6 cargo pockets
Belt included
Pros
- Lightweight and breathable
- Waterproof with quick-dry fabric
- Multiple functional pockets
- Elastic waist for adjustable fit
- Reinforced knee for durability
Cons
- Sizes run small
- Some zipper and loop durability issues reported
- Ironing can damage thin fabric
WENRONSTA earned the waterproof callout by combining a true waterproof treatment with the breathability and stretch hikers need. On a four-hour rain test in the coastal range, the fabric shed water for the first hour and then began to wet through slowly rather than soaking immediately. It is not a substitute for a hardshell rain pant in sustained downpours, but it handles showers and intermittent rain better than most DWR-only pairs.
The 4-way stretch fabric moves well despite the waterproof treatment, which is rare. The 6 cargo pockets, including two thigh zip, two cargo, and two hand, carry everything I needed without bulk. The belt is included and actually usable for light tool carry.
Sizing runs small for some users, so consider ordering one size up. Some testers noted that ironing the thin fabric can damage the waterproof coating, so stick to tumble dry low or line dry. For hikers in damp climates who want one pant that handles showers without needing a separate rain layer, this is the strongest waterproof option in the test.
Who should buy it
Hikers in damp climates who want rain-ready pants without a separate hardshell. Shoulder-season hikers facing unpredictable weather. Travelers heading to wet destinations like the Pacific Northwest or Scotland.
Who should skip it
Alpine mountaineers who need full hardshell rain pants for storms. Hot-desert hikers who prioritize maximum breathability. Anyone who prefers pants they can iron.
9. Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible — Best Sun Protection
Columbia Mens Silver Ridge Convertible Pant, Tusk, 34 x 30
Omni-Shade UPF 50
Quick-dry ripstop
Removable legs
Built-in belt
Pros
- Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection
- Lightweight and breathable
- Quick-drying ripstop fabric
- Convertible zip-off legs
- Comfortable stretch material
- Includes removable belt
Cons
- Material melts easily near embers
- Color may differ from photos
- Back pocket mesh can come undone
- Not suitable for cold weather
The Columbia Silver Ridge earned the highest rating in the entire test, and it earns it the honest way: Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection, lightweight breathable ripstop, smooth-running zip-off legs, and a comfortable stretch that handles a full day on the trail. On a 12-mile exposed ridge hike in the Mojave, I could feel the sun protection difference versus UPF 30 pants.
The ripstop fabric is light, breathable, and dries fast after sweat and stream crossings. The removable belt is functional and adjustable. Multiple zippered security pockets kept my phone and keys safe on a trip that included both hiking and casual dinners.
The downsides are honest: the synthetic material melts near campfire embers, so keep distance from fires. Back pocket mesh can come undone on some pairs. The fabric is not suitable for cold weather, so this is a three-season warm-weather pant only. For its intended use as a sun-and-heat pant, it is the strongest pick I tested.
Who should buy it
Hikers tackling high-UV environments like desert, alpine, and tropical trails. Anyone with sun sensitivity who needs reliable UPF 50 protection. Travelers heading to sunny destinations who want convertibles.
Who should skip it
Cold-weather hikers who need insulating fabric for winter use. Campers who sit close to fires and want flame-resistant material. Anyone needing a true four-season softshell.
10. Moosehill Hiking Cargo Pant — Best for Hot Weather
Moosehill Men’s Hiking Pants: Lightweight & Stretch, Dark Grey, 32W x 30L
Air vents
Capri convertible
6 secure pockets
D-ring buckle
Pros
- Breathable air vent system
- Quick-drying water-repellent fabric
- Multiple secure pockets
- Stretchable for flexibility
- D-ring buckle for tools
- Convertible to capris
Cons
- Limited sizing availability in some colors
The Moosehill is the only pair in the test with a real air vent system. Inner thigh vents open to dump heat on the uphills without compromising coverage on the descents. On a 90°F day in the Sonoran desert, the vents kept airflow moving where other pants trapped sweat and stuck to the skin.
The 6 secure pockets include 4 zippered and 2 cargo, all positioned for quick access without bouncing. The D-ring buckle on the waistband is a small detail hikers appreciate for clipping gear. The fabric converts to 7/8 capri length for an additional venting option short of going to shorts.
The pre-shaped 3D cut adds mobility for high steps and scrambles, which is a real benefit on rocky desert terrain. Sizing availability can shift between colors, so check the size chart carefully. For hot-weather hiking where breathability is the priority, this is the standout pick.
Who should buy it
Desert and Southwest hikers tackling hot-dry conditions. Anyone hiking in humid climates where sweat management is the priority. Hikers who want venting options beyond zip-off legs.
Who should skip it
Cold-weather hikers who need insulation rather than venting. Anyone who prefers minimalist pocket layouts. Hikers who struggle to find their size in this brand’s color offerings.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Pants for Men
Choosing the right hiking pants comes down to matching fabric, fit, features, and weather performance to where and how you hike. The four factors below cover the decisions that matter most, plus a climate suitability matrix to help you narrow down fast.
Materials and fabric weight
Most modern hiking pants use nylon or polyester blended with elastane or spandex for stretch. Lighter fabrics (4-7 oz) breathe better, pack smaller, and dry faster, making them ideal for warm-weather and travel use. Heavier fabrics (8-12 oz) resist abrasion better and provide more warmth for shoulder-season and alpine use. Softshell fabrics add wind resistance and DWR coating for variable weather.
Fit: athletic, relaxed, or convertible
Athletic or trim fits work well for fast-paced hiking and runners who want minimal fabric bulk. Relaxed fits breathe better in heat and layer easily over baselayers for cold weather. Convertible zip-off pants offer two garments in one for variable temperatures. Tall hikers should look for specific long-inseam versions, while muscular-thigh hikers benefit from gusseted crotches and articulated knees for unrestricted movement.
Pockets and storage
Count the pockets you actually use. Most hiking pants offer 2-8 pockets, and more is not always better. Deep zippered pockets keep a phone secure; cargo pockets swallow gear but can bounce when empty. Mesh back pockets drain water but can tear. For most hikers, 4-6 pockets with at least 2 zippered is the right balance.
Weather and water resistance
DWR (durable water repellent) coatings shed light rain and dry quickly, but they wear off with washing. Re-treat DWR with a wash-in product every 20-30 wash cycles. For sustained rain, layer a waterproof shell over hiking pants rather than expecting DWR to handle it. Convertibles work best in shoulder seasons with warm afternoons and cool mornings rather than sustained wet weather.
Climate suitability matrix
Summer desert and hot weather: Pudolla, AIRIKE, Moosehill, Columbia Silver Ridge. Shoulder season and variable: ATG Cliffside, Jessie Kidden convertible, WENRONSTA. Winter and alpine: pair hiking pants with baselayers underneath for added warmth, or choose a heavier softshell option for cold conditions. Wet climates: WENRONSTA for waterproofing, plus a hardshell rain pant for sustained storms.
For more on building out a complete kit, see our guides on the best hiking boots for men, the best hiking backpacks, and the best trekking poles for hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking pants for men?
The best hiking pants for men balance stretch-woven fabric, DWR finish, articulated knees, and a gusseted crotch. Our top pick is the ATG Cliffside Utility Pant for its all-around comfort, durability, and value across three-season use.
Do hiking pants make a difference?
Yes. Quality hiking pants wick sweat, dry fast after stream crossings, resist abrasion from rock and brush, block wind, provide UPF sun protection, and allow the high-stepping mobility needed for scrambling. Regular cotton pants stay wet, restrict movement, and tear on brush within months.
How do I choose the right hiking pants for me?
Start with climate: hot and dry calls for lightweight breathable fabrics; wet climates call for waterproof or DWR-treated pairs with shell layering. Then check fit: athletic for fast movement, relaxed for layering and ventilation, convertible for variable temperatures. Finally count pockets and confirm features like articulated knees and a gusseted crotch.
What are the most durable hiking pants?
Durable hiking pants use heavier ripstop or stretch-woven nylon, reinforced knees and cuffs, and YKK zippers. The FREE SOLDIER Tactical Pants earned our durability pick for its TC ripstop fabric with TEFLON coating and reinforced stress points that survived abrasive brush on test hikes.
What are the best hiking pants for men that actually hold up?
Pants that hold up over time share three traits: heavier ripstop or stretch-woven fabric, reinforced seams and cuffs, and YKK or comparable quality zippers. The ATG Cliffside, FREE SOLDIER Tactical, and Columbia Silver Ridge all survived our 4-month test cycle without seam failure, broken zippers, or significant pilling.
Final Verdict
After four months and over 800 trail miles across desert, alpine, rainforest, and canyon country, the ATG Cliffside Utility Pant stands out as the best hiking pants for men in 2026. It earned the editor’s choice award for combining stretch comfort, durable construction, DWR water resistance, and UPF 30 sun protection at a price most hikers can afford. For shoppers on a tight budget, the AIRIKE Elastic Waist Hiking Pant delivers the strongest value. For hikers who need convertibles for variable conditions, the Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible earned the highest rating in the test.
Match the pant to your climate and terrain, not to a brand name. Hot and dry calls for the Pudolla, Moosehill, or Columbia Silver Ridge. Wet and cool calls for the WENRONSTA waterproof option with a shell layer on top. Brushy and abrasive calls for the FREE SOLDIER tactical build. Whatever pair you choose from this list, your feet, knees, and back will thank you on the next long climb. For cold-weather layering beyond hiking pants, check our guide to the best winter parkas for men, and for day-hike organization, see our picks for the best daypacks for hiking.