11 Best Rain Pants For Hiking In Australia For 2024
Hands up if you’ve begun an adventure on a bright and sunny day, only to experience the true wild of nature as the sun unexpectedly disappears behind a band of brooding clouds ready to unleash on the landscape. It’s in these moments that you’ll thank yourself for packing a pair of the best rain pants and jacket so you can continue your journey.
Rain pants have a plethora of uses that range from the obvious – keeping you dry while hiking in the rain – to providing a durable and wind-resistant layer to throw over your hiking pants or base layers at camp.
But as you may have guessed, it’s not as simple as choosing the first pair of waterproof pants you come across. The best rain pants for hiking also need to be breathable, lightweight, durable and flexible.
In this guide to finding the best waterproof pants for hiking, you’ll find easy-to-digest explanations on all the important components, plus a list of the best rain pants in Australia for 2024 so you can conveniently compare and choose the best option for you.
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How To Choose The Best Rain Pants For Your Adventures
Define Your Hiking Style
Before you even begin to sift through the numerous amount of rain pants on the market, it’s important to understand your hiking style and have the answers to a few key questions handy.
- Where do you predominantly hike?
- Do you hike all year round or only in the warmer months?
- How long are your typical adventures?
- How technical and rugged is the terrain you hike in?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you can then decide which factor is of the highest importance to you. For example, if you only hike in the warmer months and on established trails, then lightweight and breathability may be more important to you than durability.
This is a great way to reveal the factors that concern you the least and ultimately, save you money.
Rain Pants Ratings
Rain pants are rated in the same way as rain jackets – by measuring the water resistance of the pants in millimetres and the breathability in grams. The rating looks like this – 15k/10k.
The first number is determined using a hydrostatic head test and measures the amount of water pressure that the pants can withstand over 24 hours before it soaks through. The second number measures the rate at which water vapour passes through a square metre of fabric over a 24hr period – but unfortunately, unlike the warmth rating for sleeping bags, this isn’t a standardised test across brands.
Waterproof Pants Rating Table
Water Resistance
| Rating | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| 0-10K | Designed to withstand light rain for short periods of time |
| 10-15K | Made to handle moderate showers over a longer period of time |
| 15-20K | Made for heavy downpours over a prolonged period |
Breathability
| Rating | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| 0-10K | Adequate for your everyday use where little to no exertion is required |
| 10-15K | Suited for moderate activity where the chance of sweat build-up is high |
| 15-20K | Best in breathability, designed for serious activity to mitigate unavoidable sweat |
It’s beneficial to check this number and ensure you choose a pair of waterproof pants with a rating of at least 10k/10k but it’s not the only factor to rely on. Plus, many brands will use a waterproofing technology such as Gore-Tex or Pertex which won’t display the rating – requiring a little extra digging.
But we’ve done that for you. In the list of the best rain pants for hiking below, you’ll find the rating for each option so you can compare easily.
Waterproofing Technologies For Rain Pants
Waterproofing technologies refer to the breathable, windproof, waterproof and durable membrane that forms the main construction of rain pants.
There are a number of companies in the outdoor industry that produce waterproof membranes for other brands to use in the construction of products such as hiking boots, hiking shoes and rain jackets.
The most common brand is Gore-Tex, which has been leading the charge for quite some time and can be relied upon for highly durable and water-resistant membranes. But in recent years, Pertex has climbed the ranks to become a well-known brand famous for producing various lightweight, packable and breathable technologies.
However, it’s becoming more and more common for leading brands to produce their own technologies in-house, such as Patagonia’s H2No and The North Face’s Futurelight. The only downside to this is that it’s harder to compare technologies as you’re no longer dealing with just two brands.
The best way to determine whether an in-house technology – or one you haven’t heard of – stands up against the competition is to read reviews, check the ratings, and compare the specs with another jacket you’re familiar with – including the price point.
DWR Coating
DWR stands for Durable Water Repellent finish and is the first line of defence for waterproof pants. This finish is applied to the outer layer of the garments and prevents moisture from absorbing into the fabric.
You can thank the DWR coating for the water droplets beading up and rolling off your rain pants.
You’ll almost always find a DWR finish on rain pants, and choosing one with a PFC-free DWR is beneficial not only for the planet but also for your health. The perfluorocarbons used in traditional DWR are toxic and persist in the environment.
Breathability
After waterproofing, breathability is arguably the most important factor to consider when searching for the best pair of rain pants for hiking. Choosing a pair of waterproof pants with low breathability will cause you to sweat as you walk, dampening your hiking pants and ultimately making you freeze once the sweat cools.
The breathability of rain pants is depicted by two factors, the breathability rating we mentioned above and the type of fabric layer which we’ll dive into below. For hiking, we recommend a pair of rain pants with a breathability rating of at least 10k and a 2.5 or 3 layer design.
The North Face’s Dryzzle Futurelight excels in this area due to its innovative air-permeable construction which is the most breathable material in today’s market.
Fabrics
Rain pants are generally constructed with a waterproof membrane sandwiched between a polyester or nylon out layer (aka face fabric) and either a mesh, coating or liner depending on the number of layers – more on this below.
Typically, nylon is tougher, more comfortable and packs down smaller while polyester is cheaper, more breathable and has better longevity in terms of pilling and colour wearing.
Fabric Layers
Waterproof pants are constructed with layers that are bound together to create a durable, breathable and comfortable shell. They’re divided into three categories – 2-layer, 2.5-layer and 3-layer. This component is one of the best ways to determine the overall performance of a pair of rain pants.
- 2-layer – The waterproof membrane is bound to an outer layer to create a single piece of material, which is protected from dirt and sweat by a mesh inner liner. 2-layer rain pants are generally the cheapest, but you’ll sacrifice breathability and durability.
- 2.5-layer – The most popular style of rain pants for hiking is the 2.5-layer. This design consists of a protective laminate or coating that is applied to the inside of the outer layer to shield the waterproof membrane. The membrane is then coated with a protective print – the half layer. 2.5-layer rain pants offer better breathability and a lightweight design at an affordable price.
- 3-layer – Rather than using coatings or prints, 3-layer designs are constructed with a durable outer layer, a waterproof membrane and a highly breathable and moisture-wicking lining. While you’ll pay top dollar for a pair of 3-layer rain pants, they’re the ultimate choice for the best rain pants for hiking.
Durability Of Waterproof Hiking Pants
Durability is often the first component to be sacrificed when searching for the best rain pants for hiking as most of us are drawn to the lightest option – which ultimately results in a thinner outer layer.
But if you’re planning to embark on rugged adventures then perhaps the extra couple of grams will be worth a tougher pair of pants.
The best way to determine the durability of a pair of waterproof pants is by the denier count. Denier refers to the density of the nylon or polyester face fabric and basically, the higher the number the more durable the material.
Unfortunately, not every brand states the denier count of their face fabric, but if it’s available it’s best to go higher than 40D. If it’s not, choose a pair of waterproof pants with either nylon or polyester ripstop as this is more durable than regular woven fabric.
Weight
You can learn a lot about a pair of rain pants by their overall weight. Generally, a lighter pair will indicate lower durability and waterproofing abilities and a heavier pair will indicate lower breathability.
However, this also has to be compared against the price of the garment as there are many incredible technologies out there that enable brands to create the best-performing waterproof pants at a very low weight.
But as a general rule of thumb, a great pair of rain pants for hiking should fall between 200g – 350g – only reaching above 350g if the price and durability also increase.
Packability Of Rain Pants
The compressed size of rain pants is an important factor for lightweight hikers or those with minimal room in their hiking backpacks. And as you may have guessed, the lighter the rain pants, the smaller they will pack down and often you’ll also have the ability to stuff them inside their own pocket for ease of storage.
But as we’ve begun to expect, the most packable rain pants will have to compromise on durability and sometimes waterproofing abilities as well.
Comfort And Mobility
The comfort and mobility of waterproof pants is a factor many forget to consider but it is essential when you’re scrambling up a steep mountain to be wearing the most comfortable rain pants possible.
Ways in which comfort and mobility are increased in rain pants are:
- Articulated knees – tiny notches and angles that are cut into the design to allow for the material to bend and stretch
- Gusseted crotch – a triangular piece of fabric that is inserted into the seam to reduce stress in the material and increase mobility and comfort
- High-rise – Avoids the pants falling down when climbing or scrambling
- Stretch-woven fabric – While rain pants are generally rigid, the addition of stretch-woven fabrics increases flexibility
The Fit Of Hiking Waterproof Pants
When it comes to hiking, the ideal rain pants should provide ample space for your base layers or hiking pants to be comfortably worn underneath. Opting for high-waisted options is advantageous as they allow for unrestricted movement and avoid any discomfort caused by the hip belt of our backpacks.
Features Of Rain Pants
You may be surprised to learn that there are actually several features found in the best rain pants that can greatly increase their efficiency. Depending on your application, some will be of the highest importance and some can be disregarded.
Waist Adjustment
Flexibility to adjust the waist of waterproof pants is advantageous in achieving a comfortable fit and preventing them from slipping down while walking. A convenient drawstring is highly recommended for this purpose, but at the very least, an elasticized waistband will allow for some degree of customization.
Side Zips
Most waterproof pants will have side zips that either run all the way from the ankle to the hip, 3/4 of the way or just to the knee. This feature assists with the ability to put the rain pants on over your hiking boots without having to take them off.
Personally, I wouldn’t choose a pair of rain pants without side zips because if you need to throw them on, chances are you won’t want to take your shoes off to do so!
The best length for the side zips comes down to personal preference and your style of hiking. But basically, the longer the zip, the easier it is to pull the pants over burly hiking boots – but you’ll also see a slight increase in the overall weight and size for 3/4 to full-length zips.
Pockets
The inclusion of pockets on rain pants is incredibly convenient for storing snacks or frequently used items. Side pockets are particularly suitable as they won’t interfere with your backpack. Additionally, some designs feature water-resistant zippers, which are perfect for safeguarding your phone or other valuables.
For ultralight hikers, you can save another few grams by choosing minimalistic designed rain pants without pockets.
Snap Closures
Snap closures at the ankle of rain pants are essential for a better fit around the boot and provide a little extra protection against mud and rain. You’ll often find two studs included in the snap closure so you can choose to have a snug or loose fit.
Snap closures also protect the zipper and prevent it from opening or getting snagged as you walk.
Kickpatches
Reinforced material at the inside of the ankle is called kickpatches and increases the durability of the rain pants. This is beneficial if you’re hiking in rugged landscapes, but can be unnecessary added weight for hiking on established trails.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a major factor in our opinion and one we seriously consider before buying any product. But unfortunately, it’s not as simple as choosing the pair with the most recycled material, we also need to consider the longevity and construction of the product, working conditions, and the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
While it sounds like an impossible task, there are some labels and things you can look for to ensure you’re doing your best at choosing the most sustainable option that works for you.
- Recycled material – this is the easiest way to determine whether a product is sustainably made and is a great start, especially if the product also has the ability to be recycled at the end of its life
- PFC-free DWR coating – If a product is created with PFC-free DWR it will be stated in the description
- Bluesign Approved – this label ensures complete traceability throughout the manufacturing processes and guarantees the products are harmless to humans and the environment
- Fair Trade – This label indicates that a company is using products that are ethically sourced and that fair prices are being provided to the producers in developing countries
- Durability and longevity – The length of a product’s life impacts the environment immensely – if it’s sustainably made yet ends up in landfill within a year, is it really that sustainable?
- Warranty and repairs – The warranty policy of a company is important in the overall longevity of a product because brands that simply replace rather than repair are also impacting the world’s over-consumption problem
Read this article next for more information on sustainability and how to find the best sustainable outdoor brands in Australia.
Hard Shell Vs Rain Pants VS Soft Shell
Hard Shell rain pants are your traditional waterproof overpants that are listed below. They are the ultimate protection against extreme weather conditions and are often the most durable as well.
Soft shell hiking pants fall in the middle of regular hiking pants and rain pants. They generally have a DWR coating to protect you from a light mist or dry snow, provide much better mobility and are more breathable.
For winter hiking, we suggest considering a pair of soft shell hiking pants that will keep you warm and relatively protected from the elements. But you will also need to carry a pair of hard shell rain pants for heavy rainfall.
The Best Rain Pants For Hiking In 2024
Quick Buyers Guide For Choosing The Best Waterproof Pants
- Choose a rain jacket with at least 10k/10k for good breathability and waterproofing abilities
- 3-layer rain pants are the best for durability, breathability and comfort – but will also have the highest price
- Side zips make it possible to put on rain pants without taking off your boots – the longer the zip, the easier it is to pull them over bulkier boots
- A good pair of rain pants for hiking should fall between 250g – 350g
- Ensure the fit of the rain pants is loose enough to wear over your hiking pants
The North Face Dryzzle Futurelight Rain Pants
Best Overall Rain Pants
The North Face Dryzzle Futurelight rain pants provide the ultimate breathability thanks to their innovative air-permeable construction. The unique nano-fibre design is small enough to allow air to move through, yet keeps water out – genius!
On top of unmatched breathability, the Dryzzle Futurelight rain pants are also highly durable with a 50D 100% recycled polyester outer layer. The only downside to these rain pants is the lack of side pockets and a drawstring or belt – which makes them susceptible to falling down if they don’t fit perfectly.
What they’re good for
The North Face Dryzzle Futurelight rain pants is the ideal companion for long ascents in harsh environments. The superior breathability will keep you sweat-free and the full-length side zips allow you to pull the pants over even the biggest mountaineering boots.
Price: $350 AUD
Size: Women’s: XS-XL | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: 50D
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 15-20k/75k
Material: 3L Futurelight membrane, 100% recycled polyester with tricot backer
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 300g
Sustainability: Recycled material
Features
- Full-length covered side zips end just before the waistband and make it easy to pull them on and off
- Partial elastic waistband with flat-bonded front for better comfort and fit
- Back pocket with a water-resistant zip and shockcord loop for better packability
- Articulated knees
- Adjustable snap closure at the ankle
- Air-permeable construction increases breathability
- 170D nylon kickpatches for added durability
- Free 30-day Return Policy and Limited Lifetime Warranty
Positives
- Highly breathable
- Comfortable and not noisy when walking
- Durable
- Easy access with full-length zips
Negatives
- No drawstring or belt
- No hand pockets
- A little heavy
Marmot Minimalist Waterproof Hiking Pants
Best For Heavy Downpours
For lightweight protection paired with ultimate waterproofing abilities, you can’t beat the Marmot Minimalist rain pants. These waterproof pants are constructed with a 2.5-layer Paclite fabric, one of Gore-Tex’s most trusted technologies, and 100% taped seams for added protection.
The only downside to the Minimalist rain pants is that the short ankle-high side zips don’t allow you to easily pull them over your hiking boots or shoes. But if saving weight is a higher priority than ease of use, then this won’t be an issue.
What they’re good for
The Marmot Minimalist are the perfect pair of rain pants to permanently stash in your pack for those inevitable moments when you’re caught in a downpour. With good breathability and the highest waterproof rating on this list, you can rest assured that these pants will keep you dry and comfortable on your hike.
Price: $270 AUD
Size: Women’s: XS-XL | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 28k/15k
Material: 2.5L Gore-Tex Paclite, 100% recycled polyester
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 262g
Sustainability: Recycled materials
Features
- Ankle-length side zippers with snap closure and pull-tab for better protection
- Partial elastic waistband with snap closure and zip fly
- Zippered hand pockets
- Articulated knees for better mobility
- Seam taped construction provides better durability and waterproofing
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Free 90-day return policy if you shop with Wildfire
Positives
- Lightweight without sacrificing waterproofing
- Highly waterproof
- Not as clammy feeling as other 2.5 layers
Negatives
- Don’t fit over hiking boots
- Odd shape doesn’t fit all body shapes
- No waist adjustment
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Pants
Most Durable Waterproof Pants
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain pants provide impressive durability with a no-fuss design that features everything you need and nothing you don’t. The 3-layer design includes a tricot backer for ultimate comfort and a 50D nylon ripstop outer that protects you from the wind and rugged landscapes.
We’ve put the Torrentshell 3L rain pants to the ultimate test time and time again on our hikes through Tasmania. They’ve performed exceptionally well in knee-deep snow, howling winds and sideways rain, continuously keeping us dry and comfortable in the wildest weather.
What they’re good for
The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L rain pants are the ideal companion for adventures when the chance of wild weather conditions is common. These waterproof pants excel in durability (which we’ve tested on the most rugged rocky ascents) and will be a trustworthy option for all adventurers – except ultralight hikers.
Price: $160 AUD
Size: Women’s: XS-2Xl | Men’s: XS-2XL
Denier Count: 50D
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 20k/12k
Material: 3L H2No, 100% recycled nylon ripstop, tricot backer
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 309g
Sustainability: recycled materials
Features
- Thigh-length side zips allow you to put these on over your hiking boots
- Two-way zips allow the side openings to double as vents
- Partially elasticised cuffs adjust with a snap closure to keep the elements out
- Elastic waistband with drawcord for a better fit
- Hand warmer pockets with mesh bags and storm flaps
- Stows away inside its own pocket for ease of storage
- Free repairs on items and no set time limit on returns
Positives
- Very durable
- Comfortable and warm
- Great waterproof abilities
Negatives
- No articulated knees
- A little heavy
Macpac Nazomi Rain Pants
Best Lightweight Rain Pants
The best rain pants for those needing to move fast and light through harsh elements are without a doubt the Macpac Nazomi. These ultralight waterproof pants are constructed with a 3-layer Pertex Shield Pro membrane that is built to withstand even the gnarliest weather without making you sweat.
The only downside to the Nazomi’s is the fact they’re not sustainably made – aside from using C6 DWR instead of C8 which is deemed safer for the environment and humans.
What they’re good for
The Macpac Nazomi waterproof pants are perfect for hikers who need an ultralight pair of rain pants that will keep them dry on long pursuits in the alpine. The highly breathable and lightweight design will keep you dry from the inside out as you battle the elements.
Price: $300 AUD
Size: Women’s: 8-16 | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 20k/20k
Material: 3L Pertex Shield Pro, nylon outer
DWR: C6 DWR
Weight: 150g
Sustainability: No
Features
- Calf-length side zips allow you to pull these pants on over your hiking boots and shoes
- Elasticated waistband with a drawcord to provide the perfect fit
- Internal mesh pocket for small valuables and to pack away the rain pants for ease of storage
- Articulated knees for increased moveability
- 60-day return policy
- Limited lifetime warranty and repairs available for accidental damage
Positives
- Highly breathable
- Very lightweight
- Comfortable and trustworthy in heavy downpours
Negatives
- Not sustainably made
- Durability is questionable in true rugged situations
XTM Stash Waterproof Pants
Best Budget Friendly Rain Pants
The XTM Stash unisex rain pants offer the perfect balance of affordability and performance. Crafted with a robust stretch polyester ripstop exterior and sealed seams, these pants ensure optimum protection and comfort during your adventures, keeping you dry and warm.
Unfortunately, the weight for these waterproof pants isn’t available so we can’t comment on that component, however, if you’re simply looking for a no-fuss pair of rain pants that will get you out of trouble then look no further.
What they’re good for
The XTM Stash unisex rain pants are the perfect choice for entry-level hikers and the occasional adventurer who need a cheap and durable pair of waterproof pants to get them out of trouble. While they’re not waterproof or breathable enough for a summit mission in extreme conditions, they work perfectly for casual explorers.
Price: $90 AUD
Size: Unisex: XS-3XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 10k/7k
Material: Stretch polyester ripstop
DWR: Uknown
Weight: Unknown
Sustainability: Certified Carbon Neutral Product
Features
- Lower leg side zips for ease of use with boots on
- Elastic waistband with drawcord for the perfect fit
- Zippered hand pockets
- Fully seam sealed design
- Stows away inside its own pocket for ease of storage
- Free 90-day return policy if you shop with Wildfire
Positives
- Budget-friendly
- Very durable
- Drawcord allows for perfect fit
Negatives
- Not as waterproof or breathable as others on this list
- No weight specified
Rab Downpour Eco Rain Pants
Most Sustainable Rain Pants
You’ll feel good about your purchase when you choose the Rab Downpour Eco rain pants. They have gone a step further than simply using recycled materials (which they also do) and have found a way to create the best rain pants that can be recycled at the end of their life – thanks to the innovative Pertex Revolve membrane.
Not to mention, the Downpour Eco rain pants are also built with a durable 50D polyester outer, provide impressive comfort and come in at a low weight of 205g! However, to keep to weight so low, you will sacrifice pockets.
What they’re good for
The Rab Downpour Eco rain pants is the best choice for environmentally conscious hikers who need a durable and trustworthy pair of waterproof pants to take on every adventure. The high breathability and waterproof rating will keep you dry from the inside out as you navigate the great outdoors.
Price: $180 AUD
Size: Women’s: 8-18 | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: 50D
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 20k/20k
Material: 2.5L Pertex Revolve Shield, 100% recycled polyester
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 205g
Sustainability: Recycled materials, ability to recycled pants at end of life
Features
- Knee length YKK side zips to allow you to pull the pants on over boots
- A storm guard and drawcord at the ankle hem allows for better waterproofing and a close fit
- Elastic waistband with a drawcord to adjust the fit
- Fully sealed seams increase waterproofing abilities
- 30-day return policy
Positives
- Highly sustainable
- Great breathability and waterproof abilities
- Lightweight
Negatives
- No pockets
- No articulated knees or reinforced areas
Marmot Precip Eco Rain Pants
For an excellent all-around option that offers great value, we highly recommend the Marmot Precip Eco rain pants. These lightweight and breathable waterproof pants provide exceptional durability and reliable waterproofing for adventurers of all kinds.
While they may not stand out in any particular category, they offer excellent performance across the board. Moreover, their affordability and environmentally-friendly construction add to their appeal. And as an added bonus, they are equipped with not just two, but three convenient zippered pockets, perfect for storing snacks and other essentials.
What they’re good for
The Marmot Precip Eco rain pants will keep you dry and protected as you move through the wilderness on three-season backpacking trips. Their high breathability and low weight allow you to stay comfortable even when the weather warms and the gradient steepens.
Price: $130 AUD
Size: Women’s: XS-XL | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 10/17
Material: 2.5L Nanopro, 100% recycled nylon ripstop
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 210g
Sustainability: Recycled materials
Features
- Knee-length side zips allow you to pull the pants on over hiking boots
- Ankle side zips have snap tab closures at the cuff for better protection against the rain
- Elasticated waistband with drawcord for a customisable fit
- Two zippered handwarmer pockets and a zippered back pocket
- Fully taped seams for increased weather resistance
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Free 90-day return policy if you shop with Wildfire
Positives
- Great all-rounder
- Lightweight and breathable
- Lots of pockets
Negatives
- Not as waterproof as others on this list
- Some reviews have stated that they run a little short
- No articulated knees
Fjallraven High Coast Hydratic Waterproof Pants
Fjallraven are a highly trusted Swedish brand that provides nothing but top quality products with a strong sustainable focus. And these attributes are proven in their High Coast Hydratic rain pants.
These waterproof pants are created using a highly durable recycled nylon outer and are equipped with a number of handy features to keep you comfortable and dry on your next expedition.
What they’re good for
The Fjallraven High Coast Hydratic rain pants are the perfect choice for adventurers who need a durable pair of waterproof pants will a customisable fit and all-day comfort. The thick material will keep you warm through cool days and the 3/4 length side zips allow for ventilation on hot days – plus they make it easy to pull these pants over your hiking boots.
Price: $350 AUD
Size: Women’s: XS-XL | Men’s: S-2XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 10k/6k
Material: 2.5L Hydratic, 100% recycled polyamide and polyurethane outer
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 239g
Sustainability: Recycled material
Features
- 3/4 length side zips for extra ventilation and the ability to pull the pants over your hiking boots
- Velcro adjustments over the zip at the cuff for better protection and customisation
- Elasticated waistband with drawcord for the perfect fit
- Velcro adjustments at the calf to pull the rain pants tight – great for mountain biking
- 2 year limited warranty
- Free 30-day return policy
Positives
- Great customisation option for the best fit
- Durable
Negatives
- Expensive
- Not as waterproof or breathable as others on this list
- No pockets
Mont Siena/Austral Rain Pants
The women’s Siena and the men’s Austral rain pants from Mont offer incredible waterproof protection in a comfortable and durable 3-layer design, making them the perfect choice for year-round adventures.
While they weigh a hefty 410g, these waterproof pants from Mont are equipped with all the bells and whistles, including 3/4 length zippered sides with double zip sliders for ventilation and reinforced inner ankles for increased durability.
What they’re good for
For those moments when you’re well aware the weather will be grim, there’s no better companion than the durable and highly waterproof Siena and Austral rain pants. These waterproof pants certainly aren’t for the weight conscious, but if your main priority is durability and protection then look no further.
Price: $350 AUD
Size: Women’s: 8-18 | Men’s: XS-3XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 30k/20k
Material: 3L Hydronaute, engineered outer and tricot mesh backer
DWR: Yes
Weight: 410g
Sustainability: No
Features
- 3/4 length side zips with dual directional zips for increased ventilation
- Hook and loop adjustable cuffs provide better fit
- Elasticated waistband with a webbing belt and side-lock buckle
- Articulated knees and gusseted crotch for increased moveability
- Reinforced material on the inner ankles for increased durability
- 60-day return policy
- Mont offers repairs and free returns for faulty items
Positives
- Extremely durable
- Exceptional protection against rain and the cold
- Highly breathable
Positives
- Extremely durable
- Exceptional protection against rain and the cold
- Highly breathable
Mountain Designs Darling/Murray Waterproof Hiking Pants
The women’s Darling and the men’s Murray rain pants from Mountain Designs are another budget-friendly option with a no-fuss design and adequate protection for 3-season use in Australia.
Built with sustainability in mind, the Darling and Murray rain pants are designed with recycled materials and a PFC-free DWR so you can feel good about your purchase.
What they’re good for
The Mountain Designs Darling and Murray rain pants are perfect all-rounders for budget-conscious hikers hitting the trails from Spring to Autumn. Equipped with a rating of 10k/10k, they’ll keep you dry and comfortable throughout moderate rainfalls.
Price: $130 AUD ($90 for club members – free to sign up)
Size: Women’s: 8-18 | Men’s: XS-3XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 10k/10k
Material: 2.5L Repel, 100% recycled polyester
DWR: PFC-free
Weight: 239g
Sustainability: Recycled material
Features
- Calf-length side zips allow the ability to pull the pants up over hiking shoes
- Velcro adjustments cover the side zips and allow for a closer fit
- Partially elasticated waistband with snap button/fly closure
- Concealed zippered hand pockets
- Fully seam-sealed design
- Forward set side-seam for increased comfort
- Articulated knees for increased moveability
- 28-day return policy
- Limited lifetime warranty
Positives
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Good all-rounder
Negatives
- Not as waterproof or breathable as others on this list
- No waist adjustment
- Short side zips might not work with bigger hiking boots
Kathmandu Trailhead Rain Pants
The Kathmandu Trailhead rain pants offer excellent durability at an affordable price, with a high enough waterproof and breathability rating to keep you out of trouble in a sudden downpour. The pants are thoughtfully designed with articulated knees for increased moveability and a high-cut waist to keep them from falling down.
What they’re good for
For casual adventurers and entry-level hikers, the Kathmandu Trailhead rain pants are a great option to keep you comfortable and dry on day hikes and even the odd overnight hike. However, their longevity for resisting water is questionable so we don’t recommend these for heavy use.
Price: $200 AUD
Size: Women’s: 6-18 | Men’s: XS-2XL
Denier Count: Unknown
Waterproof / Breathability Rating: 15k/15k
Material: 2.5L ngx, nylon ripstop outer
DWR: Yes
Weight: 300g
Sustainability: Partially bio-based membrane and Bluesign approved nylon
Features
- Lower leg side zips allow you to pull these on over hiking boots
- Partially elasticated cuffs and snap closures for better protection
- Partially elasticated waistband with front snap closure
- Back zippered pocket
- Articulated knees for improved moveability
- Fully seam-sealed design
- Scuff patches at the inside ankle for increased abrasion resistance
Positives
- Good durability
- Comfortable fit
Negatives
- No front pockets
- Longevity of the waterproof membrane is lacking
- No adjustable waist
Final Thoughts On The Best Waterproof Pants for Hiking
We hope you’ve come away from this ultimate guide on the best rain pants for hiking in Australia with a better understanding of what it is you need and which pair of rain pants will suit you best. Just remember, a waterproof rating of less than 10k/10k will be sufficient for light rain but won’t hold up in a heavy storm.
Which pair of rain pants is your favourite for hiking? We’d love to know your reviews and suggestions in the comments below. And as always, please feel free to throw any questions you may have at us and we’ll respond as quickly as possible.
Happy Hiking 🙂
