13 Best Hiking Pants For Women In Australia + How To Choose

Finding the perfect pair of hiking pants for women – ones that balance comfort, performance, and style – has always been a challenge. It’s a journey that typically involves hours of research, trial and error, and swapping tips with fellow hiking gals to figure out what actually works.  

Thankfully, the struggle is getting a little less real these days – finally! Brands are starting to listen, learning what women actually want in their hiking gear (hint – what works for men doesn’t always work for us). The result? So many more options designed specifically for women, not just rehashed men’s pants. It’s about time, right?

Of course, comfort and fit are just the beginning. With sweat and unpredictable weather always part of the journey, the best hiking pants should also be quick-drying, odour-resistant, and work seamlessly with your layering system – all of which cotton fails to deliver.

In this hiking gear guide, we’ll help you find the best women’s hiking pants for any adventure. You’ll find everything from advice on the best materials for different conditions to the key features to look for, plus a curated list of the best hiking pants for women in Australia. Let’s get you trail-ready!

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How To Choose The Best Women’s Hiking Pants For You

Define Your Hiking Style

Before we dissect the key features that make the best hiking pants for women, it’s important to understand your hiking style and what you need from your gear. Start by thinking about the challenges you face on the trail and ask yourself these questions:

• What is the most common climate you hike in?
• How long are your average hikes?
• Do you often deal with excessive sweating while hiking?  
• Do you encounter dense bush or rough terrain regularly?  
• Are your go-to trails steep or include lots of elevation gain/loss?  
• Do you often hike in alpine or sub-alpine regions?
• Are insects a problem in the areas you explore?  

Answering these questions will help you focus on the details that matter most, making it easier to figure out which features suit your needs and which ones don’t.

Hiking Pants Material

Nylon is the go-to material for hiking pants, often blended with a touch of elastane for extra stretch and all-day comfort. Some women’s hiking pants – especially hiking tights – are made with polyester, which dries faster and breathes better. Even so, nylon remains the top choice for its unbeatable durability and odour resistance – key features for tackling rough terrain and demanding trails.

While cotton isn’t exactly a star player in outdoor gear due to its poor moisture-wicking and water-absorbing properties, I’ll admit it’s a reasonable choice for short, casual summer activities that aren’t too physically demanding – particularly if you’re after something with a bit more style.

At the end of the day, the climate and terrain of your favourite trails will guide your choice. Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you down the right track.

Note: These materials are all typically blended with elastane for added stretch and comfort.

Water Resistance

No matter the style of hiking you plan to do, having some level of water resistance in your hiking pants is always a smart choice. However, finding the perfect balance between breathability and water resistance is a continuous battle –  the more water-resistant a material, the less breathable it usually is. That’s why we opt for hiking pants with a DWR coating, which causes water droplets to bead up and roll off.

While a DWR coating won’t prevent your pants from eventually soaking through in a downpour, it buys you time and lets you hold off on pulling out those rain pants for as long as possible!

When it comes to materials, polyester and nylon are the clear winners for water-resistant hiking pants. They dry quickly and absorb significantly less water than cotton. You’ll also find a range of water resistance levels in hiking pants, with higher resistance suiting higher altitudes, colder climates, and unpredictable mountain weather.

The Fit

As women, our bodies are beautifully diverse, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution – especially for hiking pants! Finding the perfect fit is a challenge I’m still working on, but I’m getting closer.  

On top of body shape, personal preferences play a huge role. Some adventurers prefer snug-fitting pants or tights, while others swear by looser styles for better breathability and mobility. I personally switch between both – I love loose pants for multi-day treks and tights for casual hikes or transitioning from trail to town while travelling.  

Unfortunately, there’s no magic formula for finding the perfect pair – trial and error is still the way to go. That said, some brands help by sharing details about the model’s measurements and the size she’s wearing, which can make shopping online a little easier.  

Beyond fit, things like length and waist height are worth considering too. Full-length pants prevent debris from entering your shoes, while above-ankle styles provide better airflow. High-waisted pants offer coverage during movement, while lower-waist styles can be more breathable.

Waistband Closure Options

The style of waistband closures is a key factor to consider when it comes to the overall fit of your hiking pants. Options include zips and/or buttons, elastic, built-in belts, or drawcords. Each design has its pros and cons, and ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. 

For me, bulky waist closures tend to cause rubbing with my backpack’s waist belt, which can get really uncomfortable. That’s why I prefer an elastic closure – it offers the most seamless and low-profile design. That said, finding the perfect fit with an elastic waist can be tricky since they rarely include belt loops for adjustments. 

When elastic isn’t an option, my go-to alternative is a zip and snap button closure (traditional buttons can be difficult to get undone when you’re freezing) paired with belt loops. It can take a bit of trial and error to find a pair that doesn’t cause rubbing, but I’ve found that combining this style with my Arcade A2 Atlas Performance Stretch Belt gives me a customisable fit and less bulk than a built-in belt design.

That said, built-in belt designs are improving rapidly. This is especially true for the Arc’teryx Gamma Hiking Pants. Their mid-waist design includes a low-profile, off-centre ladder lock belt that sits just beneath a harness or hipbelt, reducing the risk of rubbing and discomfort.

Weight

Unless you’re gearing up for a multi-day trek where you might switch between shorts and pants – or want a backup pair just in case – you generally won’t be carrying your hiking pants. That means their weight isn’t a top priority, unlike other essentials like your hiking sleeping bag, which stays in your backpack and adds to the load.

That said, heavy or bulky pants can feel cumbersome by the end of the day and take forever to dry if they get wet. That’s why we still recommend opting for a lightweight pair of hiking pants that let you move freely and dry quickly.

The women’s hiking pants we’ve highlighted below weigh between 250g and 450g. As a general rule, the more insulated or waterproof the pants, the heavier they’ll be. For example, my favourite softshell hiking pants, the RAB Ascendor AS, weigh 409g and are perfect for mountaineering – they keep me warm and protected at high altitudes. On the other hand, my everyday hiking pants, the XTM Lara, weigh just 275g and are my go-to for most adventures.

Durability

For most people, durability is a top priority. Your legs cop the brunt of passing branches and rough rocks, and let’s face it – crawling or sliding on your butt happens more often than we’d like to admit.

The good news? Plenty of lightweight, thin hiking pants are designed to handle a surprising amount of wear and tear. Take my XTM Lara pants, for example – they’ve been through some seriously rough and technical hikes in New Zealand and Nepal and still don’t show a single sign of wear.

For maximum durability, go for women’s hiking pants made from nylon – or at least polyester ripstop. If you’re after even tougher options, softshell hiking pants might be worth considering. They typically feature thicker materials (thicker generally equals tougher) and often include reinforced panels at the ankles, knees, and seat for extra protection.

Warmth

Generally, the thicker the material, the warmer your hiking pants will be. That said, some materials perform better in cold weather than others – nylon, for example, is less breathable than polyester, making it a better choice for cooler conditions.

Most hiking pants are designed for three-season use, but whether that works for you depends on your local climate. In most parts of Australia, three-season hiking pants can get you through the entire year. However, if you’re heading somewhere colder, like New Zealand in winter, insulated softshell pants will be a lifesaver. Alternatively, layering a pair of base layers under your hiking pants can add extra warmth.

For summer adventures, lightweight polyester hiking pants are the way to go, offering excellent breathability compared to nylon.

Hiking Pants Features

Pockets

Pockets are an incredibly useful feature for hiking, letting you keep essentials like your phone, snacks, or lip balm within easy reach. But not all pocket designs or placements are practical.

When I’m shopping for new hiking pants, I always pay attention to the pocket size, placement, security (zipper, button or fold) and how they’ll work when I’m moving and wearing a backpack.

If you prefer carrying your phone in your pants pocket, a side thigh pocket with a zipper closure is the way to go. Hip or back pockets tend to interfere with movement (especially when ascending steep gradients) and can be awkward with a backpack. Hip pockets are perfect for smaller items like lip balm or other must-haves – just make sure they’re deep enough and come with zippers for added security.

Articulated Knees

Hiking pants with articulated knees offer extra material at the knees to mimic your natural movement. This allows better range of motion, which is especially helpful when you’re tackling technical climbs. This design feature offers extra comfort and ensures your pants stay in place, no matter how much you’re moving.

If you’re sticking to easy walking tracks with little elevation, articulated knees aren’t a must-have. Hiking tights can provide a similar range of motion, making them a solid choice for those who occasionally venture into steeper terrain.

Gusseted Crotch

A gusseted crotch is a diamond-shaped piece of fabric sewn into the inseam of hiking pants, offering a better fit, greater range of motion, and extra comfort. This handy feature can be found on both women’s hiking pants and tights, and trust me, you’ll appreciate the improved mobility when the trail pushes you to your flexibility limits! 

That said, this additional feature – and the articulated knees – often come with a higher price tag, so if your adventures generally lead you down gentler trails, these are features you can skip.

Women’s Hiking Pants Designs

Convertible Hiking Pants

Temperature control on the trail can be a real challenge, which is why convertible hiking pants are such a game-changer. They give you the flexibility to adapt without needing to pack extra gear. Need more airflow? Just unzip the front and let the breeze do its thing.

That said, convertible pants aren’t perfect. They often come with extra bulk, tricky zippers, added weight, and a baggier fit.

For women, the options have traditionally been pretty disappointing. Most styles feature zip-off shorts that turn into knee-length, safari-style pieces – not exactly the most flattering look. While some women can totally pull it off, I’m definitely not one of them.

For a long time, I avoided convertible pants altogether, but recently I’ve spotted a few improved designs. The Macpac Rockover Convertible Pants, for example, offer a shorter zip-off length that’s way more stylish. While there’s still room for improvement, the Rockovers are a step in the right direction. I’m hoping we see more options like this soon!

Roll-Up Hiking Pants

Roll-up pants are becoming a popular alternative to convertible hiking pants. Featuring buttons and tabs, they let you roll your pants up to capri length for added ventilation – though not quite as much airflow as shorts. The main advantage of roll-up pants over convertible ones is their simpler, no-show design, without the hassle of bulky or annoying zippers.

Hiking Pants Vs Shorts For Hiking

Deciding between hiking pants and shorts can be tricky, especially when you know you’ll start the hike feeling cold but finish it in the heat! Personally, I let the terrain guide my choice.  

Hiking pants offer great protection from scratches and bugs, making them my favourite go-to for dense forests or technical climbs. Shorts are my pick for easy summer adventures or open trails where I’ll be exposed to the sun all day. 

That said, pants make sun protection so much easier than constantly reapplying sunscreen.  So if you’re prone to sunburn, it’s worth considering a lightweight and breathable pair of hiking pants for these conditions.

Hiking Pants Vs Hiking Tights

Another debate you might find yourself having is whether to go with hiking tights or hiking pants. Both have their benefits and a rightful spot in the hiking world, and, as you’ve probably guessed, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Hiking pants are more durable, offer better protection against rough terrain and harsh conditions, and come with more versatile pocket options (something tights are limited on). On the flip side, hiking tights provide unmatched freedom of movement, all-day comfort, and let’s be honest – they’re often more stylish.  

Personally, I go for tights on easy day hikes, but I’ll always pick hiking pants for technical trails or multi-day adventures.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a key factor we always prioritise when reviewing or purchasing products. For women’s hiking pants, the most eco-friendly option is to buy second-hand. If that’s not an option, here are a few tips to shop more sustainably:

• Look for pants made with recycled fabrics – most of the options we’ve listed below incorporate recycled material.
• Support a sustainable outdoor brand
• Check reviews and choose a pair of hiking pants that are known for their durability – a huge contribution to global warming is over-consumption and waste
• Look for labels such as Fair Trade, Bluesign Approved, PFAS-free DWR

Arcteryx Gamma Softshell Pants

Best All-Weather / Durable

When all-day comfort and protection from unpredictable mountain weather are your top priorities, you need a pair of dependable softshell pants like the Arcteryx Gamma Softshell Pants.

The Arcteryx Gamma Softshell Pants offer superior wind protection, warmth, and durability without sacrificing stretch. They’re built for tough mountain conditions, with handy features like drawstring cuffs to seal out debris.

However, we have to admit, the price tag is a little hard to swallow. While you’ll always pay more for softshell pants compared to regular hiking pants, $330 is still quite high. That said, they’re a favourite among adventurers for a reason – which mostly comes down to their durability and longevity.

What They’re Good For

The Arcteryx Gamma Softshell Pants are your go-to for high-alpine adventures. They’ll keep you warm and comfortable in snowy, wintry conditions, with enough water resistance to handle a light drizzle or a dusting of snow.

As you might expect, these aren’t the pants for low-altitude or warm-weather hikes. While they’re breathable enough for tough ascents, they’re far too warm for the average Australian climate – unless you’re heading to the Snowy Mountains or Tasmania in winter.

However, if you’re searching for the perfect pair of hiking pants to take with you on a hiking trip to Nepal or New Zealand, then the Gamma Softshell Pants are a fantastic option.

Price: $330 AUD
Sizes: AU 6 – 26
Material: Fortius DW 2.0 – 186 gsm 88% recycled double weave nylon, 12% elastane
Weight: 300g
Waist: Mid-rise, low-profile ladder lock waist adjuster with snap tab closure
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Recycled materials, Fair Trade Certified

Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants

Best For Warm Weather

The Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants may be designed for rock climbing, but don’t let that stop you from adding them to your summer hiking gear list! Rock climbers want the same things I do in a pair of summer pants – lightweight, breathable, stretchy and comfortable – and you can rest assured that Patagonia have nailed the pitch.

Weighing just 215g, the Chambeau Rock Pants are the lightest on our list, making them an easy addition to your pack when you’re unsure if the terrain calls for shorts or pants. Their design is a blend between performance and casual – offering ample pockets and articulated knees for mobility, while keeping a casual design that also works for post-adventure beers.

What They’re Good For

If you prefer a more casual look without forgoing essential features for hiking, then the Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants are for you. These pants are designed for warm-weather adventures, offering a high level of breathability while also providing enough durability for rock climbing.

For most Australian conditions, you could get away with wearing the Cambeau Rock Pants for at least 3 seasons – potentially even all 4 seasons for those further north.

Price: $200 AUD ($120 sale)
Sizes: XXS – 2XL
Material: 110 gsm 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex stretch plain weave, PFC-Free DWR finish
Weight: 215g
Waist: Mid-rise, low-profile elasticated waistband with smooth front
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: OceanCycle Certified recycled material, Fair Trade Certified, B Corp Certified

XTM Lara Hiking Pants

Best Budget

The XTM Lara Hiking Pants have been my go-to choice for countless hikes across Australia, New Zealand, and Nepal. They’ve been through more scrapes and bum shuffles than I can count, yet after 2 years of heavy wear, the material still looks as good as new – no tears, no pilling, no signs of wear at all.

At $130, these pants deliver incredible performance for the price, and I can’t recommend them enough. That said, there are a couple of minor downsides. The pocket placement could be better – there’s no comfortable spot for your phone when hiking uphill, as the front pocket pushes it into your hip with every big step. And the button closure gave me some trouble – I had to re-stitch it back on. However, since fixing it, the button hasn’t budged, so this might just be a one-off issue with my pair.

What They’re Good For

Designed for the Australian outdoors, the XTM Lara Hiking Pants are lightweight, breathable, and incredibly durable. They are my go-to choice for hikes in warmer climates where I still want full leg protection from the sun, insects, and scrub.

Thanks to their slightly roomier and stretchy fit, I’ve also worn them comfortably in colder temperatures with a pair of thermals underneath, making them surprisingly versatile and a great option for travel.

Price: $130 AUD
Sizes: AU 8 – 18
Material: 150 gsm 90% recycled nylon, 10% spandex with PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: 275g
Waist: High-rise, zip fly and button closure, elasticated back waistband
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Recycled materials, PFC-Free DWR, B Corp Certified

Zorali Venture Pants

Most Sustainable

If you’re all about plenty of pocket storage, the Zorali Venture Hiking Pants are for you! They feature two zippered back pockets, two velcro cargo pockets (with two smaller zippered pockets on top), and two hand pockets. You’ll have plenty of room for all the snacks and other valuables you like to keep handy.

What’s most impressive, though, is that the Zorali Venture Pants are made from 100% recycled material. Plus, Zorali is one of the only Australian outdoor companies, besides XTM Performance listed above, to be B Corp Certified.

Design-wise, these pants feature a relaxed fit with plenty of room to move or layer up underneath. The elasticated high-rise waistband adds extra comfort and makes them super easy to wear. The only minor downside? They don’t contain elastane, which means they’re not as stretchy as some others on this list, so you might have slightly less range of movement.

What They’re Good For

The Zorali Venture Hiking Pants are the perfect blend of durability and practicality for mild-weather adventures. Made from tough nylon fabric, they deliver excellent abrasion resistance while ensuring all-day comfort on the trail. With a roomy fit, they offer great versatility, making it easy to layer up during colder months.

Some reviews mention that they can feel a bit too warm in hot climates, offering slightly less breathability compared to some of the lighter options on our list.

Price: $150 AUD
Sizes: AU 6 – 18
Material: 100% recycled nylon with PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: 390g
Waist: High rise, elasticated waistband with removable low-profile belt
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: 100% recycled materials, PFC-Free DWR, B Corp Certified

The North Face Exploration Convertible Pants

Best Convertible Pants

Finding a pair of convertible hiking pants that are even remotely flattering is a seriously difficult task for us women! And while I personally still find the shorts to be slightly too long on The North Face Exploration Convertible Hiking Pants, they’re leagues better than some others out there.

The Exploration Convertible pants offer exceptional versatility, featuring both leg zippers and a roll-up system. Their high-waisted, relaxed fit provides comfort and style, with a tapered ankle to keep the pants snug around your hiking shoes.

What They’re Good For

The North Face Exploration Convertible Hiking Pants are your ultimate companion for ever-changing weather conditions. You can effortlessly gain extra airflow by rolling up the ankles or converting to shorts on the go.

This versatility makes the Exploration Convertible pants a fantastic choice for adventurous travel, especially when you need to pack light. One pair of pants can serve multiple functions, saving valuable space in your luggage.

That said, their lightweight and breathable design makes them best suited as a warm-weather option rather than a year-round choice. While perfect for summer hikes and travel, they may not provide enough warmth for colder climates.

Price: $180 AUD
Sizes: AU 6 – 16
Material: 142 gsm 93% nylon, 7% elastane with PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: Unknown
Waist: High-rise, zip fly and snap button closure with belt loops
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: PFC-Free DWR

Patagonia Pack Out Tights

Best Tights For Hiking

The Patagonia Pack Out Tights are designed for ultimate comfort, durability, and functionality. The mid-rise waistband sits flat under a harness or hipbelt, ensuring all-day comfort on the trails. With two thigh pockets and a secure zippered side pocket, you’ll have plenty of space to keep your essentials within easy reach.

The Pack Out tights are constructed with thicker, more durable material than your average pair of tights, allowing you to confidently tackle rough terrain without easily ripping them. Yet, they keep a casual appearance that offers versatility of wear.

If you’re after hiking tights that are even more durable and reliable, you might want to check out the Patagonia Pack Out Hike Tights. They come with reinforced panels on the knees and butt, giving you extra durability where it’s needed most.

What They’re Good For

If you’re someone who feels more at home in tights than pants, the Patagonia Pack Out Tights are a game-changer. They offer all the comfort you love without sacrificing pocket storage, warmth, or durability. The thicker material makes them ideal for mild to cool climates, while the gusseted crotch adds extra flexibility – perfect for tackling technical trails with ease.

Price: $170 AUD
Sizes: XXS – 3XL
Material: 246 gsm 87% recycled polyester, 13% spandex double-knit jersey
Weight: 306g
Waist: Mid-rise, wide and flat waistband
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: Recycled materials, Fair Trade Certified, Bluesign Approved

The North Face Basin Pants

The North Face Basin Pants are the perfect lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants. Their flexible four-way stretch lets you confidently tackle anything the trail throws at you, while the high-rise, form-fitting design offers a minimalist look without being restrictive.

The Basin Pants also feature The North Face’s FlashDry technology, allowing you to stay dry for longer in light summer showers. The only downside you might have with the Basin Pants is their colour – currently the only choice is Khaki Stone, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – and the front thigh pocket design can feel restrictive and uncomfortable for some.

What They’re Good For

Although The North Face doesn’t list an official weight for the Basin Pants, the material feels lightweight and breathable, making them a great option for summer hikes. The fit prevents the pants from riding low or feeling restrictive during more acrobatic trail moves, placing them among the top contenders for tough summit scrambles.

Price: $180 AUD
Sizes: AU 4 – 18
Material: 142 gsm 94% recycled nylon, 6% elastane with PFC-Free DWR Finish and FlashDry Technology
Weight: Unknown
Waist: High-rise, zip fly and snap tab closure with belt loops
Category: Performance
Sustainability: Recycled materials, PFC-Free DWR

Mont Adventure Light Hiking Pants

Mont has been a trusted outdoor brand for Australians for years – and it’s easy to see why! While they may not use as much recycled material, they more than make up for it with the durability and longevity of their gear. That’s why their products are a go-to for outdoor education programs and guide uniforms – they’re built to last!

The Adventure Light Pants are a best-seller from Mont, built with durable, quick-drying fabric and a relaxed fit that makes layering effortless in colder weather. Designed for practicality and comfort, they include two spacious zippered side pockets and an elastic waist with a built-in belt for the perfect fit.

What They’re Good For

The Mont Adventure Light Pants are the ultimate choice for durability and comfort. Made from a lightweight yet incredibly tough material, they’re designed to keep you confident on any off-track adventure.

While they’re best suited for spring and autumn, their relaxed fit allows for easy layering underneath so you can keep wearing them through winter. They’re slightly thicker than some of the other summer options on our list, but if protection is your top priority, you can still get away with wearing them in the warmer months.

Price: $160 AUD
Sizes: AU 8 – 20
Material: Supplex Nylon, 330 Denier
Weight: 280g
Waist: Mid-rise, zip fly and button closure with elasticated back waistband and adjustable webbing belt
Category: Performance
Sustainability: None

Amble Outdoors Sundial Pants

The Amble Outdoors Sundial Pants are a casual, versatile option, perfect for travel or a laid-back day hike. With an elasticated high-rise waist and a drawstring for a customisable fit, they’re all about comfort.

While the Sundial Pants don’t include technical features like elastane for stretch, articulated knees or a gusseted crotch, they do offer plenty of pockets to store your essentials. Not to mention, they’re constructed with 100% recycled polyester!

What They’re Good For

The Sundial Pants are a fantastic choice for active travellers. Whether you’re exploring cities or hitting nearby trails, they’re a stylish option suitable for a range of activities.

While they lack the stretch and technical features needed for multi-day treks or more demanding hikes, they provide exceptional comfort for everyday wear. I’ve personally worn them through the bustling streets of Kathmandu and on casual walks in New Zealand, and they’ve been perfect.

Price: $170 AUD
Sizes: XS – 5XL
Material: 100% recycled polyester with PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: 320g
Waist: High rise, elasticated waistband
Category: Casual
Sustainability: 100% recycled materials, PFC-Free DWR

Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants

For those who prefer a lower-rise fit, the Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pants are a great lightweight option. Although advertised as mid-rise, they sit lower on the waist compared to other mid-rise pants on our list.

These pants come with six pockets, four with snap closures, offering plenty of room to store your essentials. However, the lack of zippered pockets is a drawback. I would personally be hesitant to store anything valuable or easy to lose in these pockets, as they might not be secure enough on the trail.

What They’re Good For

The Freeflex Roll-up Pants are a good choice for three-season hiking. They’re constructed with a lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and comfortable on the trail. The adjustable roll-up cuffs make them ideal for summer adventures and unpredictable weather, while the 50% stretch polyester offers exceptional comfort and mobility for more technical hikes.

Price: $180 AUD ($160 sale)
Sizes: AU 6 – 18, Inseam 30, 32, 34” options
Material: 152 gsm 50% polyester, 50% stretch polyester with PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: Unknown
Waist: Low-rise, zip fly and button closure with belt loops
Category: Casual / Performance
Sustainability: PFC-Free DWR

Rab Torque Tights

If you love the flexibility of hiking in tights but need something that can handle tough trails, the Rab Torque Tights are the answer. Their reinforced knees and shins give you the confidence to scramble over rough, rocky terrain without worrying about rips and tears.

Plus, unlike other reinforced hiking tights, the Rab Torque Tights have a subtle, minimalist design that doesn’t draw attention to the reinforced areas. They also include two convenient drop-in thigh pockets just below the hip and a gusseted crotch for extra mobility on the trail.

What They’re Good For

The Rab Torque Tights are the perfect companion for technical hikes where freedom of movement is essential. Designed with breathable, high-performance material, they will keep you comfortable in constantly changing weather conditions. That said, they’re neither super lightweight nor built for warmth, making them best suited for mild conditions.

Price: $200 AUD
Sizes: AU 8 – 14
Material: Flexile 200 with 186 gsm Matrix RX reinforcements and PFC-Free DWR Finish
Weight: 285 g
Waist: High rise, wide and flat waistband with internal elastication
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: PFC-Free DWR, made with renewable energy

Macpac Rockover Convertible Pants

The Macpac Rockover Convertible Pants offer versatility, letting you wear them long, rolled up into capris, or zipped off as shorts. They feature two zippered cargo-style pockets to keep valuables close and a built-in belt for customisation.

The shorts are also a good length – not ridiculously long, which is a rare find for women’s shorts. However, several reviews mention that the thighs can be a bit tight, especially for those with athletic builds. I’ve personally had trouble finding Macpac pants and shorts that fit my athletic frame, but if you have wider hips and slimmer legs, these could be perfect for you!

What They’re Good For

The Macpac Rockover Convertible Pants are a solid choice for travel or moderate hiking. Their versatility makes them ideal for mild to hot conditions, meaning you can wear them almost year-round—just not for winter hikes in snowy areas. However, the material is a bit less stretchy compared to more technical options, which might make them less comfortable on tough terrain, especially if they feel restrictive around the thighs.

Price: $180 AUD ($108 sale)
Sizes: AU 8 – 18
Material: 94% nylon, 6% elastane
Weight: 330g
Waist: Mid-rise, zip fly and button closure with integrated belt
Category: Performance / Casual
Sustainability: None

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect pair of hiking pants can be a challenge, but it’s worth the effort once you find that “just right” fit for all-day comfort on the trail.

We hope our comprehensive guide has made your search a little easier. Remember to define your hiking style and narrow down your top three priorities before you begin your search.

If you have any further questions or want to share your favourite hiking pants, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us on Instagram – we’d love to hear from you!

Happy Hiking 🙂