I’m a female outdoor expert and these are the best women’s walking trousers I’ve tested

Patagonia has long been the gold standard for sustainability in outdoor gear, and the Women’s Point Peak Trail Pants embody that ethos beautifully.

These trousers are built for demanding adventures, but it’s their eco-friendly credentials that really set them apart, making them a win for both you and the planet. Just don't call them Patagucci.

The first thing to highlight is the sustainable fabric: Patagonia has used a blend of recycled nylon and spandex for durability with a conscience. This is tough enough to withstand rugged mountain trails and scrambling over rocks, but you can feel good knowing it’s made with materials that reduce waste and have a lower environmental impact.

Patagonia has also ensured that the fabric is Fair Trade Certified sewn, meaning the workers who made them were treated ethically – a big plus for those of us who care about the entire production process.

Performance-wise, the Point Peak Trail Pants don’t cut corners. They’re durable, breathable, and comfortable. I tested them on a challenging hike on the west coast of Scotland and they held up through rain, wind, mud and scrambling.

The double-weave fabric provides excellent abrasion resistance, particularly around the knees and seat, where wear and tear tend to happen fastest. The DWR (durable water repellent) finish also kept off light rain, keeping me dry through misty, damp conditions.

However, the fabric is still breathable enough that you won’t overheat on warmer days or during intense activity.

Comfort is spot-on, thanks to the four-way stretch. These trousers move with you, allowing for full freedom whether you're climbing steep terrain or hiking long distances. The waistband is a particularly well-built feature, complete with a lovely high-quality brass button.

Patagonia also thought about practicality here, as all pockets are secured with zippers to keep things safe on the move. A nice feature is the metal lace hook, which attaches the bottom of the trousers to your boots for added warmth and security. 

The real standout with the Point Peaks, however, is Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability. These trousers are designed to be repaired and reused, with Patagonia’s Worn Wear program encouraging customers to repair their gear instead of replacing it.

This extends the life of your kit and cuts down on consumption, which is a rare and refreshing approach in the world of fast outdoor fashion.

Yes, they’re a bit pricier than some alternatives (but then again, less costly than some of the other brands on test) but the performance, durability, and eco-conscious design of the Point Peak Trail Pants make £140 ($139) of your hard-won pounds worth it.

For those who want technical outdoor trousers that not only perform brilliantly but also align with sustainable values, these are a top-notch choice.

If you’ve not heard of Keela, you’re in for a treat. This Scottish Highlands-based brand offers an impressive mix of practicality, performance and affordability, making them a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts looking for high-quality gear that doesn’t require a premium price tag. Their Nevis Trousers do all of this perfectly, offering exceptional value.

Let’s start with the fabric. Keela’s own Stretch-Tec material offers both wind resistance and breathability, giving you reliable protection from the elements while keeping things comfortable during high-output activities.

I tested these trousers on a gusty hike in the Trossachs and they were fantastic—blocking out the wind while still letting air circulate enough to prevent overheating. The material is also tough enough to withstand scrapes and rough use, which means these trousers will last through many seasons of wear and tear.

One thing I loved about the Nevis Trousers is how well they balance comfort and movement, with a great fit around the waist – although I'm not as impressed with the skin-feel of the fabric in comparison to other trousers on test.

Performance wise, the four-way stretch fabric allows for as much bouncing around as you can muster, whether you’re scrambling over rocks or hiking steep, uneven trails. The fit on the leg is slightly more relaxed than other technical trousers, but this allows for layering in cooler conditions. 

In terms of practicality, Keela has packed these trousers with useful features. There are multiple zippered pockets—great for storing snacks, a deck of well-thumbed playing cards, or even a syrian hamster securely.

The reinforced knee panels are a nice touch for anyone who finds themselves regularly kneeling or plonking their behind down on rough ground, and the water-resistant finish holds up well in light rain – although heavy downpours would call for waterproofs.

The real standout, though, is the value. For the price (£74.99 / $84), the Nevis Trousers offer an impressive mix of durability, comfort, and technical features that easily match more expensive alternatives. Sure they're not a £30 Decathlon number, but you're getting far more than double the trouser for the price.

If you're after a pair of trousers that can handle long treks, mountain hikes, or even casual weekend rambles without emptying your wallet, these are a smart investment.

I just _lov_e the NosiLife Jules Trousers from Craghoppers. These aren’t just your standard hiking trousers – they come with an insect-repellent coating that makes them ideal for hot-climate adventures, whether you’re trekking in the tropics or just trying to avoid becoming an all-you-can-suck buffet on a summer evening.

As soon as I put them on, I was impressed with how the Jules felt against skin. Although they’re only available in a 32-inch-leg inseam (four inches too long for the dumpy wee stumps this tester calls legs), I've actually taken them in and hemmed them up, seeing as the rest of the fit is so perfect.

I love the way the deep, high waistband stays put and flatters at the same time, and the ‘Dora the Explorer’ look is certainly back in fashion these days, so I'll be wearing these to the pub as well as the hills.

If, however, you’re under 5’4” and don’t come with a passion for sewing, I'd suggest looking elsewhere as these are, unfortunately, unavailable in a shorter leg. 

Craghoppers has also packed in loads of practical details with the Jules – plenty of pockets, including some with zips for valuables, and a neat hidden security pocket that’s perfect for stashing your keys or a card.

They’re a great option for travelling, too, especially given the added insect protection. If you’re looking for lightweight, breathable hiking trousers with the bonus of keeping ticks, midges and mozzies at bay, the NosiLife Jules Trousers are a win.

Montane have really gone to town on the 'stretch' element of these trousers, as we found their size 10 fitted a range of testers from a UK size 8 to a size 14 – but the built-in belt saw that nothing was too loose on a smaller frame.

It does mean, however, that if you’re a larger size and have previously struggled to find walking trousers that fit your curves, these are a great bet. The stretch is fantastic, and they’re much more durable for all-year hiking than leggings, which are generally the option that plus sized people end up with. If you’re not sure on size, go down. 

The second thing I noticed on the Terra Stretch is just how lightweight they are, despite feeling pretty bombproof while on. Montane’s Granite Stretch fabric gives you freedom of movement without compromising durability, which is a hard balance to strike.

I put them through their paces on a day hike and they handled everything from steep ascents to scrambling over rocks without a hitch. I'd be happy to wear these for full-on climbing, too, as the stretch element really does perform for high-leg manoeuvres. 

What really impressed me, however, was how breathable they are despite being designed for all-year use. They’ve got zipped thigh vents that allow for extra airflow when things heat up, so even on a hot, sweaty hike, you stay cool and comfortable.

Plus, the DWR finish meant we stayed dry through a bit of light rain, though I’d recommend throwing on waterproofs if you’re expecting a proper downpour.

The only thing I'd like to have seen improved in terms of materials was the recycled element. These aren’t super planet-friendly from what I can see, but they are durable, which is a big plus in terms of longevity. 

For storage, they’ve got plenty of pocket space, too, with deep zippered pockets for essentials.

The option to go for a short leg was appreciated in both of our testers, who are under 5’3”. So, if you’re looking for a do-it-all pair of trousers that’ll see you through a variety of conditions while keeping you comfortable and mobile, the Montane Terra Stretch Trousers should be high on your list.

Good old Decathlon. Like much of the range from this giant European sports retailer, these trousers are designed with the essentials in mind. There's nothing flashy, just good, solid performance for those who want to get out in the mountains without breaking the bank.

And yep, the low, low RRP of £31.99 is hard to beat when it comes to what the MH500 women’s walking trousers offer. You’re getting a pair of trousers that do 99% of what more premium brands do, for less than a third of the cost.

If you’re an occasional hiker or someone who wants dependable gear without splurging, these are a fantastic choice. However, do be aware that they’re less durable than other brands and aren’t made with recycled materials. 

The fabric is surprisingly lightweight and quick-drying, making them ideal for long days on the trail, especially in changeable weather. I wouldn’t want to use them in the dead of winter, or for very rocky scrambling or climbing as they’re not as thick or durable as other trousers on test, but for the majority of hillwalking use-cases, they’re a pretty damn good bet.  

Comfort is a strong point here, too. The waistband is semi-elasticated and comes with adjustable velcro-like straps, giving you the flexibility to adjust the fit as needed. They sit comfortably without digging in, making them suitable for long days out.

Though they lack some of the high-tech features of more expensive trousers, they’ve got the essentials covered: four decent-sized pockets, two of which are zipped for secure storage.

If you’re looking for fancy bells and whistles, you won’t find them here. But if you need no-nonsense, dependable hiking trousers that offer great value, the MH500 Mountain Walking Trousers are an excellent option.

They’ll take you from casual woodland strolls to more serious mountain adventures without any fuss, and without costing a small fortune either.

Here at LFTO, we’re big fans of Alpkit. They have a knack for producing high-quality gear that doesn’t break the bank, and the Ardent Women’s Softshell Trousers are a testament to this.

These trousers are built for cooler, adventurous days out on the hills, offering great performance and durability that’s hard to beat at this price point.

The double-weave softshell fabric is the main event here. It’s got a good amount of stretch while still being robust enough to handle rougher terrain. We tested the trousers on a cold day out in Glencoe and they held up impressively against scrapes with rocks and brambles when fumbling about with river crossings.

The fabric also does a great job of blocking out the wind, which is a blessing on those exposed ridge lines. The built-in DWR coating shrugged off light rain and splashes with ease, though if the heavens open, you’ll want to throw on waterproofs as this isn't quite in their job description.

Comfort is key with the Ardent trousers and Alpkit has nailed it here. The four-way stretch means you can scramble, climb and hike without any restrictions. They fit us well, with a cut that flatters without sacrificing practicality, although do size up if you're unsure. (Alpkit seems to think a size 8 woman has a 23-35 inch waist. Hm.)

However if you do nab yourself the right size, the articulated knees, reinforced arse and gusseted crotch give you full freedom of movement. They come in a range of three leg lengths, too, which is wonderful for the vertically challenged and blessed alike. The lower leg zip is a real plus for fitting over bulky winter boots, too.

If you’re looking for reliable, all-year-round outdoor trousers that won’t cost a fortune, the Alpkit Ardent Softshell Trousers are a great choice. They’re versatile, durable, and comfortable—ideal for everything from cool-weather hikes to scrambling adventures.

Rab has a reputation for pushing technical fabrics to the next level, and the Women’s Incline Vapour-Rise Pants, complete with a fluffy, supple lining absolutely exemplify this. These trousers are designed to be your go-to for active mountain days in cooler weather. 

At the heart of these trousers is Rab’s signature Vapour-Rise technology, a two-layer system that combines wind resistance with excellent breathability.

The soft inner liner wicks away moisture and regulates temperature, meaning you stay warm without overheating, even during high-output inclines.

The outer shell offers solid protection from biting winds and light rain, while still letting your skin breathe—a rare combination that makes these trousers ideal for variable weather.

Comfort is another big win for the Incline Vapour-Rise Pants. The fabric is lightweight and stretchy, moving effortlessly with you, whether you’re scrambling over rocks or cruising over moorland terrain.

They’re cut slightly oddly, offering a fit that doesn't compromise comfort or movement, but that doesn’t exactly flatter in comparison to some of the other trousers on this list.

One thing I appreciated, however, was the adjustable waistband, which you can cinch in or let out as needed – perfect for layering up on really cold days. The pockets are practical, with three zippered options for storing essentials securely.

Given the technical features packed into these trousers, the Incline Vapour-Rise Pants do sit on the pricier side, but the value is undeniable.

They’re built for year-round use and offer versatility that makes them a staple for anyone who spends serious time outdoors.

If you’re looking for a pair of trousers that perform across a range of weather conditions, including snow and light rain, these are absolutely brilliant.

Arc'teryx is known for its high-end technical gear (read: expensive), and the Gamma Pant lives up to that reputation in every way.

Given the RRP of £180 ($200), it’s lucky that these trousers are incredibly well designed. The price is high, but really they’re perfect for anyone who wants a versatile, hard-wearing pair of walking trousers that’ll do for just about everything.

The key feature of the Gamma Pant is Arc'teryx’s signature Fortius DW 2.0 fabric. It’s an incredibly durable softshell material that offers the perfect blend of toughness and stretch. I wore them on a windy, chilly scramble up Beinn Ime and they performed like a dream. The fabric is rugged enough to withstand scuffs from rocks and bushes but also offers a good amount of give.

Breathability is another win for these trousers. They're air-permeable, so they regulate body heat well without making you feel too clammy. I was pleasantly surprised by how adaptable they were—from the cool early September morning to the warmer afternoon, the Gamma Pant stayed comfortable throughout.

Although they’re not fully waterproof, the DWR finish handles light rain and drizzle like a pro, so they’re more than capable of handling unpredictable weather, which is handy for mountain environments.

If you remember that Arc'teryx uses a US system of sizing and don't accidentally order yourself something far too large, the fit is sleek, and very feminine.

The adjustable waist and integrated belt are great for dialling in the perfect fit, while the low-profile pockets are both practical and discreet – perfect for stashing small items without adding too much bulk.

Yes, they come with a premium price tag, but if you're looking for a pair of trousers that offer top-tier performance, comfort, and durability, the Gamma Pant is well worth the investment.

They’ll stand up to whatever you throw at them, from alpine climbs to chilly trail walks, and we have a feeling these will last us a very long time, too, making their high RRP seem just a little more palatable.