Good old Decathlon. While we often try not to let this European sports mega-brand win every 'best Value' award for our group roundups, it always gives the other gear on test a run for their money when it comes to bang to buck ratios. And sometimes, there's just no competition, like in the case of our best value women's waterproof trousers. Decathlon's hiking brand, Quechua, smashed it out of the park with this one.
The slightly uncreatively named MH500 Waterproof Over-Trousers offer an excellent combination of trail performance and genuine value, making them ideal for those wanting reliable waterproofing without needlessly haemorrhaging cash.
Designed by Decathlon for mountain walking, these trousers feature a 3-layer construction, providing robust waterproofing, while maintaining breathability for dynamic mountain environments. Sure, they're not the prettiest, but they do the job exceptionally well for the price.
Pros
- Brilliant value option
- Zips are completely watertight
- Easy to take on and off
Cons
- Not as breathable as more expensive options
- Not especially flattering look
| RRP: | £39.99 (UK only) |
| Materials: | Main fabric: 100.0% Polyester, Coating: 100.0% Polyurethane, Lining: 100.0% Polyester |
| Full zip: | Thigh to ankle |
| Sizes: | UK 2-18 |
| Leg lengths: | 29" - 31" |
| Weight: | 309g / 10.9 oz |
Waterproofing
The MH500’s 3-layer membrane delivers 15,000 mm water column resistance, ensuring they can handle heavy downpours and prolonged exposure to wet conditions. All seams are fully taped to enhance waterproofing, keeping you dry in godawful mountain weather. Despite their low price point, we've been amazed at how dry they've kept us, even in the most torrential of downpours
Breathability
One standout feature of the MH500 is their RET 8 breathability rating**,** which wicks away sweat during intense activity. While these trousers are by no means not the most breathable option available (you'll want Pertex or goreTex for that), they're more than adequate for typical hiking conditions, preventing the build-up of moisture inside the trousers as you sweat like a pig in a playpark going uphill. The thigh length side zippers also help with ventilation, and we're very impressed with the finish on these, as they ape many more expensive brands.
Ease of Use
These things are really practical. Zips that extend well above the knee allow you to pop them on really easily, and remove without the need to take off your hiking boots. This is perfect for those unpredictable weather changes in the mountains, making it quick and convenient to adjust your clothing setup when needed.
Comfort and Fit
Designed with comfort in mind, the MH500 over-trousers feature an elasticated waistband and a full fly for a snug yet flexible fit. This helps them stay in place during movement, while offering a range of sizes to accommodate different body shapes, plus the fly makes it super quick and easy to dash off for a mid-walk wee.
The cut is kept relatively simple; we'll be the first to admit that these fitted us slightly more like a binbag than some of the other trousers on test - but honestly, for £40 we're happy to take less style over more substance.
Packability
Weighing just 309g (size M), these over-trousers are lightweight and easy to pack. They come with their own storage pouch, allowing you to compress them into a small size and stow them in the bottom of your backpack for quick access. This makes them an excellent option for unpredictable weather conditions.
Value for Money
At just a penny under £40, the Quechua MH500 Waterproof Over-Trousers are unbeatable in terms of value. They provide excellent waterproof performance, reasonable breathability, and practical design features at a price point significantly lower than premium alternatives, and for not much more than the basic single-layer £15 crisp-packet rain poncho. For budget-conscious hikers, they offer superb functionality without the premium cost.
Conclusion
The Quechua MH500 over-trousers are fab bit of kit for walkers who want dependable weather protection without having to mortgage their hamster. With solid waterproofing, decent breathability, and practical design elements like full-length zips and an elasticated waistband, they offer fantastic value for less than the price of a three-course dinner per head at an upmarket Christmas works do.
Whether you’re an occasional hiker or tackling more serious mountain trails, these over-trousers provide a reliable, budget-friendly option for wet weather conditions.
About the author
Fliss Freeborn has probably spent more time absolutely soaked to the bone than even the most diligent capybara. She lives in Glasgow and writes articles like this for LFTO when she's not sleeping in a tent at the base of a munro, or terrorising lobsters while freediving.