Hiking leggings are specifically designed to snugly wrap up the body like a glove and are made with a blend of materials to integrate certain desired features such as stretch and form-fitting for maximum mobility, breathable and moisture-wicking for extra comfort on the trail. Check here the Top 12 Best Hiking Leggings in the market today!
If you are like me and love the great outdoors and hiking are one of your favorite things, then you already know the importance of finding the Best Jackets for hiking and investing in the Best Hiking Backpack.
Therefore, I am glad you are here now to find the perfect leggings for hiking to accompany you on your hiking adventures.
Leggings for hiking are a lot more comfortable on the trail because they conform to the body and are incredibly stretchy, so you can move more freely and spring over obstacles without restriction.
Hiking leggings are neither heavy nor baggy, which also contributes to why they are so great for extended hikes.
As an avid hiker, I’ve spent ample time testing different brands of hiking tights and in this piece, I shared my favorite hiking leggings plus my top tips for choosing the perfect leggings.
Let’s get right to it and I hope you can find your best-hiking leggings for your next adventure!
Top 5 Best Leggings for Hiking
Before we get into the full review of my best 12 leggings for hiking, here’s a quick rundown of my top 5 recommendations based on features such as breathability, mobility, compression, comfort, stretch, abrasion-resistant, and fabric quality.
BEST OVERALL HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN: the Fjallraven Women’s Abisko Trail Tights are comfortable and breathable hiking/backpacking tight. The fabric is thick to protect your legs from rough vegetation and bug bites, and a 4-way stretch allows free movement.
BEST WOMEN’S COMPRESSION HIKING LEGGINGS: if you need extra muscle and joint support during your hikes, or just want to reduce fatigue and improve performance, then the CW-X Women’s Mid Rise Stabilyx Compression Leggings is an excellent choice with a snug form-fit, great compression, and built-in kinesiology tape for optimal support.
BEST WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING: The Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer is great for hiking leggings and camping, it has a super stretchy fabric with abrasion-resistant panels at the right places and practical pockets for keeping small essentials within reach. It’s extra durable and built for hiking in rough regions.
BEST WATERPROOF HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN: The North Face Women’s Paramount Hybrid High Rise hiking legging is an excellent moisture-wicking fabric and dries very quickly. It’s made for durability and comfort, and it’s an excellent tight for hiking and trekking.
BEST HIKING LEGGINGS FOR SUN PROTECTION: The Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Rock hiking legging is great for hiking in the sun, it can also be used as a base layer for cold-weather hiking. They are comfortable when worn alone and when used as a base layer, either way, they remain breathable and nonrestrictive.
12 Best Leggings for Hiking Review
1) Fjallraven Women’s Abisko Trail Tights
This hiking legging is made with very breathable and durable fabric to keep your legs warm and protected.
Its thick and stretchy fabric perfectly wraps the legs and enables smooth strides for increased mobility and comfort.
If you enjoy long hiking and backpacking in varied weather conditions, these are the hiking leggings for you.
FEATURES ON THIS HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN:
BEST FOR: Long hikes, backpacking, and trekking
MATERIAL: polyamide and elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: Made from very functional and highly stretchy fabric for better mobility and extra ventilation for comfort on the trails.
COMPRESSION form-fitting compression tight with 4-way stretch
WEATHER RESISTANCE: not weather resistant
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: A high waistband with an inside drawstring, a small back pocket, plus 2 leg pockets; a map pocket on the right leg, and a small zippered pocket on the left leg.
EXPERT VERDICT: The women’s Abisko hiking leggings are popular among hikers for a reason, its lightweight and stretchy fabric is super comfortable for long hikes and offers extra ventilation and freedom of movement. These may not be ideal for hiking in hot climates, because the fabric is thick.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very comfortable to wear with a backpack | Price can be a little steep |
| Spacious pockets for storing essentials hiking items | |
| Very breathable and stretchy fabric does not limit movements | |
| The thick silky fabric provides sufficient protection from scratches and bug bites |
2) Arc’teryx Oriel Hiking Leggings
This legging for hiking is built for the trails, its abrasion-resistant fabric comfortably wraps up your legs, providing a protective layer against rocks and rough vegetation.
The highly breathable fabric is stretchy and doesn’t restrict movement in any way, plus you get quick-access pockets for keeping important items within reach.
FEATURES ON THIS HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN:
BEST FOR: Hiking, rock climbing
MATERIAL: nylon and elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: very stretchy fabric with minimal sheerness and allows free movement. Breathable and comfortable on the trail.
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: No
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: two strategically-placed pockets for easy access, effective mesh-lined waistband for support and comfort.
EXPERT VERDICT: very functional pockets, you can fit your phone in one of the pockets, and it enables free movement. Great for both exercising and hiking. Since the fabric is very thin, these tights can be used as a base layer for cold-weather hiking.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Incredibly abrasion-resistance fabric | Very thin and sheer fabric |
| Amazing pockets for storing your essentials | The gusset stitching rubs together and makes a sound |
| Comfortable and durable material | No drawstrings, these thighs tend to slip down |
| The waistband is very thick and comfortable |
3) Eddie Bauer Women’s Trail Tight Leggings
The Eddie Bauer women’s trail tight is perfectly made for a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities.
Its design features a soft and smooth stretchy fabric with sun protection and a DWR finish to protect you from adverse weather.
These hiking leggings are both trail tight and compression leggings for yoga and your favorite fitness activities.
FEATURES ON THIS HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN:
BEST FOR: Yoga, fitness, and backpacking
MATERIAL: Polyester and Spandex
COMFORT & MOBILITY: They are very stretchy and give you better mobility, even when hiking on tough terrains. The fabric is breathable with mesh piecing that enhances ventilation
COMPRESSION: moisture-wicking compression tight with UPF sun protection and odor control technologies
WEATHER RESISTANCE: sun-protective and water-resistant with DWR finish
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: they have three functional pockets; two drop-in cargo pockets and a secure zip vertical pocket
EXPERT VERDICT: these are tights designed for the fitness enthusiast. If you want hiking tight and fitness pants in one, then this Eddie Bauer Women’s Trail Tight is an excellent choice. It’s a great compression tight and also great for hiking and backpacking in varied weather conditions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very soft, durable, and breathable fabric | It runs small |
| Great comfortable & mobility | Calves tend to be much tighter than the hips and thighs |
| The waist is secure and doesn’t slide down | |
| Water-resistance fabric with DWR finish and sun protection |
4) prAna Women’s Rockland Hiking Leggings
The prAna Rock and legging is the ultimate compression tight for climbing with a feature-rich design.
It has a double-fabric overlay to prevent scratches from rocks and jagged vegetation, a wide waistband for support, and zippered side pockets for securing small items on the trail.
FEATURES ON THIS HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN:
BEST FOR: Rock climbing or running
MATERIAL: Nylon, Polyester, Lycra Elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: breathable and comfortable, keeps you going on the trail
COMPRESSION: made with Chakra compression stretch jersey fabric with a recycled polyester blend 4-way stretch
WEATHER RESISTANCE: moisture-wicking but not weather resistant
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: a wide waistband and side patch pockets with zip closures
EXPERT VERDICT: This is a super comfortable compression hiking leggings with durable fabric designed for both runners and hikers. It’s super stretchy and gives you freedom of movement, plus abrasion-resistant fabric keeps you safe from scratches.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Compression tight with a relaxed fabric that doesn’t squeeze you | It runs small |
| Very stretchy and breathable fabric doesn’t restrict movement | Fabric can be slightly too stiff |
| Abrasion-resistance fabric for rock climbing and hiking tough terrains | |
| Quick-access side pockets for securing small essentials |
5) CW-X Women’s Mid Rise Stabilyx Compression Leggings
The CW-X Stabilyx Compression Tights are designed to provide sufficient support for your joints and muscles during high-intensity exercise and hiking in difficult terrains.
It offers great compression with an integrated kinesiology tape that provides optimal support and a snug form-fit without restricting movement in any way.
FEATURES ON THIS HIKING LEGGINGS FOR WOMEN:
BEST FOR: Running and hiking in difficult terrains
MATERIAL: Coolmax Polyester and Lycra Spandex
COMFORT & MOBILITY: Breathable and moisture-wicking material keeps you cool and comfortable
COMPRESSION: moisture wicking fabric with multi-directional and 2-way stretch EXO-WEB panel provides optimum support to targeted areas
WEATHER & RESISTANCE: no
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: flat drawcord waistband for an adjustable fit and small slip-in pocket on the waistband to hold keys. Abdominal panel to provide extra support
EXPERT VERDICT: This is the best compression hiking leggings! and it provides extra support for the muscles of your lower body. If you’re a fitness enthusiast with a bad knee or waist, then these are a must-have. This is my first option for long and multi-day hiking!
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Great knee support and amazing design | Might come across as too snug if you don’t like compression tights |
| Great compressive and comfortable enough for running | |
| Form-fitting tight stays in place | |
| Great quality and supports your muscles with your hike or run |
Best Wam Leggings for Hiking
6) Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer
The Smartwool Merino leggings are perfect warm leggings for hiking made with very durable and stretchy fabric.
It’s designed for cold weather hiking and camping and provides sufficient warmth to keep you going on chilly days. It’s breathable with natural odor resistance and a great fit.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Long hikes and camping
MATERIAL: Polyamide and Elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: Great fit with excellent breathability, stretchy fabric aids mobility
COMPRESSION: Dour-way strech fabric
WEATHER & RESISTANCE: Water-resistance face fabric
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Two zippered hand pockets, two zippered leg pockets and a little loop at the waist let you attach your gears.
EXPERT VERDICT: This is great for hiking leggings and camping, it has a super stretchy fabric with abrasion-resistant panels at the right places and practical pockets for keeping small essentials within reach. It’s extra durable and built for hiking in rough regions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Trekking tights with very breathable fabric keeps you cool on the trails | Pricey and comes without a warranty |
| Very soft and warm fabric with a comfortable snug fit | The abrasion-resistance panel on the knees tend to reduce mobility |
| Gas a generous amount of pockets | |
| Reinforced fabric on the bum and knee area prevents scratches |
7) Icebreaker Merino Womens Comet Tights
The Icebreaker Merino Women’s Comet is a flattering slim-fit designed to keep you warm on the trails during very cold days.
Constructed with a blend of super stretchy and comfortable fabric, these tights are excellent for a wide range of winter sports and will snugly fit under an outer shell for maximum warmth. And they are neither itchy nor restrictive.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Hiking, Running and Cycling
MATERIAL: Polyester, Merino wool, and Spandex
COMFORT & MOBILITY: Warm, comfortable, and non-restrictive
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: No
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: contoured waistband with an internal drawcord for a secure fit and a zippered back stash pocket holds your key or small essentials
EXPERT VERDICT: This is a great warm legging for hiking because it is made of very soft and stretchy fabric with a comfortable fit. Perfect for running and hiking in winter or skiing. They can also function as a great base layer under a soft or hard shell.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| They are super breathable with lots of stretch for free movement | Somewhat pricey, but it is worth it the investment |
| Thick and comfortable fabric, great for running and hiking | |
| They stay put and don’t slide down, even while running | |
8) The North Face Winter Warm High Rise Tight
The North Face Winter Warm High Rise tights are made of breathable and stretchy fabric.
It’s designed for winter running and hiking, with an insulated interior for warmth and comfort.
This hiking legging has a form-fitting and a wide waistband with an internal drawstring that secures it around your waist. This is cold weather tight for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Walking, hiking, and skiing
MATERIAL: Nylon, Polyester, and Elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: warm and soft interior with a smooth, flattering exterior. Comfortable and non-restrictive
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: No
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: high-rise waistband with an internal drawcord, two side pockets, and a zippered pocket on the right thigh.
EXPERT VERDICT: this feature-rich warm hiking legging is an excellent choice for late fall and early winter hikes, it’s warm and comfortable and great for walking, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very comfortable and warm material | It constantly slides down when running |
| Excellente quality keeps you warm without overheating | |
| Enough pockets for securing small items | |
| The lining is cozy and doesn’t itch |
Best Weatherproof Hiking Leggings
9) The North Face Women’s Paramount Hybrid High Rise Tight
The North Face Women’s Paramount high-rise hiking leggings are made from a hybrid fabric for durability and comfort, plus a dash of elastane for maximum flexibility.
The excellent moisture-wicking and breathable fabric keep you dry and cool on the trail. This tight is built for exploring the outdoors with unlimited flexibility.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Running, jogging, hiking, trekking
MATERIAL: Polyester and Elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: comfortable high-rise legging allows a wide range of unrestricted mobility on mountains.
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: Yes
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Flat and comfortable mid-rise waistband and two zippered hand
EXPERT VERDICT: This hiking legging is an excellent moisture-wicking fabric and dries very quickly. It’s made for durability and comfort, and it’s an excellent tight for hiking and trekking.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very comfortable | It can get baggy after wearing as the stretch out some |
| It’s very snug and comfortable, stylish but still casual | |
| The fabric is lightweight and smooth | |
| FlashDry technology wicks away moisture and dries quickly |
10) Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Rock Tight
The Chockstone Tight is specially designed for rock climbing, with an abrasion-resistant fabric and four-way stretch for maximum flexibility and unrestricted mobility.
This hiking legging is made to last with durable moisture-wicking fabric and UPF50+ for protection from unfriendly sun rays.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Hiking and running
MATERIAL: Nylon and Elastane
COMFORT & MOBILITY: comfortable and abrasion-resistant fabric, great for climbing, and easy mobility.
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: moisture-wicking fabric with sun-protection
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: PFC-free and DWR finish repels water. One zippered thigh pocket for stashing small essentials
EXPERT VERDICT: This hiking legging is great for hiking in the sun, it can also be used as a base layer for cold-weather hiking. They are comfortable when worn alone and when used as a base layer, either way, they remain breathable and nonrestrictive.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| It has enough stretch to aid free movement | The fabric is not durable enough for climbing and tough terrains |
| Super comfortable and breathable fabric | |
| The moisture-wicking fabric has UPF50+ for sun protection | |
| The pocket is big enough to fit your smartphone |
11) Columbia Storm Surge Waterproof rain Leggings
The Columbia Storm Surge waterproof leggings are an excellent cold shell for layering over thermals when hiking during the cold seasons.
It’s both windproof and waterproof and provides a great deal of warmth.
The adjustable velcro cuffs at the ankles seal out the weather while also allowing the inside to breathe, thus keeping you warm and dry without overheating.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: Hiking in winter
MATERIAL: 100% Nylon shell and 100% Polyester lining
COMFORT & MOBILITY: Comfortable loose fitting enhances mobility
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: windproof and water-resistant
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: drawcord-adjustable waist and adjustable leg openings locks in warmth
EXPERT VERDICT: If you enjoy winter hiking or hiking in wet seasons, then these Columbia Storm Surge hiking leggings are a must-have. It’s an excellent softshell for providing additional warmth while also preventing you from getting soaked.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Very comfortable and sporty-looking | These hiking pants do not have pockets |
| Adjustable Velcro strap at the ankles for sealing out the elements | The windbreaker fabric makes noise while you walk |
| They are so lightweight and perfect for hiking | |
| You can use it as an outer shell over thermals, leggings, or jeans |
12) Montane Women’s Ineo Pro Jeggings
The Montane Women’s Ineo pro jeggings are durable for enjoying the trails during the wet seasons, it’s essentially hiking tight specifically designed for mountain walking, trekking and backpacking in unpredictable weather.
The Montane Mala Stretch fabric is super stretchy and breathable for maximum comfort and free movement.
FEATURES ON THIS WARM LEGGINGS FOR HIKING
BEST FOR: hiking, backpacking, or trekking.
MATERIAL: Mala stretch fabric
COMFORT & MOBILITY: very supportive hiking leggings with 4-way stretch for improved mobility
COMPRESSION: No
WEATHER RESISTANCE: windproof and water-resistant with DWR finish
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: soft wicking elastic waistband and two zippered pockets
EXPERT VERDICT: This hiking legging is great for hiking in the sun, it can also be used as a base layer for cold-weather hiking. They are comfortable when worn alone and when used as a base layer, either way, they remain breathable and nonrestrictive.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| It has enough stretch to aid free movement | The fabric is not durable enough for climbing and tough terrains |
| Super comfortable and breathable fabric | |
| The moisture-wicking fabric has UPF50+ for sun protection | |
| The pocket is big enough to fit your smartphone |
How to Choose The Best Leggings for Hiking
HIKING STYLE
This may seem unimportant, but the first thing to think of when shopping for hiking leggings is your preferred hiking style because this will help you identify the major features you need in hiking tight. Where and how you hike will most certainly determine the type of leggings you need.
For instance, if you prefer summer hikes or tend to hike in tropical regions, then you need a lightweight and thin fabric with enough ventilation and moisture-wicking ability to keep you dry and comfortable.
On the other hand, if you prefer spring, winter hikes, then you should focus on hiking tights with a warm, weather-resistant, and breathable fabric. Also, hiking in rocky or mountainous regions will require a thick fabric with abrasion-resistant panels in the right places.
MATERIAL
The durability and functionality of hiking legging depend largely on the type and quality of the material it’s made of, this is also true for all outdoor gear including jackets and backpacks.
For hiking tights, you should be looking for one that’s made of fabrics like polyester, elastane (Lycra and Spandex), and nylon. These fabrics have great breathability and moisture-wicking ability to ensure you stay dry and comfortable on your hikes.
You also have to consider the degree of warmth, especially if you want hiking legging for cold seasons. Hiking leggings constructed with merino wool offer great insulation and warmth.
COMFORT & MOBILITY
Ideal hiking leggings should be comfortable and flexible enough to allow maximum mobility on the trails. To be comfortable, your tight should have a good snug fit and not itchy or restrictive in any way.
It should also have an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord for securing it around your waist to prevent it from sliding down and impeding your movement.
For better mobility, look for a tight with a good degree of stretch, for instance, there are fabrics with 2-way stretch and 4-way stretch, each allowing for a different range of motions for better flexibility on the trail.
COMPRESSION
Compression tights are designed to support the lower body joints and muscles, which helps improve performance and reduce fatigue over long-distance hikes.
A lightweight compression tight will stick to your skin like a second skin and reduce chafing and muscle vibrations. Compression tights also tend to be breathable and moisture-wicking with 4-way stretch fabric for extra comfort and mobility.
WEATHER RESITANCE
It’s not unusual to get caught in unpleasant weather when you’re out hiking, this is why weather-resistant hiking gear is absolutely important, especially one that’s water-resistant and dries up pretty fast.
If you enjoy hiking in wet conditions, then your hiking leggings should be made with a moisture-wicking, and quick-drying fabric like polyester or spandex, with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish.
Hiking tights with DWR finish are able to actively resist water and not get soaked, however, moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric are not water-proof, but they take only a few minutes to dry if soaked, which is great when you’re out on the trails.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES FOR THE BEST HIKING LEGGINGS
Here are extra features you should look for in durable and functional leggings for hiking:
- Abrasion-resistant to prevent scratches from rough vegetable and rocks
- Breathability and moisture-wicking features to ensure comfort
- Gusseted crotch for added mobility and durability
- Secure zippered hand and leg pockets for stashing small items
- Elastic waistband with adjustable drawcord to a secure fit
- Sun protection to keep out harsh sun rays
- Velcro cuffs at the ankles to keep out the elements
- Ankle zippers to allow you to easily put on and remove your pants even with shoes on
Leggings for Hiking Conclusion
To reiterate, using the right hiking gear tremendously increases the amount of fun you have on the trails, and a stretchy, comfortable and breathable hiking legging will most certainly improve your hiking experience with better flexibility, mobility, and comfort.
When shopping for the ideal tight for hiking, remember to first define your hiking style, as this will help you identify what features to prioritize in your search.
For instance, if you tend to hike in rocking and rough terrains, a comfortable tight with abrasion-resistant fabric, that will protect your legs from jagged stones, rough vegetation, and bug bites.
Also, if you tend to hike in climates with unpredictable weather, then weather-resistant hiking leggings are excellent choices for optimal protection from wind and rain. You also need to consider if what you need is great compression legging for better endurance and extra support for your joint and muscles.
You can find more reviews on the Best Hiking Gears in the Market:
Best Budget Backpackers for Hiking
Best Hiking Jackets for men & Women
8 Top Sissy Squats Machines: Build Strong legs from home
Top Rated Elliptical for Small spaces
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