17 Best Plus-Size Hiking Pants You Will Fall in Love With
Looking for the best plus-size hiking pants can be a frustrating experience, am I right?
There is a (very) noticeable absence of plus-size hiking pants, and the outdoor clothing industry did not take into account plus-size bodies for manufacturing their products. For years and years.
Thankfully, a few brands are bringing plus-size girls comfortable and fitting designs that are perfect for those who love outdoor activities.
WWB writer Saymé Pérez brings you a selection of the best plus-size hiking pants, plus shopping tips.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
What to Know Before Buying Hiking Pants for Plus-Size Women
Be Stretchy
First things first. Hiking pants have specific features that make them suitable for outdoor activities. For plus-size ladies, some extra features will ensure the pants fits and are comfortable on them.
In the first place, the fabric should be stretchy, and they must have a high waistband. A plus-size body has plenty of hips, butt, and thighs. It’s frustrating to get into a store, start trying hiking pants, and get them stuck in your thighs! Therefore, stretchy materials are a must for this body type.
Have A High Waist
A high waistband allows the pants to fit comfortably. It also offers protection to the lower back (where the backpack rests) and it looks better in that body type.
Offer Mobility
In the second place, they should offer mobility. Besides stretchy materials, find pants with a gusseted crotch and articulated knees. Nothing worse than restrictive pants while being outdoors!
Offer Protection
Also, they should offer you some sun UV rays protection and at least be partially water-resistant or repellent. This will prevent you to be drenched if it rains.
Be Versatile
Another good feature is versatility: there are shorts, convertibles, full-length pants, and roll-up pants, that will give comfortability and you wear them according to the weather or your tastes.
So, summarizing, women´s plus-size hiking pants should:
- Be stretchy
- Have high waist
- Offer mobility
- Provide UV rays protection
- Be water-resistant/repellent
- Versatile
17 Best Plus-Size Hiking Pants
- Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pant – Women’s
- REI Sahara Convertible Pants
- Patagonia Quandary Pants
- Fjallraven Keb Curved Trousers
- Columbia Saturday Trail Pant
- Coalatree Trailhead Pants
- Stio Coburn XPants
- prAna Sky Canyon Jogger
- Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants
- REI Co-op Active Pursuits Tights
- REI Co-op Savanna Trails Pants
- Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pant – Women’s
- First Lite Alturas Guide Pants
- Title Nine Clamber
- Prana Halle
- Eddie Bauer First Ascent Guide Pro Pants
- Marmot Kodachrome Pants
My top 3 picks out of the list would be:
- Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pant – Women’s (best quality)
- Prana Halle (best overall)
- REI Co-op Active Pursuits Tights (most affordable)
1. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pant – Women’s
Weight: 9.5 ounces
Inseam: 31 inches
These are one of the most comfortable and water-resistant out there. They have a high waist that stays put even while wearing your backpack.
Additionally, they have huge breathability, and the fabric is super stretchy, which is amazing for plus-size hiking ladies.
They’re lightweight and fit great to curvy bodies. They dry fast, and the pockets are functional.
The hems can be rolled to your knees, and they have elastic bands, so you can tighten them about your ankle, creating a convertible model that is one of the cutest women’s plus size convertible hiking pants.
On the downside, they have a mid-thigh zipper and a trim through the thighs that can be a bit awkward. The mid-thigh zipper, though, allows you to create Bermuda-length shorts for hot outdoorsy days.
Pros:
- Great flexibility
- Stretchy,
- Lightweight
- High-quality
- Breathable
- Quick dry
- Versatile
- Functional pockets
Cons:
- Awkward mid-trim
- Expensive
2.REI Sahara Convertible Pants
Weight: 9.6 ounces
Inseam: 32 inches
Now, these are truly versatile plus-size hiking trousers! If you want, you can turn them into pants, shorts, or Bermuda shorts.
They also fit well body curves and their zippered pockets are very convenient. Furthermore, they’re stretchy, breathable, and repel water very well.
Sadly, there are not many colorful options, and the closure button isn’t secure enough.
They also have a leg zipper that can feel a little tight.
Pros:
- High quality
- Versatile
- Convenient zippered pockets
- Breathable
- Water-repellent
Cons:
- Poor color options
- The closure button isn’t secure enough
- Leg zipper feel uncomfortable
3.Patagonia Quandary Pants
Weight: 10 ounces
Inseam: 30, 32, and 34 inches
These pants are very lightweight and have okay breathability. You can also roll them up if the weather is too hot.
Luckily, they fit quite well the booty and thighs.
They are stretchy and are durable but aren’t very water-resistant. Plus, they don’t dry quickly, so they’re better for short hikes and even rock climbing.
They also have double inseams that can be a little bit uncomfortable against the inner thighs and are not that versatile.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Stretchy
- Durable
Cons:
- Not very versatile
- Poor water resistance
- Don’t dry quickly
- Uncomfortable double seams
4.Fjallraven Keb Curved Trousers
Weight: 9.0 ounces
Inseam: 29 inches
These pants are ultra-durable and very high-quality. One of the greatest plus-size hiking gear out there. They´re made of abrasion-resistant material and have reinforced knees to give you more protection.
They´re stretchy, and allow a wide range of movement. The pockets are large and the high waist stays right there thanks to a wide waistband.
They’re water and wind-resistant and are cruelty-free.
They also have long-side vents that provide breathability. Additionally, they’re suitable for both hot and cold temperatures.
Although they’re a bit expensive, they’re worth the money, especially if you consider that they´re one of the best plus-size outdoor clothing.
Pros:
- High-quality
- Ultra-durable
- Highly breathable
- Great protection
- Large pockets
- Water and wind-resistant
Cons:
- Expensive
5.Columbia Saturday Trail Pant
Weight: 9.2 ounces
Inseams: 32 inches
Besides being budget-friendly, these pants are durable and comfortable.
They also are very stretchy and water repellent.
They are breathable, but the pockets are small and only one of them is zippered. Not recommended to put things inside of them.
They also don’t protect from wind successfully but do protect from UV rays. They make good plus-size camping clothes.
Pros:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Stretchy
- Water-resistant
- Breathable
- Projects from UV rays
Cons:
- Small pockets
- Doesn’t protect from the wind
6.Coalatree Trailhead Pants
Weight: 10.9 ounces
Inseam: Not available
Extremely comfortable and eco-friendly, these pants fit plus-size bodies perfectly. An excellent option as one of the best plus-size hiking pants.
They repel water and stains and are very stretchy. They’re also durable and heat-resistant.
This is a great option for summer hiking because they´re highly breathable.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Comfortable
- Water repellent
- Stretchy
- Durable
- Breathable
Cons:
- None we could find
7.Stio Coburn XPants
Weight: 10 ounces
Inseam: 29.5 inches
These pants are versatile and even have a hidden pocket for money or cards.
They’re also abrasion-resistant.
They feature a kick gusset that adapts to different types of shoes. Additionally, they’re easy to clean, the fabric is antimicrobial, and are water repellent.
However, they’re a bit on the pricey side.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Abrasion-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Water repellent
Cons:
- Expensive
8.prAna Sky Canyon Jogger
Weight: Unavailable
Inseam: 30-32-36 inches
These pants are durable, and the fabric is stretchy, although not as much as others on the list but it still makes the cut for the list of the best women’s hiking pants.
They’re water-resistant and provide great protection from sun rays. It has six pockets! You can safely keep your things there.
They dry quickly and are perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities.
However, some users have mentioned that you should buy a size up.
Pros:
- Durable
- Water-resistant
- Dry quickly
- It has 6 pockets
Cons:
- Size chart not accurate
- A bit expensive
9.Patagonia Skyline Traveler Pants
Weight: 9.4 ounces
Inseam: 27 inches
With high versatility and durability, these multipurpose pants can be used in any kind of outdoor activity. One of the best plus-size hiking gear for sure.
They’re water repellent, offer sun protection, are stretchy and 64% of their fabric is made of recycled materials.
Likewise, they have five pockets and an adjustable waistband. Very comfortable for many, but felt tight for others.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Durable
- Water-resistant
- Stretchy
- Five pockets
Cons:
- Can be tight
10. REI Co-op Active Pursuits Tights
Weight: Not available
Inseam: 27 inches
These leggings work great for short outdoor activities.
They’re stretchy and fit plus-size bodies perfectly. They don’t fall, don’t sag, and the fabric is soft.
It has a high waist and a small zippered pocket. On the downside, they aren’t as durable as others in this list, and the fabric is a bit rough.
Pros:
- Stretchy
- Breathable
- High waist
Cons:
- Small pockets.
- Rough fabric
11.REI Co-op Savanna Trails Pants
Weight: Unavailable
Inseam: 30.5 inches
These pants are lightweight and are budget-friendly, and come with several pockets.
Stretchy fabric and articulated knees that let you move freely.
Although they fit curvy bodies, the shape is not flattering for us, and the waist is too big, even though the thighs fit well.
It doesn’t hold the pants up, so you’d need a belt.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Several pockets
- Articulated knees
Cons:
- Not flattering shape
- Waistband too tight
12. Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pant – Women’s
Weight: 11 ounces
Inseam: 32 inches
Extremely weather-resistant, these pants have a softshell material that’s highly water-resistant and dries quickly. They´re great plus-size waterproof trousers.
They offer great protection against UV sun rays, are lightweight, and have deep zippered pockets.
On the downside, they’re a bit heavy and more suitable for cooler weather conditions. Plus, they’re a bit expensive.
Pros:
- Great weather resistance
- Lightweight
- Deep pockets
- UV rays protection
Cons:
- Not suitable for summer
- Expensive
13.First Lite Alturas Guide Pants
Weight: 14.4 ounces
Inseam: Unavailable
Undoubtedly one of the best hiking pants for women, this is the perfect choice for you, if you like both hot and cool weather hikes. These pants are breathable and durable, with utilitarian pockets. The fabric is stretchy and holds up during long hikes.
They repel water and have belt and suspender loops. However, they’re a bit expensive and heavier than many of the pants listed here.
Pros:
- Suitable for several kinds of weather
- Breathable
- Durable
- Stretchy
- Water repellent
Cons:
- Expensive
- A bit heavy
14.Title Nine Clamber
Weight: Unavailable
Inseam: 32 inches
These pants are great for plus-size ladies. The fabric is very stretchy and durable. The waistband is wide and stays put.
Very versatile, they come in different lengths (short, regular, long, and Capri) and they have a drawstring at the ankle, in case you want to cinch them up.
Also, they’re abrasion-resistant, but a few users complained about the pocket stitches unraveling fast.
Pros:
- Stretchy
- Durable
- High and wide waistband
- Versatile
Cons:
- Pocket stitches unravel fast
15. Prana Halle
Weight: 12 ounces
Inseam: 32 inches
These halle pants are very high-quality and are one of the best plus size women hiking pants, you can even wear them at home, the office, or the grocery store. They’re comfortable and allow a great amount of motion.
Additionally, they’re better for rougher and cooler weather, having less breathability, and being thicker than other pants on the list. Also, they come in 12 different colors!
They’re water and tear-resistant, and versatile, they have a wide range of sizes. Sadly, the buttons are a bit weak.
Pros:
- High-quality
- Comfortable
- Come in 12 colors
- Water and wear-resistant
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not very breathable
- Weak buttons
16.Eddie Bauer First Ascent Guide Pro Pants
Weight: Unavailable
Inseam: 32 inches
These pants also come in several colors, are lightweight, and very stretchy. They’re also water-resistant.
Additionally, they provide excellent mobility and solar protection, plus, are eco-friendly.
They dry quickly and are comfortable. However, the pockets are a bit small.
Pros:
- Come in several colors
- Lightweight
- Stretchy
- Water-resistant
- Good mobility
- Comfortable and dry quickly
Cons:
- Small pockets
17. Marmot Kodachrome Pants
Weight: 9.4 ounces
Inseam: 32 inches
These pants provide excellent mobility and fit plus-size bodies perfectly, coming in several sizes. They’re durable and stretchy.
Also, they’re very breathable, therefore suitable for hot day hikes, are water-resistant and lightweight.
Sadly, the pockets are small and have a non-elastic waistband.
Pros:
- Great mobility
- Several sizes
- Durable
- Stretchy
- Breathable
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Small pockets
- Non-elastic waistbands
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FAQs On Plus Sized Hiking Pants
Things to Look for When Buying Plus-Size Hiking Pants
Remember to always look for these features in women plus size hiking pants:
- Flexibility (non-flexible pants while in the outdoors? Nightmare material!)
- Breathable (so it doesn’t hold your sweat and make you all stinky).
- Lightweight (is there anything better than carrying on your body super light yet protective clothes?).
- Quick-dry Fabric (If it rains out there, you will need to be dry asap).
- High-waisted (offers more comfort, and we all appreciate pants that don’t hang over your bottom).
- High-quality (even if you want budget-friendly pants, pick something with decent quality).
- Gives various length choices (you have full-length, convertible, and roll-up for versatility)
Although leggings can be a good option for short hiking trips, it’s not recommendable to use them for longer than that, or in heavy outdoor activities like mountaineering.
That said, only you can decide what type of pants you want to wear outdoors.
What Sizes Fall Under Plus Size?
Plus-size might be hard to measure in clothing retailers. While some stores use a size 14 for plus-size clothing, others may use a size 12.
Generally, plus size starts at size 16.
Size 16 is an XL in terms of commercial sizing.
In other words, since many fashion businesses have optimized the production of XL clothing, you can get garments that accommodate you from non-inclusive brands.
It could be challenging to find local designers’ works in size 16 at smaller stores and businesses since they lack the resources to take an inventory risk on XL items.
However, in terms of major brands, size 16 stock is frequently accessible. Although the supply of the XL size is quite low and subject to running out, many brands are ensuring that it is still created.
What Is The Point Of Hiking Pants?
To put it simply, hiking pants for plus size people provides you with better protection from abrasions, insect bites, and other dangers you could experience on trails.
Flexibility
The flexibility and breathability of hiking pants make them quite comfortable to wear when hiking. No matter how long the trip, you need to feel at ease, have easy movement, and prevent any chaffing from happening.
The majority of hiking pants also include elastic or drawstring waistbands, allowing them to adapt to your body.
Insulation
Regular winter pants might not be designed for extended trips, but a good pair of hiking pants will add enough insulation without adding weight or restricting your movement.
When there is additional insulation, hiking pants can help balance out the difference between your torso and your relatively exposed legs.
An excellent pair of hiking pants may have a removable lining that can be added or withdrawn based on the weather outdoors.
When the weather is truly cold, you will need to wear hiking pants that are lined or have padding. Hiking pants with padding tend to be slightly warmer. The selection you make will rely on your level of cold sensitivity as well as the climate of the place where you will be trekking.
Waterproof
You should be aware that waterproof women’s plus size hiking pants are only appropriate for heavy rain. If the place of hiking that you’re going to has constant heavy rain pouring, then consider them because they won’t be as cozy as regular hiking pants.
Remember that breathable hiking pants should always be your first choice if you are new to purchasing these pants because let’s face it, you will not be hiking in extreme weather all the time.
In the event of mild or brief downpours, the trousers will bounce off the part of the liquid and then the pants will swiftly dry. So if you are heading over to a place with high rainfall, then waterproof hiking pants will be your go-to.
Should Hiking Pants Be Long?
They should be sufficient to cover the front of the shoe, but not too long to prevent you from walking on them.
However, make sure that the pants are not too long because the last thing you would want is to trip on the pants or constantly pull them up to avoid falling.
If you are fun-sized, then the fact is that most hiking pants will be long for you and you will need to hem them. Get the pants and bring them over to your local tailor to get them done.
This way, you can keep the pants that make you feel good and walk without the worry of tripping on them.
Best Halle Pants For Hiking
Halle Prana
An old favorite in hiking pants has been redesigned as the Halle Prana Pants II.
With improved buttons, material that appears airier, deep pockets, and a longer and more snug rise, the updated version offers some undeniable upgrades.
They make a superb pair of trekking pants because of their limitless range of motion. Thanks to the higher rise, they fit well under the hiking gear or the waist strap of a backpack easier.
Given their robust and durable fabric, their predecessors were considered favorites for strength and abrasion excursions but these halle pant ii seem airier.
Halle Straight Pant
While you hike or just meander around, the halle straight pant prana is made to keep you active and relaxed.
Its Stretch Zion structure offers high elasticity to keep you moving while you climb around the boulders while being lightweight, tough, and breathable for your excursions. The traditional trouser styling enables you to move off the trails and venture into the city after this strenuous pastime without needing to make a detour to change your clothes.
Conclusion
Finding plus-size hiking clothes can be a nightmare sometimes. We need them doing a good performance out there, but we also need them to fit and be comfortable.
Luckily, during the past years, more brands are taking into account different body types and are manufacturing some of the best plus-size hiking pants for women out there.
We hope this list of plus-size hiking pants was helpful. These pants were live-changers for hiker plus-size ladies.
Do you have any other recommendations about the best hiking pants for plus-size women? If so, leave us a comment in the box below.
And remember that sharing is caring: don’t forget to share this post with other plus-size hiker friends of yours!
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