What is the best lightweight waterproof breathable hiking pants

Some Hiking pants that are customized for hot or cold weather are very sacrosanct for your hiking journey.

Getting a waterproof breathable hiking pant is very crucial as it gives you comfort and confidence amongst your friends.

There are so many waterproof breathable hiking pants out there but in this article you’re going to be exposed to the best ones that have been tested by other hikers like you.

QUICK LIST OF THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF BREATHABLE HIKING PANTS

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF BREATHABLE HIKING PANTS

I bet you already know what you’re looking for.

But to fulfill all righteousness, I’ll just throw some light on the importance of having breathable hiking pants that are waterproof and also lightweight.

QUICK DRYING

One of the importance of having such hiking pants is that it has layers that are capable of wicking moisture from the fabric which makes it dry quickly.

Basically, the idea is to not get soaked by water or your own sweat for a long time.

HINDERS BACTERIA BUILD UP

When your hiking pants are breathable, it stops bacteria build up that could have caused skin reactions, odors etc.

PREVENTS MOLDS AND MILDEW FROM GROWING

Just like how it works for bacteria, that is how it works here too. The little difference here is that fungi are a tad more stubborn than bacteria hence it’s advisable not encourage their growth at all.

PREVENTS DAMAGE

Here’s the deal.

For your hiking pants to last long enough to your satisfaction it has to be waterproof. 

The reason is because water has the potency to damage any fabric

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF BREATHABLE HIKING PANTS

These few points are important if you want to get hiking pants that are durable, comfortable, adjustable, lightweight and fairly priced.

In fact, the products listed below were selected following this criteria.

THE MATERIAL IT’S MADE OF

It is unarguable that Gore-Tex is one of the best lightweight, waterproof fabric material out there.

They’ve made their name known in the market by their quality. I guess the name will be familiar to you too if you’ve been observant enough.

There are other alternatives though; pertex, Nylon and Polyester etc

EASIER TO FIT

Nobody wants an oversized clothing that secretly screams “I don’t like you”.

Therefore comfortable hiking pants must be light, properly sized and allows for flexibility (this is where adjustables come in).

Elastic waist band or belt hooks? I prefer the latter, but anyone can serve.

Convertible Hiking pants or Standard Hiking Pants? This is also left to a matter of choice.

If you like shorts, then going for convertibles will better. It’s like killing two birds with one stone.

FITTED WITH POCKETS

Many and large pockets are often the features of hiking pants. They help as a storage medium for the safekeeping of portable valuable items.

Your money, wallet, necklace, phone, compass, small cameras, lip balm, maps etc.

It becomes easier when you want to make use of these at intervals.

It saves you the stress of checking your backpack (that is, if you have anyone).

TOP 4 THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF BREATHABLE HIKING PANTS FOR WOMEN

Outdoor Research Women's Ferrosi

Outdoor Research Ferrosi

Quality
4.8/5
Price
3.6/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

It features spandex/nylon fabric which makes it dry-quickly and also prevents heavy water penetration by water. Also, it is wind resistant.

It has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50+ which means it is effective in protecting you from the ultraviolet ray effect on the skin.

It also features a double Snap and Built-in Drawstring for better closure. Articulated Kness for ease of movement.

PROS

  • It is durable
  • Easy for movement.
  • Waterproof

CONS

  •  

Mountain Hardwear DYNAMA

Mountain Hardwear 

Quality
4/5
Price
4.1/5
Our Rating
3.9/5

This product features a fabric made of Nylon/Elastane which makes it lightweight and super comfortable.

Of course, it is a water repellent waterproof type of pants.

You can easily roll it up when in use because of the cinch at the ankle.

The style of the product makes it look cool on you so that you can wear it when not hiking.

PROS

  • Extremely comfortable
  • Regular length

CONS

  • Size chart issues

Acr’teryx Gamma Lt

Acr’teryx

Quality
3.5/5
Price
5/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

This item do not have elastic waist band but built-in belt for a secure fit

The fabric is made of Nylon/Elastane. Just like the Mountain Hardwear DYNAMA, it makes it lightweight and super comfortable during use and also repel water.

It also features Adjustable Drawstring cuff to keep the pant bottoms dry.

PROS

  • Comfortable

CONS

  • Expensive

BALEAF Women's Hiking Cargo Pants

BALEAF 

Quality
3.5/5
Price
5/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

This item is best for curvy women. The Mid-waist style of design makes it so and also it’s slight curvature in Thighs and Hips.

Here’s a tip: Almost every lightweight clothing product are packable. This item is also packable with pockets fit into it.

It has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50+.

PROS

  • Quick drying
  • Lightweight
  • Very Cheap

CONS

  • Size can be too big

TOP 4 THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT WATERPROOF BREATHABLE HIKING PANTS FOR MEN

Outdoor Research Men's Ferrosi Pants

Outdoor Research Ferrosi

Quality
3.5/5
Price
5/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

The fabric is nylon/spandex with a measured weight of 10 oz. This means that it’s comfortable, super lightweight and durable.

It features simple pocket design but does not have a built-in bet.

And of course, it’s waterproof, wind-resistant, quick drying and breathable.

PROS

  • Durable
  • Lightweight

CONS

  • Elastic problem

Arc’teryx Lefroy pants

Arc’teryx

Quality
3.5/5
Price
5/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

The fabric of this item is nylon/elastane with a measured weight of 10.2 oz. This means that its lightweight and comfy to use.

It features built-in belt and front pocket designs.

This pants comfortably fits into the criterias listed above; lightweight, breathable, waterproof, comfortable and of high quality.

PROS

  • Size is as expected
  • Waterproof

CONS

  • Expensive

prAna Stretch Zion Pants

Prana

Quality
3.5/5
Price
5/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

The fabric is nylon/spandex which allows it to stretch well allround but especially at the leg region. And also it’s durable.

It’s baggy hence it’s not a slimmer fit.

It has pocket design for storage of portable items and built-in belt.

They are lightweight but are a little heavier when compared to the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants.

PROS

  • Super comfortable
  • Water resistant

CONS

  • It’s baggy

Mountain Hardwear AP Pants

Mountain Hardwear

Quality
3.9/5
Price
3.8/5
Our Rating
4.5/5

The fabric of this product is cotton/nylon/elastane which makes it a little heavy but durable.

It features snaps and cuffs at ankle height. This allows it to get good breathability during water crossings or when wet.

It is stylishly made and a slimmer fit.

PROS

  • Nice style
  • Durable
  • Lightweight

CONS

  • Heavy

  • Cotton

CONCLUSION

There you have it. The best lightweight waterproof pants for hiking.