Men's Hiking Pants & Shorts

What are the best men’s hiking pants and shorts?

The range of men’s hiking trousers at Mountain Designs has been developed for both novice and experienced hikers alike. But whatever level of trail expertise, the best men’s hiking pants and shorts will include the following features:

Breathability – When clothing that is damp from sweat rubs against your skin, it can cause rashes or other painful inflammation. Hiking pants and shorts need to be able to breathe to minimise wet clothing contact points.

Lightweight – The less weight you carry on your hike, the more efficiently you will move. Durability – Your hiking pants or shorts will inevitably come in contact with rocks, underbrush and twigs. They should be constructed with fabrics that are durable enough to handle these knocks and snags without easily ripping or tearing.

Ease of Movement – Quality technical hiking pants or shorts have stretch in their fabric that works with your body’s natural range of movement and allows you the freedom to bend, stretch and squat.

Functional Design Components – Look for pockets, adjustable waist bands and belts for functional comfort. Some hiking pants can even transform into shorts.

Which men’s hiking pants and shorts are most comfortable?

Your hiking pants or shorts should be compatible with the rest of your hiking gear. Depending on your style and trek, some features worth exploring on hiking pants and hiking shorts include:

• Consistent performance in both hot and cold climates;

• Storage space/cargo pockets;

• Ripstop nylon weather protection;

• Ultraviolet protection;

• Spandex, elastane and other materials in the fabric for stretch and ease of movement; and

• Convertible shorts with zip-on legs.

Are men’s hiking pants and shorts suitable for wet weather?

Wet and cold weather while out on the trails can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, making purpose-fit hiking gear paramount for a successful journey. Our men’s hiking pants and shorts are designed to handle all types of weather experiences – including light rain – with fabric that is quick-drying and treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. However, if you are expecting longer periods of wet weather during your hike it’s advisable to take an additional pair of rain pants for wearing over your other clothes temporarily during a heavier downpour.

What men’s hiking pants and hiking shorts are most suitable for summer?

If you are embarking on a long, summer hike, regular pants just won’t cut it. The best option is a pair of lightweight, breathable trekking pants or hiking shorts with stretch so you can move freely and without restriction. Convertible hiking pants provide even greater versatility when the temperature soars, allowing you to zip off the lower leg and convert the pants to shorts. We also recommend light-coloured pants that resist the sun’s glare and intensity. People with light and sensitive skin will further benefit from UPF-rated hiking clothes that offer extra sun protection.

Are any of the men’s hiking pants suitable for colder weather?

Quality hiking pants are water resistant and wind resistant, allowing you to stay warm and dry even during inclement weather. Each style in our range of hiking pants for men is durable, quick-drying and treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish. A useful tip is to wear dark-coloured hiking pants in colder temperatures as they attract the warmth of the sun as well as drying out faster after getting wet. Hiking is a huge pastime worldwide so Mountain Designs stocks the best hiking pants and outdoor gear for all seasons.

What are the benefits of convertible hiking pants?

Weather can change at any time and this becomes particularly noticeable when you’re exposed to the elements while hiking outdoors. Convertible hiking pants are smart innovations that transform the pants into shorts whenever conditions require. Simply unzip the lower leg and allow your legs to breathe. Convertible hiking pants are lightweight and quick drying, so you can even opt for a quick swim during a warm hiking adventure.