Everything You Need to Know About the Different Types of Hiking Pants

Find your pair by knowing the different types of hiking pants.

With every adventure, you need the right gear. The same goes for all your hiking adventures. While you may be inclined to throw on any old pair of pants, you should give your hiking attire a little more attention. After all, wearing the right hiking outfit can make or break your adventure. The good news is, that is all going to change today. Not only will we go over all the different types of hiking pants on the market right now, but we will do you one better. Use this list to help you narrow down your list of the perfect hiking pants. From what constitutes a pair of hiking pants to all the different features available in a pair of pants, we have got it all. Let's get started.

1. Know the Different Types of Hiking Pants Available

there are three types of hiking pants available on the market. Chances are if you are an avid hiker, you may or may not already own a couple of these.

A. Convertible Hiking Pants

Convertible hiking pants are one of the most popular types of hiking pants. What makes these hiking pants great is the fact that they offer so much versatility. With all convertible hiking pants, you will find that at the knee of the pants (usually right above the knee) there is a zipper. This zipper extends around the circumference of your pant leg. When unzipped, your long hiking pants turn into hiking shorts.

What makes convertible hiking pants great is the fact that they are so versatile. You can easily and effortlessly transition between long pants and shorts while you are out and about hiking around.

B. Standard Hiking Pants

Standard hiking pants are the type of hiking pants that many travelers are used to. These types of hiking pants come in a range of options and features. However, the basic concept stays the same. Standard hiking pants are typically straight legged long pants that come down to the ankle. There are other features that standard hiking pants come with. These features include things such as specific pockets and side zippers for ventilation. For many minimalist travelers, standard hiking pants are the type of pants that are usually to go to pair.

C. Roll Up Hiking Pants

Roll up hiking pants are a hiking pants concept that you may have already utilized. Simply put, roll up hiking pants consists of a basic pair of hiking pants. The only difference is that at the bottomo of the pant legs (right under the knee) there is a button in place. This button will allow you to roll your pants up and attach them. This way, you never have to worry about your pants unrolling. This basic technique is a primitive model of the convertible hiking pants.

2. Hiking Pants and Pockets

When it comes to the different types of hiking pants, one of the distinguishing factors is pockets. Pockets are especially important when it comes to selecting your hiking pants. The type of hiker you are will determine what type of hiking pants you will want to invest in. For hikers who will be going on long adventures, you may find that you will fare well if you invest in a pair of hiking pants with plenty of pockets. Having ample space to carry around your snacks can come in handy. Especially if you want to be able to quickly reach your snacks without having to set down your travel bag to rummage around.

3. Know the Quality of the Different Type of Hiking Pants

When it comes to choosing from the different types of hiking pants, it is important to consider the material used. Hiking pants were made with the features of keeping you comfortable in mind. Keep in mind that when you find a pair of hiking pants, you will want to know what it is made out. For example, look for the type of hiking pants that are made with a bit of spandex or elastin. This will allow you to have a full range of motion when you move around. This way, you are sure to stay comfortable while you are moving.

You will also want to make sure that you have the type of hiking pants that are made out of a durable material. Your hiking pants will go through a lot. So be sure to choose a pair that will withstand all that you will put it through.

4. Stay Protected from the Sun With UPF

one of the determining factors form one type of hiking pants to another type of hiking pants is the UPF rating. Before you start looking at the UPF rating, it is important to understand exactly what it is.

Simply put, a UPF is a degree of measurement that allows you to understand how much of the suns ultraviolet rays can seep in through the fabric of your clothing. Much like SPF, UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor. And in the same manner of SPF, the more included in your hiking pants, the better

There are different types of hiking pants that come with a range of UPF ratings. For the most part, you will want to stick to the types of hiking pants that have a UPF rating of 50 or more. This is especially important if you plan on hiking in environments that have extreme sun exposure.

5. Lightweight or Durable Hiking Pants

When it comes to browsing through the different type of hiking pants, you will want to keep in mind the material used. Depending on the season you go, you will want to weigh out the durability of your pants. You will also want to consider how lightweight your hiking pants are. Take for example this next type of hiking pants. The Columbia’s Men’s Silver Ridge Stretch is made with a polyester and elastin mix. These elements make the hiking pants especially comfortable and lightweight. If you will be exploring during the warmer months, then this type of hiking pants can offer protection from the sun and other elements all while keeping you nice and cool.

The same goes for the durability of your pants. If you will be hiking during the colder months where you will need a little more durability, then you will want to consider a certain type of hiking pants. The MIER Men's Convertible Pants Quick Dry are one such pair of pants. They offer a supreme amount of durability and protection that is sure to keep up with all your adventures.

6. Water Resistant Hiking Pants

There is a difference between being waterproof and water resistant. While you will probably never find a type of hiking pant that is totally waterproof. There are plenty of different types of hiking pants that offer water resistance. Many types of hiking pants on the market come out of manufacturing with a special DWR coating. This coating allows your hiking pants to repel water in certain circumstances. While you cannot expect to avoid getting drenched in heavy downpours, you can expect to be protected from light drizzles.

7. Consider the Waistband in Your Hiking Pants

The waistbands of the different hiking pants can be paramount when you are selecting a type of hiking pants. There is a range of hiking pant that have different types of closures at the waist. For example, you can choose from elastic waistbands, drawstring waistbands, and belt up waistbands.

When you are shopping for your perfect pair of hiking pants, keep the waistband in mind. Because many hiking pants will get stretched out as you go out exploring, you will want to consider how you want your pants to sit on your waist. For example, if you do not want to travel with added accessories such as a belt, then you will want to opt for the elastic waistband.

If not, then you will want to opt for waistbands that allow you to loop a hiking belt through them. The way to make this decision is by figuring out what type of hiking adventure you will be going on. Not only that, but consider your comfort level. Will you be comfortable with a belt strapped around your waist while you are on an adventure? If not, then opting for an elastic waist or drawstring waist may be the best bet for you.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to finding the perfect type of hiking pants, there are a couple of things that you should keep in mind. Keep this handy guide in mind the next time you decide it is time to upgrade your hiking pants game. After all, finding the right type of hiking pants can make or break any adventure. Be sure to stay exploring by finding the most comfortable fit for yourself as possible.

Everything You Need to Know About the Different Types of Hiking Pants

Find your pair by knowing the different types of hiking pants.