Outdoor Trouser Buying Guide

Whether you’re hiking eight Munros or popping out for an afternoon woodland stroll, investing in a good pair of outdoor trousers is crucial to ensure that you get the most out of your adventure. Staying comfortable and protected from the elements when in the outdoors is essential, and, especially as winter rolls in, it’s just as important to focus on your bottom half as it is your top. There’s a lot of options out there, and it can often seem a bit overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be! That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive trouser buying guide to help you decide on the right pair of outdoor trousers for your needs.

CONTENTS
Why Do I Need an Outdoor Trouser?
Things to Consider When Purchasing an Outdoor Trouser
Features and Technologies: Explained
Types of Outdoor Trouser
Walking
Waterproof
Softshell
Trekking
Leggings
Convertible
Winter Mountain
Everyday Active
Getting the Most Out of Your Trousers

Why Do I Need an Outdoor Trouser?

We often overlook a good pair of trousers when investing in outdoor kit, but they shouldn’t be underestimated. Traditional trousers like jeans or tracksuit bottoms – made with materials like cotton or synthetic materials – can often lack the comfort, fit, and technical properties needed to cope with strenuous activities and adverse weather conditions. Cotton tends to absorb moisture quickly, can lack stretch and restrict movement, and can often lead to chafing and skin irritation, which is particularly uncomfortable on long or technical hikes.

Outdoor trousers can transform your entire adventure with features that will allow you to stay outdoors for longer. They’re designed to provide superior comfort and mobility, and many will help regulate your body temperature with breathable materials. Outdoor trousers will often provide a degree of water resistance, with some offering full waterproof protection. They’re durable too, made with fabrics that protect against the scrapes and scratches that inevitably occur when out exploring – so they’re well worth the investment.

Things to Consider When Purchasing an Outdoor Trouser

Comfort/Fit

The fit of an outdoor trouser will vary considerably depending on the type of trouser you select – classic walking trousers are usually straight leg, waterproof trousers tend to be baggier, whilst softshell trousers are typically slim fitting. When searching for the right outdoor trouser, simple things like making sure they fit well around the waist and leg are essential to ensure that you’re comfortable and not having to think about your clothing whilst out exploring. You might want to keep an eye out for adaptable elements like built-in belts and adjustable cuffs, which can considerably improve the fit. Everyone has their own preferences, so it’s useful to try a few pairs of trousers on to find the fit that’s right for you.

Stretch/Mobility

Closely related to comfort and fit is the level of stretch in the fabric and features that will improve mobility. If you’re facing steep and technical hills, you’ll want to have maximum freedom of movement. So, if hiking or climbing is what you have in mind, it’s important to consider the stretch of the fabric, and perhaps additional features such as a gusseted crotch and articulated knees which allow for greater mobility.

Weatherproofing

An important aspect of outdoor trousers that make them stand out against traditional trousers is their ability to protect against the elements. From fully waterproof over-trousers to quick-drying and water-repellent technical trousers – you’ll need to consider the weather conditions that you plan to explore in.

Breathability

Breathability is another important aspect, especially if you’re heading outdoors in warmer months or partaking in particularly strenuous activities. Look out for breathable fabrics and ventilation zips which increase air circulation.

Durability

Most outdoor trousers will be designed with durability in mind. But if you’re looking for something that can withstand excessive wear, ripstop fabric and reinforcements on high impact areas could significantly increase your trousers’ lifespan.

Features and Technologies: Explained

Articulated knees: Trousers bent at the knees to move easier with the natural bend of your knees, increasing mobility.

DWR finish: Stands for durable water-repellent finish. This is a water-repellent coating added to garments during production that allows water to bead off and increases breathability.

GORE-TEX: A membrane technology that offers full waterproof protection.

Gusseted crotch: Extra fabric in the crotch area allows you to stretch legs further, increasing mobility.

Internal gaiters: A gaiter is a fabric guard that covers the gap between your trousers and walking boots, typically used in wet weather conditions. These are usually sold separately but can sometimes be attached internally to (usually more hardwearing) trousers.

Moisture-wicking fabric: A technical fabric that draws sweat and moisture away from the body, usually made of polyester or nylon.

Ripstop fabric: Woven fabrics using a reinforcing technique which makes them resistant to rips/tears.

UPF rating: Garments with a UPF rating help to protect the skin from sun, with the rating indicating how much of the sun’s UV radiation is absorbed by the fabric..

Zipped vents: Allows you to zip down sections of the trouser to circulate air and aid with ventilation.

Types of Outdoor Trouser

Activity Guide

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