Best walking trousers for 2025 | Tested by experts over thousands of miles

The latest iteration of Fjällräven's Keb Trousers incorporates user feedback to enhance fit and functionality, and it's paid off.

Maintaining their renowned hybrid construction, these trousers combine durable, weather-resistant G-1000 Eco fabric—a sustainable polycotton blend that can be waxed for added water resistance—with stretch softshell panels, ensuring both robustness and exceptional freedom of movement.

We found the updated design features a slightly slimmer fit, particularly in the lower legs and rear, with expanded stretch panels and the removal of a rear thigh seam for improved comfort.

Double leg vents are still there, but now with a two-way zip for better usability. Simplified pocket construction and ankle patterning reduce weight and allow for easier repair or alteration of ankle cuffs.

However, getting rid of the double fabric layer at the instep, which previously provided scuff protection, is a minor drawback. But overall, these design refinements make the trousers even more suited to technical trekking and hillwalking, solidifying their status as a superb (and fashionable) choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Read our full Fjallraven Keb Trousers review for more detail and check out the women's version here.

If you’ve not heard of Keela, you’re in for a treat. This Highlands-based brand delivers practical, performance-focused outdoor gear at very reasonable prices – and their Nevis Trousers are a perfect example.

We tested them on a blustery hike in the Trossachs and found them brilliant in changeable weather. The Stretch-Tec fabric blocks wind without turning into a sauna when you’re working hard, and it’s tough enough to withstand scrapes and rough use.

Fit-wise, they strike a good balance between movement and comfort. The waist is nicely fitted, though the fabric’s skin-feel isn’t quite as soft as some others on test. Still, the four-way stretch offers loads of freedom, and the slightly relaxed leg cut means there’s room for layering.

We appreciated the practical features too – multiple zippered pockets for snacks, maps or even a Syrian hamster, and reinforced knee panels for scrambling or sitting on rough ground. The water-resistant finish copes well with light rain.

At £74.99 / $84, these are some of the best-value hiking trousers we’ve worn. They might not be featherlight or ultra-refined, but they punch well above their weight in performance, making them ideal for hillwalkers and weekend wanderers alike.

Read our full Keela Nevis trousers review for more

Patagonia’s Point Peak Trail Pants blend technical performance with the brand’s signature sustainability.

Made from recycled nylon and spandex, the fabric is tough enough for scrambling and rugged trails, yet kinder to the planet. It’s also Fair Trade Certified sewn, so you know the people who made them were treated ethically.

I tested them on the wet and windy west coast of Scotland, where they handled rain, mud and rock with ease. The double-weave fabric resists abrasion in high-wear areas like the knees and seat, while a PFC-free DWR finish sheds light rain.

Despite that durability, they’re breathable and flexible enough for warm days and big efforts, thanks to four-way stretch.

The fit is spot on, with a sturdy waistband and quality brass button. Practical features include zippered pockets and a metal lace hook to secure the cuff to your boots.

At £140 ($139), they’re not cheap—but they’re built to last and designed to be repaired through Patagonia’s Worn Wear program, extending their life even further.

Read our full Paragonia Point Peak Trail Pants review here

The Páramo Cascada II trousers offer a unique all-in-one waterproof solution for hikers, eliminating the need for overtrousers thanks to their Nikwax Analogy directional system.

This innovative two-layer construction keeps you dry while remaining more breathable and comfortable than membrane-based waterproofs. Though slightly warm, long side zips provide excellent ventilation.

The fit is regular with good articulation, and features include a part-elasticated waist, twin hand pockets, and a double layer lining in the knees and seat for added protection when sitting or kneeling on wet ground.

However, the fabric lacks stretch and long-term durability due to its lightweight polyester build, making them less suitable for rugged terrain or scrambling. The soft fabric can also feel clingy or swishy.

Still, for general hillwalking in changeable UK weather, they’re an impressively breathable and comfortable option. If you’re seeking all-day waterproof trousers that feel more like regular walking pants, these are a compelling and well-designed choice.

Find the women's version here

Read our full Paramo Cascada II review

The Mountain Equipment Ibex Pants are highly regarded amongst our team, plus other hillwalkers and mountaineers, for their durability, practicality, and comfort.

Made from Exolite 210, a 210gsm double-weave softshell fabric composed of 92% polyamide and 8% elastane, these trousers offer four-way stretch to balance toughness and mobility.

The material provides decent wind resistance, breathability, and is reasonably quick-drying properties, making them suitable for various weather conditions. The 2025 version features a fluorocarbon-free durable water repellent treatment.

The 'alpine fit' design ensures a trim yet non-restrictive cut, with tapered lower legs and zipped ankle gussets for compatibility with larger boots. With five pockets, including two hand pockets, two thigh pockets, and one rear pocket, they offer ample storage.

Available in men's sizes 28–40 inches and women's UK sizes 8–16, with short, regular, and long leg lengths, they cater to a wide range of users. Priced at £90 ($150), we consider the Ibex Pants to be good value, though they may be a bit warm for summer use and lack reinforced or double-stitched seams.
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Read our full Mountain Equipment Ibex Pant review for more info, while you can find the women's version, the Chamois Pant, here.**

This offering from Fjällräven is a lighter and even more flexible version of the Swedish brand's standard Keb trousers – a previous 'Best in Test' winner in our Trail magazine group test. It uses a zoned fabric construction, largely consisting of fast-drying, double-woven nylon stretch fabric. 

Thigh pockets, knee panels, hems and ankle scuff patches feature G-1000 Lite Eco reinforcements for extra durability. This is a tough ripstop fabric incorporating organic cotton and recycled polyester, which can be waxed for extra water resistance.

Pre-shaped knees and a crotch gusset allow superb freedom of movement, while the tapered legs ensure minimal flapping in windy weather. 

The lower legs have press-stud ankle cinches, and you also get zipped thigh vents to help dump heat when working hard uphill.

Twin zipped thigh pockets provide secure storage (the right-hand pocket has a stretch mesh inner to hold a smartphone). There are also two open hand pockets and a waistband fitted with belt loops, finished with a button closure and a zip fly.

These well-built and versatile trousers feel protective and robust without being too hot or heavy. They work well for hillwalking and scrambling in most conditions, from spring right through to autumn. 

There's no women's version yet. We think the hem cinches could use some additional snaps for an even closer fit with trail shoes or mid-boots. They're expensive trousers too. 

**Find the women's version here
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Read our full Keb Agile Trousers review for more

The Inov8 Venturelite Pants mark the brand’s first step into dedicated hiking clothing – and it’s a strong debut. These softshell trousers are lightweight and breathable, with a trim, tapered cut ideal for fast-paced hiking, scrambling or backpacking.

Made from a nylon-elastane blend with four-way stretch, they offer excellent freedom of movement, aided by articulated knees and a gusseted crotch. A DWR finish repels light rain, while quick-drying fabrics add to their all-round performance.

Features include part-elasticated hems, instep scuff panels, a comfortable low-profile waistband, two zippered hand pockets with internal drop pouches, and a zippered thigh pocket.

While a tighter ankle cuff or adjustable hem would help with fit over different footwear, and only one leg length is offered, the overall design is smart and functional.

They’re too thin to handle full winter conditions but are ideal for spring to autumn use across a variety of outdoor adventures, especially where weight and mobility matter.

Find the women's version here

Read our full Inov8 Venturelite Pants review

The Berghaus Trail Explorer Pants are midweight softshell walking trousers that occupy a niche between the brand's superlight Lomaxx and classic Navigator or Ortler trousers. They are slightly tougher and warmer than the Lomaxx and more technical than the Navigator or Ortler models.

Priced at £95, they are also marginally cheaper than the Fast Hike trousers and offer enhanced comfort due to their four-way stretch softshell fabric.

We found the Trail Explorer Pants feature a true-to-size, slim, and streamlined fit, with a tapered lower leg suitable for both trail shoes and larger boots. The fabric composition of 91% polyamide and 9% spandex provides excellent flexibility and freedom of movement too.

Available in a wide range of waist sizes (28–42 inches) and three leg lengths (short, regular, and long), they cater to various body types.

However, the trousers lack thigh vents and reinforced or double-stitched seams, and may be too warm for summer use.

Read our full Berghaus Trail Explorer Pants review for more information. You can also find the women's version available to purchase here.

The Montane Tenacity Pants are versatile, three-season softshell trousers designed to be a step up from the popular Terra range. Made from Granite Stretch fabric, they offer a comfortable fit with ample stretch, making them suitable for most hill conditions from spring to autumn.

The pants feature four pockets, providing practical storage options. However, we noticed the mesh linings of these pockets are prone to snagging, which is a drawback. Sizing tends to be generous too, so opting for a size down is advisable for those between sizes.

We were pleased to see the Tenacity Pants are available in a wide range of waist sizes (28–40 inches) and three leg lengths (short, regular, and long), ensuring a tailored fit for different body types.

At about 425 grams, they are midweight and durable. While the rise is slightly higher than some may prefer, the tapered lower leg design doesn't catch or scrape on rocks and foliage.

Overall, we rate the Montane Tenacity Pants for their comfort, versatility, and quick-drying properties, making them a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Read our full Montane Tenacity Pants review for more.

The Rab Torque Mountain Pants are designed as versatile all-rounders for hiking, hillwalking, and scrambling. They utilize Rab's Matrix double-weave stretch fabric, composed of 88% polyamide and 12% elastane, offering exceptional flexibility and breathability.

Unlike the original Torque trousers, these pants lack reinforced knees and ankles. It saves weight but we think feels less durable in high-abrasion areas. The waistband features a conventional zip fly with a press stud closure and belt loops, also differing from the elasticated design of their predecessors.

While the waist sizing is accurate, the fit is described as fuller in the seat and thighs, which may not appeal to those preferring a slimmer cut. The tapered lower legs fit well over various footwear, and ankle zips with gussets provide additional room for bulkier boots or gaiters.

Overall, the Torque Mountain Pants are excellent lightweight and comfort walking trousers with superb flexibility, but certainly don't feel like the most durable.

**Head over to our full Rab Torque Mountain Pants review for a more detailed test.
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**You can also find the women's version of these trousers here.
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The Sprayway Compass Pro Pants are lightweight, breathable walking trousers designed for warm-weather hillwalking and summer trekking. Crafted from TecWEAVE stretch fabric (96% polyamide, 4% elastane), they offer two-way lateral stretch, and we found them very comfortable with good mobility.

The material provides a high UPF rating of 50+, ensuring excellent sun protection. The fit is true to size, with a regular cut that is roomier in the seat and thigh, tapering at the lower leg to prevent flapping in windy conditions.

A semi-elasticated waistband with belt loops and Velcro ankle tabs allows for a secure and adjustable fit over boots or trail shoes. There are three pockets: two zipped hand pockets and one zipped rear pocket.

At 300g, these trousers are quite lightweight and do undercut most competitors on price at £75 ($93). However, they aren't be the warmest or most durable option for more demanding conditions. Available in men's sizes 30–40" waist and women's UK sizes 8–18, with short, regular, and long leg lengths.

Check out the women's version of these trousers here and read our full Sprayway Compass Pro Pants review for more info.

Our female gear reviewer Ellie is an avowed fan of Acai's summer-weight Max Stretch Skinny trousers. She's also tested its cold-weather, fleece-lined Thermal Skinny trousers. But the brand's Aventurite Stretch Skinny are probably the best all-round option from Acai yet.

They're also the most eco-friendly since they incorporate recycled nylon and are finished with a PFC-free DWR treatment.

Otherwise, the formula is familiar. These are technical, performance-focused trousers developed for women, by women, with the look of skinny jeans. That means riveted front pockets, twin back pockets (one of which is zipped), belt loops and a rear leather-look logo patch for on-trend casual styling.

But the fabric is a hardwearing and quick-drying nylon polyester with four-way stretch, delivering great comfort and flexibility, plus decent durability.

They have a high waist to prevent a draughty back, even if your base layer rides up. And they come in a wide range of sizes, including four leg lengths. However, there's only one small rear-zipped pocket. And despite the fabric's high level of stretch, the skinny fit might not suit everyone.

For more close-fitting options, take a look at our list of the best hiking leggings.