Your legs do the hard work on every adventure. Give them the protection and freedom they deserve.
Quick Start: Outdoor Trousers Guide
New to technical trousers? Start with Understanding what trousers you need
Activity-specific needs? Jump to Trousers designed for your activity
Understanding materials? Go to Construction and Materials Guide
Ready to choose? Skip to Choosing your trousers
Trousers made for the demands of the outdoors
Regular trousers work fine for gentle walks on smooth paths, but when terrain gets rough or weather turns challenging, you quickly discover their limitations. Restrictive movement, poor weather resistance, and rapid wear from abrasion can turn a great adventure into an uncomfortable struggle.
Technical outdoor trousers solve these problems with stretch fabrics that move with your body rather than against it, weather protection when conditions turn nasty, and strategic reinforcement in areas that take the most punishment.
Understanding what trousers you need
The Multi-Activity challenge
Modern adventurers rarely stick to one activity. You might hike to a crag for climbing, bike to the end of a trail, or need trousers that work equally well for travel and trekking. The best outdoor trousers adapt to multiple activities rather than specialising in just one.
What Makes Outdoor Trousers Work
Great outdoor trousers excel in five key areas. Freedom of movement comes from stretch fabrics and cuts that don't restrict your natural motion. Weather protection shields you from wind and water when conditions turn bad. Durability means reinforcement in high-wear areas with fabrics tough enough to last season after season. Comfort ensures all-day wearability without chafing or hot spots. Finally, practicality is baked in through thoughtful features like secure pockets, adjustability options, and details that actually make your adventures easier.
Trousers designed for your activity
Hiking and walking trousers
When you're covering long distances on foot, comfort becomes paramount. You need trousers that won't restrict your stride, can handle variable weather conditions, and won't fall apart when the trail gets rough. The best hiking trousers combine stretch fabric with a gusseted crotch for unrestricted movement, offer weather resistance for unexpected conditions, and feature articulated knees that follow your natural leg shape. Secure pockets keep essentials safe during stream crossings and scrambles.
These trousers shine on day hikes where weather might change, multi-day treks where durability matters, and any situation where you need reliable protection without thinking about it.
Trousers for climbing and scrambling
Climbing demands maximum mobility above everything else. When you're reaching for holds or navigating technical terrain, restrictive clothing is a safety hazard. Climbing trousers prioritise four-way stretch that moves in every direction, reinforced knees and seat that can handle abrasion against rock, and a harness-friendly waist that works with climbing gear.
The best climbing trousers feel almost like a second skin - lightweight enough to pack small when you're not wearing them, stretchy enough to never restrict your movement, and tough enough to handle the punishment that comes with scrambling over rough rock.
Legwear for your cycling adventures
Pedalling efficiency changes how trousers need to fit and function. Cycling trousers accommodate the bent-knee riding position with stretch panels in strategic locations, protect against weather during long rides, and often include reflective details for visibility. Articulated fits follow the cycling position, water resistance keeps you comfortable in changeable conditions, and ventilation options help manage temperature during climbs.
Whether you're mountain biking technical trails, bikepacking across continents, or just commuting through unpredictable weather, cycling-specific trousers make every mile more comfortable.
Trail running legwear
Trail running is demanding on your kit. It strips everything down to the essentials. You need trousers that won't hold you back with their weight or bulk, can handle moisture from both weather and exertion, and provide complete freedom of movement. The best running trousers use lightweight, moisture-wicking materials that keep you comfortable and streamlined fits that eliminate any chance of chafing.
These trousers excel for trail running adventures, fell running in challenging terrain, and fast-packing where every gram matters.
Construction and materials guide
Understanding fabric technologies
Softshell fabrics strike the perfect balance for many outdoor activities, offering wind and water resistance while maintaining excellent breathability. They feel comfortable against the skin and move naturally with your body. Stretch wovens provide exceptional durability combined with mobility, making them ideal for activities that demand both toughness and flexibility. Technical canvas brings traditional outdoor aesthetics with modern performance, appealing to those who prefer classic looks with contemporary function. Synthetic blends optimise performance for specific activities, combining different fibre properties for targeted results.
What makes materials work
The best outdoor trouser fabrics share several key properties. Four-way stretch provides freedom of movement in all directions, essential when you're stepping up onto ledges or reaching for handholds. DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatments cause water to bead up and roll off rather than soaking in, providing protection from light rain and morning dew. Ripstop construction uses reinforcing threads woven into the fabric to prevent small snags from becoming large tears. Quick-drying properties mean you return to comfort quickly after getting caught in a shower or fording a stream.
Wild weather protection
Fair weather adventures
For dry conditions and mild temperatures, you can focus on comfort and durability. These trousers typically use cotton blends or lightweight synthetics that prioritise breathability and comfort over maximum weather resistance. They're perfect for lowland hiking, summer climbing, or any adventure where the weather is stable and doesn't look like it is going to deal you any surprises.
Changeable conditions
UK weather and mountain conditions demand more versatility. These trousers need good weather resistance balanced with breathability, allowing them to handle sudden showers while preventing overheating during exertion. Softshell fabrics and treated synthetic blends excel in these conditions, providing reliable protection without excessive bulk or heat retention.
Harsh weather specialists
Winter conditions, exposed terrain, and serious weather require trousers with high weather resistance and robust construction. These might include insulation options for static activities like belaying or photography. Technical softshells and specialised fabrics provide maximum protection when conditions turn genuinely challenging.
Fit and features that matter
Getting the cut right
Regular fit trousers can be worn comfortably over base layers to provide added protection in cold weather. Slim fits provide a streamlined profile that works well with gaiters and eliminates excess fabric during active use, such as cycling. A relaxed fits maximises comfort and provides additional room for insulation layers during cold weather adventures.
Features to make your hikes better
A gusseted crotch is a design feature that frees up your movements during high steps, deep squats, and stretching - essential for climbing and scrambling. Articulated knees are pre-shaped to follow your natural leg bend, eliminating pulling and bunching. Adjustable waists let you fine-tune fit and accommodate different layer combinations throughout the day. Secure pockets keep essentials safe during active movement without adding bulk or interfering with harnesses or pack belts.
Advanced features you should consider to make your trousers better
Ventilation zips provide temperature control during high-output activities, allowing you to dump heat without removing layers. Reinforced areas in high-wear zones extend durability where abrasion is inevitable. Convertible trousers have with zip-off legs allowing you to adapt to changing conditions. The choice between belt loops and integrated belt systems comes down to personal preference and how you like to adjust fit.
Specialised options
When you need waterproof trousers
Persistent rain, snow, and winter conditions demand complete weather protection. Waterproof overtrousers provide this protection while packing small when not needed. They're designed to go over your regular trousers, offering a shell layer when conditions turn serious. The trade-off is reduced breathability and the need to carry extra gear.
Insulated trousers for cold conditions
Cold weather adventures, low activity levels, and winter camping can benefit from insulated trousers that provide warmth without bulk. They're comfortable in cold conditions where regular trousers would leave you shivering. However, they have limited versatility and can cause overheating during high-output activities.
Convertible trousers for changeable conditions
Changeable temperatures, travelling, and minimalist packing benefit from trousers that convert into shorts. They allow you to adapt to changing conditions and reduce the amount of clothing you need to carry. The compromise is that zips can sometimes chafe, and they rarely excel in either configuration compared to dedicated shorts or trousers.
Finding your perfect trousers
Here are some examples to help you identify your criteria.
The weekend hiker
You face variable conditions and need comfort over long distances. Midweight hiking trousers with weather resistance provide the versatility to handle most conditions while remaining comfortable for extended wear. You need the Swiss Army knife of outdoor trousers - not perfect for every situation but good enough for most.
The technical climber
Maximum mobility and durability against rock abrasion drive your needs. Stretch climbing trousers with reinforced areas provide the freedom for complex movements while being tough enough to handle rough rock. Every feature focuses on not restricting your climbing while providing protection where contact with the rock is inevitable.
The mountain biker
Pedalling efficiency and protection from the elements are going to guide your requirements. Cycling-specific trousers with stretch panels optimise fit for your riding position while providing protection where you need it most.
The multi-activity adventurer
One pair of trousers for multiple activities requires carefully thought out compromises. Technical hiking trousers with good stretch and durability provide the best balance across different activity demands. They won't be perfect for any single activity but will be good enough for most of what you do.
The minimalist traveller
Packing light while maintaining versatility for both outdoor and casual use requires trousers that don't scream "outdoor gear." Technical trousers with subtle outdoor styling work for adventures and everyday wear, reducing the number of items you will need to pack.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring fit is perhaps the biggest mistake - the best features won't work if the fit does not match your body type or activity.
- Over-specifying for extreme conditions you'll never face will compromise everyday usability and often increases cost unnecessarily.
- Under-specifying to save money costs more long-term when inadequate protection fails to deliver when you need it most.
Getting the wrong size creates problems in both directions. Too tight restricts movement and can cause damage during dynamic activities. Too loose creates chafing and doesn't provide the body-hugging performance that makes technical trousers worthwhile. Finally, forgetting to consider your local seasonal temperature ranges leads to trousers that work for only part of the year.
Care and longevity
Maintaining performance
DWR reproofing refreshes water repellency when it starts to fail - usually indicated by water soaking in rather than beading up. Following proper washing instructions maintains fabric properties and prevents damage from incorrect care. Addressing small tears before they become big problems saves money and extends trouser life significantly. Clean, dry storage prevents damage from moisture and odours that can become permanent.
Making them last
Rotating usage between multiple pairs of trousers prevents any single pair from wearing out prematurely. Matching trousers to appropriate activities and conditions reduces unnecessary wear. Regular maintenance and small repairs prevent minor issues from becoming major failures. When repairs are needed, our repair stations often provides better results than attempting fixes yourself.
Our design philosophy
We create trousers for real-world adventures, prioritising sustainable materials where possible while ensuring performance matches intended use. Our features focus on practical benefits rather than marketing gimmicks, emphasising comfort through long days of varied activity and versatility across different adventures.
Fit optimisation considers how trousers work during movement, not just how they look when you're standing still. Real-world testing by people who actually use the gear ensures designs work when it matters. Size ranges accommodate different body types because adventurers come in all shapes and sizes.
Building up your trouser collection
A one-pair solution
For most people, midweight hiking trousers with good stretch and weather resistance cover about 80% of outdoor activities adequately. They provide maximum versatility per purchase, making them the best value for occasional adventurers or those just starting to build their outdoor wardrobe. Lack of waterproofness will mean you are restricted to good conditions.
The two-pair system
Lightweight, highly breathable trousers coupled with shell overtrousers that you can pull on over the top when conditions turn wet and windy cover most summer hikes in the UK. This classic system handles most weather.
The three-layer system
WInter demands special consideration and follows the same pattern as your other outdoor clothing. This 3-layer system is of course the baselayer, midlayer and outerlayer. Thermal long johns form your baselayer. If you are camping you will probably leave these on for sleeping in. Your midlayer trousers protect you from wind and abrasion as well as providing useful pockets for stuff you need easy access to. The shell layer protects you from rain, snow and sleet and may be removed several times a day. Specialist over trousers for the high mountain ranges such as salopettes offer additional protection and can have braces and full length side zips to help get them in over your other equipment.
Making your choice
To sum up, start by identifying your primary activity. Be realistic over what weather you will typically face, and think about how active you'll be. Finally think about when you won't be wearing it as this will lead your packing and weight requirements.
The best outdoor trousers for you
The best outdoor trousers are ones that move with you and protect you as you focus on your adventure.
Great outdoor trousers enhance your adventures by removing limitations rather than adding complexity. They protect when protection is needed, move when movement is required, and disappear into the background so you can focus on why you're outside in the first place.
Next up in our series The Complete Guide to Outdoor Clothing: Your feet get the layering treatment as we explore how socks keep your feet comfortable, ensuring you can keep going blister-free mile after mile.
- The Complete Guide to Outdoor Clothing: Layering Systems That Work
- Base Layer Guide: Merino Wool vs Synthetic Materials
- Mid Layers Guide: Fleece and Natural Fibres
- Insulated Jackets: Down vs Synthetic Complete Guide
- Waterproof Jackets: Your Complete Guide to Staying Dry
- Outdoor Trousers, Shorts and Leggings: Your Complete Guide
- Hiking Socks Guide: Materials, Cushioning, and Fit
- Keeping Your Hands Warm: The Complete Guide to Outdoor Gloves