Looking for the best hot weather hiking pants but finding it overwhelming to find the right ones? Do not fret, I’ve got you covered!
After years of hiking, both Mohammed and I have tested a lot of different pants for hiking in summer. Personally, I don’t like wearing pants when it’s hot, but sometimes it’s the only choice because of vegetation, sun, and bugs.
Summer hiking requires lightweight and breathable material and a feature I found useful (but not necessary) is the zip-off option that some hiking pants for hot weather have.
Read on to find the best warm-weather hiking pants to stay comfortable on the trail.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I’m Linn Haglund, the face behind Andalucia Hiking. I’m an avid hiker and after calling Andalucia home for over 10 years, I’ve covered my share of peaks, ravines, rivers, and valleys across all 8 provinces. I’m here to help you navigate this incredible region with thorough hiking guides, hiking tips, and gear recommendations.
MY TOP PICKS
⭐Best quality hot weather hiking pants:
🧔For Men | Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trouser
👩🦰For Women | Arc’teryx Gamma Pant
💰Best budget hiking pants for hot weather:
🧔For Men | Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pant
👩🦰For Women | Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama/2 Pant
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Best hot weather hiking pants – Men
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trouser
Fjallraven is one of my favorite sustainable outdoor brands that never disappoint when it comes to quality.
If you’re passionate about hardwearing outdoor activities but have noticed your pants can’t keep up with you, the Vidda Pro Trouser might be the perfect pants for you.
This pair is made to get roughed up and has a reinforced rear and knees, which means rips and tears are now a thing of the past.
The Vidda Pro Trouser will rise to the challenge regardless of terrain or weather conditions.
This pair of pants features six practical pockets and an elastic strap for adjusting pant cuffs when the trail heats up.
Few pants for hiking in summer will last you longer than this groundbreaking pair from Fjallraven. And if you are anything like me, you will cherish a pair of pants for hiking in hot weather that lasts for a lifetime.
Pros:
- Pre-shaped knees
- Adjustable cuffs
- Extremely durable
Cons:
- Steep price tag (but great value for money!)
Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Convertible Pant
Columbia has been a leader in creating innovative outdoor gear for nearly 100 years. So it’s no surprise that the Silver Ridge Convertible Pants for men are one of the best hot-weather hiking pants you can find.
Perfect for those days when the weather changes at a moment’s notice, this versatile 6-pocket pair of convertible pants will warm you up or cool you down with two quick pulls of the zipper.
Made from durable nylon, the Silver Ridge Convertible Pant uses advanced moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and comfortable on demanding treks.
If you’re looking for pants that are rugged and breathable, then give this versatile pair a try.
Pros:
- Convert them into shorts in an instant
- UPF 50 fabric
- Zip-close security pocket
Cons:
- Mesh pockets are prone to tearing.
MARMOT Men’s Arch Rock Pant
The Arch Rock Pants are a rugged pair that can handle the most challenging hikes and strenuous climbs.
What makes these some of the best hiking pants for hot weather is how cool their abrasion-resistant nylon fabric will keep you—even when the sun feels relentless.
These warm-weather hiking pants are designed for mobility and outfitted with articulated knees and crotch, making them excellent for climbing.
The Arch Rock Pants offer UPF 50 protection so you can hike guilt-free, and its stretchy high-performance nylon fabric will have you feeling as comfortable as you are protected.
Pros:
- UPF 50 Protection
- Articulated knees and crotch for increased mobility
Cons:
- Only one zippered pocket
prAna Stretch Zion Slim Pants II
Are you into high-performance hiking gear that is made sustainably? The prAna Stretch Zion Slim Pants are made from 95% recycled nylon and 5% recycled plastic.
These pants are bluesign® approved, which means they ensure chemical and consumer safety in their manufacturing process.
Additionally, they are manufactured in a Fair Trade Certified™ Factory. While sustainable options are always at the top of my list, the truth is that this quality pair of hot-weather hiking pants would make this list regardless of the way they are made.
This pair features a variety of pockets, concealed, zippered, double entry, and with flaps. These pants are also semi-convertible with a snap roll-up feature at the hem.
Comfort and sustainability make these some of the absolute best summer hiking pants on the market.
Pros:
- Ventilated inseam gusset
- Sustainably made
- Water Repellent
- Zippered pockets
Cons:
- Price (but they are worth it)
Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants
Outdoor Research recognizes that life is an adventure and strives to deliver you the best gear and apparel to make it more fun.
While these pants are exceptionally lightweight and airy, these soft, stretchy hiking pants for hot weather are still tough enough to accept any challenge you throw at them.
You don’t need to worry about the weather when you slip a pair of these on. If the wind blows and the rain comes down, you’re still covered because the Ferrosi Pants are water and wind resistant.
Their quick-drying material and lightweight fabric will allow you to hike longer on those sweaty summer days. If you are into climbing, then keep in mind that this pair comes with a harness-compatible waist.
Pros:
- Drawstring
- Water and wind resistant
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No zippered pockets
Best hiking pants for hot weather – women’s
Arc’teryx Gamma Pant
As a great sustainable choice, the Gamma Lightweight Pant is one of the toughest pairs you can buy, thus also one of my favorites.
Power through all-day hikes with this ultra-protective pair of walking trousers for hot weather. Don’t worry about fabric tears, inconsistent temperature, or feeling bulky and uncomfortable.
While this particular pair is about as rugged as they come, the feel is still breathable and soft making it one of the best lightweight hiking pants for hot weather.
The pant’s Fortius 1.0 softshell allows for increased stretch and airflow and automatically expels any excess heat.
This pair is one of the most expensive on this list, but Arc’teryx’s legendary quality and timeless performance make it worth every penny. This pant is made from at least 30% recycled materials and meets the bluesign® criteria.
Pros:
- Made from recycled materials
- Four-way stretch
- Abrasion resistant
Cons:
- No cargo pockets
Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama/2 Pant
Tackle any trail or challenge with this pair of light hiking pants for hot weather designed for all-day comfort.
This pair’s advanced fabric won’t just keep you protected from ultraviolet rays but also employs odor-fighting technology.
Water-repellent and moisture-wicking nylon fabric will help keep you dry no matter how profusely you sweat or if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
The Dynama/2 includes adjustable cinches at the ankles’ hem and can easily convert into capris with a tug of a string.
Many hiking pants favor rugged material over style and comfort, but that isn’t the case with this pair. You might find yourself choosing them over your usual go-to jeans and leggings.
These are definitely a favorite when it comes to the best hiking pants for summer.
Pros:
- UPF 50 protection
- Flattering low waist fit
- Anti-odor fabric
Cons:
- Inconsistent sizing
RAB Women’s Elevation Pants
The RAB Elevation pants are an excellent choice if you prefer your hot-weather hiking pants to fit and feel more like hiking leggings.
This pant’s softshell is made out of 89% nylon and 11% elastane, offering you a comfortable four-way stretch.
This pair’s slim fit from the thigh down to the ankle will increase your mobility while delivering the comfiest coverage you’ve ever experienced. Forget about mosquitos eating you alive on the ankles when hiking in bug-infested areas.
The low-bulk waistband pairs well with a harness and is an ideal option for climbing. The only downside to this versatile pair of breathable hiking pants for hot weather is that it only features one pocket.
However, it does have room for a phone and is outfitted with a zipper for extra security. I like to wear them on shorter hikes, but for a longer trek, I definitely prefer more pocket options.
Pros:
- Fits like a pair of leggings
- Versatile
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Only one pocket
prAna Halle Straight Pants II
If you’re a fan of the celebrated original prAna Halle Straight Pants, direct your attention to the new and improved version.
Made from recycled nylon, this sustainable pair of lightweight hiking pants for hot weather is up for the job, whether that job is hiking, walking, climbing, or doing yoga.
No matter what your day consists of, you can adventure confidently, knowing that you have a pair of pants that you can trust will keep up with you.
Its stretchy fabric is abrasion-resistant, PFAS-free, and offers UPF 50+ protection. All the recycled materials that go into manufacturing this pair of pants are bluesign® approved and are guaranteed to come from a Fair Trade Certified™ Factory.
Thoughtful details like the front closer and increased pocket depth make this pair worth the price tag and puts them among the best summer hiking pants out there.
Pros:
- Looped waistband
- Front-button closure
- Chic fit
- Sustainable choice
Cons:
- May be too baggy for some
- Expensive
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Aphrodite Motion Pant
If you’re a modern explorer who needs the right pair of pants for hiking in hot weather, consider the Aphrodite Motion Pant from North Face.
Few other walking trousers for hot weather will have a more lightweight and breathable feel. This pair is durable enough for all-day adventures and comfortable enough to lounge around at home.
The Aphrodite Motion’s premium fabric ensures protection from harmful rays, has a water-repellent finish, and uses FlashDry technology to wick away pesky sweat or moisture.
You’ll never have to choose between protection and comfortability again. These are by far the best budget-friendly lightweight hiking pants for hot weather out there.
Pros:
- Soft herringbone fabric
- UPF 40 protection
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No extra pockets
Final thoughts on pants for hiking in summer
Summarized, these are the best hot weather hiking pants for both men and women. There are so many reasons why you should wear a sturdy pair of summer hiking pants, but if your budget doesn’t allow it or you are only hiking occasionally, there are some great budget options too.
Happy hiking!