Best women’s walking trousers UK 2022: hiking trousers reviewed, from Arc-Teryx, Jack Wolfskin, Acai

Comfortable, durable walking trousers are a must in any rambler’s wardrobe. Wondering why you can’t get away with just wearing jeans on a walk? Well, on a short, casual ramble, you probably could.

But if you’re spending hours out hiking or you’re planning an active walking holiday, a good pair of walking trousers will be the more comfortable choice - they’re designed to be lightweight, stretchy, loose and breathable however many miles you cover.

Best women’s walking trousers at a glance:

• Best for long days in the outdoors: Fjallraven Keb Curved trousers
• Best for hot weather walks: ARC’TERYX - Women’s Alroy Pant
• Best on a budget: Quechua Women’s Modular Trousers
• Best zipaway trousers: Jack Wolfskin Overland Zipaway
• Best walking tights: Fjallraven Womens Abisko Trekking Tights
• Best for active summer hikes: Craghoppers Pro Stretch trousers
• Best for style points: Acai Skinny Outdoor trousers
• Best for versatility: Revolution Norwand Women’s trousers

Are walking trousers the same as waterproof trousers?

Walking trousers are worn next to the skin and aren’t usually waterproof, but it’s easy to pop waterproof trousers over the top if a storm is looming.

That said, some walking trousers are water repellent, which is enough to withstand light rain. If they do get wet, good walking trousers are usually quick to dry, which is also useful when travelling with a limited wardrobe.

What should you look for in walking trousers?

Think about when you’ll wear your new trousers. On summer walks, look for trousers that use a breathable fabric in to keep you cool. In winter, a thicker, insulated pair will be the best choice.

There are different styles on sale, too. Slim, stretchy walking trousers are often called tights and feel more like wearing leggings – a good choice if you don’t like wider trousers that can flap around in wind.

Do walking trousers look - well - cool?

Walking trousers used to score pretty low on style points, but that’s changing fast – we’ve included a few smart, chino-like trousers that would work everywhere from the mountains to the office.

Many pairs of walking trousers can also be converted into shorts by unzipping lower sections, which is convenient in changeable weather and a good space-saving choice on backpacking trips.

What do you need from hiking trousers?

We always rate trousers with reinforced knees and ankles (the former for sitting on rough ground, the latter for wearing with crampons), plentiful pockets and a slightly stretchy fabric, for added comfort and ease of movement.

Try trousers on in person if you can - they should have enough stretch to let you squat, and feel comfortable around the waist. If they’re zip-off trousers, check the zips don’t rub against your knees.

Get kitted out for all of your camping adventures

We have detailed guides to the best hiking backpacks here, and the best backpacking tents for your adventures here. Want to steady your stride? These are the best walking poles for hiking.

Keep it comfy with the best camping folding chairs, and sleep on the best air beds around, as listed here. And keep things illuminated with a great camping head torch.

After waterproof trousers? These are the best women’s ones.