Last updated on January 18th, 2023 at 04:37 pm
When it comes to camping attire, there are a lot of factors to consider. Think flexibility and breathability for hiking, and durability against rocks and twigs. Plus, you may also want warmth and a flattering fit! However, browsing the many options out there for women’s camping pants can be overwhelming. Here, we’re breaking down the best women’s pants for camping, so you can spend more time adventuring.
Our Favorite Women’s Pants for Campers Are...
As you can see throughout this post, we cover many essentials, like breathability and durability, that can help make your camping experience comfortable. After comparing on our important points at the end of this post and selecting our favorites, we found the following deserved special mention:
Best Overall: Eddie Bauer Guide Pro
The best camping tights: Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight
Our favorite budget option: Northyard Cargo Pants
Read on for more details about these and other favorites below.
Comparison Table of Women's Camping Pants
First, we’ve placed all of our front runners here in this table for quick reference.
As you can see there are many styles you could go with for camp. However, if you’re pplanning a big trip, read on below where we delve into each of our top 6 best women’s pants for camping.
1. Eddie Bauer Guide Pro
First is our overall favorite pant for camping and outdoor adventures is the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro. In fact, this pant was designed by an outdoor guide. So you can rest assured, the Guide Pro is designed by experience. We found from durability to sustainability, each curve of fabric is utilized to provide a comfortable, quality adventure.
In addition, the Guide Pro protects against sun exposure and rain, so that you can feel prepared for varying weather conditions.
Overall, these pants offer a casual yet flattering fit, plus durability and accessory compartments to boot.
Ultra Durable
Importantly, the Guide Pro is the epitome of durability. For instance, they feature two-way stretch Flexion Nylon and Spandex fabric that moves with you, whether relaxing or scaling cliffs.
We found them to even be ultra comfortable suring deep bends or vertical climbing.
Plus, they also feature SPF 50+ sun protection with FreeShade to keep your skin and fabric free from sun damage. And finally, a StormRepel DWR coating also helps resist and expel moisture.
Secure Pockets
Additionally, the Guide Pro also keeps accessories accessible. In fact, two zip cargo pockets secure valuables well. Plus, they are deep enough for a wallet or cell phone.
We found the Guide Pro to really have it all.
Sustainable Production
Finally, Sustainability is also at the top of Bauer’s priorities.
For instance, the Guide Pro are manufactured with Bluesign certified fabric. This certification ensures textile production is safe and sustainable.
As a result, you may find this to provide peace of mind that you’re wearing material produced with the goal of saving resources.
Pros and Cons of the Eddie Bauer Guide Pro
Eddie Bauer Guide Pro PROS
- Durable, two-way stretch Flexion Nylon and Spandex fabric
- Sustainable production
- SPF 50+ sun protection
- StormRepel repels moisture
- Two zip cargo pockets
Eddie Bauer Guide Pro CONS
- Prominence of the logo placement
Who is The Guide Pro Perfect For?
These pants are perfect for adventurous women looking for something casual that is comfortable at the campsite and on a rigorous trail. With durable, yet stretch-able fabric, these pants can handle a rigorous hike. This also makes the Guide Pro ideal for professional guides.
2. Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight
Next, our favorite tights are the Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight. The Abrisko tight levels up support and durability with a form-fit and reinforcement bonuses. For women desiring a tight rather than a loose pant for trekking, this pair delivers.
Plus, even though they are form-fitting, the Abrisko still features reinforced patches on the rump and knees that help guard against tears. Furthermore, the panels provide additional protection from damp ground or sharp rocks when sitting or kneeling at camp.
Drawstring Waist + Form-Fitting
Additionally, the Abrisko is made to feel snug, with some adjustability. And, while these function like tights that fit to your form, they also have a drawstring for waist adjustments.
This is excellent for women who feel more comfortable in form-fitting clothing, and also for keeping heat in if it’s slightly chilly.
Plus, we found the Abrisko to be extremely flattering while not being overly revealing. They pass the bend test, they look and feel like professional camping gear, and they are great for every aspect of camp including climbing.
Reinforced Fabric
Additionally, aside from their stretchy Nylon fabric, the Abrisko also has an extra layer for durability. AS previously mentioned, the backside and knees feature reinforcement patches, which can help against rips and tears during falls. Moreover, they provide protection from snags and moisture when sitting or kneeling.
Furthermore, the Abrisko is very lightweight and takes up little room in your pack. Plus, they fit well as a baselayer beneath a water-resistant shell.
Pockets For Storage
Finally, the Abrisko also features plenty of pockets, including (1)medium, zippered thigh, (1) small, zippered waistband and (1) large map/phone pocket.
We would’ve liked this zippered pockets to be slightly bigger, but they do the job. For instance, these zippered pockets provide secure storage for small valuables, like credit cards or keys.
And, while stuffing your phone in the thigh pocket makes you look like you have a growth on your leg, it is very helpful. Plus, we love the envelope-style fabric flap that can completely close the pocket from rain.
Pros and Cons of the Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight
Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight PROS
- Drawstring waist
- Flattering
- Reinforced/Cordura panels
- Three pockets for storage
- Stretchy Nylon fabric
Fjallraven Abrisko Trekking Tight CONS
- Warm for summer conditions
- High price point
Who Will Love The Abrisko Trek Tight?
For women who enjoy the free range of movement of a form-fitting hiking pant reminiscent of yoga pants, the Fjallraven is an excellent choice. For a flattering fit that also performs when it comes to adventure, this pant truly delivers. Additionally, the reinfored bum and knees make this pant great from other outdoor sports like sailing, fishing, and rock climbing.
3. Northyard Cargo Pants
Additionally, our favorite for the budget conscious is the Northyard Cargo Pants. These pants combine lightweight material with durable elements like water and UV-resistant fabric. We love how ultraadjustable these pants are. As a result, the Northyard are great for heavy outdoor use, or relaxation by a campfire.
Adjustable For Any Occasion
First and foremost, the Northyard Cargo are very adjustable for comfort. For instance, not only is the waist elastic, it also comes with an adjustable elastic belt buckle to hold the pants securely.
In fact, if you’re like me, these pants are ideal for large thighs and a thinner waist. Furthermore, we appreciated the flat nature of the belt and buckle that doesn’t create a big bulge beneath your shirt.
Plus, Northyard Cargo pants also feature adjustable ankle cuffs with a cord lock. This allows you to lock your length in place.
Lightweight and Breathable Fabric
Additionally, the Northyard also offers lightweight, breathable maneuverability.
For example, it features a 4-way Ripstop blend of Spandex and Nylon that is not only extremely lightweight, but durable.
As a result, this helps protect against damage from twigs, rocks, and other debris on hikes that can tear fabric.
Plus, we found the Northyard to be very breathable and comfortable in very hot temps.
Waterproof + Sun Protection
Finally, the Northyard also shields you from elements during your camp and treks. Not only do pants cover exposed skin from the sun, the Northyard features a finish that further protects with an SPF of 50+.
Plus, the Northyard are waterproof and dry quickly after the rain or puddles have passed. In addition, this quick-drying property is also a bonus for comfort on overnight camps.
Pros and Cons of the Northyard Cargo Pants
Northyard Cargo Pants PROS
- Adjustable waist and ankle cuffs
- Lightweight fabric
- Comfortable
- Budget-friendly
- Waterproof and quick-dry
- UPF 50+
- 2 zippered hand-pockets
- 1 zippered back pocket
- 2 side cargo pockets
Northyard Cargo Pants CONS
- Some campers mentioned the fabric isn’t very stretchy
Who Will Love These Pants?
The Northyard Cargo pants are excellent for women looking for a durable, yet lightweight and adjustable pant. In fact, Northyard offers several layers of durability for tough trails, along with plenty of storage for extra-long hikes. They are also water resistant and help provide protection from the sun, which makes them an ideal choice for all types of weather. These are an easy choice at their price point.
4. The North Face Aphrodite 2.0
Additionally, we found The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 to be a worthy contender for the best women’s pants for camping. With a relaxed fit and moisture-wicking properties, the Aphrodite 2.0 take comfort to a new level. Add in several layers of adjustability and breathability, and you may never want to wear anything else.
Breathable, Maneuverable Fabric
Firstly, the Aphrodite 2.0 features a fit that is easy to maneuver in and is ultra-comfortable. In fact, this particular treatment of polyester is ultra-lightweight, feels smooth on your skin, and encourages airflow.
As a result, for women desiring a more “flowy” feeling pant, these deliver.
Relaxed Fit + Draw Cords
The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 also provides a relaxed, 4-way stretch fit. Aka: they are like a comfy pair of sweatpants… but designed for the trail!
They are designed with a “leg-skimming” fit, so they aren’t too tight. Plus, the rib-knit waistband is also stretchy to provide excellent comfort.
And finally, North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants feature draw cords at the ankles, which allow you to adjust their height.
Water Repellent Finish + FlashDry Technology
North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants also perform in varying weather conditions. They are made with a Durable Water Repellent invisible coating that resists water and moisture. Plus, they also feature FlashDry technology, which helps wick away water to dry fast.
Pros and Cons of the North Face Aphrodite 2.0
The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 PROS
- Relaxed fit for all body types
- Drawcord at ankles
- Comfortable to wear and easy to maneuver in
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Recycled fabric
- Flashdry quick-drying technology
- Durable water-repellent finish
The North Face Aphrodite 2.0 CONS
- No pockets on the thighs
Who Would This Pant be Perfect For?
Women who desire a more relaxed, breathable fit will love North Face Aphrodite 2.0 pants. Their 4-way stretch fabric makes maneuvering up slopes and squatting by a campfire easy. Plus, they feature technology that helps them dry quickly, as well as a water-repellent finish. These features would be excellent for women in regions where moisture is higher. Overall, these are a comfortable option whether you’re lounging campside, climbing, or running.
5. ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna Pant
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a sleek, durable option that also protects against bugs, ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna Pant are the way to go. The Vianna pant boasts an insect-repelling technology and an all-occasion aesthetic. We found these pants to shine on any peak season adventure or a night around the fire in the back yard.
Permethrin-Treated to Repel Insects
Firstly, if you hate swatting away bugs, mosquitos in particlar, the ExOfficio BugsAway Vianni Pant has you covered. In fact, these protect you from a number of insects, including ticks, no-see-ums, mosquitoes, and more.
This technology binds bug-repelling permethrin into the fabric, making it invisible and odorless. Furthermore, it is woven deeply into the threading and lasts up to 70 washes.
However, we don’t love that these come with specific instructions to clean separately from other clothing. Plus, permethrin is toxic to cats while being safe for dogs. We’re unsure if this clothing treatment is safer than a permethrin sprays, but it bares the thought.
Abrasion-Resistant, Sun Protection, + Convertible
Along with resisting insects, the Vianna also resists abrasions and tears. We found them excellent for climbers and hiking through rough terrain.
In addition, these pants also offer a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 50 to protect legs from sun exposure.
Pockets + All-Occasion Aesthetic
Finally, you may have noticed that the Vianna have an all-occasion trim, yet relaxed fit. This means you can go from trail to dinner with them in a pinch and not get weird looks!
Plus, they also have several pockets for storage. This includes back pockets, 2 drop hand pockets and a zippered pocket for valuables.
Campers can feel confident that they’ll have all the storage and security they need. We thought the back pockets did a lot for adding style, extra bum protection from abrasion, and great for stashing a bandana.
ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna Pant Pros and Cons
ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna PROS
- Permethrin-treated to repel insects
- Sun protection of UPF 50
- Abrasion-resistant fabric
- Back pockets + zippered pocket
- All-occasion aesthetic
ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna CONS
- need to be washed separately due to the insect shield technology
- Permetrin treatment may be toxic to cats
Who Would This Pant be Perfect For?
The ExOfficio BugsAway Vianna Pants are excellent for women looking for a modern-styled pant that also protects against insects. These pants are durable for the trail, yet can also be worn to dinner. Plus, they also feature abrasion-resistant fabric for your more rugged adventures. If you’re a woman who desires pants that fit any location, then ExOfficio BugsAway pants are ideal.
6. Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pant
Finally, for an extra comfortable and adjustable pant, the Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pant fits the bill. Kuhl’s trademarked Freeflex material and fine-tuned extras, these pants are great for adjusting to the perfect fit.
Plus, not only can they be converted into capris and the waist can be tightened with a drawcord, they are also designed to never sag.Furthermore, we love the amount of secure storage and their very flattering fit.
Lightweight FREEFLEX Material
First and foremost, the Freeflex Rollup pant is designed with freedom of movement in mind. So, whether you’re hopping over logs, crouching by the campfire, or climbing a rock face, you’ll be able to maneuver with ease.
Plus, Kuhl’s Freeflex material is also lightweight, so you don’t feel heavy fabric pulling at you during your adventures. And, they weigh next to nothing in your pack or as a shell layer.
Fine-Tune Your Fit
The perfect, adjustable fit is also an important aspect of the Kuhl Freeflex. In fact, this pant is able to roll up and snap into capris, making them great for all types of weather and high water.
Plus, their waist also has an internal drawcord adjustment as well as a button closure, so you can tighten or loosen as needed.
Furthermore, the Freeflex also features hidden, snap-enclosed pockets in their back. These are great for storing valuable essentials. In all, these pants feature six deep pockets.
Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying
Finally, the Freeflex is also fantastic when it comes to sweat and moisture. Its lightweight and breathable combination of polyesters helps wick away moisture, while they also are quick-drying.
We found these pants great for warm weather hikes, as well as in humid climates.
Pros and Cons of the Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pant
Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pant PROS
- Lightweight
- Great freedom of movement
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Waist with internal drawcord adjustment
- Snap-closure pockets at back and thighs
- Converts from pants to capris
- Moisture-wicking and quicking-drying
Kuhl Freeflex Rollup Pant CONS
- Fabric could be more durable against tough brambles
Who Would This Pant be Perfect For?
Kuhl Freeflex Rollup pants are perfect for women looking for stretchy flexibility. They are moisture-wicking for sweaty or rainy situations, and also offer plenty of sun protection. In all, these are a lightweight pant option that can provide comfort on the trail or at the campsite.
Other Great Pants that Almost made the Top 6:
What Makes a Great Pant for Camping?
To find the best women’s pants for camping, there are many considerations to keep in mind. These attributes will help you find pants that won’t overheat, retain moisture, or experience a tear during your trip. Here are the factors we consider in our list:
- Breathability: Keeping cool is essential while camping in peak season. Breathable, moisture-wicking materials, or vents are a top priority for pants we pack.
- Roll up vs. Convertible: Regardless of breathability, it’s very likely you’ll begin to overheat while camping and hiking in pants. The age-old dilemma of whether to wear shorts or pants can be easily solved with a good pair of convertible or roll-up pants. We prefer rolling up any pant, regardless of design, but we have found several convertible styles that met our expectations.
- Performance Materials: Choose lightweight fabrics for their stretch, light weight, and moisture-wicking capabilities. Great pants for camping are made of materials like nylon, polyester, spandex, and elastane. We tend to favor nylon for its soft feel and high durability; however it does tent to pill in the upper thigh areas. Polyester is a close second for its supreme ability to wick away water for stay dry comfort. Conversely, cotton clothing should be avoided while camping and hiking as it holds water, which leads to painful chaffing and can be dangerous in cold temperatures.
- Durability: You’ll want a pant that can resist tears and abrasion from underbrush or hiking through rock crevasses. Some pants in our lineup are thicker and great for three season camping, which helps them tackle many tests without rips and tears.
- Pockets and style features: A great camping pant will lend to comfortable bending and hiking. And, features like crotch gussets and articulated knees are helpful for moving about. Also helpful are options with many pockets, including those with secure zippers. We tend to enjoy options with at least 2 thigh pockets.
- Fit: If you’ll be trekking into town, a slim or straight fit pant transitions from camp to town best and is the lighter option when packing. Conversely, one of relaxed fit is arguably more comfortable and offers a roomier fit for moving around camp and while scrambling.
- Waist Closure: We prefer built-in belts as opposed weaving a bulky belt into belt loops. However, many styles with built-in belts are on the pricier end. Drawstring waists and snap closures are also great options, and many of our favorites feature these styles. If you opt for a style with belt loops, consider wearing this amazing belt.
Lounge and Trek in Comfort
As you can see, there are many options available when it comes to camping pants for women. Each has their own unique style, shape, and benefits. To determine the pair that’s best for you, consider your camping conditions, such as the weather, and whether you prefer relaxed or snug fits in pants. Whichever style or shape you prefer, considering durability and comfort also goes a long way to making a camping trip a blast.
About the Author
Sarah Sampsell
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