10 Best Pants For Hiking In The Snow In 2023

Best Pants For Hiking In The Snow

It is essential to find the right type of clothing. They will keep you warm and comfortable while hiking in the snow. Winter hiking pants are necessary if you’re planning on spending a significant amount of time in cold weather and heavy snow. 

The best pants for hiking in snow are those made from breathable, waterproof materials. It should be waterproof, breathable softshell or hardshell fabric.

These materials help to block wetness and wind. It also allows sweat vapor to escape. As a result, you won’t get too hot and sweaty. The best pants should also be breathable. It will ensure comfort during strenuous activities such as hiking.

It is also beneficial to look for pants with zippered pockets, adjustable cuffs, and reflective details. It depends on the conditions.

  • Remember, layering is vital when dressing for colder weather activities. Make sure to layer your base layers underneath the best winter hiking pants for optimal warmth and comfort! 
  • In addition, remember to wear hats, gloves, socks, and other accessories. It can help improve your outdoor experience.

10 Best Pants For Hiking In The Snow

1. Columbia Kick Turn II

These pants are designed with an adjustable waistband. It is also designed with a gusseted construction for a comfortable fit. They also come with moisture-wicking fabric, a water-resistant coating, and UPF 50 protection.

Pros And Cons Of Columbia Kick Turn II Pants

  • Pros: Adjustable waistband, gusseted construction, moisture-wicking fabric, water-resistant coating, UPF 50 protection.
  • Cons: Not as breathable as other materials.

2. Helly Hansen Odin Mountain Infinity 3L Bib

This bib is constructed from a waterproof and breathable shell. It will keep you warm in all weather conditions. It also offers articulated knees for increased mobility and multiple pockets for extra storage.

Pros And Cons Of Helly Hansen Odin Mountain Infinity 3L Bib

  • Pros: Waterproof and breathable shell, articulated knees, multiple pockets.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

3. Patagonia Stormstride Pants

These pants are designed with a lightweight and abrasion-resistant fabric. It will keep you comfortable during strenuous activities in the snow. They come with a drawstring waist and elastic cuffs for an adjustable fit.

Pros And Cons Of Patagonia Stormstride Pants

  • Pros: Lightweight and abrasion-resistant fabric, drawstring waist, elastic cuffs for an adjustable fit.
  • Cons: Not as waterproof as other materials.

4.REI Activator 3.0 Softshell Pants

These pants come with a durable and breathable softshell fabric. It will offer windproof and weather-resistant protection. They also feature an adjustable waistband and articulated knees for added comfort and freedom of movement.

Pros And Cons Of REI Activator 3.0 Softshell Pants

  • Pros: Durable and breathable softshell fabric, windproof and weather-resistant protection, adjustable waistband, articulated knees.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

5. Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants

These pants are crafted from a lightweight and durable fabric. It is breathable and waterproof for all-weather protection. They come with an adjustable waistband, multiple pockets, and articulated knees for increased comfort.

Pros And Cons Of Arc’teryx Gamma LT Pants

  • Pros: Lightweight and durable fabric, breathable and waterproof for all-weather protection, adjustable waistband, multiple pockets, articulated knees.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

6. Mountain Equipment Ibex/Chamois Pants

These pants are designed with a waterproof membrane and fully taped seams. It will keep you dry and comfortable in any weather. They also come with an adjustable waistband and articulated knees. It will add comfort and freedom of movement.

Pros And Cons Of Mountain Equipment Ibex/Chamois Pants

  • Pros: Waterproof membrane, fully taped seams, adjustable waistband, articulated knees.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

7. Black Diamond Alpine Softshell Pants

These pants are made from a lightweight stretch fabric. It is water-resistant and breathable for superior protection in harsh climates. They feature a drawstring waist for an adjustable fit and multiple pockets for extra storage.

Pros And Cons Of Black Diamond Alpine Softshell Pants

  • Pros: Lightweight stretch fabric, water-resistant and breathable for superior protection, drawstring waist, multiple pockets.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

8.Marmot Scree Softshell Pants

These pants are made with a lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant fabric. It will be helpful for optimal protection in wet climates. They come with an adjustable waistband and articulated knees for added comfort and freedom of movement.

Pros And Cons Of Marmot Scree Softshell Pants

  • Pros: Lightweight, breathable, water-resistant fabric, adjustable waistband, articulated knees.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

9. Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants

These pants are constructed with a durable and breathable softshell fabric. It is windproof and weather-resistant. They feature an adjustable waistband and articulated knees. It enhanced comfort and mobility.

Pros And Cons Of Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants

  • Pros: Durable and breathable softshell fabric, windproof and weather-resistant, adjustable waistband, articulated knees.
  • Cons: Not as warm as other materials.

10. Patagonia Altvia Alpine Pants

These pants are made from a lightweight and abrasion-resistant fabric. This will provide superior protection in extreme climates. They come with an adjustable waistband and elastic cuffs for an adjustable fit.

Pros And Cons Of Patagonia Altvia Alpine Pants

  • Pros: Lightweight and abrasion-resistant fabric, adjustable waistband, elastic cuffs for an adjustable fit.
  • Cons: Not as waterproof as other materials.

These pants are well-suited for winter activities. They will keep you warm and protected from the wind and snow. It will also provide excellent breathability. The adjustable waistband is ideal for easy adjusting. 

It provides fit to your pants to provide maximum comfort and mobility. These pants are great if you’re looking for a lightweight, waterproof option for your winter activities.

Buying Tips For Best Pants For Hiking In Snow

1. Material:

You should choose a fabric that is water-resistant, breathable, and windproof. It will keep you warm and dry in cold weather.

2. Fit:

You should look for pants with an adjustable waistband and articulated knees. It increased mobility and comfort.

3. Extras:

You should also consider additional features such as pockets or drawstrings. It will provide extra storage and adjustability.

4. Durability:

Make sure the material is durable enough to withstand harsh climates without wearing out quickly.

5. Price: 

Shop around to find a pair of pants. It will fit your budget while still providing quality protection against the elements.

6. Insulation:

Choose a pair of pants that is insulated. It will help keep you warm in cold conditions. It will also prevent overheating when temperatures rise.

7. DWR coating:

Look for pants with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. This will help protect you against moisture and wet climates.

8. Seams:

Choose a pair of pants with reinforced seams that are taped or welded to prevent water from seeping in.

9. Ventilation:

Look for pants with zippered leg openings and vents. It will allow air circulation to help regulate body temperature during hikes.

10. Guarantee:

Always check for a warranty and return policy before buying. It will give you peace of mind if something doesn’t fit or isn’t up to quality standards.

Ultimately, the best hiking pants for snow will depend on your individual needs. Make sure to consider all factors before making your purchase so that you can find the perfect fit!

By following these tips, you will be able to find the best pants for hiking in the snow. Make sure to try them on before purchasing. In this way, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises when it comes time to use them!

FAQs

What Pants Are Suitable For Hiking In Winter?

Pants that are waterproof, breathable, and windproof are best for winter hiking. Additionally, they should have an adjustable waistband and articulated knees. It will provide greater mobility and comfort.

What Is The Best Fabric For Winter Hiking Pants?

A lightweight softshell is typically the best choice for winter hiking pants. It is waterproof and breathable.

Are Lined Pants Better For Cold Weather?

Yes, pants lined with a warm, insulating material such as fleece or down can help keep you warm in cold temperatures. However, they may not be as waterproof as non-lined pants.

Do I Need Insulated Pants For Snow Hiking?

Insulated pants can provide additional warmth in cold temperatures. However, they may not be as waterproof as non-insulated pants. If you are looking for extra warmth, pair your insulated pants with a warm base layer and an outer shell.

What Should I Wear For A Cold Winter Hike?

It is best to wear layers of clothing for a cold winter hike. Wear a base layer made from moisture-wicking fabric. For insulation, you should also add additional layers, such as fleece or wool. A waterproof, breathable outer layer such as snow pants or a parka is also recommended. Cover your head, hands, and feet with warm accessories such as hats, gloves, and boots.

Conclusion:

Finding the best pants for hiking in the snow can be a challenge. It is important to choose a fabric that is waterproof, breathable, and windproof. It will keep you warm and dry in cold climates. I suggested some of the top best pants for hiking in snow in this article. It will be helpful.