Waterproof hiking pants are the eventual destination of every hiker’s search for great outdoor clothing. Granted, they may not be the right answer to every situation, but when you need them they’re invaluable!
Waterproof pants can keep you dry, happy, and safe during dangerous shoulder-season weather. They’re a must-have when temps linger dangerously low but liquid precipitation is in the forecast.We’ll jump straight into the best waterproof hiking pants available today to get you started. Additionally, at the end of the article, we’ll cover all the technical details you need to know about waterproof hiking pants.Be sure to stick around for all the details!
Quick NavigationBest Waterproof Hiking Pants 2020Waterproof Pants for BackpackingWaterproof Pants for Day HikesWhen do you need waterproof pants?What to Consider When Buying Waterproof PantsFAQs
Comparison Chart
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Name |
Price |
Weight |
Rating |
Notes |
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$$$ |
12 oz |
Lightweight men’s rain pants are perfect for hiking, climbing, cycling, and other activities where rain is a concern |
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$$$ |
na |
OMNI-TECH: Our proprietary technology provides air-permeable protection that’s waterproof and breathable |
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FROGG TOGGS Men’s Classic Pro Action  |
$$$ |
na |
Frogg Toggs Pro Action Pant is a rain pant perfect for hunting, fishing, jogging, hiking, biking, camping and more outdoor activities |
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REI Co-op Essential Rain Pants
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$$$ |
na |
2.5-layer shell pants provide lightweight, breathable performance with fully sealed seams for complete waterproof protection |
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$$$ |
na |
2.5-layer GORE-TEX® PACLITE® stretch fabric offers waterproof/breathable protection; C0 PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish repels moisture and stains |
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$$$ |
na |
Material: The hiking pants are made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex, which are waterproof, windproof, abrasion resistant,no pilling and breathable. |
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REI Co-op Rainier Full-Zip Rain Pants
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$$$ |
na |
Developed by REI Co-op, Peak 2.5-layer recycled ripstop nylon shell shields you from rain and wind to 60+ MPH, while staying breathable and dry on the inside |
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$$$ |
13.2 oz |
Lightweight and compact N40r GORE-TEX® PACLITE® Plus reinforced with N150p GORE-TEX PACLITE Plus provides waterproof, breathable protection |
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Tofern Womens Winter Softshell Pants  |
$$$ |
na |
Material: 94% Polyester and 6% Spandex outer layer. TPU membrane. Polar fleece lining. Super warm, waterproof (10000mm), windproof, breathable, elastic, scratch-resistant and moisture wicking (MVP5000+) |
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 |
$$$ |
na |
Breathable – The fabric allows perspiration to pass out of the garment, keeping you cool and comfortable. Rated at 1,500mm |
Best Waterproof Hiking Pants 2020
Waterproof Pants for Backpacking
1. Marmot PreCip Pants
Marmot’s PreCip pants earn the top spot on our list. Why? They’re time-tested, well-loved, and affordable.Marmot’s new PreCip pants are actually made with waterproof/breathable NanoPro fabric according to the manufacturer. That’s a huge upgrade from the original PU-coated non-breathable pants we’re used to.These pants have a full-length side zipper so they’re easy to slip your shoes or boots in and out. To keep things comfy while you’re hiking the elastic waist prevents the need for a belt. There are zippered side pockets and a back pocket as well.These pants are best for going over shorts or pants underneath. They’re ideal for backpacking in shoulder-season weather and thanks to their prestigious history and the reasonable price they take the top place on our list.
Ladies, you can find the women’s version of these pants as well!
PROS
- Full length zipper
- Long product life
- Reasonable price
CONS
- Mid-range breathability
- Clammy during warmer weather
2. Columbia Women’s Storm Surge
If you’ve read my articles for very long, you know by now that I love Columbia for its practicality and price. With the Storm Surge pants, this trend continues in affordable, effective waterproof women’s pants.These pants are constructed with a waterproof nylon shell. Inside, you’ll find a polyester mesh. This helps keep your skin separate from the waterproof coating which can otherwise be sticky and damp on warm days. This is a big plus in terms of the comfort factor.While they’re quite affordable, they do come with a drawback. These rain pants lack a boot zipper so you’ll have to take off your shoes/boots to put them on.Other than that, they’re a very affordable and reliable pair of waterproof hiking pants for women. These make a top choice for occasional use or those just getting started on a budget.
PROS
- Affordable
- Polyester liner
CONS
- No boot zipper
3. FROGG TOGGS Men’s Classic Pro Action
Let’s be clear if Columbia is the king of value, Frogg Toggs is the kind of absolute affordability. Their gear has become famous thanks to the low price and functionality.These oversized pants are made to slide right down over anything you’re wearing. That includes your shoes or boots, no zippers needed. The elastic waist also features a drawcord to fit a range of sizes. Keep in mind, however, that over time this drawcord can be uncomfortable when riding underneath a backpack hip belt.While the pants are simple, effective, and cheap they’re certainly not durable. Without a doubt, the biggest drawback of the Frogg Togg fiber fabric is that it won’t hold up well against sticks, rock, and abrasions. Of course, of the price, it’s not a big deal and proponents love that the material can be easily repaired with duct tape.If you’re looking for rock bottom price and simple features, this is a solid contender.
Note that the Frogg Toggs pants do come in both men’s and women’s models though they’re so baggy it probably doesn’t make much difference either way.
PROS
- Very inexpensive
- Easy to repair
CONS
- Low durability
- Baggy fit
4. REI Co-op Essential Rain Pants
I think we’d be a little remiss not to mention the in-house REI brand rain pants. REI has been carrying and making great outdoor gear for decades and their in-house brand is a major competitor these days.I’m a big fan of the flat elastic waistband. Because there’s no drawcord they’re comfy but be sure to order the right size for you.These pants are seam-taped for waterproofness. They’re constructed from 2.5-layer waterproof breathable nylon fabric. As far as style goes, they’re available in exactly one color – black.Between the articulated knees and the generous boot cuff zippers, they’ve got room to move. These are a serious competitor to the Marmot PreCip and you can rest assured your local REI carries them so you can try them on in-store which is a bonus to be sure they fit.Men’s versions are available here.
PROS
- Available at REI stores
- Breathable
CONS
- Breathability may not be great
5. Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2
If you’ve got the budget for it, the Mountain Hardwear Exposure rain pants are pretty awesome. These pants ditch affordability in favor of style, durability, and comfort.Mountain Hardwear is known for its slim fit, long garments. These aren’t your typical baggy rain pants. They’re made with Gore-Tex Paclite and elastane. That means they’re lightweight, stretchy, and fitted.These pants are, of course, fully seam taped. They pack down into one of their own pockets and are loaded with features. Zips at the leg, drawstring adjustable waist, and articulated knees power these pants to a pretty high level of quality.They are breathable and treated with DWR so be sure to keep that DWR coating fresh often for maximum breathability.
PROS
- GoreTex Paclite
- High-end breathability
CONS
- DWR needs to be maintained
- High price tag
Waterproof Pants for Day Hikes
6. BenBoy Men’s Hiking Pants
Waterproof pants you can wear all day without having to put over other clothes? Yep. These are the do-it-all solution.Made from a water-resistant blend of polyester and spandex, these pants fit and move with you.I have to say upfront, however, that the manufacturer was not abundantly clear about the technical specs on these pants. They’re likely to be highly water-resistant but maybe not waterproof in a torrent.That said, some breathability makes for a better all-day choice. Hiking all day in fully waterproof pants can get clammy, sweaty, and uncomfortable. With reinforced knees and durable polyester, they’re a great hiking/scrambling choice to stay dry during day hike cloudbursts.They’re available in several nice colors and the style is very modern.
PROS
- Stretchy for high movement
- Highly breathable
CONS
- Won’t stay dry in prolonged rain
7. REI Co-op Rainier Full-Zip Rain Pants
Full-zip rain pants are a great way to easily pop on weather protection over any garments. When you’re out for a day hike and the weather goes from showers to sun you gotta be able to keep pace.There’s no doubt that full-zip pants are the most flexible option for rain protection. Those large full-length zippers, however, aren’t the most packable option and they add quite a bit of weight for lightweight backpackers. That’s why they excel on day hikes where weight doesn’t matter as much.Like most of the REI in-house rain gear, it’s made from 2.5-layer breathable laminate. Another performance upgrade is that the shell is constructed from 4-way stretch fabric. Perfect for mobility.One of my favorite aspects of these pants is that they’re made from recycled nylon.
PROS
- Recycled shell material
- Breathable
CONS
- Heavy/bulky
8. Arc’teryx Beta SL Pants
Let’s keep going with the full-zip rain pants. Since we’re still in day-hiking mode we can get away with a little extra bulk and weight.While the REI Rainier pants are a solid option, they just don’t hold a candle to the Beta SL. Why? Arc’teryx loaded these up with features.First of all, I think the built-in flat webbing belt is perfect for hiking or backpacking. They also used different thicknesses of Paclite waterproof fabric throughout the pants. This keeps weight low while reinforcing high-abuse areas.There are also cuff adjustments and lace clips for hooking up to alpine boots (if that applies to you).Of course, this all comes with one big hangup. These pants, like most of Arc’teryx’s line, will cost you a pretty penny to add to your wardrobe.
PROS
- Perfectly flat waist seam
- Adjustable cuffs
CONS
- Price tag
9. Tofern Womens Winter Softshell Pants
This option changes things up in a big way. Waterproof softshell pants combine some of the best of both worlds. Softshell pants are flexible and soft, easy to wear all day. Thanks to the flexibility they make a good choice for day hiking.Beware, however, that these pants are loaded up with fleece insulation. They’re great for winter day hikes or late spring and early fall hikes. Leave these at home during the warm months, though!They are listed as waterproof breathable from the manufacturer. How they managed to pack in all these features at such a low price tag is beyond me, but it’s definitely a value pick.Without a doubt, these pants have the most color and style options of any on our list. They’re available in 8 different colors when most waterproof pants are only available in black.
PROS
- Affordable
- Tons of style options
CONS
- Quality may be sacrificed for affordability
10. Mountain Warehouse Pakka
Last on our list is a pair of waterproof hiking pants that are so minimalist and affordable they can’t be ignored.If you’re on a shoestring budget these are your pants. They’re made from 100% nylon with an IsoDry membrane that’s rated to allow breathability.In all honesty, at this price point, I wouldn’t expect much in terms of breathability. In my experience, inexpensive breathable garments tend not to keep up in terms of performance compared to top-end competitors. They are seam taped but you may want to double-check that they’re seam taped well when you get your garment (as you should with any waterproof garment).It’s worth noting that these pants lack cuff zippers so you’ll have to take off your shoes or boots to put them on.
PROS
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight/packable
CONS
- May sacrifice performance for price
- No boot zippers
When do you need waterproof pants?
I think that perhaps too often waterproof pants are an assumed necessity. There are many times where waterproof pants are needed on the trail. On the other hand, however, there are situations where the waterproof pants can be left behind. Other times they could be better replaced by an alternative.Waterproof pants are best used during the shoulder seasons. During these times of the year (such as early spring or late fall in North America) temperatures hover dangerously low at times. Yet still, the weather is warm enough to dump rain from the sky instead of snow. Getting wet when temperatures are low can be life-threatening and waterproof pants are a necessity!During the winter months waterproof pants are also a necessity. However, most often waterproof winter pants come in the form of snow pants or other winter gear. For those hearty enough to go snowshoeing or hiking in the winter months, however, large waterproof breathable pants can be great.Be sure to get pants big enough to layer over whatever winter gear you’re wearing when needed. Don’t forget, however, that even breathable waterproof pants won’t let out all of your sweat. Layer down to prevent soaking your clothing with sweat.Remember that wet feet during these cold shoulder season months can lead to non-freezing cold injuries or “immersion foot”.
When do you not need waterproof pants?
During the summer when temperatures are high you can often forego the waterproof pants. If the thermometer is running high and overnight lows are sure to be almost as warm as the summer days then waterproof pants can probably stay at home. Somewhere like the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina during the warm days of July is a place where waterproof pants could probably be left behind.Remember, however, that just because the weather is warm when you leave for your trip that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. Temperatures can change fast, especially at elevation. If you have any questions at all about whether or not to take rain gear, be sure to take it. It’s a case of better safe than sorry.
What to Consider When Buying Waterproof Pants
Materials
Waterproof pants can be made from a wide variety of fabrics. While it’s possible to make great waterproof garments from more than one fabric, knowing how they work can help you decide which one is best for you.
Nylon
Nylon is durable and affordable. Ripstop nylon is a staple of outdoor gear thanks to its ruggedness. Many affordable garments are made from nylon fabric coated with waterproof materials such as polyurethane.
Polyester
Polyester is very similar to nylon in qualities. It can be found used in place of nylon on many waterproof garments in the outdoor world.
Waterproof breathable
Waterproof breathable garments are made from several layers of material. Of these, the outermost layer is usually nylon or polyester. Each manufacturer uses different membranes either proprietary or in-house to achieve that waterproof breathable combination. Today you can get good waterproof breathable gear from many manufacturers under many different brand names.
Dyneema Composite
Dyneema composite is also known as cuben fiber is a space-age material that leads the way in ultralight backpacking. This material is incredibly lightweight yet fully waterproof. It can be “welded” together instead of sewn and features many other substantial advantages. Among the drawbacks, however, are the price, low durability, and lack of breathability.
Durable Water Repellent
Commonly known as DWR this spray or wash-in coating helps shed water. Its primary function is to prevent the “wetting out” of the shell layer on waterproof breathable garments.When waterproof breathable garments get soaked or wetted out they lose the ability to breathe. DWR helps water bead up and roll off instead of soaking into the outer shell of fabric thereby preserving the breathability.For non-breathable garments, DWR coatings have little benefit. Instead, non-breathable garments that are leaking should be properly repaired.
Repairing Waterproof Pants
Waterproof pants that have seen better days need some repairs.By far the easiest and most effective way to repair most waterproof breathable garments is with a silnylon patch. It should be noted that this won’t work on dyneema composite and instead a repair patch for that specific material should be used.Patches can be used on rips, tears, or holes.To repair garments using a silnylon patch:
- 1Cut a piece of silnylon fabric 3/4″ larger than the hole or tear in your garment.
- 2Clean and dry the area to be repaired.
- 3Apply silicone seam sealer around the tear or hole.
- 4Press the silnylon fabric patch into place using the seam sealer as “glue”.
- 5Press the repair between two heavy books until dry.
- 6Use wax paper to prevent the silicone from adhering to the books or other surfaces until dry.
Most garments using a polyester or nylon shell should take this type of patching easily.If your garment is beginning to leak at the seams, then they’ll require seam sealing. Waterproof breathable garments come from the factory with seam-taped stitching. Sometimes this seam sealing fails though.In order to seam seal your garment:
- 1Remove the peeling seam tape.
- 2Use silicone seam sealer.
- 3Dilute if necessary.
- 4Stretch your garment out so the seam is spread taut (don’t overapply pressure).
- 5Brush on seam sealer to the inside of the garment seam in question.
- 6Keep the seam stretched taut until silicone dries to the touch.
Diluting the seam sealer sometimes helps the silicone penetrate the stitching for a better repair. See this video for more on seam sealing using silicone.
Waterproof Pants Weight
For backpackers, weight matters all the time. In fact, it’s a huge topic of discussion among dedicated backpackers. Of course, for shorter day hike weight may not matter as much or at all.What I find is that on casual hikes I’m willing to carry heavier or bulkier items than I would when heading out for a 7-day trip. For this reason, day hikers can get away with a lot larger leeway in choosing what types of waterproof pants make the most sense to add to the gear bag.When it comes to weight in the pack you just can’t beat Dyneema composite. This gear is super expensive, however, and you won’t find it on Amazon or at REI. You’ll have to look for custom-made Dyneema composite gear from small shops like Gossamer Gear, Zpacks, and Mountain Laurel Designs.If you’re on a budget it’s still possible to get reasonably lightweight gear. Most big-name manufacturers have lightweight options in their lineup. You’ll still pay a good bit, but it may be a better balance of value for some to go this route rather than Dyneema composite gear.When you’re pinching pennies and really going for some of the least expensive gear out there, you really can’t be too optimistic about the price. Most low-end gear is moderately heavy to extremely heavy when compared to ultralight alternatives. However, if weight isn’t a concern, then by all means save yourself some cash.
Waterproof Pants Features to Look For
Depending on how much you want to spend waterproof pants can come loaded with features or with none at all. Not all features are worth paying for, though. Here are some of the more helpful features you can find on waterproof pants.
Vent Zips
Vent zips are common on waterproof winter gear. Once in awhile, you’ll see them on 3-season gear as well. These zippers on the inside of the thigh are a great way to let off steam without getting wet.
Flat Waistbands
Flat waistbands can be harder to find than you might think. Many manufacturers produce pants with gathered material at the waist or with a drawcord for adjustability. Anything that’s not perfectly flat can be a place for potential hotspots, blisters, and sores when you put a backpack hip belt over it and walk for 15 miles a day. For backpacking look for the flattest waistband possible.
Boot Zippers
Boot zippers are a must-have for switching pants in the field. Waterproof pants without boot zippers mean you have to take off your footwear in order to put on the pants. When the rain sneaks up on you and you’re trying to get your rain pants on in a hurry the last thing you want is to be fumbling with your boots!
Full-length Zippers
Full-length zippers are awesome because you can easily slip in and out of your rain gear. They come with the drawback of adding a pretty substantial amount of weight to the overall garment, however. For those looking at ultralight options, full-length zippers are pretty much out of the question.
Price and Value
For backpackers, priorities range across the board. Some of us want to look suave. Others want the lightest possible gear, no questions asked. Yet others may want to stand out with a colorful option. Assuming everyone wants the lightest gear isn’t necessarily true.In my experience, there’s a point of diminishing returns on waterproof gear for the average backpacker. While spending bottom dollar won’t net you the nicest gear on the market, sometimes it’s enough, and spending more can be overkill. Likewise, spending through the nose for this year’s winner of the “Outdoor Gear of the Year” award is probably not necessary for the majority of hikers and backpackers either.When you take a serious look at your personal budget, how much weight you’re willing to carry in your pack, how well you take care of your gear, and what you’re asking your waterproof pants to do for you then you’ll get closer to finding the right pair for you. There are plenty of successful thru-hikers, section hikers, and weekend warriors who have achieved great success with extremely modest gear. The legendary Grandma Gatewood famously completed the Appalachian Trail using a shower curtain. Don’t get caught up in the gear hype just for the sake of the latest and greatest gadgets.Note: I’m not endorsing the use of shower curtains in place of appropriately chosen rain gear for outdoor pursuits.
FAQs
Are waterproof pants also windproof?
Yes. All waterproof pants are also inherently windproof.Windproof pants are not, however, always waterproof.This is why many lightweight backpackers will use one set of pants – their rain pants – as both rain and wind protection. It kills two birds with one stone in most cases.One benefit of windproof pants is that they tend to be quite a bit lighter and less “stuffy” than rain gear. For that reason, windproof pants still remain popular with some backpackers.
Are all waterproof pants seam-sealed?
Nope. I’ve seen too many times pants labeled as “rain gear” or “waterproof” that just aren’t sealed at all. This problem is primarily found with super low-end gear from cheap no-name manufacturers. If you choose to go with very inexpensive rain gear, be sure to double-check that it is in fact seam sealed.Seam sealing comes in two forms. Either the seams will be taped or sealed with silicone applications.Even factory-taped seams often don’t last more than a few hard seasons of use. Seam tape has a nasty habit of peeling off after time and once it starts the garment will begin leaking.
What’s the difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
Waterproof garments are (or should be) fully water occlusive. Water-resistant pants, on the other hand, can include any degree of water repellency.There are really no clear restrictions on what manufacturers can call “water-resistant”. Technically even a cotton t-shirt is water-resistant because it takes longer for water to get to you with that on than it would without it. Of course, in reality, a cotton t-shirt isn’t water-resistant at all.While few, if any, manufacturers are guilty of that exact misleading statement many are guilty of calling things water-resistant that simply aren’t designed to repel water at all.Water repellent garments should be constructed with materials or coatings to help repel water at least for a while. If the manufacturer is unclear or provides no specifications to back up their claims then skepticism is probably warranted.
How durable does my rain gear need to be?
Depends on how you use it.If you’re hiking on a maintained trail in modest weather then you can get away with light, finicky rain gear. Dyneema composite rain pants would do just fine here.On the other hand, if you’re bushwhacking through untracked expanses of knee-high scrub and briars, Frogg Togg rain pants won’t last more than 10 minutes before they look like they went through an industrial shredder.Like all other outdoor gear, understanding how they’re made and knowing the limits of your waterproof pants is a must. If you subject your gear to scraping and scrambling on rocks and thru rough brush then you’ll want to spend a little more on something durable and beefy.For the on-trail ultralight speed hiker, however, an extremely lightweight and minimalist approach may be more appropriate.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, you can spend $10 on disposable rain pants at Walmart of $600 on the latest and greatest tech from the leading company. Which option is right for you we can’t say. Instead, I’ve tried to illustrate some of the differences between waterproof hiking pants.Now that you know, you can look around and find out what’s the best pick for you! I’ve included a wide range of modest options for the average hiker or backpacker on our list.Remember that the best rain gear will be chosen based on when, how, and where you plan to use it.Happy trails and stay safe out there!
