Best_Mountaineering_Pants

The mountains are a great place to escape into nature. But as you begin to explore even more terrain, you may find yourself climbing higher and higher, which means that you’ll start to face more challenging conditions. It also means that you’ll need to invest in a pair of the best mountaineering pants to keep you safe from trail and weather conditions. 

While you may have a pair of your favorite hiking pants, they won’t provide the protection you’ll need from the elements. Mountaineering trousers are tougher and more durable than hiking pants, which makes them perfect for shielding your body against the sun, snow, wind, and rain. They also come in a variety of sizes and style to fit both men and women. 

We want you to find a pair of top rated pants for mountaineering, so we have made a list of the ten best mountaineering pants and included a comprehensive buying guide. With our help and guidance, you can feel confident that your alpine climbing pants will provide you with maximum protection as you climb new peaks.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Columbia Rebel Roamer Mountaineering Pants

Columbia Rebel Roamer Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

Featuring the brand’s signature Omni-Tech fabric, the Columbia Rebel Roamer Mountaineering Pants provide you with air-permeable protection to keep Mother Nature on the outside. The fabric is fully waterproof, and seam sealed, but also breathable so that your sweat can evaporate. For extra comfort, the fabric also features soft nylon and elastane so that these mountaineering softshell pants can flex as you need. 

For better functionality, the waterproof mountaineering pants also feature two side zippered pockets and two back pockets so that you can keep small gear items close at hand. Velcro pant cuffs can also be adjusted for a better fit or cinched tight to help seal out the weather. An elastic waist is more comfortable to wear, but when you choose the right size, it is still snug enough to ensure the pants stay in place around your waist.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Made with Columbia’s Omni-Tech fabric
  • Waterproof with sealed seams, but also breathable
  • Flexible to move with your body
  • Functional with multiple pockets
  • Adjustable pant cuffs
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Weight: 11.5 ounces
Material: Nylon, elastane, taffeta
Sizes: Men’s X-Small to X-Large
Colors: Black or Collegiate Navy

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Arctix Men’s Cargo Mountaineering Pants

Arctix Men’s Cargo Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

Built with ThermaTech insulation, the Arctix Men’s Snow Cargo Mountaineering Pants were designed to be used in the coldest locations and lowest temperatures. The insulation is light in weight at 85 grams, so that it reduces the bulk but keeps you warm. The outer layer of the pants is made with a durable polyester dobby shell with a DWR finish, which repels water from its surface and keeps you dry. 

For comfort, there are articulated knees, which provides you with an unrestricted range of motion for climbing, hiking, and snowshoeing. The adjustable waist is another helpful feature, which ensures a proper and comfortable fit. Other useful features include hand warmer pockets, a zipper fly, and belt loops. With a machine washable material, taking care of these alpine climbing pants has never been so easy.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • ThermaTech insulation for use in the coldest locations
  • Lightweight and less bulky
  • Exterior features a DWR finish to repel water
  • Adjustable waist for comfort
  • Machine washable for easy care
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Weight: 2.45 pounds
Material: Polyester dobby
Sizes: Men’s Medium to 2X-Large
Colors: 16 options

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3

BEST VALUE

BenBoy Women’s Fleece Mountaineering Pants

BenBoy Women’s Fleece Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

Made with a blend of polyester and Spandex, the BenBoy Women’s Outdoor Waterproof Fleece Mountaineering Pants are waterproof, windproof, and comfortable. The durable materials will keep you safe and warm from the harsh elements, while also being long lasting due to their resistance to abrasions. A fleece lining is provided for additional comfort and helps keep you warm in cold temperatures. 

A slim fit makes the pants more stylish and less bulky so that you don’t feel held down or restrained. Knee darts increase your range of motion and ensure that your waterproof climbing pants can endure a variety of dynamic activities. Zippered cargo pockets on the thighs will keep your essential gear close by while traditional side pockets can be used to warm your hands. For a better fit, these mountaineering trousers also come with a lightweight belt.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Waterproof, windproof, and comfortable
  • Long lasting and resistant to abrasions
  • Slim fit eliminates bulk
  • Suitable for dynamic activities
  • Comes with a lightweight belt
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Polyester, Spandex
Sizes: Women’s X-Small to Large
Colors: 11 options

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4

Gash Hao Men’s Waterproof Softshell Mountaineering Pants

Gash Hao Men’s Waterproof Softshell Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

The Gash Hao Men’s Waterproof Softshell Mountaineering Pants have a multi-functional design that combines a softshell layer with a special film to make the material completely wind and waterproof. The film covered the knees to make this sensitive area more durable. The softshell fabric covers the rest of the pants and extends up to the waist to provide more stretch for a comfortable fit. 

For convenience, the bottom of the pants also have zippers around the ankles, which can be unzipped to accommodate your mountaineering boots and make them easier to put on your feet. Durable zippers are also featured in the two side pockets and fly. A small button secures the pants and keeps them snug on your body, but belt loops are also included in case you need to further adjust the fit.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Multi-functional design with a softshell layer
  • Completely wind and waterproof
  • Reinforced knees
  • Bottom zippers for convenience
  • Adjustable waist
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Polyester, fleece
Sizes: Women’s 30W x 28L to 42W x 32L
Colors: Black or Grey

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5

TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Mountaineering Pants

TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

Designed to make you feel cool and comfortable, the TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Quick Dry Mountaineering Pants are made with a quick dry polyester fiber, which repels water to stop you from being soaked by the rain. A light fleece lining keeps you warm and makes these pants suitable for cold or windy weather. With less thickness, the fleece lining still has a slim fit and appearance. 

The elastic waist is stretchy so that you aren’t too constricted by the fabric, but also includes a belt in case you do need a smaller fit. The adjustable waist also makes these softshell pants for mountaineering suitable for indoor use. The large pockets can be used to hold your personal belongings or as a hand warmer to prevent stiff fingers. Plus, these mountaineering trousers come in multiple sizes so that you can find the perfect fit.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Makes you feel cool and comfortable
  • Quick dry feature repels water
  • Light fleece lining for a slim fit
  • Elastic waist with belt included
  • Large pockets
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Polyester fiber, Spandex
Sizes: Men’s Small to XX-Large
Colors: 9 options

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6

Tru-Spec Men’s 24-7 Xpedition Mountaineering Pants

Tru-Spec Men’s 24-7 Xpedition Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

Comfort is a key feature of the Tru-Spec Men’s 24-7 Xpedition Mountaineering Pants, which feature a gusseted inseam and articulated knees for better ease of movement. The gusset design also adds reinforcements to weak areas like the crotch, thigh, and knees. With reinforced and double layered fabric, these areas are less prone to wear so that your alpine climbing pants last for longer. 

For ventilation, the legs also have a double zipper opening and mesh lining, which can be unzipped to let a breeze cool you down. On cold days, you can keep the zipper closed so that the light fleece lining insulates your ankles from low temperatures. A special pocket is also designed to hold pocket knives or similar tools because of the secure hidden snap closure that keeps your tools safe.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Comfortable with gusseted inseam and articulated knees
  • Reinforced and double layer fabric
  • Leg zipper openings provide ventilation
  • Light fleece lining
  • Special pocket for small tools
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Weight: 1.9 pounds
Materials: Polyester, cotton
Sizes: Men’s 28W x 30L to 44w x 34L
Colors: 9 options

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7

TRAILSIDE SUPPLY CO. Men’s Insulated Softshell Mountaineering Pants

TRAILSIDE SUPPLY CO. Men’s Insulated Softshell Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

A Durable Water Repellent treatment on the TRAILSIDE SUPPLY CO. Men’s Insulated Softshell Mountaineering Pants ensures that the material is impermeable to any wet weather conditions. The DWR treatment also ensures that the fabric remains lightweight and breathable, while providing you with maximum protection. A fleece lined interior ensures you have next to skin comfort and a light layer of warmth. 

The regular fit is slimming and has a straight leg so that these pants can be used for everyday and casual activities or rugged adventures on the mountain. The waist is also slimming with side elastic and thin belt loops to ensure that there isn’t any unnecessary bulk getting in the way. With multiple secure hand pockets on the sides and back, you can also stay organized on every trip.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • DWR treated material is impermeable
  • Fabric is lightweight and breathable
  • Next to skin comfort with a fleece lining
  • Slimming fit with straight leg
  • Secure hand pockets keep gear organized
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Polyester, Spandex
Sizes: Men’s S to 4XL
Colors: 9 options

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8

Jessie Kidden Waterproof Softshell Winter Mountaineering Pants

Jessie Kidden Waterproof Softshell Winter Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

The Jessie Kidden Waterproof Shoftshell Winter Mountaineering Pants features a slim fit for better insulation that stops the cold from seeping inside. With less flowing fabric, the pants can better protect your legs against frigid temperatures, while still being comfortable and flexible for dynamic movements. With more elasticity, you will have more freedom of movement to participate in activities like hiking, climbing, and mountaineering.

A three-stage waterproof treatment has also been applied to the polyester fabric, which stops water from penetrating the material. A warm fleece layer helps you lock in the heat and provides additional protection against the cold. These softshell pants for mountaineering also feature zipper pockets, elastic in the waist, and belt loops for more versatility as you venture through the peaks.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Slim fit provides better insulation
  • Comfortable and flexible
  • More elasticity for better freedom of movement
  • Three-stage waterproof treatment keeps you dry
  • Versatile for various outdoor activities
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Polyester, Spandex
Sizes: Men’s 30-40
Colors: 9 options

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9

Columbia Women’s Modern Snow 2.0 Mountaineering Pants

Columbia Women’s Modern Snow 2.0 Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

With the Columbia Women’s Modern Snow 2.0 Mountaineering Pants, you won’t have to struggle to find the right size if you’re a woman. These softshell pants for mountaineering have been sized to fit the female form and provide you with the brand’s signature water repellent Omni-Shield technology. The nylon material helps keep you warm but allows sweat to evaporate so that you don’t overheat. 

Further comfort is provided by the internal leg gaiter and snap gusset, which makes these pants easy to put on and use with your boots. An adjustable waist is more comfortable and can help you find the proper fit. With more durability, the seams have been reinforced and there is a cuff guard to ensure that your pants stay like new even as you trudge through the snow.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Designed for women with a better fit
  • Uses the signature Omni-Shield technology to keep you dry and warm
  • Internal leg gaiter and snap gusset for comfort
  • Durable construction
  • Suitable for use in snow
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Weight: 2 pounds
Material: Polyester
Sizes: Women’s X-Small to X-Large
Colors: 18 options

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10

bOutdoor Ventures Women’s Sleek Softshell High Rise Mountaineering Pants

bOutdoor Ventures Women’s Sleek Softshell High Rise Mountaineering Pants


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Summary

With two different waist options, you can customize the comfort of your Outdoor Ventures Women’s Sleek Softshell High Rise Mountaineering Pants to suit your body and its needs. One design uses an elastic waist, which is more snug fitting and the other has a Velcro waist that can be tightened or loosened. Both designs do have a high rise waist, which means you are provided with full coverage. 

The pant legs have a bootcut style, which makes them more comfortable to use with tall boots. Bottom zippers can also assist you and make it easier to put on or take off your footwear. The pants are made out of a durable polyester material with a small percentage of Spandex for flexibility. But the polyester provides you with a waterproof and windproof shell, which keeps you safe from the winter elements.

  • What Makes This Mountaineering Pants Stand Out
  • Two different waist options – elastic or Velcro
  • High rise fit provides more coverage
  • Bootcut style flares out for comfort
  • Easily wear with tall boots
  • Waterproof and windproof shell
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Polyester, Spandex
Sizes: Women’s 00-16
Colors: 10 options

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How To Choose A Pair Of Mountaineering Pants – Buying Guide

How_To_Choose_Mountaineering_Pants

Softshell vs. Hardshell

Top rated pants for mountaineering are often separated by two types – softshell and hardshell. Softshell pants for mountaineering are often more flexible and less rigid than a mountaineering hardshell pant design. Softshell designs are still protective against the elements and should be water repellent and windproof, but also breathable. For climbers who wish to feel less restricted and need greater flexibility, softshell is the best choice. 

However, mountaineering hardshell pants are designed for extreme locations where you will face the harshest elements. Hardshell designs are often fully waterproof, windproof, and have a high abrasion resistance. They are better for adventurers who are spending long times in the outdoors and in rugged locations. The downside is that hardshell ice climbing pants will be less flexible and stiffer, which may be uncomfortable for some adventurers. 

Material

When it comes to choosing the best pants for mountaineering, you should always look for synthetic materials over natural materials. When you need strong protection against harsh weather conditions, the problem with natural materials like cotton is that they aren’t durable and can become quickly soaked. 

Synthetic materials are longer lasting because they are more durable, and they will provide you with excellent protection against wet weather or strong winds. However, synthetics don’t always stretch, so you’ll often find that the best mountaineering pants are a blend of a non-stretchable synthetic and Spandex. 

Durability

Whether you’re reading the best climbing books to plan your next adventure, or you have a specific peak set as your destination, you need your alpine climbing pants to be durable. Durability means that you will have the best protection, better value, and enhanced functionality. 

Mountaineering pant reviews can help you determine the durability of a design and decide whether they will hold up against the weather you expect to encounter on your adventure. You can also check for features like high quality materials, strong seams, and reinforced areas, which can all increase the durability of a design. 

Breathability

Breathability is often important to keep you comfortable as you explore the mountains. Contrary to popular belief, breathability can also keep you warmer because it prevents sweat from drenching your clothing or wetting your skin, which would lower your body temperature. 

Softshell pants for mountaineering are often more breathable and can be used for more casual trips. However, mountaineering hardshell pants will be less breathable because they need to protect you from extreme conditions like blizzards or strong wind. 

Weather Resistance

You should be very cautious of the type of mountaineering trousers you purchase and their weather resistant rating. Water-resistant vs. waterproof climbing pants are not the same. A water resistant design can still be soaked if it is exposed to wet weather for too long, while waterproof mountaineering pants should always remain impermeable. 

In general, mountaineering softshell pants will be water resistant, while mountaineering hardshell pants will be waterproof. This is because of the different conditions in which the pants are meant to be used. For casual mountaineering expeditions, softshell pants will due. But if you’re going to the top of the peak, you may want to use a hardshell pant. 

Reinforcement

The best pants for mountaineering will increase their overall durability by having reinforced sections around the knees or crotch. Double stitching or extended panels around the knees can help the pants last longer, while ensure that numerous bending actions doesn’t rip or split the seams. Gussets are also a good way to reinforce the pants and ensure that the seat can handle multiple treks up the mountain. Double stitching or layered fabrics are other methods to reinforce alpine climbing trousers, which provides a higher quality and durability. 

Weight

The best mountaineering pants will be lightweight and less bulky, so that you aren’t carrying unnecessary weight with you up the mountain. When you’re trying to balance the weight of your climbing backpack, the last thing you want is to feel weighed down by your legs. Therefore, finding a pair of lightweight mountaineering bibs means that you’ll have the energy to last all day on the trail. It also means that you won’t be tangled up in bulky fabric. 

Water Resistance

As we discussed above, the level of water resistance you need will depend on where you are going mountaineering. If you’re going to face wet weather or are trekking through snow, you need a pair of waterproof climbing pants. But if you are going somewhere where you may only have to deal with a little rain, then you can probably survive with a water resistant design instead. 

Related Review: Rain Pants

Convertibility

Some top rated pants for mountaineering feature convertible features that make them easier to use or wear. Most pants will be a complete pants, which means that they won’t zip off into shorts, but they may have zipper ankles. Zipper ankles can make it more comfortable to put on your boots as you convert the pants to accommodate the shaft of your boot. 

FAQs

How_To_Clean_And_Care_For_Mountaineering_Pants

Q: How to Clean And Care For Mountaineering Pants?

A: 

Check the label. There are a lot of different fabrics used in mountaineering trousers, which means that one method isn’t necessarily better than another. Some alpine climbing pants can be machine washed and others may be damaged as they spin through the cycle. Instead, you should check your pair of ice climbing pants for specific care instructions. Mountaineering pant reviews may also give care tips that you can follow to get your pants looking like new again. 

Q: What Are Mountaineering Pants?

A: 

Mountaineering pants are a specific type of outerwear that have been designed to be extra durable for more technical hikes or treks. While most hikers don’t go to extreme altitudes, the best pants for mountaineering can be used in high altitudes and weather conditions, while also providing you with much needed protection. The main difference between regular and mountaineering pants is the overall durability. Top rated pants for mountaineering will excel at being durable.

Globo Surf Overview

When it comes to mountaineering, safety should always come first. For climbers who are going to new heights, it is important to keep your legs warm and dry. The best pants for mountaineering are designed to go to the extremes, while providing you with high quality protection. With alpine climbing pants, you can stay safe and enjoy the view from the top of the world. 

More Climb Reviews:

More Pants Reviews:

Do you own a pair of the waterproof climbing pants that made it onto our list? Let us know which mountaineering bibs your favorite is in the comments section below.  

Globo Surf
My name is David Hamburg. I am an avid water sports fan who enjoys paddle boarding, surfing, scuba diving, and kite surfing. Anything with a board or chance I can get in the water I love! I am such a big fan I decided to start this website to review all my favorite products and some others. Hope you enjoy!