Fit varies widely between different brands and models, as well as across the range of sizes and leg lengths. So it’s well worth trying on a few pairs to get your choice just right. Features range from minimalist to comprehensive and include pockets, vents, adjustors and attachments. A few pockets can be very handy, especially those with zips for keeping valuables safe. Look for multiple panels and an articulated cut to ensure comfortable and unrestricted movement, especially if you’ll be walking in mountainous areas with steep terrain.  

The best fabric for your walks will depend on the conditions you expect to encounter. Lighter weight fabrics are cooler and more breathable in warm weather, but may not be as durable as more traditional heavy duty walking trousers. Look for those with reinforced panels in high wear areas such as the knees, seat and pockets, which will help them last for longer. Team a basic pair of trousers with a cosy baselayer in winter and some waterproof overtrousers in wet weather to add versatility. 

 

Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers RRP £60

www.craghoppers.com 

Size Range: 26” to 44” waist 

Craghoppers’ Kiwi walking trousers have been around since 1996, which is testament to their functional, everyday styling and hardwearing but comfortable construction. Over the years the fabrics, fit and features have been refined, so they’re now even better to walk in and have a lower impact on the environment. This updated version is made of a mixture of BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) cotton and recycled polyester, with a PFC-free water repellent treatment. But they still have the comfortable, relaxed fit and plethora of pockets (9 in total!) that die-hard Kiwi fans will expect. The cotton-mix fabric breathes well so they’re a good choice for year-round walking. Available in a wide range of sizes with long and short leg options.      

 

Jack Wolfskin Glastal Pants RRP £110

www.jack-wolfskin.co.uk 

Size Range: S to XXL, in short, regular or long length 

These great looking, versatile walking trousers are lightweight and packable yet well-made and durable. The fit is comfortable and relaxed without being baggy, with hardwearing, weather resistant Texashield Core softshell fabric and a good amount of stretch so they’re not restrictive in use. Bluesign and Fair Wear Foundation certified and available a good range of sizes and lengths.

 

Spray Way Compass Pro Pants RRP £75

www.sprayway.com 

Size Range 30” to 40” waist 

These lightweight softshell walking trousers are made from a tough nylon/elastane mix fabric, treated to make them weather resistant. Handy features include three zipped pockets, which double as vents, and Velcro cuff adjustment. The fit is regular and true to size with short or longer leg versions available. They can be paired with base layers in cold weather and the lightweight vented fabric is cool in warmer temperatures, so they’re a good versatile choice, too. Overall, these are good value walking trousers, comfortable and suitable for year-round walking. Spray Way’s products are Fair Wear certified and PFC-free. 

 

Inov-8 Venturelite Pants RRP £95

inov-8.com

 

Inov-8's first foray into lightweight trousers is designed for fasts hiking. The lightweight nylon/elastane mix fabric is weather resistant without being too warm. We like the athletic cut, but belt loops would be welcome for a perfect fit. There are two zipped pockets while zipped cuffs allow you to get them on over shoes (not boots). Overall, comfy and versatile.

Berghaus Ortler 2.0 Pants RRP £90

www.berghaus.com 

Size Range: 28” to 42” waist 

Another softshell-style option, these trousers are midweight and suitable for all-season walking. The nylon/elastane mix fabric is tough, slightly stretchy and lightly weather resistant. Zipped vents on the thighs add extra breathability, two standard pockets and two zipped pockets offer plenty of storage, and there’s elasticated adjustment at the cuffs. The fit is fairly slim, and they’re available in short, regular or long leg lengths so should fit most walkers. A good all-rounder, suitable for most conditions and tough enough for years of use. Berghaus offers an in-house repair service, so if they do eventually see some damage you can keep them walking for longer.  

 

Rab Lochan Pants RRP £125

www.rab.equipment 

Size Range: 30” to 38” waist 

These all-round mountain pants are designed for walking and outdoor adventures through the seasons. The quality nylon fabric is weather resistant and hardwearing, with reinforcement on the knees, seat and cuffs. The regular fit is unrestrictive, and they’ll fit happily under waterproofs, but they’re also roomy enough to comfortably wear over a base layer in cold weather. There’s a good selection of pockets: two normal handwarmer pockets, a zipped back pocket and two large, zipped thigh pockets. A firm favourite due their versatility, durability, excellent features and great cut, all at a reasonable price. Plus, Rab is a certified Climate Neutral company and a member of the Fair Wear foundation. 

 

Patagonia Point Peak Trail Pants RRP £140

eu.patagonia.com 

Size Range: 28” to 40” waist 

Patagonia has achieved that tricky but important balance between a cut that’s slim enough to avoiding snagging on undergrowth or flapping about in the wind but roomy enough for unrestrictive comfort. The recycled nylon/elastane mix fabric is lightweight but durable, with reinforced panels on the higher wear areas. Though streamlined in design, they feature four zipped pockets, two handwarmer pockets, cuff adjustment and lace hooks. The sizing is spot on and they’re available in a standard or short leg length. An excellent, versatile choice for year-round walking, they also work well for climbing and mountaineering, on the bike or even running in cold weather. Fair Trade sewn, PFC-free and bluesign certified. 

 

Haglöfs Rugged Standard Pants RRP £150

www.haglofs.com 

Size Range: 30” to 42” waist 

If you’re after a super-tough pair of walking trousers with lots of pockets and sufficient weather protection for year-round use then these are for you. They’re not cheap, but they’re built to last with reinforced recycled nylon fabric and top quality design and materials. Great features include side zips for varying ventilation and a water repellent finish, making them versatile enough to be your only pair. The cut is regular and unrestrictive, with enough room for baselayer trousers underneath and/or waterproof trousers over the top if required. Integrated waist adjustment and a comprehensive size range including short, standard and long leg options should guarantee a good fit for most people. The pocket selection is excellent with plenty of room, good design and quality zips. Best for mountain use, expeditions and walkers who spend a lot of time in their walking trousers. Fair Wear Foundation certified. 

 

Fjällräven Keb Agile Trousers RRP £195

www.fjallraven.com 

Size Range: 27” to 42” waist 

These well-made, protective trousers are ideal for year-round use. They look and feel great to wear, with an articulated, athletic cut allowing unrestrictive movement and all-day comfort. The G-1000 fabric is an eco-friendly, hardwearing mix of organic cotton and recycled polyester with tough nylon reinforcement panels. For greater weather protection Fjällräven’s Greenland wax can be applied, which then washes out so can be customised for your specific adventures. A great selection of useful features includes zipped thigh pockets, handwarmer pockets and snap-fastening cuff adjustment. They’re pricey but incredibly well-made and well featured and will last years. Available in a wide size range with short, regular, or long leg length options. 

 

Helly Hansen Quick-Dry Cargo Shorts RRP £65

hellyhansen.com

 

These knee-length cargo shorts have a slim cut that works brilliantly with the slightly stretchy nylon/elastane mix fabric. They're durable, light and quick-drying, with cargo pockets, normal pockets and a zipped back pocket. Spot on for walking shorts.

 

**Recommended retail prices correct at the time of writing.  Please refer to manufacturer or retailer websites for the very latest pricing information.     

 Our gear testers, Jen & Sim Benson have a wealth of outdoor and walking experience.  They provide regular gear reviews and kit advice in Walk magazine, the Ramblers quarterly magazine that forms part of your Ramblers membership benefits. Become a Ramblers member here.