Our lead gear tester has been an avid backpacker and hiker for over a decade, progressing from a beginner to an expert, moving from Silicon Valley to Lake Tahoe. Additionally, she wasn’t even sure if high-quality, technical, well-fitting leggings that perform well on hikes for an athletic and curvy body like hers existed.
We focused on comfort, fit, features, breathability, warmth, and durability metrics to analyze which hiking leggings were best for various purposes, conditions, body types, and activity levels. Before we began testing, we researched 40 different women’s hiking leggings to narrow it down to the top 10 to test out in the field.
And that was just the first round! Six months later, we researched 10 additional products and tested three new options, all of which turned out to be top performers. We aimed to cover a wide range of brand offerings, including well-known outdoor brands like Patagonia, Stio, Mammut, Carhartt, Fjällräven, Eddie Bauer, and Athleta, as well as lesser-known brands like Title Nine, Revolution Race, IUGA, and Constantly Varied Gear.
We thoroughly tested these products over two separate 30-day periods, and casually in between, logging more than 200 miles in different environments. We wore the leggings while hiking on dirt trails and in the snow, from sea level up to 7,800 feet.
They were also tested while jogging, running errands, working at a ski resort during snowstorms, walking the dog, at the gym for strength training, in yoga classes, road tripping across states, and sitting at a desk for hours.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Hiking Leggings
Check out this quick list of our favorites if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.
Best Hiking Leggings Overall: Stio Glide Tech Legging ($129)
Best Cold Weather Hiking Leggings: Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined ($79)
Most Comfortable Hiking Leggings: Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash Tights ($199)
Best High Intensity Hiking Leggings: Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Tights ($89)
Best Warm Weather Hiking Leggings: Mammut Aenergy Light ($119)
Most Durable Hiking Leggings: Fjallraven Abisko Trekking HD ($175)
Best Bang-for-your-Buck Hiking Leggings: IUGA FlexTight High Waist Tummy Control With Pockets ($25)
Most Environmentally Friendly Hiking Leggings: Patagonia Pack Out ($119)
Best Budget Cold Weather Hiking Leggings: IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined with Pockets ($33)
What’s new
We’ve been hiking up a sweat, getting in more steps with our favorites, and trying out new models:
- The Stio Glide High Rise Tech are the one pair of leggings we’d take everywhere with us. The fit is unmatched, the comfort is top-notch, and they have all the features we need for hiking.
- The Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash are the most comfortable pair of leggings we’ve tested, and they also turn out to be surprisingly durable and great for warm-weather hikes.
- The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined are our new favorite cold-weather hiking leggings. They offer unparalleled comfort, fit, durability, warmth, and features.
Hiking Leggings Overall Testing Scores
View full testing results in our product comparison table and analysis & results section.
Stio Glide Tech Legging
Best Hiking Leggings Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 5.0/5.0
Price: $139
Pockets: 3
Weight: 5.4 oz.
Fabric: 69% Nylon, 31% Spandex, 200g/m2 with Wicking and Odor Resistant Finish
Sizes Available: XS – XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Comfortable and well fitting waistband
- Soft material
- Additional zipper pocket
- Drawstring
Cons
- Stretch after use, causing the waist to slip down
- Zipper pocket needs gentle touch to close
The Stio Women’s Glide Tech Legging is a versatile, high-performing hiking legging that can be your go-to piece for daily errands and outdoor adventures.
We were impressed by the unique blend of comfort and fit, featuring a soft, stretchy material and a thick waistband that not only stays in place but also doesn’t roll or dig in. We also loved how the pockets sit slightly higher than traditional drop-in pockets and more toward the middle of the thigh (between the front and back), preventing items like a phone from pulling down the pants.
Speaking of pockets, Stio also features a zipper pocket that is large enough and easy to access, unlike other options on this list where we found our hand got scraped by the zipper. Although we noticed the fit stretched a bit after a few wears, we were fortunately able to secure the waist with the drawstring while moving.
These are the types of leggings you take on a road trip, a weekend getaway, or that sit at the top of your drawer (or laundry pile) because you plan to wear them every day, for walks, hikes, and maybe even runs. If you’re choosing between this option and the Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash, the Stio Glide Tech may be your choice if technical features and durability are your main concerns. (Although, what we really recommend is getting one of each to enjoy the best of both worlds.)
Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings
Best Cold Weather Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 4.9/5.0
Price: $79
Pockets: 3
Weight: 9.5 oz.
Fabric: Polyester (Recycled) 86%, Elastane 14%
Sizes Available: XS-4XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Warm
- Fit is incredible
- Durable
- More affordable than other options
- Has drawstring
- Pockets set slightly back & large enough for phone
- Inclusive Sizing
Cons
- Price
- Not suitable for warm temperatures
- No zipper pockets
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings are the perfect choice for anyone living in a high-elevation mountain town where snow falls for half the year. The fit is so impressive that it’s almost unbelievable. We’ve tried several other leggings on the market with similar features, and as we were trying these on, we expected the same stiffness and muffin top we’ve encountered with others.
However, the Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings surprisingly combine a sturdy material that is thick and warm with stretch and comfort. Like many of our other favorites on this list, these leggings are snugger on the legs, with a bit more room around the waist and a drawstring to convert into active mode.
The pockets are very unique, positioned further back towards the rear than typical hip pockets found on most leggings. Because of this design, you almost forget there’s something in your pocket. It keeps your belongings up and out of the way but secure. For those shorter walks or hikes when you’re not carrying a backpack, there is a hidden third pocket that’s large enough for an ID or keys.
Although the Revolution Race website claims these have lower-end insulating properties, we tested them while hiking in temperatures at or below 30 degrees Fahrenheit and felt comfortable.
The available sizing is another massive win for these hiking leggings, extending up to 4XL in two color options (at the time of this review). Beyond the essential black option (which we all need at least one good pair of), we appreciated the Fired Brick and Forest Night color choices for the Revolution Race Leggings.
Lastly, while these are more affordable than other options on our list, the price is still out of reach for many.
More: Women’s Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings Full Review
Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash Tights
Most Comfortable Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $119
Pockets: 2
Weight: 12.9 oz.
Fabric: 80% recycled nylon/20% spandex knit
Sizes Available: XXS – XXL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Lightweight
- Small pack size
- Breathable
- Environmentally friendly
- Optional budget-friendly by shopping through Worn Wear
Cons
- Waist may roll down when bending over
- Thinner – less durable and more visible panty lines
The Patagonia Women’s Maipo 7/8 Stash Tights are some of the most comfortable leggings our analysts have ever worn. As active, rugged testers who push products to the limit, we don’t always choose the coziest options, but these are simply too good to ignore. The material feels silky soft, lightweight, highly stretchy, and the waistband is incredibly comfortable. With an extra-wide waistband and all this comfort, we found ourselves reaching for them during long days in the car, road trips from one campsite or trailhead to another, and on recovery days on the couch, in addition to our active days.
We wore these in scorching 100-degree weather in the valleys of Nevada, and on cool post-rainstorm pre-sunset summer evenings at 8-10k feet elevation in the mountains of California. In all environments, we were pleasantly surprised—never feeling stifled and wanting to rip them off, or shivering and numb from the outside chill. We were also amazed by their decent durability, given how thin the fabric is, having worn them repeatedly and not yet seeing a single snag or pill.
These are the type of leggings you can wear during different stages of weight fluctuation or hormonal changes throughout the month, as your mid-section changes. You could wear them to bed, cozy in your sleeping bag, then roll over and head straight to the trail.
Our biggest challenge with this product is that the thin material makes panty lines more visible. However, wearing longer shirts or more full-coverage underwear, along with the lightweight and thin nature that also increases breathability, meant this factor became less important in the overall rating.
Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Tights
Best High Intensity Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $89
Pockets: 2
Weight: 12.9 oz.
Fabric: 86% Polyester (Recycled), 14% Elastane
Sizes Available: XS – XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Compression
- Various patterns (great at covering panty lines)
- Drawstring
- Mesh style pockets
- Durable
Cons
- Tight waist
- Poorly ventilated
The Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Tights are ideal hiking leggings for high-intensity pursuits due to their compression fit. We tested these leggings because our analysts have been wearing Title Nine leggings for about five years, using them for activities ranging from running in snowy winter months to running errands and walking the dog in summer, making them our go-to choice. This model differs from the ones we’ve used over the years, offering features that help balance our list of hiking leggings.
The waistband is very snug, providing a compression-style fit, while also ensuring a no-slipping, no-rolling experience. An infinity drawstring is included. There are three pockets: two drop-in pockets and one “stasher” pocket (for keys or ID), with the drop-ins having a mesh-like lining. We love the different pattern options, which make this product a fun choice for those who prefer more than a standard color scheme, and they also help with coverage on the rear-end.
We were surprised that these didn’t feel as breathable in warmer temperatures as some of our other highly rated products. Maybe it was partly the compression fit, but we were ready to rip them off after a workout on hot days. On the other hand, these would be fantastic on colder days, and we would choose this pair first on snowy winter days for high-intensity activities like uphill snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and running — the type of winter activities where you still sweat but need a slightly thicker layer to prevent feeling the chill.
More: Women’s Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Hiking Leggings Full Review
Mammut Aenergy Light Tights
Best Warm Weather Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $119
Pockets: 2
Weight: 6.9 oz.
Fabric: 83% Polyamide, 17% Spandex
Sizes Available: XS-XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Stretchiness
- Makes you feel like a superhero or Olympic athlete
- Unique front hip pockets with two color options for zipper pull
- Water-resistant pockets
- Two-side/string drawstring (i.e. traditional drawstring)
- Pockets set slightly back & large enough for phone
Cons
- Waist can slide down
- Limited sizing
Once you put them on, the Mammut Aenergy Light Tights will make you feel like a superhero or an Olympic athlete. When you first see the product, they appear too small and tight. However, the material has such a deep stretch that they fit comfortably around all your curves.
Like many of our other favorites, the Mammut Aenergy Light are slightly looser at the waist while being very snug on the legs. The drawstring is a traditional two-sided type (much like a pair of sweatpants) and is necessary for when you’re in active mode. These pants can slide down at the waist during movement, but the fit, comfort, and how they make you feel is so strong that it’s barely noticeable. Those with bony hips or a significantly wider hip than waist might not experience this sliding down.
These are the tights to wear on hot days or when moving quickly. They are also the hiking leggings we’d recommend if you’re out on a date with a hottie that you want to feel strong, confident, and sexy around. You’ll feel so fast and strong in these that you’ll think you could easily set an FKT on your local trail.
The pockets are uniquely positioned on the front of the hips, designed for a climbing harness. However, we appreciate that the material over the pockets is water-resistant (meaning little droplets bead on the surface instead of soaking through) and that we have the option of fun, bright orange zipper pulls if we choose (included and found inside the pockets upon purchase).
Unfortunately, for anyone whose dimensions typically match sizes 2XL-4XL, the Mammut Aenergy Light Tights are missing out on your business.
Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W
Most Durable Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $175
Pockets: 2
Weight: 9.3 oz.
Fabric: 70% polyester (recycled), 30% elastane
Sizes Available: XXS – XXL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Reinforced material on knees and rear
- Durable
- Stretchy
- Slightly more insulated due to reinforced areas
- Compression like material
Cons
- Price
- Sizing is challenging + limited
- Envelope pocket is skinny and tight
The Abisko Trekking Tights HD are the pants you see all the cool hikers wearing in countries outside the U.S. They are top quality when it comes to design and are made to withstand the elements in rugged outdoor environments, all while maintaining the comfort and stretch that we love in hiking leggings.
First impressions made us worried that the reinforced rear and knees might be uncomfortable or cause chafing, but after a long hike, we realized it just took some getting used to. The Abisko Trekking Tights are the only hiking leggings on our list featuring such a durable and purposeful reinforced material in the areas where we need it most.
At first fit, a true-to-size may feel a bit snug and compressed, but these leggings can stretch over time. They also come with a drawstring to keep the waist secure if you decide to size up. The Abisko Trekking Tights HD include a standard large side hip pocket with a zipper and one thinner (but tall) envelope-style pocket (think of a flap that keeps items secure). Although the envelope pocket is secure, it’s narrower and tighter, making it difficult to access smaller items.
These are the most expensive hiking leggings on our list, so the price might be prohibitive for some. Additionally, sizing only goes up to 2XL, meaning the Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD are missing out on some potential customers among our fellow hikers.
More: Women’s Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W Full Review
IUGA FlexTight High Waist Tummy Control with Pockets
Best Bang-for-your-Buck Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 3.9/5.0
Price: $25
Pockets: 3
Weight: 9.1 oz.
Fabric: 77% Polyester, 23% Spandex
Sizes Available: XS – 3XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- So soft and comfy
- Numerous bright color options (for some sizes)
- Most affordable
- Deep, secure pockets
- Waist stays up (even if you size up)
- Multi-use (casual wear & yoga/gym)
Cons
- Not durable
- No drawstring
- No zipper pockets
The IUGA FlexTight High Waist Tummy Control Leggings with Pockets are the hiking leggings that you will want to live in (snuggled up on the couch), but might be a better fit for short hikes, wider trails, more friendly terrain, or for your first pair of hiking legging as you are getting into the activity for the first time.
These are also a great option if you want a hiking legging that would also work well for yoga classes or gym workouts without the unnecessary features found in more technical options from our guide.
Beyond comfort, the IUGA FlexTight leggings excel in color variety. If you want something vibrant or need leggings in a specific color, IUGA is the ideal option (though this may vary with size availability). These leggings offer exceptional stretch, ensuring a comfortable fit regardless of your curves. If you opt for a larger size for reduced compression in the waist, they still stay up well without a drawstring, enhancing your overall comfort.
While we expect the fabric to pill over time, after several days of hiking and gym use, we haven’t noticed any significant pilling, even in the thigh area, though we anticipate some may occur later.
The pockets are deep and spacious, securely accommodating most modern smartphones.
However, the sizing options can be a bit confusing; the manufacturer’s website lists sizes XS-2XL, while Amazon offers sizes XXS-3XL.
More: Women’s IUGA FlexTight High Waist Tummy Control Leggings With Pockets Full Review
Patagonia Pack Out Tights
Most Environmentally Friendly Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 3.6/5.0
Price: $119
Pockets: 3
Weight: 10.8 oz.
Fabric: 87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Spandex
Sizes Available: XS – XXL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Soft feel
- Sustainable fabric (and brand)
- 3 pockets (1 zippered)
- Mid-rise
Cons
- Waist slips down often
- Slightly less stretchy
- Mid-rise
Patagonia Pack Out Tights are soft and sustainable, with a lower-rise waist and a fit comparable to most other women’s pants made by the brand. These hiking leggings are a great choice if you’re seeking a versatile pair that you can wear not only while hiking but also comfortably during long car rides to the trailhead. Since the fabric is made from recycled polyester and Patagonia is a brand that cooks sustainability into every inch of their business, these tights are environmentally friendly. Additionally, Patagonia offers a gear buy-back and used gear shop system through Worn Wear.
The rise of the Patagonia Pack Out sits below the belly button, which is noted as both a pro and con, depending on individual hiker preferences. For those of us with curvier bodies and a bit of a belly, we found the waist tends to roll down often, particularly during bending movements or any activity that isn’t sitting or standing straight up.
However, many users prefer mid-rise options over high-rise ones. These leggings also have one more pocket than most other options, with two drop-in pockets and one zippered, slightly hidden side pocket. The Patagonia Pack Out provides decent stretch, allowing for more movement than some options on our list, but less than others. For those who struggle to fit into most Patagonia pants for women—due to more athletic thighs and rear or a curvier figure—these leggings might cause similar frustration.
For those who fit wonderfully in Patagonia pants for women, these leggings may offer similar satisfaction. In the former group, we found that the waist can often slide down (in addition to rolling down), and there is no drawstring to help keep things in place. Patagonia Pack Out Tights are a great choice for those who already love the brand’s fit, want leggings they can wear not only on the trail but also comfortably during long road trips, prefer a mid-rise waist, prioritize sustainable products, and don’t want or need a drawstring.
IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined with Pockets
Best Budget Cold Weather Hiking Leggings
CleverHiker Rating: 3.9/5.0
Price: $33
Pockets: 2
Weight: 10.1 oz.
Fabric: 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane
Sizes Available: XS – 3XL
Lengths Available: Regular
Pros
- Warm & cozy
- Very comfortable
- Affordable
- Very stretchy
- Fits well
Cons
- Pilling after first or second wear
- No drawstring
- No zipper pockets
The IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined with Pockets is the most comfortable pair of insulated leggings we’ve ever had the privilege to wear. However, due to the lower quality fabric, we know we won’t be able to maintain that privilege for long. The outer fabric is the kind that you can’t help but rub your hands along, soothing any nerves, and the stretch is so forgiving that it feels like it could accommodate another person without restriction. (Note that we sized up on these hiking leggings, which may have slightly added to the extra comfort.)
The fleece lining makes them feel like a pair of pajamas. In addition to the extreme coziness these leggings provide, what stands out most is the stretch. For a product costing about the price of one meal out at a restaurant these days, the fabric seems to be made of magic.
What’s more, even though we sized up (with dimensions on the cusp between two sizes), they still stayed up very well, needing to pull the waistband and inseam up far less often than some of our other options on this list, which are far more expensive and far less comfortable.
However, nothing this good lasts forever, and at a price like that, we weren’t surprised to find that the fabric showed wear quickly. The IUGA Fleece Lined leggings showed pilling after the second wear, not only between the thighs but also in other areas that might have been rubbed by a jacket while hiking. For those who need a pair of hiking leggings for one winter season, these will hopefully make it through to the end but don’t expect them to make a return appearance for the next year’s adventures without looking like they’ve been through the ringer.
Like the IUGA FlexTight, these hiking leggings feature two deep and wide drop-in pockets that securely hold belongings, they do not come with a drawstring, and they are available in a wide variety of bright colors (for some sizes).
More: Women’s IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined with Pockets Full Review
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Pockets | Weight | Fabric | Sizes Available | Lengths Available | Comfort | Fit | Features | Breathability | Warmth | Durability | 0 |
Stio Glide Tech Legging View at Stio 
|
$139 | 3 | 5.4 oz. | 69% Nylon, 31% Spandex, 200g/m2 with Wicking and Odor Resistant Finish | XS – XL | Regular | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.5 | 5.0 | 1 |
Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings View at Revolution Race
|
$79 | 3 | 9.5 oz. | Polyester (Recycled) 86%, Elastane 14% | XS-4XL | Regular | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 2.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 2 |
Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash Tights View at REI View at Patagonia
|
$119 | 2 | 12.9 oz. | 80% recycled nylon/20% spandex knit | XXS – XXL | Regular | 5.0 | 5.0 | 2.5 | 5.0 | 2.5 | 3.0 | 3 |
Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Tights View at Title Nine |
$89 | 2 | 12.9 oz. | 86% Polyester (Recycled), 14% Elastane | XS – XL | Regular | 4.5 | 5.0 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 5.0 | 4 |
Mammut Aenergy Light Tights View at Amazon View at Mammut |
$119 | 2 | 6.9 oz. | 83% Polyamide, 17% Spandex | XS-XL | Regular | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 1.0 | 4.5 | 5 |
Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W View at REI View at Amazon |
$175 | 2 | 9.3 oz. | 70% polyester (recycled), 30% elastane | XXS – XXL | Regular | 4.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 2.0 | 4.8 | 6 |
IUGA FlexTight High Waist Tummy Control with Pockets View at Amazon 
|
$25 | 3 | 9.1 oz. | 77% Polyester, 23% Spandex | XS – 3XL | Regular | 5.0 | 4.8 | 2.5 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 2.0 | 7 |
Patagonia Pack Out Tights View at Patagonia View at Backcountry |
$119 | 3 | 10.8 oz. | 87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Spandex | XS – XXL | Regular | 3.6 | 2.2 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.5 | 8 |
IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined with Pockets View at Amazon
|
$33 | 2 | 10.1 oz. | 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane | XS – 3XL | Regular | 5.0 | 4.8 | 3.0 | 1.0 | 5.0 | 1.5 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
We tested the leggings during casual walks, uphill climbs, jogging or walking, at the gym, on road trips, bike rides, and in yoga classes, as well as in everyday situations. We also evaluated them in freezing winter temperatures, scorching hot pre-thunderstorm afternoons, during warmer fall days at lower elevations, and on wet and snowy days.
Our goal was to wear each pair as much as possible, focusing particularly on metrics like comfort and durability. Over a span of two 30-day trial periods, at least one pair—if not multiple—was worn nearly every day.
We calculated that each product was tested for an average of 24 hours. For fit, wearing them during yoga and strength training at the gym, as well as while jogging at a moderate pace, demonstrated waistline security. With 100 miles covered on the trails, plus another 100 in daily activities (a total of 200 miles), along with 20 days at the gym, we rigorously tested each of our metrics.
COMFORT
For comfort, we considered the softness of the fabric. We asked ourselves—would we want to wear these for multiple days? We focused on flexibility and stretch, paying attention to how easily we can move, bend, crouch, and squat. We evaluated how easy it felt to bend our knees for climbing uphill and whether there was any resistance. We rubbed our hands on the material to determine how soft the fabric is or isn’t. We questioned—do we want to wear these all day long, or are we eager to rip them off?
We tested comfort by walking up and down hills, sitting cross-legged, stretching, bending down to pet the dog, and wearing them for planks, mountain climbers, and yoga. We wore them for a full day of sitting. We noted how easy they were to put on and take off for bathroom breaks. And in our most recent round of testing, we wore them during long days sitting in the car on road trips or casually relaxing with friends before or after our hikes.
FIT
Anyone who has ever worn a pair of leggings knows that the most important detail is whether the waistband stays up. Beyond that, we paid attention to how the leggings felt around the waist. Was there digging in that creates a muffin top? What was the waist height—below, at, or above the belly button? We wore the leggings for hours and multiple days to stretch them out. We walked, hiked, jogged, and moved up and down, lying on our backs and resting on our forearms.
A key factor was having a drawstring to keep the waist secure during more active moments. Were we constantly tugging the waist back into place? Were they uncomfortable to wear? Did the waist make us feel self-conscious about our bodies by constantly rolling down? We also reviewed feedback on fit, checked size charts, and decided whether to recommend sizing up or down based on belly size and personal preference.
FEATURES
For hiking leggings, typical features include pockets, zippers for those pockets, pocket placement, pocket size, the presence and type of drawstring, and whether there are tougher materials or reinforced sections. We tested this by placing our phone, snacks, and pocket knife in the various pockets.
We focused on how secure the items felt and whether our hands could easily move in and out of the pockets to access the items. We also hiked with items in the pockets to see if the placement was suitable during activity. If we needed to remove an item while hiking uphill or change the positions of items, we made note of that.
If there was a drawstring, we tested tying and untying it and hiking with and without using it.
BREATHABILITY
One potential downside of hiking leggings, versus other options like shorts or loose pants, is that they can cause excessive sweating. We focused on whether the leggings were suitable for warm weather and high-intensity activities or if they felt too bulky or restrictive on warmer days.
We wore them in situations where we would likely sweat—hiking in the heat of the day, hiking uphill in lower elevations, jogging, working out at the gym, or participating in a crowded yoga class. If we felt cool and comfortable, they were appropriate for these conditions. We also considered whether sweat might be visible through the fabric.
WARMTH
On the other hand, we also want good options for hiking leggings on colder days, especially for those who live in areas where it snows for half the year. We tested these leggings on snowy hikes during temperatures below freezing, including during snowstorms. Did they feel too thin? Did we have goosebumps? Did our legs feel numb, or were they cozy and protected?
Additionally, some leggings are a great fit for the shoulder season, on days when temperatures change drastically, or for days when we will spend time hiking outdoors in the cold but might also spend time indoors in warmer temperatures.
DURABILITY
Since these are not just everyday leggings but specifically designed for hiking, it’s important that the material is durable enough to handle the elements. We need to see if they can withstand branches scraping, rocks we sit on, and rain or snow falling. So, we sat on rocks and logs, in the grass, and in the dirt. We walked along narrow single tracks, in the rain, and in the snow. We let the dog jump on our legs.
Another common issue with leggings, especially for those with larger athletic thighs, is pilling. So, we wore each pair for as many hours as possible, moving our thighs back and forth to test the material’s durability. We also wore longer jackets and rubbed against various objects, doing our best to stress the fabric.
Why Trust CleverHiker
We put these leggings to the test during a challenging time of year and in an environment where everything was thrown our way. Our analyst and gear tester, Natasha Buffo, has hiked around the world—from New Zealand to Chile and Peru, to Colorado, and even her own backyard in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range of California. She’s completed the Tahoe Rim Trail and the John Muir Trail. Hiking and backpacking have been her primary activities for over a decade.
Additionally, she’s a former business analyst for Google, Inc., and currently works as a business analyst in the outdoor industry, fueled by her passion for quantitative data and automated calculations.
Since she started her writing career in 2019, she’s been a fit tester and gear reviewer for other brands, consistently giving valuable feedback. As an athletic woman with a curvy body (meaning she has large thighs and a booty), finding pants that fit and make her feel good has been a lifelong challenge, but also a huge joy when she finds that perfect pair.
Analysis & Results
VALUE
Unfortunately, not everyone has hundreds or thousands of dollars to spend on gear. Some of us are just starting out, so it’s not yet worth it to invest large amounts of money. Others simply prefer more affordable options. If you happen to find any of the products listed in this guide second-hand, that’s a great way to acquire them at a lower cost, and it’s better for the environment. Our products range from $25 to $175, but value is more than just price – it’s about whether you’re getting what you paid for or if the money is worth it. We also consider whether the item is worth the investment or not.
All the leggings we listed as best value vary significantly in price. Our IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets and IUGA FlexTight™ High Waist Tummy Control With Pockets options are under $40 and may not offer the same technical features or longevity as other products have, but they are 100% delivering a product worth the investment.
The Stio Glide High Rise Tech, Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash, and Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined might cost more, but the return on investment is high, with amazing fit, impressive features, comfort, and durability. For those on a budget, we suggest the IUGA options, depending on your need for warmth or breathability.
Among the three higher-priced options, Revolution Race is the most affordable. Although the pair we tested is fleece-lined, this brand offers other options suitable for warmer climates or conditions. If your budget allows, we recommend Stio above the others, as they might be the only hiking leggings you’ll ever need or want.
COMFORT
Sometimes, all we want is a pair of leggings that are comfortable and cozy. Below, you’ll find our most comfortable leggings, those we’d happily wear for hours or even days without wanting to take them off. They’re perfect for finishing work at our desks, going out for a hike, enjoying dinner, and then curling up on the couch to watch a favorite show. These are the leggings we can’t stop bragging about to everyone around us for how comfortable they are, and every day we wear them, we are pleasantly surprised.
The coziest options for curling up on the couch are from Patagonia and IUGA. The Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash was our top favorite for comfort. We actually wore them for multiple days in a row during a road trip, and they are the ones we keep reaching for, but we wear them so often we often find them in the laundry hamper. Both the HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets and the FlexTight™ High Waist Tummy Control with Pockets are equally comfy and cozy.
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings are surprisingly comfortable, considering their durable material, and the similarity in first impression feel to other fleece-lined leggings on the market. They slide on perfectly, and the waistband, though very well-fitting, sits comfortably against the belly without digging in or rolling.
The Stio Glide High Rise Tech is another surprise top performer in the comfort category. For many of the other models, if fit is strong, than features or comfort scores are lower, but the Glide High Rise doesn’t have that problem. That’s what makes this our overall top performer – it’s got it all! We’d wear these during uphill climbs and post-adventure lounging on the couch.
FIT
For some hikers, fit is the most crucial metric for hiking leggings. The challenging part is that fit varies for each body type. This variability is why leggings can be a fantastic option, but also a drawback, depending on the product. We selected our best-fitting products based on how amazing they felt when we first tried them on and how they continued to impress us with their fit each day. They are the ones we rarely had to pull up to keep the waist secure and to prevent sagging, and the ones that made us feel really good in our own bodies.
The Stio Glide High Rise Tech and the Revolution Race Fleece Lined were our top fit choices, and are on par with one another. They both offer a snug fit around the legs, hugging our curves, with a slightly looser waist that stays up, especially with the help of a drawstring. These two pairs fit like a dream, and we will recommend them to anyone with a similar body type who has struggled to find leggings that feel tailor-made for them.
The Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD and Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash are comparable, providing a higher waistline and a great fit, although they tend to slip down at the waist. The main difference is that the Fjällräven includes a drawstring, giving us better control to keep it in place. Regarding sizing, all four of these, except the Fjällräven are true to size. Since the Fjällräven have a compression style fit, we personally sized up for comfort at the waist.
FEATURES
When it comes to hiking leggings, features are important because we need a secure place to stash our stuff. We might also need a drawstring to keep the pants in place while we are active.
The Stio Glide High Rise Tech scored high for features, with two drop-in pockets, a zipper pocket, and a drawstring. Revolution Race’s Alaska Fleece Lined excels in features thanks to its spacious pockets, which are large enough for a standard phone and positioned near the back, ensuring that the items feel completely out of the way. Additionally, they feature a drawstring and a small hidden pocket at the back of the waistband.
Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD earns feature points for its reinforced knees and seat, as well as two different types of pockets and a drawstring.
BREATHABILITY & WARMTH
For most hikers, we encounter a variety of climates throughout the year, whether due to traveling to the mountains for our adventures or living in areas with four seasons. Just as tents and sleeping bags are essential for a great experience, having the right gear for the right weather is crucial. In our list, we offer a range of options for you to select based on your warmth and breathability needs.
Our Mammut Aenergy leggings are the most breathable option among our choices, particularly among the top performers. The Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Stash leggings are also a good choice for warmer weather, but are not as high-performing as the Mammut because they are more likely to show sweat lines. The Stio Glide High Rise Tech once again surprised us in warmer conditions, although it ranked slightly below the options mentioned above, as the material is a bit thicker.
For our cold-weather leggings, the Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined is our top choice due to its fit and durability. We found that the IUGA HeatLab Fleece Lined felt warmer than the RR, but was almost too warm for very active hikes, whether moving quickly or climbing a lot. The IUGA HeatLab would be ideal for those on slower, flatter, more casual hikes in cold weather who are also on a budget.
DURABILITY
We have some top contenders for durability. While most leggings on the market might not withstand brushes, branches, rocks, dirt, and many days on the trail in a season, we found a few pairs that are ready for the challenge.
The Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD leggings have reinforced knees and seat, addressing the areas most susceptible to snags. When wearing these, you never have to worry about tripping on the trail and ripping a hole in your pants’ knees, or sitting anywhere during snack or lunch breaks.
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings also offer a sturdier and more durable material, especially when compared to the other fleece-lined option on our list. If you need warm leggings that can stand the tests of time and the elements, this one’s for you.
We’ve also included the Stio Glide High Rise Tech and Title Nine MVT 7/8 Train Tights here, but these are less durable than the options mentioned above. The quality of the material in these two leggings is high; they are comfortable and seem to hold up well after many wears, allowing us to sit comfortably without fear of snags. We haven’t noticed any pilling either. While we wouldn’t slide down rocks or hike through thorny bushes, these feature a mid-weight material that earns them a spot on the durable list.
How to Choose Hiking Leggings
First and foremost, you don’t want to break the bank while choosing a pair of hiking leggings, so consider what is reasonable for you to invest in. If money is tight, opt for our budget buys. If you are new to hiking, a budget buy might also be a great choice. If you’ve been at this for a while and are tired of settling for whatever leggings or pants you have available, which are usually uncomfortable on the trail, perhaps now is the time to invest in one of our top picks.
Next, consider the fit: what is your body type, and how do you think it would fare with the style of the leggings you’re considering? Do you prefer a very snug, compressed fit, or a looser waist with the option to tighten it with a drawstring? Do you enjoy hiking in leggings, or do you prefer the fit of pants while wanting the flexibility of leggings? What size do you usually wear? Does the brand provide the leggings in your size? We suggest taking your actual measurements. If you find yourself between two sizes, order both sizes and try them on with the tags still on before returning the one that doesn’t fit as well. Alternatively, be sure not to remove the tags or wear them outside until you’ve worn them around the house a bit and confirmed you have the best fit.
All hikers should consider the climates they will navigate. Will you be hiking in colder climates, warmer climates, or both? If you live in a place where summer temperatures reach 90-100 degrees, one of our more breathable or lightweight options will be the best choice. If you are at high elevation in the winter, a fleece-lined option might be right for you. Additionally, do you personally run hot or cold? Some of us get easily overheated during physical activity and may prefer a mid or lightweight option, even in colder climates. Others feel cold on many chilly days and might hesitate to go outside in winter; these individuals will definitely want a fleece-lined option. Furthermore, do you tend to hike slowly or quickly? This will factor into how much heat you produce internally, influencing which weight, warmth, and breathability will be the best fit.
Is sustainability and durability important to you? Is it significant that a company intentionally chooses its materials, utilizing fabrics that are recycled or designed to last longer (and therefore take more time to enter the landfill)? What about companies that provide a reuse program for their products? If you only want to spend money on products made with the intent to protect the environment, safeguard workers, and reduce clothing waste, be sure to consider products that are more environmentally friendly.
What types of hikes are you going on? What are your trails like? Are you walking along a single track through shrubs? Are you surrounded by trees and granite? Do you prefer sitting on dirt, rocks, and logs, or do you always use a pad or a jacket? How often do you think your hiking leggings will be used? A few days each year? A few days each week? These are important questions to consider regarding how durable your leggings should be. The more days you anticipate being on the trail in your leggings, and the more rugged the environments with narrow trails and harsh objects surrounding you, the more we’d recommend focusing on a durable product.
CONCLUSION
Finding the right pair of hiking pants that suits a woman’s body can be one of life’s biggest challenges. For those who dislike trying on multiple options only to be disappointed by the fit in the store or after the first use when the waistband sags, we’ve taken the guesswork out of it. Leggings can be a game-changer, offering the freedom of movement needed to reach your destination comfortably, or they can turn a peaceful hike into misery, making pulling up a waistband and inseam more tedious than climbing 1,000 feet of switchbacks.
We explored the outdoor industry, researched top options, and tested our leading products in all environments and terrains we encountered, focusing on side-by-side comparisons to create a comprehensive list of the best hiking leggings for women. We hope you find your perfect match and enjoy many miles on the trails.
