What type of trousers are best for hillwalking?

It depends on conditions. Softshell trousers suit dry, cooler days with good stretch. Waterproof overtrousers are essential for wet weather. Insulated waterproof trousers add warmth in winter.

Are waterproof overtrousers worth carrying on a day hike?

Yes. Lightweight overtrousers add minimal weight but make a significant difference if the weather turns. They pack small and can be pulled on over walking trousers in minutes.

What is the difference between 2.5-layer and 3-layer waterproof trousers?

2.5-layer trousers have a printed inner pattern instead of a separate lining, making them lighter and more packable. 3-layer trousers bond the waterproof membrane between two fabric layers for greater durability.

Do hillwalking trousers need side zips?

Side zips that open to the knee let you pull trousers on and off over walking boots without removing them, which is very useful mid-hike when weather changes quickly.

How should hillwalking trousers fit?

Look for a relaxed fit through the thigh with articulated knees for free movement, and an adjustable waistband. Avoid trousers so baggy they catch on brambles.

Best Hillwalking Trousers for All Conditions

By Kenny Stocker 10 Jun 2024 5 min read

Stay dry, mobile and comfortable with the right hillwalking trousers. Explore waterproof, breathable options for UK and alpine conditions.

For the UK's hills and summits, the Alpine glaciers and snowy peaks, our performance legwear withstand the rigours of an active outdoor life. No matter whether you're munro bagging, planning a multiday backpacking trip or regular walk around your local woods, we prove that performance outdoor clothing doesn't have to cost the earth. Ethical. Technical. Sustainable. Head to the hillwalking kit hub for more essentials to complete your setup.

For trousers for other activities, and how to choose between them, see our complete guide to outdoor trousers, shorts and leggings.

While it might seem like just another item to pack, carrying waterproof trousers in winter can greatly enhance your comfort, safety, and overall outdoor experience. They offer versatile protection from the elements, ensuring you're prepared for whatever winter throws your way.

Cloudburst lightweight waterproof over trousers

Lightweight and packable 2.5-layer waterproof trousers. Ideal for wet weather hikes or as a just-in-case layer on multi day hikes in changeable conditions. Made with 100% recycled nylon fabric with a PFAS-free DWR.

Cloudburst is available in mens and womens sizes.

Parallax lightweight waterproof over trousers

Our premium lightweight, breathable waterproof trousers made with a 2.5 layer construction. They’re comfortable, stretchy and active with an articulated fit. They’re quiet when you walk and they pack away in your rucksack - weighing about the same as your average sandwich.

Parallax is available in mens and womens sizes.

Equinox insulated waterproof trousers

Waterproof walking trousers with a soft insulating drop liner. Wear for all-day winter hillwalking in changeable weather conditions. Complete with a PFAS-free water repellent treatment and incredibly soft-to-the-touch.

Equinox is available in mens and womens sizes.

Nautilus mountaineering waterproof trousers

Heavy duty waterproof trousers — Waterproof overtousers feature side zips for ventilation and so you can get them on without taking your boots off.

The Nautilus are 3-layer waterproof overtrousers ready for the wettest of walks. They’re reinforced and tailored for serious mountain use. The Nautilus are made with an exceptionally tough 70D nylon 6,6 outer fabric that’s designed to keep going. And going. The Nautilus are constructed with a PFAS-free DWR.

Nautilus is available in mens and womens sizes.

Product Focus

As we move into Autumn and winter lets dive into some winter legwear that is going to keep you warm and dry.

Skarven

The Skarven are rugged outdoor trousers. They're tough for off-track, off-path scrambling, hiking and heather bashing. They're tough as nails - our hardest wearing trouser for outdoor use and abuse. The Skarven are made from a quick-drying canvas fabric that dries quicker than cotton equivalents - perfect for passing showers.

Arnison

Articulated walking trousers — Tough, articulated, PFAS-free, these trousers are made for walking.

Arnison are tough. They’re hardwearing, highly wind-resistant hiking trousers for year-round hiking. They’re designed for full freedom of movement, with inbuilt stretch, a diamond-shape gusseted crotch and articulated knees for striding, scrambling and clambering. And they’re treated with a PFAS-free DWR to withstand light showers.

Teleki

Teleki is our range of lightweight legwear for walking. They pack down small for stuffing in rucksacks on multi-day hikes. They’re available as trousers and shorts. And if you can’t decide between the two, the zip-off trousers are the best of both worlds for indecisive hikers in in-between weather. Teleki are designed for warm weather walking and backpacking. They’re lightweight, packable and tailored for freedom of movement.

Wind River

Hybrid swim-bike shorts designed for those hot hikes where you can't resist a dip. Lightweight, quick-drying. We're thinking deep water soloing, hot weather hiking, and working hard in the summer. They've got a drawcord to keep up while swimming. Amphibious and adventure-ready.

Comparison of hillwalking trousers

Product Name	What are they good for?	Material	Fit	Weight (men’s m / women’s 12)
Teleki Trousers	Warm weather walking	76% Nylon, 4% Spandex, 75D, 135gsm	Regular	250 / 220
Teleki Shorts	Hot weather walking	96% Nylon, 4% Spandex, 75D, 135gsm	Regular	170 / 140
Teleki Zip-Offs	Warm, changeable weather walking	96% Nylon, 4% Spandex, 75D, 135gsm	Regular	290 / 260
Arnison	Year-round hiking	97% Nylon, 3% Spandex, 219gsm	Regular	405 / 367
Skarven	Hiking and scrambling off the beaten track	94% nylon, 6% spandex, 288gsm	Relaxed	530 / 485
Hauler short	Hidden tech for an active mountain lifestyle	94% polyester, 6% Spandex	Regular	315
Wind River	Hybrid swim-hike shorts for hot weather activities	100% polyester	Regular	130 / 125
Faro Shorts	A range of active pursuits	88% nylon, 12% spandex double weave, 166gsm	Regular	230 / 221