Our lead gear tester jumped on the likelihood to check out mountaineering leggings for girls. First, she has been an avid backpacker and hiker for over a decade, rising from a newbie to an professional and from residing in Silicon Valley to Lake Tahoe. Secondly, she wasn’t even positive if high-quality, technical, well-fitting leggings existed that might carry out effectively on hikes for an athletic and curvy physique like hers.
We targeted on consolation, match, options, breathability, heat, and sturdiness metrics to investigate which mountaineering leggings had been finest for varied functions, circumstances, physique sorts, and exercise ranges. Earlier than we started testing, we researched 40 completely different girls’s mountaineering leggings to slender it right down to the highest 10 to check out within the subject. First, we wished to run the gamut of various model choices, so we included merchandise from well-known outside manufacturers like Patagonia, Mammut, Carhartt, Fjällräven, Eddie Bauer, and Athleta, in addition to lesser-known manufacturers like Revolution Race, IUGA, and Continuously Different Gear.
We examined these merchandise vigorously over 30 days, logging roughly 130 miles in varied environments. We wore the leggings whereas mountaineering on grime trails and within the snow, at elevations from sea stage to 7,800 toes. They had been additionally examined throughout walks, jogs, day by day actions, working at a ski resort throughout snowstorms, strolling the canine, on the gymnasium for power coaching, in yoga courses, and whereas sitting at a desk for hours. Our complete time spent on the path was round 25 days.
And for more information, take a look at a few of our different well-liked gear guides:
Fast Picks for Mountain climbing Leggings
Try this fast checklist of our favorites when you’re in a rush, or proceed scrolling to see our full checklist with in-depth critiques.
Finest Mountain climbing Leggings Total: Athleta Headlands Hybrid Cargo ($119)
Finest Chilly Climate Mountain climbing Leggings Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined ($79)
Finest Light-weight/Energetic Mountain climbing Leggings: Mammut Aenergy Mild ($119)
Most Sturdy Mountain climbing Leggings: Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD ($175)
Most Comfy Mountain climbing Leggings: IUGA FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management With Pockets ($25)
Finest Finances Chilly Climate Mountain climbing Leggings: IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets ($33)
Most Multi-Function Mountain climbing Leggings: Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise ($99)
Most Environmentally Pleasant Mountain climbing Leggings: Patagonia Pack Out ($119)
Most Rugged & Unfastened Mountain climbing Leggings: Carhartt Power Light-weight Pocket ($50)
Most Enjoyable Mountain climbing Leggings: Continuously Different Gear ($60)
What’s new
We’ve been mountaineering up a sweat, getting in additional steps with our favorites, and making an attempt out new fashions:
- The Mammut Aenergy Mild are our new light-weight, lively mountaineering leggings that rating excessive for consolation and match and make us really feel sturdy and assured, able to deal with any bodily problem whereas trying superb.
Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo Legging
Finest Mountain climbing Leggings Total
CleverHiker Score:
5.0/5.0
Worth:
$119
Pockets:
6
Weight:
12.9 oz.
Material:
75% Recycled Polyester/25percentLYCRA®
Sizes Out there:
0 – 16
Lengths Out there:
Common, Tall, Petite
Professionals
- Nice Match
- Comfy
- Sturdy
- Multi-use (informal put on)
- Quite a few zippered pockets
- Inclusive sizing
- Sustainable material
- Has drawstring
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo leggings are as near good as we have now discovered. In two complete exams by CleverHiker, these girls’s mountaineering leggings have as soon as once more claimed the title of the perfect all-around legging. They match the physique like a glove with out feeling compressed; they’re cosy across the legs however barely unfastened on the waist.
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid sits completely throughout the abdomen and presents a relaxed match when wanted, plus a drawstring for if you’re in lively mountaineering mode (or not carrying a hip belt). These leggings characteristic extra pockets than we’ve seen in every other leggings and even most ladies’s pants. (It’s a disgrace, however it’s actuality.) They’ve six zippered pockets!
The mixture of a softer materials within the again and a harder materials within the entrance ensures consolation whereas including sturdiness. These are the leggings that can earn you limitless compliments, make you are feeling sturdy and ready, and make it easier to look good whereas adventuring. We additionally love that these pants are each sensible and trendy. We’re excited to put on them on the path for a number of days and to work occasions.
They’d be the proper pants for transitioning from journey to occasion with only a fast change of shirts and deodorant. Whereas the value tag is on the upper finish, the worth you obtain makes it a worthwhile funding—you actually get what you pay for. The colour choices are nice when you choose neutrals, however we significantly admire the Aspen Olive possibility.
Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings
Finest Chilly Climate Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
4.9/5.0
Worth:
$79
Pockets:
3
Weight:
9.5 oz.
Material:
Polyester (Recycled) 86%, Elastane 14%
Sizes Out there:
XS-4XL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- Heat
- Match is unimaginable
- Sturdy
- Extra reasonably priced than different choices
- Has drawstring
- Pockets set barely again & massive sufficient for telephone
- Inclusive Sizing
Cons
- Worth
- Not appropriate for heat temperatures
- No zipper pockets
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined Leggings are the proper alternative for anybody residing in a high-elevation mountain city the place snow falls for half the 12 months. The match is so spectacular that it’s virtually unbelievable. We’ve tried a number of different leggings in the marketplace with related options, and as we had been making an attempt these on, we anticipated the identical stiffness and muffin high we’ve encountered with others.
Nevertheless, the Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings surprisingly mix a sturdy materials that’s thick and heat with stretch and luxury. Like lots of our different favorites on this checklist, these leggings are snugger on the legs, with a bit extra room across the waist and a drawstring to transform into lively mode.
The pockets are very distinctive, positioned additional again in the direction of the rear than typical hip pockets discovered on most leggings. Due to this design, you virtually neglect there’s one thing in your pocket. It retains your belongings up and out of the way in which however safe. For these shorter walks or hikes if you’re not carrying a backpack, there’s a hidden third pocket that’s massive sufficient for an ID or keys.
Though the Revolution Race web site claims these have lower-end insulating properties, we examined them whereas mountaineering in temperatures at or under 30 levels Fahrenheit and felt snug.
The accessible sizing is one other huge win for these mountaineering leggings, extending as much as 4XL in two coloration choices (on the time of this assessment). Past the important black possibility (which all of us want at the least one good pair of), we appreciated the Fired Brick and Forest Night time coloration decisions for the Revolution Race Leggings.
Lastly, whereas these are extra reasonably priced than different choices on our checklist, the value remains to be out of attain for a lot of.
Mammut Aenergy Mild Tights
Finest Light-weight/Energetic Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
4.6/5.0
Worth:
$119
Pockets:
2
Weight:
6.9 oz.
Material:
83% Polyamide, 17% Spandex
Sizes Out there:
XS-XL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- Stretchiness
- Makes you are feeling like a superhero or Olympic athlete
- Distinctive entrance hip pockets with two coloration choices for zipper pull
- Waterproof pockets
- Two-side/string drawstring (i.e. conventional drawstring)
- Pockets set barely again & massive sufficient for telephone
Cons
- Waist can slide down
- Restricted sizing
As soon as you place them on, the Mammut Aenergy Mild Tights will make you are feeling like a superhero or an Olympic athlete. While you first see the product, they seem too small and tight. Nevertheless, the fabric has such a deep stretch that they match comfortably round all of your curves.
Like lots of our different favorites, the Mammut Aenergy Mild are barely looser on the waist whereas being very cosy on the legs. The drawstring is a conventional two-sided kind (very similar to a pair of sweatpants) and is critical for if you’re in lively mode. These pants can slide down on the waist throughout motion, however the match, consolation, and the way they make you are feeling is so sturdy that it’s barely noticeable. These with bony hips or a considerably wider hip than waist won’t expertise this sliding down.
These are the tights to put on on sizzling days or when transferring shortly. They’re additionally the mountaineering leggings we’d suggest when you’re out on a date with a hottie that you just need to really feel sturdy, assured, and horny round. You’ll really feel so quick and robust in these that you just’ll assume you can simply set an FKT in your native path.
The pockets are uniquely positioned on the entrance of the hips, designed for a climbing harness. Nevertheless, we admire that the fabric over the pockets is water resistant (that means little droplets bead on the floor as an alternative of soaking by way of) and that we have now the choice of enjoyable, vibrant orange zipper pulls if we select (included and located contained in the pockets upon buy).
Sadly, for anybody whose dimensions sometimes match sizes 2XL-4XL, the Mammut Aenergy Mild Tights are lacking out on what you are promoting.
Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W
Most Sturdy Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
4.6/5.0
Worth:
$175
Pockets:
2
Weight:
9.3 oz.
Material:
70% polyester (recycled), 30% elastane
Sizes Out there:
XXS – XXL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- Bolstered materials on knees and rear
- Sturdy
- Stretchy
- Barely extra insulated as a consequence of strengthened areas
- Compression like materials
Cons
- Worth
- Sizing is difficult + restricted
- Envelope pocket is skinny and tight
The Abisko Trekking Tights HD are the pants you see all of the cool hikers carrying in international locations outdoors the U.S. They’re top of the range relating to design and are made to face up to the weather in rugged outside environments, all whereas sustaining the consolation and stretch that we love in mountaineering leggings.
First impressions made us apprehensive that the strengthened rear and knees could be uncomfortable or trigger chafing, however after a protracted hike, we realized it simply took some getting used to. The Abisko Trekking Tights are the one mountaineering leggings on our checklist that includes such a sturdy and purposeful strengthened materials within the areas the place we want it most.
At first match, a true-to-size could really feel a bit cosy and compressed, however these leggings can stretch over time. In addition they include a drawstring to maintain the waist safe when you determine to measurement up. The Abisko Trekking Tights HD embrace a typical massive facet hip pocket with a zipper and one thinner (however tall) envelope-style pocket (consider a flap that retains objects safe). Though the envelope pocket is safe, it’s narrower and tighter, making it troublesome to entry smaller objects.
These are the costliest mountaineering leggings on our checklist, so the value could be prohibitive for some. Moreover, sizing solely goes as much as 2XL, that means the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights HD are lacking out on some potential prospects amongst our fellow hikers.
IUGA FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management with Pockets
Most Comfy Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
3.9/5.0
Worth:
$25
Pockets:
3
Weight:
9.1 oz.
Material:
77% Polyester, 23% Spandex
Sizes Out there:
XS – 3XL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- So tender and comfortable
- Quite a few vibrant coloration choices (for some sizes)
- Most reasonably priced
- Deep, safe pockets
- Waist stays up (even when you measurement up)
- Multi-use (informal put on & yoga/gymnasium)
Cons
- Not sturdy
- No drawstring
- No zipper pockets
The IUGA FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management Leggings with Pockets are the mountaineering leggings that you’ll want to stay in (snuggled up on the sofa), however could be a greater match for brief hikes, wider trails, extra pleasant terrain, or on your first pair of mountaineering legging as you’re stepping into the exercise for the primary time.
These are additionally an important possibility if you would like a mountaineering legging that might additionally work effectively for yoga courses or gymnasium exercises with out the pointless options discovered in additional technical choices from our information.
Past consolation, the IUGA FlexTight leggings excel in coloration selection. If you would like one thing vibrant or want leggings in a particular coloration, IUGA is the perfect possibility (although this will differ with measurement availability). These leggings supply distinctive stretch, making certain a cushty match no matter your curves. In the event you decide for a bigger measurement for diminished compression within the waist, they nonetheless keep up effectively with out a drawstring, enhancing your total consolation.
Whereas we anticipate the material to tablet over time, after a number of days of mountaineering and gymnasium use, we haven’t seen any vital pilling, even within the thigh space, although we anticipate some could happen later.
The pockets are deep and spacious, securely accommodating most trendy smartphones.
Nevertheless, the sizing choices generally is a bit complicated; the producer’s web site lists sizes XS-2XL, whereas Amazon presents sizes XXS-3XL.
IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets
Finest Finances Chilly Climate Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
3.9/5.0
Worth:
$33
Pockets:
2
Weight:
10.1 oz.
Material:
87% Polyester, 13% Elastane
Sizes Out there:
XS – 3XL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- Heat & cozy
- Very snug
- Reasonably priced
- Very stretchy
- Matches effectively
Cons
- Pilling after first or second put on
- No drawstring
- No zipper pockets
The IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets is essentially the most snug pair of insulated leggings we’ve ever had the privilege to put on. Nevertheless, because of the decrease high quality material, we all know we received’t be capable of preserve that privilege for lengthy. The outer material is the type that you may’t assist however rub your arms alongside, soothing any nerves, and the stretch is so forgiving that it feels prefer it might accommodate one other individual with out restriction. (Observe that we sized up on these mountaineering leggings, which can have barely added to the additional consolation.)
The fleece lining makes them really feel like a pair of pajamas. Along with the intense coziness these leggings present, what stands out most is the stretch. For a product costing in regards to the worth of 1 meal out at a restaurant today, the material appears to be fabricated from magic.
What’s extra, despite the fact that we sized up (with dimensions on the cusp between two sizes), they nonetheless stayed up very effectively, needing to tug the waistband and inseam up far much less usually than a few of our different choices on this checklist, that are far costlier and much much less snug.
Nevertheless, nothing this good lasts perpetually, and at a worth like that, we weren’t stunned to seek out that the material confirmed put on shortly. The IUGA Fleece Lined leggings confirmed pilling after the second put on, not solely between the thighs but in addition in different areas that may have been rubbed by a jacket whereas mountaineering. For many who want a pair of mountaineering leggings for one winter season, these will hopefully make it by way of to the tip however don’t anticipate them to make a return look for the subsequent 12 months’s adventures with out trying like they’ve been by way of the ringer.
Just like the IUGA FlexTight™, these mountaineering leggings characteristic two deep and broad drop-in pockets that securely maintain belongings, they don’t include a drawstring, and they’re accessible in all kinds of vibrant colours (for some sizes).
Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise
Most Multi-Function Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
3.9/5.0
Worth:
$99
Pockets:
3
Weight:
11.1 oz.
Material:
88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
Sizes Out there:
XS – XXL
Lengths Out there:
Common, Tall, Petite
Professionals
- Comfy
- Coloration choices
- Top sizing choices (reg, petite, tall)
- Extra sturdy than different choices
Cons
- No drawstring
- Pockets are too small for telephones
Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise Leggings are an exquisite multi-use possibility that you may put on not just for shorter, much less strenuous hikes but in addition to the gymnasium to construct power earlier than your adventures, whereas sitting within the automotive for hours on the way in which to the trailhead, and to yoga class to stretch after your adventures.
Because the title suggests, the waist sits larger than every other mountaineering legging on our checklist, a part of the added consolation, however it appears to come back at a price. The Eddie Bauer Path Excessive-Rise leggings are inclined to stretch out a bit with put on, inflicting the waist to slide down greater than the opposite choices on our checklist. Like a few of our different decisions, this pair doesn’t characteristic a drawstring to maintain them in place, so in case you are between sizes and/or choose a snugger match on the waist, sizing down could also be useful.
One other frustration with the Eddie Bauer Path Excessive-Rise is the peak of the pockets. They’re a bit too shallow for an everyday smartphone of as we speak. We might set the telephone within the pocket, however not comfortably zip it closed.
Nevertheless, the 2 facet pockets are zippered, which is a bonus over different choices, and there’s a small hidden pocket for IDs on the entrance waist. The Eddie Bauer Path Excessive-Rise additionally stands out as a consequence of its materials, which is extra sturdy than our lower-budget choices whereas nonetheless being snug and stretchy sufficient to have absolute full vary of movement.
Lastly, Eddie Bauer presents a greater diversity of coloration choices and peak sizing (common, petite, tall).
Patagonia Pack Out Tights
Most Environmentally Pleasant Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
3.6/5.0
Worth:
$119
Pockets:
3
Weight:
10.8 oz.
Material:
87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Spandex
Sizes Out there:
XS – XXL
Lengths Out there:
Common
Professionals
- Comfortable really feel
- Sustainable material (and model)
- 3 pockets (1 zippered)
- Mid-rise
Cons
- Waist slips down usually
- Barely much less stretchy
- Mid-rise
Patagonia Pack Out Tights are tender and sustainable, with a lower-rise waist and a match akin to most different girls’s pants made by the model. These mountaineering leggings are an important alternative when you’re searching for a flexible pair that you may put on not solely whereas mountaineering but in addition comfortably throughout lengthy automotive rides to the trailhead. Because the material is made out of recycled polyester and Patagonia is a model that cooks sustainability into each inch of their enterprise, these tights are environmentally pleasant. Moreover, Patagonia presents a gear buy-back and used gear store system by way of Worn Put on.
The rise of the Patagonia Pack Out sits under the stomach button, which is famous as each a professional and con, relying on particular person hiker preferences. For these of us with curvier our bodies and a little bit of a stomach, we discovered the waist tends to roll down usually, significantly throughout bending actions or any exercise that isn’t sitting or standing straight up.
Nevertheless, many customers choose mid-rise choices over high-rise ones. These leggings even have another pocket than most different choices, with two drop-in pockets and one zippered, barely hidden facet pocket. The Patagonia Pack Out gives respectable stretch, permitting for extra motion than some choices on our checklist, however lower than others. For many who battle to suit into most Patagonia pants for girls—as a consequence of extra athletic thighs and rear or a curvier determine—these leggings may trigger related frustration.
For many who match splendidly in Patagonia pants for girls, these leggings could supply related satisfaction. Within the former group, we discovered that the waist can usually slide down (along with rolling down), and there’s no drawstring to assist maintain issues in place. Patagonia Pack Out Tights are an important alternative for individuals who already love the model’s match, need leggings they’ll put on not solely on the path but in addition comfortably throughout lengthy street journeys, choose a mid-rise waist, prioritize sustainable merchandise, and don’t need or want a drawstring.
Carhartt Power® Light-weight Pocket Legging
Most Rugged & Unfastened Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
3.6/5.0
Worth:
$50
Pockets:
3
Weight:
8.5 oz.
Material:
95% Nylon, 5% Spandex Ponte
Sizes Out there:
XS – XXL
Lengths Out there:
Common, Tall
Professionals
- Sturdy
- 3 pockets (1 zippered)
- Utility loop
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Not very snug
- Waist falls down continually
- No drawstring
- Minimal coloration choices
The Ladies’s Carhartt Power® Light-weight Pocket Leggings are rugged, surprisingly stretchy, and unfastened across the hips but cosy on the waist, making them best for hikers who shall be bodily rubbing up towards the harshest outside components and usually don’t want a drawstring to maintain their pants up.
Aligned with the Carhartt model, these mountaineering leggings are constructed from sturdy materials that may face up to branches, spiky bushes, tough granite, and sure anything the outside may throw our method. Additionally true to the model, we have now extra options, like a utility loop for clipping objects and a twin pocket (two stacked on high). The Carhartt Power® leggings are additionally extremely reasonably priced in comparison with different choices on our checklist and most in the marketplace, significantly relating to sturdy decisions.
What doesn’t work effectively in these leggings is the match for sure physique sorts. The waist is surprisingly cosy, making a pear-like silhouette, with the legs tight and stretchy, the hips unfastened, and the waist cinched in. The waistband is thick and stiff. Upon first put on, we had been stunned. Sadly, with out a drawstring or one other option to maintain the waistband up, some individuals will discover that these slide down virtually continually. One may contemplate sizing down, however then the waistband might really feel too cosy, particularly when sitting.
Carhartt additionally presents very restricted impartial colours, which aligns with their different product strains, so it ought to come as no shock. For these with a large hip-to-waist ratio who by no means face the difficulty of a waistband sliding down, and who desire a rugged pair of leggings that may stand the check of time and the weather, the Carhartt Power® Legging might be a very good possibility.
Continuously Different Gear Leggings
Most Enjoyable Mountain climbing Leggings
CleverHiker Score:
2.8/5.0
Worth:
$60
Pockets:
2
Weight:
7.8 oz.
Material:
73% Polyester, 27% Spandex
Sizes Out there:
XS – XXL
Lengths Out there:
Common, Capri
Professionals
- Distinctive and enjoyable coloration/design choices
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Waist rolls continually
- Waist falls down continually
- Care directions say to avoid sharp objects
Continuously Different Gear Leggings characteristic essentially the most enjoyable and distinctive designs on the market, supplied at a worth level under many choices on our checklist and available in the market, though they is probably not the perfect match for some hiker physique sorts. For many who get pleasure from pants that spark conversations, need a distinct pair of leggings for every season or occasion, or admire designs that assist distract from panty strains, Continuously Different Gear delivers. Moreover, these mountaineering leggings are priced on the decrease finish, so budget-conscious customers can get pleasure from some silliness too.
Nevertheless, for our curvy physique sorts, particularly these with some stomach on the waist, these leggings can shift from enjoyable and thrilling to irritating and annoying. For this physique kind, we seen that the waist rolls down and slips down virtually continually. Moreover the necessity to alter again and again, as a result of the pants are very stretchy and tight, this additionally created a love-handle muffin high.
We had been additionally stunned to learn the care directions stamped immediately onto the fabric, which weren’t talked about on the product web page however solely on the final care directions web page: “keep away from tough and sharp surfaces if potential.” Nevertheless, from our testing, we didn’t discover the leggings significantly vulnerable to the weather. Whereas they’re much less rugged than many different choices, we didn’t discover any pilling or snags but.
Due to this fact, the CVG Leggings are a sensible choice for these mountaineering on broad open trails, who don’t are inclined to have points with the waist of leggings rolling down, and preferring a tight, stretchy waistline.
| oSort | Product | Worth | Pockets | Weight | Material | Sizes Out there | Lengths Out there | Consolation | Match | Options | Breathability | Heat | Sturdiness | 0 |
Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo Legging View at Athelta  |
$119 | 6 | 12.9 oz. | 75% Recycled Polyester/25percentLYCRA® | 0 – 16 | Common, Tall, Petite | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 2.5 | 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 | Common | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 2.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 2 |
Mammut Aenergy Mild Tights View at Amazon View at Mammut |
$119 | 2 | 6.9 oz. | 83% Polyamide, 17% Spandex | XS-XL | Common | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 1.0 | 4.5 | 3 |
Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W View at REI View at Amazon |
$175 | 2 | 9.3 oz. | 70% polyester (recycled), 30% elastane | XXS – XXL | Common | 4.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 2.0 | 4.8 | 4 |
IUGA FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management with Pockets View at Amazon  |
$25 | 3 | 9.1 oz. | 77% Polyester, 23% Spandex | XS – 3XL | Common | 5.0 | 4.8 | 2.5 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 2.0 | 5 |
IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets View at Amazon |
$33 | 2 | 10.1 oz. | 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane | XS – 3XL | Common | 5.0 | 4.8 | 3.0 | 1.0 | 5.0 | 1.5 | 6 |
Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise View at Amazon View at Eddie Bauer |
$99 | 3 | 11.1 oz. | 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex | XS – XXL | Common, Tall, Petite | 4.7 | 4.2 | 2.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.5 | 7 |
Patagonia Pack Out Tights View at REI View at Backcountry |
$119 | 3 | 10.8 oz. | 87% Recycled Polyester, 13% Spandex | XS – XXL | Common | 3.6 | 2.2 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.0 | 3.5 | 8 |
Carhartt Power® Light-weight Pocket Legging View at Amazon View at Carhartt |
$50 | 3 | 8.5 oz. | 95% Nylon, 5% Spandex Ponte | XS – XXL | Common, Tall | 2.7 | 2.0 | 4.0 | 3.0 | 2.0 | 5.0 | 9 |
Continuously Different Gear Leggings View at Continuously Different Gear |
$60 | 2 | 7.8 oz. | 73% Polyester, 27% Spandex | XS – XXL | Common, Capri | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.5 | 4.5 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
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How We Take a look at & Methodology
We examined the leggings throughout informal walks, uphill climbs, jogging/walks, on the gymnasium, and in yoga courses, in addition to in on a regular basis conditions. We additionally assessed them in freezing winter temperatures, throughout hotter fall days at decrease elevations, and on moist and snowy days.
Our objective was to put on every pair as a lot as potential, focusing significantly on metrics like consolation and sturdiness. Over a span of 30 days, at the least one pair—if not a number of—was worn almost day by day.
We calculated that every product was examined for a mean of 24 hours. For match, carrying them throughout yoga and power coaching on the gymnasium, in addition to whereas transferring at a jogging pace, demonstrated waistline safety. With 60 miles coated on the paths, plus one other 60 in day by day actions (a complete of 130 miles), together with 12-14 days on the gymnasium, we rigorously examined every of our metrics.
COMFORT
For consolation, we thought-about the softness of the material. We requested ourselves—would we need to put on these for a number of days? We targeted on flexibility and stretch, listening to how simply we are able to transfer, bend, crouch, and squat. We evaluated how simple it felt to bend our knees for climbing uphill and whether or not there was any resistance. We rubbed our arms on the fabric to find out how tender the material is or isn’t. We questioned—can we need to put on these all day lengthy, or are we keen to tear them off?
We examined consolation by strolling up and down hills, sitting cross-legged, stretching, bending right down to pet the canine, and carrying them for planks, mountain climbers, and yoga. We wore them for a full day of sitting. We famous how simple they had been to placed on and take off for lavatory breaks.
FIT
Anybody who has ever worn a pair of leggings is aware of that essentially the most essential knowledge level is that if the waistband stays up. Past that, we paid consideration to how the leggings felt across the waist. Was there digging in that creates a muffin high? What wass the waist peak—under, at, or above the stomach button? We wore the leggings for hours and a number of days to stretch them out. We walked, hiked, jogged, and moved up and down, mendacity on our backs and resting on our forearms.
A big issue was having a drawstring to carry the waist in place throughout extra lively moments. Have been we continually tugging the waist again up? Have been they uncomfortable to put on? Did the waist make us really feel self-conscious about our our bodies by continually rolling down? We additionally analyzed critiques for match, checked measurement charts, and determined whether or not to suggest sizing up or down based mostly on stomach measurement and private choice.
FEATURES
For mountaineering leggings, typical options embrace pockets, zippers for these pockets, pocket placement, pocket measurement, the presence and kind of drawstring, and whether or not there are harder supplies or strengthened sections. We examined this by inserting our telephone, snacks, and pocket knife within the varied pockets.
We targeted on how safe the objects felt and whether or not our arms might simply transfer out and in of the pockets to entry the objects. We additionally moved round with objects within the pockets to find out if the location was appropriate for mountaineering. If we wanted to take away an merchandise whereas mountaineering uphill or change areas of things, we took notice of that.
If there was a drawstring, we examined tying and untying it and mountaineering with and with out utilizing it.
BREATHABILITY
One potential draw back of mountaineering leggings is that they’ll trigger extreme sweating. We targeted on whether or not the leggings had been appropriate for heat climate and high-intensity actions or in the event that they felt too cumbersome or restrictive on hotter days. We wore them in conditions the place we’d seemingly sweat—mountaineering uphill in decrease elevations, jogging, understanding on the gymnasium, or taking part in a crowded yoga class. If we felt cool and cozy, they had been acceptable for these circumstances. We additionally thought-about whether or not sweat could be seen by way of the material.
WARMTH
On the flip facet, we additionally need good choices for mountaineering leggings on colder days, particularly for individuals who stay in areas the place it snows for half the 12 months. We examined these leggings on hikes within the snow throughout below-freezing temperatures, together with throughout snowstorms. Did they really feel too skinny? Did we have now goosebumps? Did our legs really feel numb, or had been they cozy and guarded?
Moreover, some leggings are an important match for the shoulder season, on days when temperatures change drastically, or for days after we will spend time mountaineering outside within the chilly however may also spend time indoors in hotter temperatures.
DURABILITY
Since these usually are not simply on a regular basis leggings however are particularly designed for mountaineering, it’s essential that the fabric is powerful sufficient to face up to the weather. We have to know if they’ll endure branches scraping, rocks we sit on, and rain or snow falling. So, we sat on rocks and logs, within the grass, and within the grime. We walked by way of slender single tracks, within the rain, and within the snow. We let the canine leap on our legs.
One other frequent problem with leggings, particularly for these with bigger athletic thighs, is pilling. Due to this fact, we wore every pair for as many hours as we might, transferring our thighs backwards and forwards to check the fabric’s high quality. We wore longer jackets and rubbed towards varied objects, doing our greatest to emphasize the material.
Why Belief CleverHikeR
We put these leggings to the check throughout a difficult time of 12 months and in an surroundings the place every thing was thrown our method. Our analyst and equipment tester, Natasha Buffo, has hiked world wide—from New Zealand to Chile and Peru, to Colorado, and even her personal yard within the Sierra Nevada Mountain Vary of California. She’s accomplished the Tahoe Rim Path and the John Muir Path. Mountain climbing and backpacking being main actions for over a decade.
Moreover, she’s a former enterprise analyst for Google, Inc., and at the moment works as a enterprise analyst within the outside trade, fueled by her ardour for quantitative knowledge and automatic calculations.
Since she started her writing profession in 2019, she’s been a match tester and equipment reviewer for different manufacturers, persistently offering essential suggestions. As an athletic girl with a curvy physique (i.e., massive thighs and a booty), discovering pants that match and that she feels good in has been a lifelong battle, but in addition an infinite pleasure when she discovers that magic pair.
Evaluation & Outcomes
VALUE
Sadly, not everybody has tons of or hundreds of {dollars} to spend on gear. A few of us are simply beginning out, so it’s not but value it to speculate massive quantities of cash. Others merely choose extra reasonably priced choices. In the event you occur to seek out any of the merchandise listed on this information second-hand, that’s a good way to accumulate them at a decrease price, and it’s higher for the surroundings. Our merchandise vary from $25 to $175, however worth is extra than simply worth – it’s about whether or not you’re getting what you paid for or if the cash is value it. We additionally contemplate whether or not the merchandise is well worth the funding or not.
All of the leggings we listed as finest worth differ considerably in worth. Our IUGA HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets and IUGA FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management With Pockets choices are beneath $40 and should not supply the identical technical options or longevity as different merchandise have, however they’re 100% delivering a product well worth the funding.
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo, Mammut Aenergy Mild, and Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined may cost extra, however the return on funding is excessive, with superb match, spectacular options, consolation, and sturdiness. For these on a price range, we propose the IUGA choices, relying in your want for heat or breathability.
Among the many three higher-priced choices, Revolution Race is extra reasonably priced than Mammut and Athleta. Though the pair we examined is fleece-lined, this model presents different choices appropriate for hotter climates or circumstances. In case your price range permits, we suggest Athleta above the remaining, as they could be the solely mountaineering leggings you’ll ever want or need.
COMFORT
Typically, all we would like is a pair of leggings which might be snug and comfy. Beneath, you’ll discover our most snug leggings, those we’d fortunately put on for hours and even days with none need to take them off. They’re good for ending work at our desks, going out for a hike, having fun with dinner, after which curling up on the sofa to catch a favourite present. These are the leggings we are able to’t cease bragging about to these round us about how snug they’re, and we’re stunned day by day we put on them.
Probably the most cozy, curl up into the sofa choices are the 2 from IUGA. Each the HeatLab® Fleece Lined with Pockets and the FlexTight™ Excessive Waist Tummy Management with Pockets are equally cozy and comfy. Our Eddie Bauer Path Tight can also be a favourite for yoga class and lengthy days on the laptop, making it prepared for a hike earlier than or after work or throughout our lunch break.
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings are surprisingly snug, contemplating their sturdy materials, and the similarity in first impression really feel to different fleece-lined leggings in the marketplace. They slide on completely, and the waistband, whereas very well-fitting, comfortably sits subsequent to the stomach with out digging in or rolling.
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid additionally contains a miracle waist that’s looser than the match of the pants however stays up, particularly with the assistance of the drawstring when lively. It’s the sort of consolation that lets you hike for hours, then untie the drawstring to sit down again, get pleasure from your lunch, and possibly even take a nap since you’re so snug.
The Patagonia Pack Out Tights are additionally extremely cozy and tender, barely much less tender than the IUGA choices, however made with extra sturdy, high-quality materials.
FIT
For some hikers, match is an important metric for mountaineering leggings. The difficult half is that match varies for every physique kind. This variability is why leggings generally is a incredible possibility, but in addition a downside, relying on the product. We chosen our best-fitting merchandise based mostly on how superb they felt after we first tried them on and the way they continued to impress us with their match every day. They’re those we not often needed to pull as much as maintain the waist safe and to stop sagging, and those that made us really feel actually good in our personal our bodies.
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid and the Revolution Race Fleece Lined had been our high match decisions, and are fairly on par with each other. They each supply a comfortable match across the legs, hugging our curves, with a barely looser waist that stays up, particularly with the assistance of a drawstring. These two pairs match like a dream, and we are going to suggest them to anybody with an identical physique kind who has struggled to seek out leggings that really feel tailored for them.
The Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD and Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise are comparable, offering a better waistline and an important match, although they have an inclination to slide down on the waist. The primary distinction is that the Fjällräven features a drawstring, giving us higher management to maintain it in place. Concerning sizing, we suggest sizing down for the Athleta when you have a smaller waist. In the event you’re between sizes, sizing down on the Eddie Bauer could present a snugger match on the waist to maintain it from falling, however will scale back the consolation for sitting, yoga, and related actions. In the event you’re between sizes on the Fjällräven, contemplate sizing down as effectively. The RR is true to measurement.
FEATURES
Relating to mountaineering leggings, options are necessary as a result of we want a safe place to stash our stuff securely. We’d additionally want a drawstring to maintain the pants in place whereas we’re lively.
The Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo, with its six zippered pockets—two on the facet thighs, two on the hips, and two on the seat – was the front-runner for options. The Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo additionally has a drawstring and technical materials on the entrance half of the leggings. Revolution Race’s Alaska Fleece Lined excels in options because of its spacious pockets, that are massive sufficient for the standard telephone and positioned towards the again close to the seat, making certain that the objects really feel fully out of the way in which. Moreover, they characteristic a drawstring and a small hidden pocket behind the waistband.
Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD earns characteristic factors for its strengthened knees and seat, together with two various kinds of pockets and a drawstring. Carhartt Power Light-weight Pocket, unsurprisingly, boasts distinctive options not discovered on different mountaineering leggings, akin to a double pocket (two pockets stacked on high of one another) and a loop to clip/carabiner objects. Observe that the Carhartt leggings don’t include a drawstring.
BREATHABILITY & WARMTH
For many hikers, we encounter a wide range of climates all year long, whether or not as a consequence of touring to the mountains for our adventures or residing in areas with 4 seasons. Identical to tents and sleeping luggage, having the suitable gear for the suitable climate is important for an important expertise. In our checklist, we provide a variety of choices so that you can choose based mostly in your heat and breathability wants. For extra steering, see “Learn how to Select Mountain climbing Leggings” under.
Our Mammut Aenergy leggings are essentially the most breathable of our choices, particularly among the many high performers. The Continuously Different Gear leggings are additionally a sensible choice for hotter climate however usually are not as high-performing because the Mammut for these functions. Each the Athleta Headlands Hybrid Excessive Rise Cargo and the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD use two completely different supplies of their leggings to extend sturdiness, however the material used is such top quality, and so they rating so effectively in most different metrics that we’d by no means hesitate to put on them on hotter days. Whereas each pairs appear designed for hotter climate, additionally they don’t go away your legs numb in chilly temperatures just like the Mammut and the CVG do.
Subsequent, our the mid-weight choices. Each the Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise and the Patagonia Pack Out are thicker than our breathable choices however usually are not suited to chilly temperatures. We discover that these can be a lot much less preferable on hotter days and likewise received’t carry out effectively in sub-freezing circumstances whereas mountaineering. Nevertheless, they’re nice decisions for our shoulder seasons or days when mountaineering outside, maybe throughout a lunch break, and spending a while indoors, like when returning to work.For our cold-weather leggings, the Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined is our best choice as a consequence of its match and sturdiness. We did discover that the IUGA HeatLab®Fleece Lined felt hotter than the RR however was virtually too heat for very lively hikes, whether or not transferring shortly or climbing rather a lot. The IUGA HeatLab® can be best for these on slower, flatter, extra informal hikes in chilly climate who’re additionally on a price range.
DURABILITY
We now have some superb high contenders for sturdiness. Whereas most leggings in the marketplace could not face up to brushes, branches, rocks, grime, and numerous days on the path in a season, we found a number of pairs which might be prepared for the problem.
Our Athleta Headlands Hybrid options technical materials on the entrance half of the leggings, which boosts sturdiness with out sacrificing the consolation that the again half brings. This implies sitting on logs and rocks could also be much less welcoming for these pants, however they’ll nonetheless maintain up higher than a number of the others on the checklist.
The Fjällräven Abisko Trekking HD leggings have strengthened knees and seat, addressing the areas most vulnerable to snags. When carrying these, one by no means has to fret about tripping on the path and tearing a gap within the knees of their pants, or sitting anyplace throughout snack or lunch breaks.
The Carhartt Power Light-weight Pocket leggings are crafted from a tricky and thick materials, true to the Carhartt model, and this materials is discovered on each inch of the pants, so you realize that they’re sturdy throughout.
The Revolution Race Alaska Fleece Lined leggings additionally supply a sturdier and extra sturdy materials, particularly when in comparison with the opposite fleece-lined possibility on our checklist. In the event you want heat leggings that may face up to the exams of time and the weather, this one’s for you.
We’ve additionally included the Patagonia Pack Out and Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise right here, however these are much less sturdy than the aforementioned choices. The standard of the fabric in these two leggings is excessive; they’re snug and appear to carry up effectively after many wears, permitting us to sit down comfortably with out concern of snags. We haven’t seen any pilling both. Whereas we wouldn’t slide down rocks or hike by way of thorny bushes, the Patagonia Pack Out and Eddie Bauer Path Tight Excessive-Rise have a mid-weight materials that earns them a spot on the sturdy checklist.
Learn how to Select Mountain climbing Leggings for Ladies
Firstly, you don’t need to break the financial institution whereas selecting a pair of mountaineering leggings, so contemplate what is affordable so that you can put money into. If cash is tight, go for our price range buys. If you’re new to mountaineering, a price range purchase may also be an important alternative. In the event you’ve been at this for some time and are bored with settling for no matter leggings or pants you could have accessible, that are often uncomfortable on the path, maybe now could be the time to put money into considered one of our high picks.
Subsequent, contemplate the match: what’s your physique kind, and the way do you assume it might fare with the fashion of the leggings you’re contemplating? Do you like a really cosy, compressed match, or a looser waist with the choice to tighten it with a drawstring? Do you get pleasure from mountaineering in leggings, or do you like the match of pants whereas wanting the pliability of leggings? What measurement do you often put on? Does the model present the leggings in your measurement? We recommend taking your precise measurements. If you end up between two sizes, order each sizes and take a look at them on with the tags nonetheless on earlier than returning the one which doesn’t match as effectively. Alternatively, make certain to not take away the tags or put on them outdoors till you’ve worn them round the home a bit and confirmed you could have the perfect match.
All hikers ought to contemplate the climates they’ll navigate. Will you be mountaineering in colder climates, hotter climates, or each? In the event you stay in a spot the place summer season temperatures attain 90-100 levels, considered one of our extra breathable or light-weight choices would be the most suitable option. If you’re at excessive elevation within the winter, a fleece-lined possibility could be best for you. Moreover, do you personally run sizzling or chilly? A few of us get simply overheated throughout bodily exercise and should choose a mid or light-weight possibility, even in colder climates. Others really feel chilly on many chilly days and may hesitate to go outdoors in winter; these people will certainly desire a fleece-lined possibility. Moreover, do you are inclined to hike slowly or shortly? This may issue into how a lot warmth you produce internally, influencing which weight, heat, and breathability would be the finest match.
Is sustainability and sturdiness necessary to you? Is it vital that an organization deliberately chooses its supplies, using materials which might be recycled or designed to last more (and subsequently take extra time to enter the landfill)? What about corporations that present a reuse program for his or her merchandise? In the event you solely need to spend cash on merchandise made with the intent to guard the surroundings, safeguard employees, and scale back clothes waste, make sure you contemplate merchandise which might be extra environmentally pleasant.
What kinds of hikes are you happening? What are your trails like? Are you strolling alongside a single observe by way of shrubs? Are you surrounded by bushes and granite? Do you like sitting on grime, rocks, and logs, or do you all the time use a pad or a jacket? How usually do you assume your mountaineering leggings shall be used? A couple of days every year? A couple of days every week? These are necessary questions to contemplate relating to how sturdy your leggings ought to be. The extra days you anticipate being on the path in your leggings, and the extra rugged the environments with slender trails and harsh objects surrounding you, the extra we’d suggest specializing in a sturdy product.
CONCLUSION
Discovering a pair of pants for a girl’s physique kind to hike in is considered one of life’s best struggles. For many who dislike making an attempt on pair after pair of choices, solely to be disenchanted by the match within the retailer or after the primary trial when the waist sags, we have now achieved the onerous be just right for you. Leggings generally is a game-changer, offering the vary of movement wanted to succeed in your vacation spot comfortably, or they’ll flip a peaceable day on the path into distress, making it extra tedious to tug up a waistband and inseam than to climb 1,000 toes of switchbacks.
We scoured the outside trade, researched the perfect choices accessible, and examined our frontrunners in each surroundings and terrain we encountered, specializing in side-by-side comparisons between merchandise to offer a complete checklist of the perfect mountaineering leggings for girls. We hope you discover your good match and luxuriate in dozens, tons of, or hundreds of miles on the paths collectively.
