It’s not all that easy to find hiking pants for plus size or plus size outdoor clothing for that matter. Most hiking pants stop at a size 14 or XXL, so when it comes to finding a pair of hiking pants plus size, your options are quite limited. That being said, the one brand that has a good range of these sizes in outdoor wear is Columbia. Most of their styles go up to plus sizes.
While there is a wide range of choices for winter hiking pants or the best waterproof hiking pants in general, not all brands feature plus sizes. However, we’ve rounded up quite a few of the best hiking pants for plus size that is stylish and comfortable.
How To Choose The Best Hiking Pants For Plus Size
When you’re on the lookout for plus-size hiking pants one of the easiest options is plus-size activewear. However, activewear is not ideal for rougher trails, especially ones that are known for bad weather. For such trails, you’ll need to look out for hiking pants with other features.
Durability
As with any outdoor gear that you buy, whether it’s the best men’s waterproof hiking shoes or the best one-person tents, you want to make sure that it stands up to the rigors of the outdoors. The same goes for hiking pants. These should be able to take a beating and still be fit enough for reuse. Hiking pants don’t come at throwaway prices so you want to be sure that they’re good value for money.
Size and Comfort
While you want to be sure that the hiking pants you choose enhance mobility, don’t go for something that’s too large or baggy. Hiking pants should fit well and not be restrictive in any way. Pants that are too baggy could get caught in protruding objects, leading to accidents. That being said, most hiking pants for plus size are designed to provide more room in the key parts of the body.
Extra Features
Hiking pants that have extra features such as DWR coating and UPF 50 protection are a definite bonus for added protection. To enhance mobility, they generally come with a four-way stretch, articulated knees, and a gusseted crotch. A gusseted crotch is an important feature for plus-size pants as this prevents your pants from splitting.
Are Hiking Pants Really Necessary?
If you’re hitting a rough trail, you’ll appreciate the extra protection that hiking pants provide. Leggings and tights are okay for simple hikes, but for tougher trails, hiking pants are a must. The extra features on these pants plus the secure pockets will make your time outdoors more memorable.
How Do I Pick The Right Pair Of Plus Size Hiking Pants?
Everyone has a different build, whether you’re a regular or plus size. It’s therefore important to know your own measurements well so that you don’t go wrong with the fit. When you pick out a pair of plus-size hiking pants take note of the design too so that you don’t choose something that doesn’t suit your body type.
Libin Women’s Cargo Hiking Pants
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Plus size hiking pants should be stretchy and comfortable like the Libin Women’s Cargo Hiking Pants. Made from a combination of polyester and spandex, this super lightweight fabric has a good stretch to enhance comfort. It’s also breathable and offers UPF 50+ protection.
Apart from this, the pants also have an outer water-resistant finish which helps to repel light moisture. If you’re concerned about the size, these pants start at XS and go up to 3X.
An elastic waistband with drawstring and an adjustable drawcord at the bottom hem will help with the right fit. Storing your small items is easy as these pants come with four zipper pockets.
Pros:
- Good stretch material
- Water-resistant finish
- Elastic waistband with drawstring
- Adjustable drawcord at the bottom hem
- Four zipper pockets
Cons:
- The crotch area is a little uncomfortable as it’s quite long
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BALEAF Women’s Hiking Cargo Pants
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BALEAF Women’s Hiking Cargo Pants are available in a wide range of colors and sizes, going up to 3X- Large. Lightweight, style, and breathability make these women’s hiking pants one of the more popular options out there. With UPF 50+ protection as well as moisture-wicking technology, you can be certain you’ll enjoy a high level of comfort on the trail.
An elastic waist with a drawstring as well as the 4-way stretch woven fabric provides a good fit. Additionally, an adjustable cord lock around the cuffs keeps annoying pests out. However, if you’d rather leave your legs loose you can keep the cord open. Articulated knees, as well as four zip closure security pockets, add to the comfort and convenience of these hiking pants.
Pros:
- Elastic waistband with drawstring cord
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Articulated knees
- Four zip closure security pockets
Cons:
- The zippers on the pockets are a little stiff
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Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants
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The Edie Bauer Guide Pro Pants are available for both men and women in a wide range of sizes. Men’s sizes go up to 44W x 36L while the women’s Guide Pro Pants go from regular to plus and tall sizes. So if you’re looking for stylish hiking pants for plus size these tick the right boxes.
These versatile, all-season pants have a good stretch and shed moisture to leave you feeling cool on the trail. Flexion Stretch woven technology combined with StormRepel DWR water-resistant finish makes these flexible and quick-drying. The streamlined fit, articulated knees, and trimmed calves make these hiking pants ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities.
You’ll also find Polygiene technology in the waistband to minimize odor and help you stay fresh longer. FreeShade 50+ UPF sun protection keeps you safe from harmful UV rays, making these, one of the best size hiking pants.
Pros:
- Lightweight and packable
- Flexion Stretch, woven technology
- StormRepel DWR water-resistant finish
- FreeShade 50+UPF sun protection
- Polygiene technology in the waistband minimizes odor
Cons:
- The pocket on the leg is very small
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Toomett Women’s Fleece Lined Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants (CU)
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For someone looking for a pair of warm hiking pants for plus size, the Toomett Women’s Fleece Lined Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants are pretty impressive. Made from scratch-resistant polyester and stretch spandex with a softshell fabric, you’ll be warm and comfortable in these on the trail. These hiking pants start at size 26 waist and go up to size 42.
They are lined with 100% soft polar, anti-static fleece which is skin-friendly. It has a superior moisture-wicking treatment that allows your skin to breathe freely even if you get too warm. Furthermore, articulated knees combined with the stretch material enhance mobility. These come with side elastic waist and belt loops for the perfect fit.
The surface layer of these hiking pants plus size has a water repellent coating to repel rain and snow. They’re also windproof and wrinkle-free. You’ll find five secure zippered pockets to keep your small accessories safe. As far as durability goes, the 3D tailoring with exquisite stitching not only increases the life of these pants but gives them a stylish look too!
Pros:
- Scratch-resistant and stretchy
- Soft polar fleece lining
- Moisture-wicking
- Water-resistant and windproof
- Multiple pockets
- Wrinkle-free
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue
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Arctix Men’s Cliff Convertible Trail Pant
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With a combination of moisture-wicking technology and ThermaLock treatment, the Arctix Men’s Cliff Convertible Trail Pant is comfortable and quick-drying. These pants go up to size 4X-Large/36″ inseam so if you’re looking for hiking pants plus size, you’ll probably find something that suits your style in this range.
One handy feature of these plus-size hiking pants is that they easily convert to shorts. They also have a partial elastic waist that helps with a comfortable fit. Also, you’ll find a zip-closure security pocket.
As far as the material goes, the UPF 50 technology shields from the harmful sun’s rays. Additionally, the moisture-wicking technology keeps you cool while the ThermaLock treatment allows them to dry quickly. With the four-way stretch fabric, mobility on the trail is enhanced.
Pros:
- Four-way stretch fabric
- Converts to shorts
- Partial elastic waist for a better fit
- UPF 50 shield
- Moisture-wicking and quick-drying
Cons:
- The legs are a bit long which may need to be altered
- The fabric is a little noisy
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Columbia Men’s Bugaboo IV Pant
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Columbia is one of the favored brands of outdoor clothing for plus size as they have a wide range of sizes to cater to almost all sizes. The Columbia Men’s Bugaboo IV Pant is one such product from the brand that has something for all sizes. These are perfect for winter with advanced internal materials that keep you warm.
Chamois touch tricot lining allows you to wear these pants all day in winter. The breathability ensures you’ll stay comfortable even if it gets too warm. A metallic dot pattern on the interiors is designed to retain heat while the breathable fabric dissipates moisture.
The patented Omni-Heat reflective garments keep you warm outdoors while the Omni-Tech technology keeps you dry. An exterior adjustable waist and internal leg gaiters will give you a perfect fit. Storage convenience and warmth is provided from the zippered front hand pockets
Pros:
- OmniHeat technology
- Adjustable waist and internal leg gaiters
- Zippered front hand pockets
- Light insulation
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- Not the best looking hiking pants that are out there
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The North Face Women’s Plus Aphrodite 2.0 Pant
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When it comes to outdoor gear, The North Face brand knows a thing or two. From the best North Face backpacks to impressive winter jackets, gear from this brand does not disappoint. The North Face Women’s Plus Aphrodite 2.0 Pant has all the trimmings that enhance style and comfort. These plus-size hiking pants are available in sizes 1X – 3X.
A drawstring closure coupled with a 2×2 wide rib-knit waistband provides the right fit. You’ll also find a stretch drawcord at the leg openings to enable you to adjust the length of these pants. Front hand pockets and zip pockets provide ample storage space.
Staying cool on the trail is a foregone conclusion with these quick-drying, lightweight pants. The FlashDry technology allows you to stay drier and more comfortable in the outdoors.
Pros:
- Comfortable fit with drawstring closure
- Quick-drying FlashDry fabric
- Front hand pockets and zip pockets
Cons:
- The fabric feels a little thin so these may not be ideal for chilly weather
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Tru-Spec 24-7 Ascent Pants For Men
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Starting at size 28, the Tru-Spec 24-7 Ascent Pants For Men go all the way up to size 54, making these, one of the more versatile men’s plus size hiking pants. They’re stylish enough to be worn as regular pants too.
Comfortable and durable, these pants are made from a mix of cotton and polyester. The micro-ripstop mechanical stretch fabric provides superior comfort and enhances mobility. A traditional fitted waistband, wide belt loops, and a gusseted crotch add to the comfort. You’ll also find a snap with a YKK brass zipper.
In addition to this, the material also has a water repellent coating that makes it stain and fade resistant. Multiple pockets are another plus point.
Pros:
- Stylish and comfortable
- Wide range of sizes
- DWR water repellent coating
- Fade-resistant
- Multiple pockets
Cons:
- Pockets are a little low and loose
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Free Soldier Men’s Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants
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Durable stretch, scratch-resistant, and wear-resistant nylon fabric combine to make the Free Soldier Men’s Outdoor Cargo Hiking Pants an impressive pair of pants for the outdoors. While these pants have a wide range of sizes the one downside is that they only go up to 44W x 30L which could be a disadvantage for someone looking for more sizes in hiking pants for plus size.
That aside, the blended spandex fabric features high elasticity, anti-wrinkle, and soft texture. This ups the comfort quotient of these pants. Besides this, the four-way stretch fabric is also lightweight and breathable.
With the DuPont Teflon coating, the pants stay relatively dry and clean. They also have UPF 50+ protection. Reinforced articulated knees and four pleats with 3D tailoring add to the comfort and flexibility. Several pockets provide ample storage space for small necessities.
Pros:
- Scratch and wear-resistant
- Four-way stretch fabric enhances mobility
- Lightweight and breathable
- UPF 50+ protection
- Multiple pockets
Cons:
- Limited plus size options
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Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pant
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Affordable yet durable, plus-size hiking pants are the Columbia Women’s Saturday Trail Stretch Pant. Starting at size 2, these hiking pants go all the way to size 24 long – plus, so you won’t have to worry about finding the right size. That’s one reason why these pants also stand out as one of the best women’s hiking pants.
These stylish-looking pants offer UPF 50 sun protection and are also breathable. The fabric which is a combination of nylon and elastane has a good two-way stretch that enhances mobility. In addition to this, you’ll also find articulated knees.
Featuring a classic fit, the partial elastic, mid-rise waist provides adjustable comfort. Another standout feature of these hiking pants plus size is the roll-up legs that convert to capris. That’s not all there is to these pants. With Columbia’s signature Omni-Shield feature, you’ll stay relatively clean and dry on the trail. It repels moisture and is also stain repellent.
Pros:
- Lightweight with a good stretch
- Omni-Shield technology keeps you clean and dry
- Water and stain repellent fabric
- Classic fit with partial elastic waist
- Roll-up legs convert to capris
Cons:
- They tend to wrinkle if not carefully packed and the wrinkles don’t fall out readily
- These run a little small so you may need to order a size up
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Fjallraven – Men’s Keb Trousers Regular
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The Fjallraven Men’s Keb Trousers don’t come cheap, but these technically advanced trekking pants are available in a wide range of sizes to suit individual needs. One of the best winter hiking pants, these come with an optimized fit with a pre-shaped rear and knees.
Made from G -1000 Eco fabric at the rear and front of the legs, your movements on the trail will go unhindered. This tightly woven fabric also repels wind and water to keep you warm in chilly weather. Another plus to wearing these pants is the reinforced fabric at the knees and inside the bottom of the legs that enhances the durability.
You won’t have to worry about chafing and wear, with the connecting fabric inside of the thigh. These breathable pants also have a zippered opening from the knee to the hip and along the calf to release excess heat on your hike. Multiple pockets notch up the convenience quotient along with a strap adjustment at the end of the trousers. This adjustment with a button and hook helps secure your hiking or ski boots.
Pros:
- G -1000 Eco fabric at rear and legs aids mobility
- Reinforced knees
- Connecting fabric panel reduces chafing and wear
- Multiple pockets
- Zippered opening to release excess heat
- Wide range of sizes
Cons:
- We would be nitpicking if we found fault with these impressive winter hiking pants
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prAna Women’s Halle Convertible Pant
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One of the best convertible hiking pants for plus size is undoubtedly the prAna Women’s Halle Convertible Pant. These stylish hiking pants are available in a wide range of sizes, starting from size 0 up to 18 tall. You can also choose from three different colors.
Cut from Stretch Zion fabric with a durable water repellent finish, these pants are made for the outdoors. They come with articulated knees, a gusseted crotch, and have a relaxed fit that makes them ideal for the trail.
They’re also quick-drying with UPF 50+ sun protection. What makes these pants an excellent choice for summer is the convertible option. They unzip just below the knees to leave your legs cooler if you need to make a switch. A hidden zip stash pocket makes a convenient storage option.
Pros:
- Lightweight and quick-drying
- Stylish design
- Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch
- Relaxed fit
- Hidden zip stash pockets
Cons:
- The pockets are a bit too small and not good enough for storing slightly bigger items such as a phone
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Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Men’s Pant
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Columbia is a trusted name for outdoor clothing and one of the best things about the brand is that it has a wide range of sizes to suit everyone’s needs. The Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Men’s Pant goes up to size 54W x 34L Big Tall which makes these hiking pants a good option for someone looking for hiking pants for plus size.
What’s makes these, one of the best hiking pants for men is that they’re not only affordable but durable too. You can wear them as shorts too on hot days by unzipping the legs. Another good feature is the partial elastic waist, gusset detail, and classic fit. You’ll also find multiple pockets.
Apart from all this, the moisture-wicking material with the signature UPF 50 fabric makes these, one of the best pants for the outdoors. They dry off quickly and repel water too.
Pros:
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Can be worn as shorts
- UPF 50 fabric
- Classic fit
Cons:
- The zippers on the legs are a little stiff
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