Trouser Buying Guide

Finding a pair of trousers which suit you can be a serious struggle. It doesn’t matter if you’re summiting mountains or taking a walk in the park, picking the right trousers is essential to ensure you stay comfortable, while being able to perform at your best and remain protected from the elements.

There’s plenty of options to choose from, and that’s why we’ve teamed up with Craghoppers to bring you this comprehensive, trousers buying guide to help you find the right pair for you.

What to Consider When Purchasing an Outdoor Trouser

Fit & Comfort

The fit will vary depending on the type of trouser you decide to go. For example, waterproof trousers tend to be baggier to allow them to fit over your walking trouser, while a classic walking trouser tends to come with a straight leg and softshell trousers tend to come with a slimmer more fitted look. Some trousers will come with adjustments available, such as adjustable cuffs or zip off lower legs to adapt to your environment or terrain.

Ventilation, Temperature Control & UV Protection

Temperature control is important while out and about to avoid overheating. For greater temperature control, some trousers will come with ventilation zips to allow for cooler air to flow and keep your temperature down. Another option is convertible (zip-off) trousers which allow you to zip-off the lower portion of the leg to turn the trousers into shorts during those hotter conditions.

When you’re out with the sun beaming down on you all day, it’s important to remain covered up to reduce the chances of burning and heat stroke. One way of doing this is by using UPF-rated fabrics, which will offer UV protection from exposure to the sun. Fabrics can come with varying UPF-ratings, so it is important you understand what sort of protection this can offer you before you head out exploring. Examples of UPD ratings can be found below:

Weather Resistance

From water resistant to waterproof, trousers can fit different purposes. Like with waterproof jackets, waterproof trousers are great during a downpour but can be less breathable compared to a water resistant or non-waterproof trouser. There are two types of waterproof trousers, your next to skin trousers and your over-trousers. Your next to skin trousers which are worn as your normal trousers, making them great if you know it's going to rain, whereas over-trousers can be packed in your backpack in the event it rains, and can be worn over the top of your normal trousers when it does rain.

Seasonality

Buying the right pair of trousers depending on the season is important for maintaining body temperature. Wearing an insulated winter trouser during the summer is a sure-fire way of overheating, while wearing a thinner summer trouser during the middle of winter is likely to result in a very uncomfortable and cold walk.

Weight & Packability

Weight is important especially for those who may be out on longer adventures. Winter trousers which are insulated will weigh more than a classic walking trouser. Some walking trousers are also designed to be packed away small, reducing the space taken up in your backpack, making them ideal for a multi-day hike.

Types of Trouser

Walking

Specifically engineered for outdoor activities such as hiking, these are much more durable than your regular trousers and tracksuit bottoms, while also providing the flexibility for more technical terrain if that’s your thing.

A great option is the Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers, which feature SolarShield for UPF40+ sun protection and utilise a H2OShield fabric for lightweight, quickdrying performance. They also feature Craghoppers signature NosiDefence technology, which means when you wear them, they act as an insect repellent, which is ideal for those summer months up when the midges are out and about.

Waterproof

There’s nothing worse than a long day hiking in the rain with non-waterproof trousers, which can become waterlogged and weigh you down, making for a pretty uncomfortable time.

The first type of waterproof trouser is next to skin trousers. These can be worn as you would your normal trousers and are great for when you know it is going to rain. If this is what you need, the Craghoppers Steall II Thermo Waterproof Trousers are a great option, featuring a AquaDry membrane, meaning they’re fully waterproof at 20,000mm hydrostatic head and a breathability rating of 4,000g/m2/24hrs, they will keep you dry while allowing sweat to wick away from the skin, while still offering the stretch of a normal walking trouser.

Over Trousers

The second kind of waterproof trouser is your over trousers, these are usually kept in your backpack in the event it starts raining and can be quickly pulled over your regular walking leggings or trousers. If this is what you’re looking for, then the Craghoppers Ascent over trousers are ideal, as they pack away well and are fully waterproof.

Softshell

Softshell trousers are more technical than your classic walking trousers, due to their improved weather-resistance, breathability and stretchy fabric which makes them great for days out in the mountains.

Convertible Zip-Off Trousers

Convertible trousers are a fantastic option for days out on the trail during spring and summer. They can be used as normal walking trousers which help protect you from the sun and the environment, but also allow you to zip off the lower portion of the leg to allow for greater temperature regulation by turning them into shorts.

One option for this style of trouser is the Kiwi Pro Convertible Trousers, which feature UPF40+ sun repellent fabrics and the H2OShield Technology which allows for improved water repellence. They also feature a zip-off trouser leg, meaning they can be converted into shorts for additional temperature regulation.

Trekking

A very durable option designed to allow you to perform during those longer hiking trips. Trekking trousers offer plenty of technical features to ensure you’re able to endure those long days on the trail. The Craghoppers Brisk Trousers are a great example of this. Part of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Collection, these trousers offer high functionality for long days out in the hills.

Featuring a durable water repellent finish, UPF 40+ SolarShield sun protection and a hard-wearing fabric, they are perfect if you’re looking for something to keep you going during your longer hikes.

Leggings

Leggings are a great option if you want something for a wide variety of activities. Depending on your needs, you can purchase leggings which are more lightweight for the warmer months, or you can find others with added insulation which make them perfect for wearing during the winter months. A great pair which are suited to all types of activity are the Kiwi Pro Leggings. These active compression leggings offer complete freedom of movement due to their ultra-stretchy construction, making them ideal for all different types of activities.

Winter

Designed to keep you warm during those colder days, winter trousers are insulated trousers which help to retain heat, while offering the flexibility and durability needed to withstand those harsher conditions the winter trails have to offer.

The Kiwi Pro Lined Trousers offer a brushed lining for warmth during colder conditions, while featuring a durable water repellent finish to keep you dry too. These trousers also feature anti-insect treatment which will last the lifetime of the garment, a part elasticated waist and heel tape which are there to ensure maximum comfort.

Everyday

Built for the everyday, if you’re not planning on any strenuous activity but want something a little more flexible than a pair of jeans, then the everyday active trousers are your best option.

The Craghoppers Men’s Karst Trousers are the perfect pair of this. With a smarter look than your hiking trousers while still featuring the flexibility and comfort to enjoy your time outdoors, they’re great for that town to trail transition.

Ultimately, picking the right pair of trousers can depend on many different factors, but hopefully this guide has been that helping hand you needed to help you make the right decision.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual walker, Craghoppers have something for everyone to protect you from the elements and allow for everyday comfort, be that on the walk to work or out in the mountains.