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Hit the trails in style.

HIKING TOOK off in popularity during the pandemic as it was one of a handful of relatively safe outdoor activities that was both easily accessible and incredibly rewarding. Some hikes are as short as a mile with little elevation gain, while other trails are much longer and with more varied terrain, requiring both mental and physical acuity in order to navigate your way up and around mountains. Whether you're a casual hiker or a skilled mountaineer, wearing the right gear can make all the difference when you're out there trekking through changing landscapes in unpredictable weather.

Like any hiking gear, the best hiking pants are functional in various conditions and hold up against the elements. You might set out on the trail in the early hours of the morning when it's still chilly out and reach the summit in the late afternoon when the sun and wind are pounding at your back, which is where convertible hiking pants come in handy. You can easily transform pants into shorts to keep you cool. Most hiking pants are water-resistant, if not waterproof, to protect you in case you happen upon any midday showers.

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The best hiking pants are versatile for a variety of trail lengths and conditions. Going into the great outdoors requires preparation, and while you might be comfortable doing a short hike in athletic shorts, a good pair of hiking pants can make a long hike feel like a walk in the park.

Ready to take your hiking adventures to the next level? We've rounded up the best hiking pants of 2022 to help you summit that mountain in style.

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These aren't your dad's convertible hiking pants. They're super breathable and feature multiple pockets (including a zippered back pocket) for ample and secure storage. A zipper transforms the pants into shorts just above the knee, but does so in a way that doesn't leave you with a zippered hem. The included belt keeps these pants in position no matter how many miles you put in.

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Deciding what to wear for a summer hike can be a challenge. Shorts will keep you cool but won't protect you from tree branches, ticks, or sharp rocks along the trail. That's why we love these hiking pants from The North Face. Mad with 68% recycled nylon, the material is thin enough to protect you from the elements without weighing you down.

If you hate the look of hiking pants with all the pockets and heavy material, these hiking pants from adidas still offer all the functional features in a more modern style. These pants look like a pair of cozy joggers, but they're made to be taken into the wild on the trails. Go from running around outside to running errands with ease with this stylish silhouette.

Never let bad weather put a damper on your day hike with these pants from Arc'teryx. They have a technical aesthetic that still feels comfortable but is also weather resistant, so it's a great pick for hikers of all levels. The weatherproof fabric is tightly woven, which is great for durability but may feel a bit oppressive in hot weather.

These Patagonia hiking pants are fit for daytrippers and backpackers alike. The blend of recycled nylon and spandex feels lightweight but also provides ample protection against rain and wind. These pants have a few functional pockets but not too many, which means you can hit up a brewery after the trail without looking like you just stumbled of the PCT.

Columbia's hiking pants are a classic option that won't disappoint. This style is our favorite for all-around hiking, due to the durable fabric and versatile fit that doesn't restrict your movement. Featuring Omni-Shield™ technology, this fabric repels moisture and prevents liquids from absorbing into the yarn so you can get the most out of your adventure without worry.

Made with 40% recycled polyester with a water-repellant finish, these hiking pants look good on and off the mountain. The straight leg silhouette provides mobility and comfort while the hidden zip pockets offer extra storage for snacks and gadgets.

Hiking pants don't have to be expensive to perform well. These nylon pants will set you back less than $40 but have all the features of higher priced hiking pants, including zip pockets and a quick drying, water-resistant fabric that is both lightweight and breathable. Plus, it comes with a belt and an elastic waist for a snug, customized fit.

Hiking pros love these all-season pants, which are made up of a a nylon/spandex fabric blend that delivers superior stretch mobility, repels moisture, and has built-in UPF sun protection. These pants can comfortably carry you through a weekend backpacking trip up mountains and through some seriously tough terrain.

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Fit and function make the Ferrosi pants from Outdoor Research one of our favorites for long, technical hikes. The fabric is soft yet strong, and is wind and water resistant while still allowing for breathability. Run, jump, and play in these stretchy pants—you can trust they've got your back.

For the past two years, Men's Health Style editors, including our Gear & Commerce Editor John Thompson, tested a wide variety of hiking pants. Editors evaluated the shirts based on their functionality, style, and price point. We also considered hiking pants with high ratings from e-commerce sites we trust.

Hiking trails can vary based on the location, time of year, and degree of difficulty. Depending on the length of the trail, you could be out for multiple hours, which means you'll need to carry some additional gear and provisions on your person in order to successfully make the journey to your destination and back. You'll want to look for pants that are versatile and functional that allow you to be prepared for whatever adventure you happen to come across.

The best outdoor attire is durable enough to withstand the elements, which include both the weather and anything you might encounter on the trail. If you're backpacking, the hiking pants you choose to wear are the only pants you'll be wearing for a few days. A durable fabric protects you from nature, sharp rocks, or fallen tree branches, and resists tearing or catching.