The Best Hiking Leggings for Women in 2022: Thermal, Pockets and More

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights

These hiking tights are the most expensive on our list, but also the most durable. The Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights were designed for hiking in a wide variety of conditions. With its perfectly placed pockets, including a side pocket and its wide waist, you’ll feel very comfortable during long hikes in rugged conditions.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights protect you against vegetation, bug bites and scratches from rocks. The only downside is the lack of good weather protection. These tights are not really water-resistant, so you’ll have to stick to dry conditions. 

Arc’teryx Oriel

Arc’teryx has always been characterized for designing great quality products for committed hikers. These hiking tights are no exception. Rugged, comfortable, and durable, these are the perfect pair of hiking leggings to pack for long hikes with unpredictable weather conditions.

Arc’teryx Oriel tights are designed to resist abrasion which makes them perfect for scrambling up mountains.

The pockets are very functional so you can carry your phone very comfortably. What I loved the most, is the mobility these tights provide. You’ll have freedom of movement while hiking, climbing, or performing any kind of exercise. I haven’t found any cons so far.

Columbia Titan Ultra

The Columbia Titan Ultra leggings are another good choice for hiking on rugged trails. With its reinforced knees and seat you’ll always feel protected when climbing or hiking in this durable hiking legging. The back padding makes it more comfortable to sit on hard surfaces when you take a breather and relish the views from your hard work at the summit.

The breathability is good, but it’s not enough to keep you cool if you plan to go running during the warm months. During winter, you’ll feel warm and protected. These are quick-drying so even though the fabric isn’t water-resistant, your own body heat will dry these leggings in a few minutes.

These are perfect for hikes in all seasons except in summer.

Icebreaker Comet

Icebreaker Comet leggings are one of the warmest options, perfect for hiking in cold weather. They’re made with a blend of merino wool, polyester, and spandex, a great mix of materials, but are still wearable during the warm months due to their natural breathability and excellent fabric technology.

Their comfortable to comfortable to wear, either on their own or as a layer. The fit is great and it offers a classic style so you can wear them even when you aren’t hiking.

I’m a big fan of the brand in general and always end up wearing the items I buy for years.

Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings

These also rank as one of the best leggings for hiking year-round. They’re high-rise rugged, light, and perfectly ventilated for long strenuous activities and a very durable legging. Eddie Bauer Trail Tight Leggings feature sun protection, moisture-wicking, and odour control, which makes them a good choice for long or multi-day hikes.

These also feature three functional pockets, including a side pocket so you can access what you need easily. These leggings are very supportive and remain in place even when you’re wearing a heavy backpack. They also give you mobility, even when hiking on steep trails or climbing. All these factors contribute to why we love them.

The North Face Aphrodite 2.0

The North Face makes great hiking clothing, and the Aphrodite 2.0 is no exception. Technically these are not leggings per se, but rather a mixture between hiking pants and leggings. They aren’t stretchy but are form-fitting which is why we included them.

These are great for temperate weather and are also quick-drying. The elastic waist is comfortable and ensures a good fit. I really like these pants but wish they had more pockets. The Aphrodite 2.0 has amazing breathability and you can perform intense activities without overheating.

These pants are very comfortable, the stretchy high waist gives you a lot of mobility while ensuring comfort all day long. They’re great when you’re hiking a rugged trail.

I wouldn’t recommend these hiking pants for very hot areas as they do get pretty warm after a few hours of hiking. 

The North Face Perfect Core

The TNF Perfect Core are durable and weather resistant. They also make sure that everything stays in place during a long hiking trip. You’ll feel very supported and protected on the trail, but I don’t recommend them for the gym as there are more comfortable leggings

The fabric has good breathability perfect for longer hikes.

Wrapping it up, this is a resistant and durable hiking legging that will make you look stylish while feeling supported and protected, but it’s not the most comfortable one for just hanging out.

Tuff Athletics Leggings

Tuft Athletics Leggings are one of the best in terms of what they offer at their low price point. You’ll get a comfortable and versatile legging that is meant to last. The fabric falls on the warm side, but it’s still wearable in warmer weather.

These keep everything in place thanks to their blend of Lycra and Spandex, even when hiking for long hours. They are not as breathable as some other brands, so I wouldn’t recommend these for intense activities or for hiking in heat. However, you’ll get lots of mobility, so you can tackle steep slopes while remaining very comfortable.

In short, for a reasonable price, you get a comfortable legging that’s also stylish enough for just hanging around.

Lululemon Align II

This legging is really popular and it’s easy to see why. They’re incredibly lightweight and comfortable. The “Nulu” fabric feels very soft and feels like you’re not wearing anything at all.

The high waist comes with a reinforced waistband that feels very comfortable and keeps them from slipping down. The waistband has a small pocket that allows you to carry cash or a credit card without anyone noticing it.

On the downside, the material isn’t particularly resistant, so I wouldn’t wear these in densely vegetated areas or on rocky trails. They’re an expensive legging, but I’ve had one of my Lululemon tights for over 12 years and still wear them, so they do last.

Exofficio Impervia

If you have had bad experiences with bugs, then this is a great choice. The Exofficio Bugsaway Impervia leggings feature insect repelling technology for a mosquito-free hike.

The fabric also provides UV protection, so you won’t have to worry about sunburns. You’ll enjoy breathability and mobility with these while also feeling very comfortable.

These leggings are perfect for warm, humid hikes; but if things get too cold, you can always layer them. In my opinion, these leggings excel in tropical conditions. And they have a great fit too!

Avia Activewear Performance

Avia Activewear Performance are some of the best budget-friendly leggings for hiking you can buy. They’re breathable moisture-wicking, have a perfect fit and a great range of movement. For the price, it is unbelievable how comfortable and versatile these are.

They have two practical zippered pockets including a side pocket, so you can keep your cash and your credit cards safe. If you’re looking for freedom of movement, Avia has you covered, you can go climbing or tackle steep trails without being worried about tearing your leggings.

For the price, you get good quality leggings that perform well in most conditions. I find them really stylish too and great for everyday wear.

Reflex 90 Degree

These are another pair of inexpensive leggings for hiking that you can also use for other activities.

The fabric compresses in all the right places helping you feel more confident and you don’t have to worry about them slipping. Reflex 90 Degree leggings are designed to be “squat-proof” so the high waist stays put. Overall, these are a good price for a simple yet stylish, and functional legging.

Spalding Classic

These plus-size leggings are perfect for hiking in dry weather conditions. The mostly cotton leggings are very comfortable and give you room to move.

The downside is that they’re cotton which isn’t great in wet weather, so these leggings won’t keep you dry. They’re perfect for slightly cooler days, but a little thick and warm for tropical weather so you wouldn’t want to wear them when it’s humid.

These leggings have a classic look and are very stylish. You can wear them even when you aren’t working out or hiking.

Columbia Back Beauty

If you prefer polyester over cotton, these hiking leggings are the best option when looking for a comfortable plus-size legging that will both perform well and look nice on you.

They’re a looser fit so super comfortable while still looking great. but retain a nice comfortable look. They’re are also designed for temperate to cold weather, so perfect on cooler hikes but not if you’re planning to hike in a tropical rainforest.

These hiking tights are warm and comfortable; either on their own or as a layer. The waistband is comfortable enough for you to wear during the night while camping. The Columbia Back Beauty is perfect for slow-paced short hikes.

Danskin Capri Legging

I have three words for these leggings: comfortable, affordable, and durable. Danskin manages to manufacture good leggings for an affordable price that will maintain their shape for years, even when you’re using them intensely.

These leggings are perfect for hiking in warm weather. I wouldn’t recommend these ones for rainy weather since these cotton leggings won’t dry well, but for a regular hike or a workout, they’re a good option

The fit couldn’t be more comfortable, the waistband fits nicely around your belly button. This is a great lightweight legging for wearing in all your normal activities as well.

Roamans Stretch Legging

Roamans is one of the best brands manufacturing plus-size leggings. The high-quality cotton/spandex fabric guarantees that they don’t become see-through no matter how much you stretch. They’re very lightweight so are best worn in warmer weather.

You can also choose from a wide variety of colours if you think regular black or charcoal leggings can get a little too boring. The well-designed waistband guarantees that your leggings stay remain in place, so you’ll never get the awkward sensation of your pants falling.

This legging fits well and is another high-quality budget-friendly legging for hiking.

Zerdocean Modal

These plus-size leggings are great for women that want the freedom to move. They’re extremely soft, lightweight, and breathable.

They’re durable leggings and comfortable fitting well from waist to ankle without being too tight. Make sure to check the size chart before purchasing as they may become see-through if the fabric is overstretched.

These leggings for hiking are perfect for warm to hot conditions. They’ll keep you comfortable and looking stylish at the same time.