How to choose your hiking trousers?
You need to choose a pair of hiking trousers, but you don't know which type to choose? Cimalp helps you to see more clearly and to choose the trousers adapted to your hiking. Today, trousers must meet several criteria, including comfort, performance and style. They vary according to the time of year, the weather conditions and the environment in which you are riding. Find out how to choose your hiking trousers now.
Choosing according to the environment
Trousers for winter
If you go hiking in winter, it is imperative to get a good pair of trousers to avoid getting cold. The best way to do this is to choose fleece-lined trousers that are specially designed for winter hiking. Alternatively, you can choose classic long trousers for hiking and wear tights underneath to keep out the cold.
Trousers for summer
In summer, there are more options. The advantage of long trousers is that they protect you from UV rays, which can be very strong, especially in the mountains. It is best to choose trousers made of synthetic fabric, which allows for better breathability. You can also choose hiking shorts made of the same material. A very practical alternative is the trousers that can be transformed into shorts in just a few seconds.
Trousers for the rain
If you go hiking in the rain, it is important to have the right trousers for this. Gore-tex trousers are waterproof but also breathable. If yours is not, you can get a pair of rain trousers, which are quick and easy to put on in case of a sudden downpour.
Choosing trousers according to the type of hiking
For a light hike
A light hike does not involve a lot of physical effort and technical movements. You can therefore use loose-fitting hiking trousers that are less light than conventional trousers and are made of a mixture of synthetic and natural fibres.
For an intense hike
If you are going on an intense hike or a mid-mountain hike, the best choice is to use trousers made of synthetic fabric. They have many advantages: they are light, water-repellent, stretchy, windproof, breathable and quick-drying. It is best to choose trousers that fit close to the body and adapt well to your movements.
For high mountain hiking
Hiking in the high mountains requires trousers that are waterproof, breathable and stretchy to adapt to your body's movements. If you are going to high altitude in winter, it is best to choose softshell trousers. These trousers are generally heavier, but provide more comfort, insulation, flexibility and protection from the cold.
Other criteria to take into account
Some trousers may be more advantageous than others depending on your needs. In terms of practicality, it's a good idea for your trousers to have several pockets so that you can store items that need to be within easy reach: map, compass, phone, etc. The closure of the pockets is also an element to be taken into account: you can, for example, opt for zipped pockets to be sure of keeping your items safe (particularly in the event of rain), or pockets with press studs if you need quicker access to your belongings.
Some trousers also have ventilation zips. These side zips with mesh lining help to improve ventilation and regulate body moisture. Other models, such as rain trousers, often have zips at the bottom of the legs so that they can be put on easily without removing the hiking boots.
The choice of waistband and closure of your trousers is also a matter of preference. Finally, you should also bear in mind that light-coloured trousers will absorb less heat than dark trousers, but will be messier.
We advise you not to go hiking in jeans or ski trousers. These trousers are not designed for this type of activity and do not allow you to be comfortable when hiking. It is better to choose trousers that are specific to your needs, depending on the type of activity and the period in which you are doing it.