6 Best Hiking Leggings & Tights With Pockets [2024 Guide]

I’ve got a little secret: I actually care about looking somewhat put-together while hiking.

While comfort reigns supreme in the hierarchy of hiking must-haves, there’s something to be said for not feeling like you’re traipsing around in cheap pants that might as well be trash bags after several days of backpacking.

Being a sweaty, greasy mess? Totally fine. Feeling like one? Not so much.

The solution? Hiking leggings and tights. They breathe like you wouldn’t believe, keeping the dreaded chafe at bay. They’re also super versatile and can be worn for hiking, running, yoga, or just lounging around camp.

Let’s be real though, some might ride down and need constant adjusting, while others may be too thin or see-through for comfort. 

For this reason, I’ve tested and rounded up the best hiking leggings and tights for you. These are NOT your average workout pants but rather what you’d call the A-team of outdoor gear.

What Are the Best Hiking Leggings & Tights?

Best Overall: Patagonia Pack Out Tights | Check Price

Best on Budget: Cotopaxi Mari Tights | Check Price

Best Warmth: Outdoor Research Melody 7/8 Leggings | Check Price

Best Durability: Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD | Check Price

Best Comfort: Outdoor Research Ad-Vantage Leggings | Check Price

Best Versatility: Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Tights | Check Price

Patagonia Pack Out Tights

I truly believe that these are the best hiking tights you can currently get and with a 4.6 out of 5 stars rating on Patagonia’s website, I’m certainly not alone in my love for these tights.

Here’s what I like the most about them: The thickness. They keep you warm even in 20-15 degrees F, a blessing when you’re hiking in cold climates.

Despite their warmth retention capabilities, they won’t make you overheat even during long hikes.

These tights have a regular rise, ensuring a comfortable fit throughout your hikes. They hug your body perfectly, promising comfort without ever feeling too tight or too loose.

With one zippered pocket and a drop-in pocket on each leg, you can carry your essentials with ease. Struggling with fitting your phone in your pocket? You won’t with these tights, I promise you that.

These durable tights are literally indestructible. They don’t show through, they don’t fall down, and they don’t show sweat stains.

As I mentioned, they are thick. This thickness might be a turn-off for some but they didn’t make me feel stuffy or bulky and I believe it won’t be a problem for you too.

Verdict

The Patagonia Pack Out Tights are an investment into comfort and durability. The $119 price might seem steep, but honestly, I would happily pay double if they ever got discontinued.

If you’re looking for the best hiking tights, give these a try!

Cotopaxi Mari Tights

At $85, these tights are the most affordable option in my collection so far, and the quality is certainly not compromised. It’s not surprising though, considering Cotopaxi is a brand synonymous with quality and sustainability.

Interestingly, it’s one of those brands that always has their fits true to size, more than other leggings/tights brands I’ve tried.

Designed with 73% recycled polyester and 27% spandex, these tights are not only comfortable but also eco-friendly.

At 27.5 inches inseam and anti-chafing flatlock seams, the ankle-length style works exceptionally well for longer treks.

The high-rise elastic waistband is absolutely spot-on as it stays right where it is meant to be – no rolling down or over at all! How many times have we had to stop mid-hike to fix our waistband? Too many, that’s for sure.

They have a zippered stash pocket on the rear – nothing extraordinary but it works just fine for holding small items.

Despite their seemingly thin fabric, these tights are warm enough for a cool day on the trail.

It’s definitely not as warm as the Patagonia Pack Out Tights, so for 20 degrees temperatures and lower, I’d recommend adding another layer for extra warmth.

Verdict

They may not have all the bells and whistles of other higher-end brands, but they do their job well and are below $90. It’s not easy to find specialized hiking tights with high-quality sustainable fabric at that price point.

Outdoor Research Melody 7/8 Leggings

The Outdoor Research Melody leggings are warm, designed for winter but equally comfortable in temperatures of 65-70 degrees (I’d not wear these in higher temperatures). They’re versatile, suitable for activities where you need some extra warmth but still want to move freely.

The core material of these leggings is 82% polyester and 18% spandex. This blend guarantees a good deal of stretchiness. They also use an ActiveTemp technology to regulate your body temperature, keeping you comfortable in a range of weather conditions.

Their high-rise design and mesh-lined waistband help keep everything snug and in place. The waistband is sturdy and doesn’t roll down.

They come with deep pockets on each side capable of holding your cell phone.

There is also a gusseted crotch offering plenty of room and comfort for your trail-busting moves.

In my experience, these leggings are pretty similar to the Patagonia Pack Out Tights, but perhaps a tad less durable. If you decide to go for the Melody 7/8 leggings, treat them gently to keep them in good shape.

Verdict

Their comfortable fit, stretchy material, and temperature-regulating technology make them nearly perfect for hiking, especially in colder weather.

The only drawback I’ve spotted is that you must handle them with care to ensure their longevity. Other than that, they are a fantastic addition to any hiker’s wardrobe.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD

These are the most durable tights you can get. My pair has withstood the harshest of trails without a single abrasion or pill. The reinforced backside allows me to rest anywhere on the trail, be it a rocky ledge or a mossy tree stump, without worrying about wear and tear or stains.

Their composition is a brilliant blend of 70% recycled polyester and 30% elastane. They weigh in at 9.3 ounces making them super easy to pack along.

The high waistband is a real game-changer for me. It offers an extra snug fit and ensures your tights stay put no matter how rigorous your hike is. The added drawstring gives you control over the fit – tighten or loosen it as per your comfort. 

These tights come with secure leg pockets. That’s perfect to keep your essentials within hand’s reach. Keys, snacks, a small map – you name it.

Rarely do I have only good things to say about hiking clothes, but I think the Abisko tights are an exception. The only thing I can complain about is their high price.

Verdict

With Fjallraven you’re investing in a product that lasts for literally years to come. They’re priced at $175 but it has that premium feel to it, hard to spot in other brands.

I recommend them if you’re looking for a long-term investment and don’t want to compromise on durability. If you’re on a budget, the Patagonia Pack Out Tights would be a great alternative at a lower price point.

Outdoor Research Ad-Vantage Leggings

With their interesting design and functionality, these leggings are great for your spring, fall, and winter adventures. They might be a tad too warm for summer, but they’re excellent for the other seasons.

With a weight of 8.8 oz, these leggings keep you light on your feet, ensuring your pace remains swift and steady throughout your hike.

A high-rise waistband and gusseted crotch take center stage to boost your comfort. The waistband provides a secure fit and prevents the leggings from sliding down mid-hike. A gusseted crotch on the other hand, offers an unrestricted range of motion and helps prevent chafing.

With drop-in thigh pockets and a left hip zip pocket, you’ll have enough room to store your essentials.

The Outdoor Research Ad-Vantage leggings sport a stylish two-tone color. They might not come with a drawstring, but they stay up perfectly well without one.

After my two first hikes wearing these, I’ve found them to be slightly more durable than the Outdoor Research Melody leggings, but less warm during winter.

Verdict

While they are excellent leggings for most part of the year, they could be a bit too warm for the summer hikes. However, spring, fall, or mild winter? They are just perfect.

They are also one of the most comfortable leggings I’ve ever owned. They stay in place and the high-rise waistband and gusseted crotch make them perfect for longer hikes

Patagonia Maipo 7/8 Tights

Weighing only 5.3 oz, Patagonia Maipo tights effortlessly tops our lightest hiking leggings rank. It’s hard to notice you’re wearing them at all, which makes them perfect for longer hikes.

The trade-off? Being extremely lightweight implies the material is a bit thin. They are not the most durable option, but so far I haven’t experienced any issues.

From a folded-over front waistband for perfect fit and comfort, to a handy center-back pocket, every detail matters. Also, these high-rise tights come with low-profile flatlock seams to keep chafing at bay.

The Patagonia Maipo uses HeiQ Pure for odor control. You can keep fresh even during your toughest hikes.

Apart from the comfort these tights offer, they also wash easily and pack nicely.

To top it off, they are made of 81% postconsumer recycled nylon and 19% spandex. This means they help reduce ocean plastic pollution as they’re made from recycled fishing nets. Your choice can have an impact on marine life and it’s simply amazing!

Verdict

These tights are innovative, lightweight, and sustainable. Even though they might not be the most durable option, their comfort, versatility, and eco-friendly materials make them a top choice for hikers who value both performance and the environment.

What Leggings to Wear for Hiking?

Look for leggings or tights that are moisture-wicking, durable, and have a snug yet comfortable fit. The Patagonia Pack Out Tights tick all those boxes, with the added bonus of being made from recycled materials.

Moisture-Wicking Materials

Moisture-wicking is non-negotiable. Materials like polyester and nylon are incredible at pulling sweat away from the skin and drying quickly, keeping you comfortable and dry even during long hikes.

What material should you avoid? Cotton. Although it’s soft and comfortable, cotton tends to hold onto moisture and takes a long, long time to dry. It usually causes chafing too.

Durability

Rocks and branches couldn’t care less about the fate of your leggings. You need something that can stand up to the elements. Look for leggings with reinforced stitching and possibly a bit of spandex for extra stretch.

Comfortable Fit

You want leggings that hug your body just right. A high waistband is what you need as it keeps everything in place and means you’re not showing more than you bargained for when you bend over to tie your shoe.

How to find this mythical pair of perfect hiking leggings that tick all the boxes? Pay close attention to product descriptions and reviews. Fellow hikers are usually pretty vocal about what works and what doesn’t and they don’t hold back when it comes to comfort and durability.

Conclusion

Hiking leggings and tights might not be suitable for every hike, but they definitely have a place in your hiking wardrobe.

There are times when only a sturdy pair of hiking pants will do, like when you’re bushwhacking through a jungle of who-knows-what or when the temperature drops so low you can see your breath.

But whenever I’m about to hike in mild weather, I reach for my leggings or tights to enjoy the freedom of movement and comfort they provide.

Why not give them a try and see for yourself? It can be a refreshing change and who knows, you might just discover your new go-to hiking bottoms.