Winter hiking takes preparation for bad weather. You may encounter rain or snow, especially in the mountains. Start with your clothing, particularly your trousers. They need to be durable and waterproof, but also sufficiently insulating to keep you warm. Read our advice on how to choose trousers for winter hiking.
Key factors when choosing trousers
The right fit for your winter trousers depends on the type of hiking you do. For strenuous or mountain hikes, choose close-fitting trousers made from stretch fabric. They’ll move with you. For less demanding hikes on flat terrain, you can opt for a slightly looser fit.
For winter hiking, some trousers have zipped pockets, ventilation pockets, drawcords or gaiters. Gaiters protect your lower legs and the tops of your shoes, letting you move through vegetation without water or snow getting into your footwear.
Choosing the right waterproof rating for winter
Showers are common in winter, especially in the mountains. To cope with rain, your trousers need to be waterproof or at least water-repellent. Water-repellent trousers let water run off the fabric’s surface rather than soaking in, helping you stay dry. They will not, however, withstand heavy rain or snowfall. Trousers made from waterproof fabric prevent rain from getting through and are better suited to harsh weather.
For reliable protection, we recommend either waterproof trousers or water-repellent trousers with overtrousers. Overtrousers are easy to pull on, take up little space and provide effective protection from the rain.
Why good thermal insulation matters
When temperatures fall in winter, thermal insulation matters. Most winter hiking trousers are either fleece-lined or have a brushed inner surface. They’re designed to retain warmth while remaining breathable enough for hiking.
The three-layer system can also work for your lower body in winter. Wear thermal tights, hiking trousers and overtrousers with a durable waterproof membrane. Together, the three layers protect you from cold and bad weather on your hiking trips.
Softshell trousers for winter hiking
For high-altitude winter hikes, softshell trousers can also be a good choice. Softshell is a fabric made from three bonded layers: a fleece layer for warmth, a waterproof membrane and a windproof outer fabric that protects the membrane. It provides all-round protection from bad weather.
Although slightly heavier and less waterproof than hardshell trousers, softshell trousers have many advantages. Their inner fabric provides good thermal insulation, keeping body heat close to the skin. Their water-resistant membrane and stretch fabric help them cope with the elements. They are comfortable, insulating, warm, hard-wearing, durable and flexible.
Choosing the right trousers for winter hiking helps protect you from both cold and bad weather. We advise against hiking in ski trousers: they’re not designed for hiking and can become cumbersome as you work up a sweat.
