Here are some of the best waterproof hiking pants to look at right now, plus how to choose the right pair for your trails.

Quick Scoop

  • For all‑day rain and rough terrain: Arc’teryx Beta rain pants (or similar top‑tier 3‑layer shells) are among the most protective and durable options, but also some of the most expensive.
  • For serious hillwalking and long wet days: Technical waterproof trousers like Klättermusen Ran are highly breathable and built for thru‑hiking and four‑season use.
  • For typical day hikes and mixed weather: Lightweight hiking pants with strong water resistance from major brands (REI Co‑op, Prana, Kuhl, Patagonia, etc.) balance comfort, stretch, and fast drying rather than full storm‑shell protection.
  • For budget or casual use: There are many under‑the‑radar picks in “top 7” and “best of 2025” roundups that trade a little performance for better price.

Top Waterproof / Rain‑Shell Pants

These are the “pull‑over your base layer in a storm” type pants, focused on waterproof ratings and protection.

1. Arc’teryx Beta Rain Pants

  • 3‑layer hardshell design built for cold, wet, and even mountaineering‑level conditions.
  • Excellent waterproofness, full‑length side zips for ventilation and easy on/off, and very durable fabrics.
  • Best if you hike in sustained heavy rain, snow, or in alpine terrain and want one bombproof pair that will last for years.

2. Klättermusen Ran Pants

  • Designed as extremely breathable waterproof trousers, tested for thru‑hiking and four‑season hillwalking.
  • Use recycled, bluesign‑approved materials and aim for comfort during long days while staying weatherproof.
  • Good choice if you want strong eco credentials plus serious protection for European‑style wet mountain days.

Water‑Resistant Hiking Pants (Great for Most Hikers)

These are “wear‑all‑day” hiking pants that shed light–moderate rain, dry quickly, and feel comfortable even when it’s not raining.

What they do well

  • Many top hiking pants in recent 2025–2026 roundups are not fully waterproof but are very water‑resistant and quick‑drying.
  • Reviews highlight stretch fabrics, multiple pockets, articulated knees, and DWR coatings that cause water to bead off in showers.

Example models and traits

  • Well‑reviewed pants from brands such as Prana, Kuhl, Patagonia, and Eddie Bauer combine light stretch, good pocket layouts, and reliable water resistance.
  • Testers note that these pants often repel water for at least tens of seconds under running water and dry quickly after getting splashed, making them suitable for drizzly days or occasional creek splashes.

How to Choose the Best Waterproof Hiking Pants

1. Decide: full waterproof vs water‑resistant

  • Choose full waterproof shells (3‑layer or 2.5‑layer with taped seams) if you regularly hike in prolonged or heavy rain, or in high, exposed mountains.
  • Choose water‑resistant hiking pants if your conditions are mostly light showers, fast‑changing weather, or you value comfort and breathability over storm protection.

2. Key features to look for

  • Fabric and layers: 3‑layer or quality 2.5‑layer membranes, plus taped seams, are essential for true waterproof shells.
  • Venting: Thigh or full‑length leg zips help dump heat and make it easy to pull pants on over boots.
  • Fit and mobility: Articulated knees, gusseted crotch, and a bit of stretch prevent that “trash‑bag” feel when scrambling or stepping high.
  • Cuffs and waist: Adjustable cuffs and secure waist/belt systems keep water and wind from sneaking in and help the pants sit well over boots.

Recent Trends and Forum‑Style Takeaways

  • Recent 2024–2026 gear guides lean heavily toward lighter, more breathable waterproof pants rather than super‑heavy mountaineering shells, reflecting how most hikers actually use them.
  • Many “best of” lists now mix classic rain‑shell trousers with highly water‑resistant everyday hiking pants, acknowledging that hikers want one pair that can handle sun, wind, and showers alike.

On outdoor forums and review sites, you’ll often see the same trade‑off debated: carry a dedicated heavy rain shell that you use occasionally, or wear lighter, water‑resistant pants all day and accept that in a true downpour you might still want an extra shell layer over them.

Simple Buying Checklist

Use this quick list when you’re comparing models:

  1. Check whether seams are taped and the fabric is described as 2.5‑ or 3‑layer (for real waterproofing).
  1. Look for side zips or vents if you run hot or hike steep terrain.
  1. Make sure cuffs open wide enough to go over your usual boots and that they adjust snugly.
  1. Try on with your base layer to confirm you can step high and squat without pulling or restriction.
  1. Read recent field‑test style reviews (not just specs) to see how the pants handled long, wet days and durability after months of use.

Short TL;DR

If you regularly hike in heavy, cold rain or in the mountains, go for a fully waterproof shell pant like the Arc’teryx Beta or a similar 3‑layer technical model.

If you mostly do three‑season hikes with occasional showers, a modern, water‑resistant hiking pant from a major brand will likely feel better all day while still shedding most weather you’ll encounter.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.