Mountain sports trousers and skirts

Hiking pants offer more freedom of movement and better moisture management than many everyday pants. Depending on the model, they also protect against wind, light precipitation, dirt and contact with rocks or vegetation.

The right hiking pants depend on the tour, terrain, season, weather and exercise intensity. The desired length, the weather protection you need and your personal fit preferences also play an important role.

Good hiking pants should fit comfortably and offer enough freedom of movement. Depending on the use, breathable, quick-drying, elastic or particularly durable materials make sense. The specific properties vary from model to model.

Hiking pants should fit securely without slipping, digging in or restricting movement. There must be enough freedom of movement for big steps and steep sections. Pre-shaped knees and elastic inserts can further improve comfort.

In warm temperatures, light and breathable shorts or thin long hiking pants are suitable. Despite the heat, long pants offer additional protection against sun, vegetation and rough terrain. The choice therefore also depends on the planned tour.

For cold conditions, long models with greater warmth retention make sense. Depending on the activity, a textured inner side, wind-resistant materials or an additional insulating layer can be helpful. At high intensity, ventilation options remain important.

With zip-off pants, the legs can be removed above the knees. This turns long hiking pants into shorts. This is particularly practical in changing temperatures and on longer tours.

Zip-off pants are suitable for tours at different altitudes, in changing temperatures or of longer duration. Before buying, you should check whether the zippers are comfortable when moving, sitting and squatting.

Most classic hiking pants are not completely waterproof. Depending on the model, they can be water-repellent and protect against light precipitation. For prolonged rain, rain pants or hardshell pants that are certified as waterproof are needed.

Hiking pants are designed mainly for freedom of movement, breathability and durability. Rain pants serve as a waterproof outer layer and are often worn over regular hiking pants. This means they can be added quickly when needed.

Depending on the model, ventilation zippers, adjustable leg openings, pre-shaped knees, belt loops and well-placed pockets can increase comfort. Side zippers can also make it easier to put the pants on and take them off over mountain boots.

Shorts offer particularly good ventilation in warm weather. Long hiking pants better protect your legs from sun, cold, dirt and contact with rocks or plants. Depending on the model, zip-off pants combine both options.

Many hiking pants can also be worn for climbing, on via ferratas or for mountain biking. What matters are freedom of movement, durability and a suitable cut. For special requirements, sport-specific models may be better suited.

Depending on the conditions, mountain sports pants can be combined with a functional base layer or protective overpants. In the cold, additional warmth can be added; in the rain, a waterproof outer layer. This way, your clothing can be flexibly adapted to weather and intensity.