Choosing the right trousers for your outdoor adventure

Wherever you travel, the right gear is essential for a successful trip. From waterproof overtrousers to hiking leggings, pick a pair of trousers that can handle anything life has in store. Whether water-resistant or windproof, consider the design elements you need for your next adventure.

Keep an eye out for critical features like stretch fabric, extra hand pockets and an elasticated waistband for flexible movement. From the summit to the slopes, find the right heavy-duty gear to take you anywhere.

What are good trousers for hiking?

Whether you’re tackling a multi-day excursion or a simple day trip, it’s best to look for solid hiking trousers with a few important key features. Look out for breathability, ventilation, and quick-drying materials before lacing up your boots and getting on the trail.

Spring hiking is made simple with our Exploration Trousers. Built with a lightweight stretch fabric that moves with you, this moisture-wicking material won’t cling to your skin. Plus, two zipped pockets—and two even larger thigh pockets—are a perfect hands-free solution to storing your essentials. 

When it comes to hiking trousers, flexibility is vital. The Men’s Exploration Convertible Trousers are a great option when every gram counts. You can roll up the hem for a mid-morning hike. Then, zip them off mid-thigh when you get a little warmer up on the mountain.

If running is more your style, try our Women’s Active Trail Mesh High Rise Leggings to hit the trail (or the gym). A fitted construction promotes circulation while working up a sweat.  Simply pair with a waterproof jacket in the wet weather, and you’ll be ready to move in minutes. 

What are overtrousers?

Overtrousers, or waterproof trousers, are designed to provide an instant layer of waterproof protection. Engineered to be rugged yet forgiving, water-repellent treatment and a waterproof membrane will keep you and your base layers dry. Flexible nylon fabric and wind-resistant technology mean they will also help with keeping you warm.

When it comes to overtrousers, a functional fit is key. Our Men’s Speedlight Trousers offer four-way stretch in three different inseam sizes. Plus, ripstop nylon over the knees and sides can stand up to the rough rock face you climb. Redefine your next adventure with our Men’s Exploration Trousers that will help shed spring showers.

What are Flexi-waist trousers?

Flexi-waist trousers are trousers with a flexible waistband. Designed and built with comfort in mind, this style of trouser minimises restriction, allowing for a wide range of movement when exploring outdoors and can be worn when exercising both outdoors and indoors. 

If you prefer to run outdoors, our Men’s Active Trail Joggers are ideal for exercising in cold weather. No need to dampen your clothes—or your sense of adventure—when you’re hitting the trail. For the sport climbers out there, our Women’s Climb Trousers are engineered with an elasticated waistband so you’re always comfortable in your harness. Unlike walking trousers, these trousers have elasticated hems that are simple to cinch up (so you can stay cool). 

What are ski trousers?

Ski trousers are designed to keep you both warm and dry on the slopes. Pair your trousers with a matching ski jacket to ensure warmth on your top half too. Whether you’re skinning up or riding in fresh powder, the best ski trousers should be waterproof and totally breathable.

Built with our patented fabric technology, FUTURELIGHT™, our Women’s Freethinker FUTURELIGHT™ Trousers are seriously functional and sustainably made using recycled materials. If you prefer an extra layer of long johns, you can pair them with Women’s Active Leggings. Take advantage of minimal compression and maximum ventilation while on the move.

No stranger to big mountain shredding? We’re with you. Try out our Women’s FUTURELIGHT™ BIB Trousers for a spin. Chosen by The North Face snowboard pro Marion Haerty, these are tried and tested by the incredible athletes you know and love. 

Do you wear trousers under salopettes?

Yes, you should wear trousers under salopettes. Generally, an additional base layer is vital to maintaining ventilation and flexibility when you’re hitting the slopes. A base layer is made with synthetic fabrics engineered to absorb moisture and keep you dry.

You may want to try an alternative base layer in cold climates. Try the Women’s Easy Leggings on, which regulate your body temperature with moisture and temperature regulation. If the sun is heating up, active leggings should keep you cool and comfortable.

Whether you’re training for the snow season, or trekking unknown paths, it’s important to invest in the right gear to push yourself. Our range of Men’s and Women’s Trousers are built to level up your performance—and your sense of adventure. Plus, cutting edge technology is engineered for durability so that you can go the distance. 

Purpose-designed for life on and off the mountain, we’re on a mission to provide gear for the modern-day explorer.