Trousers that keep any kind of moisture or dampness away from you, primarily while hiking or camping, are known as waterproof trousers. The need for such a piece of clothing is specifically for when you are hiking or camping and get in contact with the rain. And that’s why you need the best waterproof trousers pair that’s out there. Wearing such gear protects your clothes from getting wet.
So, what do you expect from a new pair of waterproof trousers? They must, of course, keep the weather out, but we also want them to be lightweight and packable in the event of fine weather when they will be residing in your pack. If it does start raining, they need to be simple to pull on to minimize how wet you get. Therefore we prefer to see long zips to help with this.
Finding the best pair of waterproof trousers on the market is not as simple as you would assume. With so many alternatives in such a crowded market, how would you know which one will be worth your money?
Suppose you’re going for a hike. In this scenario, you need the proper waterproof trousers, which won’t affect your hiking performance while keeping you dry. We have compiled a list of some of the best waterproof trousers you can buy online.
But before we list out the top waterproof trousers we found, let’s first look at what makes waterproof trousers the best out of all the other ones.
What Are the Qualities of Best Waterproof Trousers
We attempted to include waterproof trousers for everyone on this list, taking into account various interests.
There are various waterproof trousers available for purchase. But for this list, we are talking about the best ones, and there’s a reason why they are called the best waterproof trousers and stand out from all other brands. This is mainly in their qualities and features. Before picking out the best pair of waterproof trousers, we researched what features make waterproof trousers the best. Here we have them listed for you below:
Fabric
The best waterproof trousers will have a three-layer laminated breathable fabric. This reduces the chances of condensations. But this much layer can make the trousers heavy when you put them over your boots; it can snag. As long as you’re okay with a little bit of condensation, a two or a 2.5 layer is perfect. Mesh linings can significantly reduce this condensation problem.
Thin and Lightweight
The best waterproof trousers must be lightweight and very thin so that they do not feel heavy and irritate you in any manner. You are spending your money finding the best trousers for your comfort, so you must check before buying that the trousers are thin, very lightweight, so you can carry them wherever you want. Heavy gear is cumbersome to carry from one place to another and uncomfortable to walk or run in, unlike lightweight gear. This is an essential factor that must be kept in mind while buying waterproof trousers.
DWR
The waterproof breathable membrane is not the only thing that makes the perfect waterproof material. Make sure the substance is treated with DWR. Some snowboard and ski jackets include a durable, water-resistant covering called DWR.
Fabrics that are not otherwise waterproof to be used in snowboard and ski jackets because DWR has revolutionized winter sports apparel. Gone are the days when you needed to wear a nylon anorak or cagoule to remain dry.
Premium Waterproof and Breathable Fabrics
DWR is frequently used together with Goretex or premium waterproof and breathable materials on the high-end snowboard and ski jackets to keep the upper layer of fabric from being saturated with water. The saturation, often known as “watering out” or “waterlogging,” has two significant consequences. Firstly, it decreases the breathability of a garment, causing the wearer to get chilly and damp. Because the jacket is no longer breathable, evaporated sweat is trapped within, where it cools and condenses. Condensation can freeze in high temperatures, causing hyperthermia. Secondly, the moist fabric in a soaked or waterlogged jacket sags and pushes hard against your skin or base layers. Water ingression occurs as soon as this happens, and the user might become highly wet very rapidly.
Fit
Overtrousers are often baggy. If you’re looking to buy waterproof trousers for a sporty occasion in a rainy season, make sure the waterproof trousers are fit. If the knees are articulated properly, then they can easily be designed to be more fittable.
Breathability
You might have noticed that if you buy some shirts from a local store and the same designed shirt from a renowned brand, there is a considerable difference in prices. The reason for this price difference is the quality of the item, and the main thing about good quality is that it is breathable, which increases the comfort of the clothes tenfold.
The same is true in the case of waterproof trousers. Cheap or local waterproof trousers are not comfortable, and you might get excessive sweat or rashes in your legs. If you buy one of the best waterproof trousers, you’ll find them completely breathable. This will save you from excessive sweating and irritation and feel very comfortable.
Scruff Patches
Another thing to keep an eye out for when buying waterproof trousers is scruff patches. If you are going out for a hike and it rains, you are bound to slip and your knees and ankles will probably get bruised. This will wear out the trousers in those particular spots.
The ankles also get extremely worn out from being cramped inside boots. Make sure there is extra material in these areas.
Zip – Rip Protection
The last but not least factor you need to keep in mind before buying the best waterproof trousers is the zips.
Zips are frequently the cause of water intrusion, and the finest waterproof pants employ an extra storm flap protective layer on the inside or outside of the zip. Sometimes it can be on both sides.
You should specifically look for waterproof YKK zips and full-length zips while buying the trousers. The longer the leg zips, the better the trousers. Buying trousers with full-length zips would keep your feet from getting stuck while wearing the trouser as these waterproof trousers are challenging to wear. So when you unzip the trouser upwards or downwards, they will become easy to wear. If you don’t mind the extra weight, then having external storm flaps is a highly ideal feature.
Waistband
Make sure the waistband is elastic as that provides more comfort. Press studs, belt loops, and velcro tabs are plus points as they will help when you’re in the mood for mountaineering on a rainy day.
These are some of the main features of good quality waterproof trousers that you should always keep in mind. Check for them before buying to avoid any kind of scam and wastage of money.
Some of the Best Reviewed Waterproof Trousers
Here we have gathered all the best-reviewed and most sold waterproof trousers enlisted so that you might get rid of the confusion about which one to buy. Let us go through the details of some well-known brands available, one by one, in this article below.
1. Berghaus Paclite Overtrousers
The Berghaus Paclite Overtrousers is one of the best waterproof trousers you’ll ever have. They are the most sold and best-reviewed trousers available.
They are highly water-resistant and guarantee protection against extreme wet conditions. The trousers are three-quarters in length and have zips on the side, making them easy to wear. They are highly breathable and have an elasticated waist and mesh stuff sack.
Gore-Tex having paclite technology makes up most of the trousers’ surface area. They are approximately 185g in weight which means they are incredibly lightweight and contain 100% polyamide with an ePTFE membrane. They have a lightweight ripstop. These features stand out from all others, and that is why they make the list of the best waterproof trousers.
Berghaus Paclite Gore-Tex Men’s Overtrousers are durable but lightweight, especially given the materials’ complexity. The Gore-Tex guarantees that you are wholly protected from even the most severe and long-lasting wet conditions. Furthermore, Paclite technology means that these overtrousers will keep you dry and cool during high-energy exercises in warm weather but warm while you are resting or slowing down, even if the weather is chilly and windy.
As a result, these Berghaus Paclite Gore-Tex Overtrousers are perfect for walking adventures and biking, kayaking, and climbing. The length of their water-resistant side zips makes it easy to slip on and take off these trousers while also allowing you to regulate the ventilation to your liking. The Berghaus Paclite Gore-Tex Men’s Overtrousers include the mesh stuff sack and pack down compact for maximum ease in all aspects of their use.
- Super water-resistant Gore-Tex technology makes it completely waterproof
- Highly breathable
- Full-length zip makes it comfortable to wear
- Elasticated waistband for adjustment
- Keeps you dry and fresh
- The elastic band is way too tight sometimes
- No pockets or extra patches for the bottom and ankles
2. Jack Wolfskin Rainy Days Pants
Rain does not deter nature lovers from embarking on a lengthy excursion – as long as they are appropriately attired. Rain trousers by Jack Wolfskin provide 100% moisture protection in inclement weather.
In their wide variety for men and women, functionality is equally as essential as appealing design. In addition to rain pants, you’ll discover other clothes to round out your waterproof ensemble on their web store.
Whether worn for leisure or sports, Jack Wolfskin rain trousers allow you to appreciate nature even in rainy and stormy conditions. The trousers are comfortable to wear and maintain the flexibility of movement.
Wearing the proper clothing during a discovery tour in a local forest or a vacation adventure might help you avoid unpleasant surprises, soaked garments, and therefore nasty colds. Jack Wolfskin rain pants are ideal for hiking or Nordic walking, mountain sports, camping, cycling, or other activities such as dog walking. They are very lightweight, approximately 170g, highly water-resistant, and 100% polyamide.
When worn as overtrousers, Rain trousers provide excellent wind and moisture protection while being breathable. Whether it’s a summer storm or a heavy fall rain, the performance materials provide a pleasant sensation on the skin.
Practical aspects like zips make it easy to put on and take off the trousers, while reflective components improve visibility, increasing safety on and off the road.
Jack Wolfskin’s main aim is to provide maximum flexibility to their customers when making the cuts of the men’s and women’s models. And that is why they can also be considered the perfect wear for any sporty activity.
- They are water-resistant
- Wind resistant
- Highly breathable
- Unisex
- They have a Velcro tab for the boots to fit through
- Easy to carry and comfortable to wear
- Adjustable ankles
- No side zips
- Being unisex, it can be hard to find the right size
3. Rohan Ventus Waterproof Overtrousers
Ventus Waterproof Overtrousers also has a matching Ventus Jacket, and both pieces of clothing together create a lightweight waterproof suit. The Ventus Waterproof Overtrousers pack is small enough to be a permanent fixture in your knapsack – even at the height of summer, they’re worth having on hand “just in case.”
Constructed with a three-layer Barricade waterproof fabric and high-spec Barricade membrane, the waterproof overtrousers are perfect to wear on a stormy day. It is coated with Durable Water Repellency treatment to increase breathability, and this also helps prevent the face cloth from wetting out. This industry-leading technique can be expected even after 20 washes, which likely implies more than ten years for waterproof trousers.
These Ventus Waterproof Overtrousers include practical features, including a concealed Packpocket at the inner waist, an adjustable elasticated waist, knee-length leg zips, and an adjustable zipper tab hem. They’re simple to put on over large boots, and the adjustable hems allow for a loose or tight fit around them.
Because one may wear the trousers over ordinary garments, they are an excellent companion in inclement weather. The strong gusts of wind and the rain won’t ever bother you while you are wearing the Ventus rain trousers. Because of their flexible construction, they can be worn with hiking shoes and wellies.
They’re fully functioning shell trousers that live up to Rohan’s name for strength, durability, and longevity, and they all fit within a beanie cap.
These waterproof trousers weigh approximately 370g and are 100% polyamide with polyurethane hydrophilic membrane having waterproof barricade technology.
They come in both men’s and women’s variety, making them suitable if you plan to have a hiking date.
- Three waterproof layer barrier keeps the water away from getting in
- Durable water repellent treatment makes strong resistance against water
- Breathable
- Wind resistant
- Knee zip lengths make it easy to wear on and off
- Easily washable
- Fast drying time
- Lack of full-length zips
- Not as lightweight as compared to the above ones
4. Rab Downpour Waterproof Trousers
Rab’s lightest waterproof trousers provide all-around weather protection. The Rab Downpour Pant will keep you dry and comfortable in a bit of rain or a heavy downpour.
The downpour waterproof trousers will keep the inner surface dry. The Rab Downpour Pants are made of Pertex Shield and have a 2.5-layer fabric with ‘Dry Touch’.
They are simple to put on and take off over your walking boots thanks to knee-length zips (with storm covers), and their articulated knee design ensures they’re not restricting as you stroll through wet terrain. The trousers are so light and compact that you may take them with you everywhere you go, just in case.
They weigh approximately 207g which is less than Rohan’s waterproof trousers. In addition, they are highly breathable and have knee articulation. These trousers also have hem drawcords and YKK zips with storm claps.
You’ll be able to handle both light rain and severe rain with Rab Downpour Waterproof Trousers. The trousers are highly flexible thanks to the elastic waistline. As a result, they may be easily placed over other clothing and removed. In addition, the rain trousers may be packed compact and stowed in a bike bag or a small pack to conserve space. Packsacks that are suitable for the job don’t take up much space and assist in protecting other gear.
They are available for both men and women in black or darker neutral colors. When paired with different shoes and jackets, they become a great fashion choice. The rain stains are not visible on these water-resistant trousers.
Hang the pant up to dry after your trip to ensure their longevity. When it comes to washing the trousers, you will not need a fabric softener.
- Highly breathable
- Relatively affordable
- YKK zips make them easier to wear and give them an attractive look
- The Pertex shield makes them highly water-resistant and stops the water from entering into the trousers
- Easily packed
- Cannot bear extreme pressure of water for too long.
- No full-length zips can make them difficult to wear at times.
5. Marmot PreCip Eco Waterproof Trousers
Available for both men and women, the lightweight PreCip Eco Waterproof Trousers is the next generation of waterproofing that is both ecologically responsible and high-performing. Thanks to the innovative technology of our microporous coating, the waterproof/breathable, PFC-free Marmot NanoPro recycled nylon face fabric lasts longer.
These water-repellent trousers will keep you comfortable and safe for scheduled hikes in inclement weather and as a just-in-case layer in your pack for unexpected downpours. They’re tougher and more durable, and they have a proprietary dry-touch surface.
Fully taped seams prevent leaks, ankle snaps with tabs make it simple to take boots on and off, and bonded storm flaps over the zippers keep the rain out. Quick storage is provided by zippered hand pockets and a zippered back pocket, while the elastic waist ensures a tight fit.
These trousers weigh 232g which is considered average weight. It is neither ultralight nor ultra-heavy. Made up of 2.5 layers, you will be glad that you brought them with you when it rains. These trousers are perfect and a good add to your wardrobe once you ignore their weight.
They have NanoPro Eco waterproof membrane. The face fabric is 100% recycled nylon ripstop, a popular material for rain pants.
Entirely made up of recycled material, its structure is one of a kind. Marmot PreCip Eco Pants have two zippered hand pockets and a zippered rear pocket which are simple to use and function effectively.
The waistline is elastic and easily adjusts to fit your size. The velcro at the hips helps fasten the zipper and also helps keep your waist-fitting in place. These trousers allow for lots of layering. They are an excellent fit in terms of breathability.
- Completely water-resistant
- Storm flaps are on all of the zippers (buttons at the ankles, velcro at the hips)
- Fully taped
- They have a lifetime warranty
- The buttons and drawstrings at its bottom make it easy for people to tie or fold them up
- Easy to pull on/off the footwear
- No full-length zips
- These trousers do not fold up into a pocket, but they do fold up relatively tiny in general
- Sizing sometimes gets bigger than required
6. Hi Gear Typhoon Waterproof Trousers
These waterproof, breathable trousers will keep you warm and comfortable in cold, rainy weather.
Hi Gear’s Typhoon Insulated Trousers are a warmer version of their renowned Typhoon waterproof trousers, containing 60g synthetic filling to keep you warm in inclement weather.
They are comfortable on their own because of the polyester insides. The trousers are most comfortable when worn over a thermal base. The duo will keep you warmed up. Their flexible knee design allows you to fully bend or stretch your legs without the leg riding up and exposing you to the outdoors.
Three-quarter length leg zippers allow easy ventilation and make it simple to put them on and off over your boots.
Front zipper and open pockets provide storage for your necessities as well as fast access to any legwear you’re wearing underneath. Due to their lightweight, they can easily be packed and taken anywhere. Whether hiking or camping, these overtrousers must be in your luggage every time.
The regular inside length is 31 inches and has an elasticated waistband to fit in properly. It has two pockets, one usable and one through the pocket. They are 100% polyester with a lining, are super soft, comfortable and do not irritate the person.
The Hi Gear Typhoon Waterproof Trousers may not be the best choice when you want to head out in a storm but perfect if you’re going for a walk in a light drizzle. These trousers are available for both men and women.
- Warm and comfortable
- Extremely waterproof
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Easy to carry
- Easily packable and can bear the heavy pressure of water without letting the water into the trousers
- Excellent for wishing and hiking
- No proper side pockets on both sides
- Heavy wind can sometimes pass the water into the zip seams
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do We Need Waterproof Trousers?
Yes, Waterproof trousers can save your life in some situations. And, while you may not always need to bring them, there are some situations and problems that will always benefit from their presence. When you want to walk freely across damp places and don’t want to get in contact with the moisture or feel irritated due to any reason, these gears can save you.
2. Do We Need Waterproof Trousers in our day-to-day activities?
We don’t usually need waterproof gear with us in our daily lives, and it’s normal. But when we are at a particular place where we know that the rain or any sort of water can damage or ruin our outfit, we need to have waterproof trousers or jackets with us so that our outfits remain dry.
Waterproof trousers are needed in several situations that range from hiking to watersports to a casual walk in a light drizzle. It is therefore handy to have them at the ready.
3. How practical are waterproof pants when hiking at Southwest?
Rainy, damp weather is simply part of the experience in certain parts of the world. One such region is the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Western Washington and northern Oregon receive the most significant rain in the lower 48 states, with more than 100 inches of precipitation each year.
Rainy walks are the norm there, and because of the frequency of the rain, waterproof pants are a good choice. Backpackers and hikers are aware that they will most likely be going through the rain for the entire day. Therefore they always have waterproof pants with them.
4. Can waterproof pants function in warmer environments?
The question regarding waterproof trousers is whether or not they keep you dry. In hotter weather, this is arguable, and many people choose not to wear waterproof trousers since they tend to trap body heat within the pant leg, making hikers sweaty and damp.
For example, from 1931 and 1960, Kauai, Hawaii, was the wettest area in the United States, with an average annual rainfall of 460 inches. Other regions of Hawaii receive more than 200 inches of rain each year. However, because it is so warm, most people don’t bring waterproof trousers when they go hiking here, and their shorts or hiking pants will likely dry faster than if they were confined inside waterproof pants.
5. Are waterproof pants required when it is raining severely?
This may seem self-evident, but it must be said. Waterproof pants are required if it is raining severely. Some storms bring with them strong wind gusts that can blow rain sideways, backward, and in every direction you can think of. If you go trekking in this weather wearing ordinary, non-waterproof hiking pants, you’ll quickly regret it.
6. Do you need waterproof pants when you intend to stay above the treeline?
The top boundary of a habitat where trees grow is called a treeline. This implies that you won’t be protected from the weather by any trees or huge shrubs as you are over a tree line. It also implies that it may be windier, causing rain to swirl about. As a result, bringing a pair of waterproof pants for these excursions is a brilliant idea. After all, there won’t be any trees to hide behind if the skies open up! Popular walks in many parts of the western United States will take you above the tree line.
7. Are waterproof pants necessary for multisport trips?
As previously stated, many multisport excursions require waterproof trousers due to the nature of the activity. Take, for example, pack rafting. Not only are you in and out of the water, alternating between wet and dry ground, but you also paddle in the raft with your legs out. This means it’s open season on your legs when it rains, and your quads might become wet. In this case, waterproof trousers are pretty helpful.
8. How do you wear waterproof trousers in different times of the year?
There are several seasons where waterproof trousers may be considered unnecessary. However, if rain is expected in the summer, spring, or fall, waterproof over-trousers are worn over regular trousers in case it rains. On a warm day with showers, you may remove the waterproof pants once the rain stops and you feel too warm.
The waterproof trousers are pretty comfortable on their own, and they don’t become too hot or sticky.
When you bend down to mark the ball on the green, waterproof over-trousers on their own are unpleasant and produce unpleasant noise.
Ordinary trousers with waterproofs over them for warmth in the winter are perfect.
Fleecy leggings with waterproofs over them can be good to go out in on cold, freezing winter days.
9. Are waterproof trousers worth it?
Waterproof pants are pretty helpful. They will keep your legs dry and will also provide an extra layer of protection for your skin, preventing it from being scraped. Finally, waterproof pants aren’t necessary for every excursion.
However, if you go on trips that mirror any of the scenarios above, having the extra protection in your bag might be pretty beneficial. Investing in good waterproof pants will provide you with long-term protection on future trips.
10. Can you transform normal trousers into waterproof trousers?
People frequently inquire whether applying a waterproofer on regular clothing will make them waterproof. They can, but not 100%. The good news is that applying a DWR (durable water repellent) coating to the fabric will offer some water resistance. The DWR coating keeps water from seeping into the cloth.
11. Should you use spray-on or wash-in waterproof trousers?
Spray-on and wash-in solutions like Nikwax wash-in and Nikwax tx-direct are available for treating DWR (Durable Water Repellent), gore-tex, eVent, and other clothing.
Spray on waterproofing should be reserved for multilayer clothing. You just want to treat the outside layer to decrease the likelihood of fast ‘watering out,’ allowing the inner membrane to keep its porous characteristics.
Single-layered waterproof or water-resistant DWR fabrics benefit from wash-in waterproofing. Probably suitable for your rainfly, inexpensive rain shell pants, or single-layer packable windbreaker. Your multi-layer gore-tex pants aren’t faring so well. Though, with no change in the end outcome, you could certainly use the spray-on coating on these types of materials as well. So, if you’re unsure, go with the spray-on.
In either case, keep your clothing clean to avoid clogging the pores in the permeable membranes with body oils and perspiration deposits. Most breathable clothing requires a detergent-free tech wash to avoid washing away the DWR coating.
12. Difference between water-resistant and waterproof?
The definition of water-resistant is that it can resist water penetration to some extent but not completely. Waterproof strictly means impervious to water, regardless of how long it is submerged.
Conclusion
Wet and windy weather might be one of the most uncomfortable working conditions. That’s why, if you’re working outside on a bad day, it’s essential to have the proper waterproof clothing to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. Not only are waterproof trousers great for keeping you dry in the rain, but many of them also have wind-resistant features. When the bitter winds start to blow, having the appropriate waterproof trouser may help you stay warm while enabling you to focus on the work at hand.
Overall, waterproof/breathable materials are relatively apparent. “Breathable” means that the sweat/perspiration your body produces may flow through the rain shell material and vent to the outside to various degrees.
While some moisture will get your base layer/shirt wet, you will most likely get less wet with a waterproof/breathable than with a typical rain jacket that does not allow sweat or water vapor to escape. Of course, there are other options. You may open the front zipper, or armpit zips if included, allowing perspiration to leave and air to circulate. Using waterproof/breathable solutions improves wind resistance.
