Conquering the Trail in Style: REI Women’s Hiking Pants
Stepping onto the trail, you want to feel confident, comfortable, and ready for anything. That’s where REI Women’s Hiking Pants come in. Not just any pants will do for the adventures you crave. These pants are engineered to meet the demands of the great outdoors, tailored to the female body, and designed to keep you moving, exploring, and enjoying every moment.
REI, with its roots deeply planted in the outdoor community, understands the needs of hikers, climbers, and adventurers. Their commitment to quality and performance shines through in their women’s hiking pants, offering a diverse range of styles and features to suit every preference and terrain.
Your Perfect Hiking Pant Match: Navigating the Options
The sheer variety of REI’s women’s hiking pants can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry, this guide is your compass through the options, helping you find the perfect pair for your next outdoor escapade.
Sizing and Fit: Finding your Perfect Fit
The first order of business is finding the right size and fit. REI offers a comprehensive range of sizes, from XS to XXL, ensuring a comfortable fit for every body type.
It’s not just about the number on the tag. Consider your preferences:
**Slim Fit:** This style hugs the body, offering a streamlined look and a close-to-the-skin feel. It’s ideal for activities that require a lot of movement and where you want the fabric to feel like a second skin.
**Relaxed Fit:** This style provides a looser, more comfortable fit, allowing for greater freedom of movement and breathability. It’s perfect for leisurely hikes, chilly weather, or layering.
**Regular Fit:** This is the middle ground, offering a comfortable fit without being too tight or too loose. It’s a versatile option that can adapt to various activities and weather conditions.
**Inseam Length:** The inseam length is crucial for a perfect fit. REI offers a range of inseams, from short (28 inches) to long (32 inches), so you can find the ideal length that hits your ankles or sits just above them.
**Waistband:** The waistband is another important element to consider. REI offers a variety of waistband styles, including elastic waistbands for a more comfortable fit and adjustable waistbands for a secure fit.
**Pockets:** Pockets are essential for carrying your essentials. REI’s women’s hiking pants offer a range of pocket configurations, including zippered pockets, cargo pockets, and back pockets, providing ample storage space for your phone, wallet, keys, snacks, and other necessities.
**Materials and Features:** Exploring the Fabric Landscape
Once you’ve got the fit sorted, delve into the world of fabrics and features:
**Nylon:** A popular choice for hiking pants, nylon is durable, lightweight, and quick-drying. It’s often blended with other fabrics like spandex for added stretch and comfort.
**Polyester:** Another versatile option, polyester is also durable, lightweight, and quick-drying. It’s often blended with nylon for added strength and resistance to tearing.
**Spandex:** Spandex is known for its stretch and flexibility. It’s often added to nylon and polyester blends to enhance the fabric’s comfort and range of motion.
**Cotton:** While not as ideal for hiking as synthetic fabrics, cotton is still used in some hiking pants. It’s soft and breathable, but it absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry, making it a less practical choice for strenuous activities.
**Water-Resistance:** Many REI hiking pants feature water-resistant finishes, which repel light rain and moisture. This feature is particularly helpful for hikes in unpredictable weather or when you expect to encounter damp conditions.
**Windproof:** For hikes in colder weather or at higher altitudes, windproof pants can be a lifesaver. They’ll help prevent the wind from chilling you to the bone, allowing you to stay warm and comfortable.
**UPF Sun Protection:** Hiking pants with UPF sun protection are essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. This feature is particularly important for hikes in sunny conditions or at high altitudes, where the sun’s rays are stronger.
**Moisture-Wicking:** To keep you dry and comfortable during strenuous activities, look for pants made with moisture-wicking fabrics. These fabrics draw moisture away from your skin, helping to prevent sweat buildup and discomfort.
**Zippered Vents:** Zippered vents on the legs allow for added breathability, helping to regulate your body temperature during strenuous activities.
**Reinforced Knees:** For hikes that involve a lot of kneeling or scrambling, look for pants with reinforced knees. This extra reinforcement will help prevent tears and abrasions.
**Gusseted Crotch:** A gusseted crotch allows for greater freedom of movement, making the pants more comfortable for activities that require a lot of stretching and bending.
Top Picks for Every Adventure: REI’s Hiking Pant Lineup
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s dive into some of REI’s top-rated women’s hiking pants, catering to different needs and preferences:
REI Co-op Active Trail Pants
These pants are the quintessential choice for everyday hikes and adventures. They combine the comfort of a relaxed fit with the durability of a nylon blend, making them perfect for a wide range of activities. Features like articulated knees, gusseted crotch, and a secure zippered pocket keep you moving freely and confidently.
**Pros:**
* Durable and comfortable with a relaxed fit
* Versatile for various activities
* Articulated knees and gusseted crotch provide excellent range of motion
* Zippered pocket for secure storage
**Cons:**
* Not as water-resistant as some other hiking pants
REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants
These convertible pants offer the versatility of two garments in one. With the zip-off legs, they transform from full-length pants to shorts, making them perfect for unpredictable weather or transitioning between activities. The durable nylon blend stands up to tough trails, while the UPF sun protection keeps you safe from harmful rays.
**Pros:**
* Versatile convertible design
* Durable nylon blend
* UPF sun protection
* Comfortable and functional for various activities
**Cons:**
* The zip-off feature can be a bit bulky when not in use
REI Co-op Fair Isle Pants
These pants are a stylish and functional option for cooler weather. The cozy fleece lining provides warmth and comfort, while the water-resistant finish keeps you dry in light rain. The relaxed fit allows for easy layering, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable on chilly hikes.
**Pros:**
* Warm and comfortable with fleece lining
* Water-resistant finish
* Relaxed fit for easy layering
* Durable and functional for winter hikes
**Cons:**
* Not as breathable as other hiking pants
REI Co-op Swiftland Pants
These pants are designed for fast-paced activities like running and hiking. The lightweight, breathable nylon blend helps keep you cool and comfortable, while the stretch fabric allows for maximum range of motion. Features like zippered vents, gusseted crotch, and articulated knees enhance freedom of movement, making them ideal for challenging trails.
**Pros:**
* Lightweight and breathable
* Stretch fabric for maximum range of motion
* Zippered vents for added breathability
* Articulated knees and gusseted crotch for freedom of movement
**Cons:**
* Not as durable as some other hiking pants
REI Co-op Traverse Pants
These pants are built for durability and weather resistance. The rugged nylon blend with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish stands up to tough trails and light rain. The articulated knees, gusseted crotch, and zippered thigh vents ensure comfort and freedom of motion, making them ideal for challenging hikes and mountaineering endeavors.
**Pros:**
* Durable nylon blend with DWR finish
* Water-resistant and weatherproof
* Articulated knees, gusseted crotch, and zippered vents for freedom of movement
* Suitable for challenging hikes and mountaineering
**Cons:**
* Can be a bit heavier than other hiking pants
Caring for Your REI Hiking Pants: Keeping Them in Top Shape
Investing in a quality pair of REI Women’s Hiking Pants is a smart move, but proper care will extend their lifespan and keep them performing at their best:
* **Wash with Care:** Follow the care instructions on the label. Most REI hiking pants are machine washable. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softeners.
* **Tumble Dry Low:** For best results, tumble dry on low heat or hang dry. Avoid high heat, which can damage the fabric.
* **Spot Clean Stains:** If you encounter stains, spot clean them