Joshua Babicz
If you love spending time outdoors, you don’t want the rain or cold weather to get in the way of enjoying yourself. Going on a hike or camping trip in the rain can be pretty miserable when all of your gear and pants get wet. This is where waterproof pants will be a lifesaver for you, as they’ll allow you to keep enjoying your favorite activities regardless of the weather conditions. These types of pants can be used for many different outdoor activities, and finding a breathable pair of pants is essential for active pursuits.
After extensive testing and research, we have put together this list of the best waterproof pants on the market today. There’s also a short buyer’s guide at the end to help you make an informed purchase decision.
Best Waterproof Pants to Buy in 2022
1) Berghaus Men’s Paclite Gore-Tex Waterproof Pants
Design
These pants are breathable, waterproof and windproof, thanks to the Gore-Tex they are constructed from. They feature a pull on closure, and the ¾ length venting zips help you to remain cool and comfortable if you start to feel overheated on your trek. Thanks to the micro taped seams and water-resistant zips, these pants are ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.
Comfort
They feature an elasticated waist for comfort and ease of wear. They have a drawstring waist, so you can fit these pants securely to your body before going hiking. The fabric is super light, so they are comfortable to wear throughout your day outdoors.
Additional Features
These pants come with a mesh sack, so you can store your pants away easily. They compress down entirely, allowing you to carry them in your backpack with no hassle while hiking or camping. You have the option of three different leg lengths when purchasing, and these pants only come in black.
Pros
- Available in three leg lengths – Short, Regular, Long
- ¾ Length venting zips will keep you cool and comfortable
- The Gore-Tex that they are constructed from is breathable and waterproof
Cons
- Only available in Black
- No pockets on these pants
2) Little Donkey Andy Mens Waterproof Rain Pants Lightweight Breathable
Design
Made from 100% polyester, these pants feature a fully seam-sealed shell and mesh lining. The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish helps to resist heavy rain, and they are rated to 3000mm. The breathability of the pants is 1000g/m2/24 hr. They feature a breathable mesh liner, so are perfect for intense activities as well as gentle hikes in the rain.
Comfort
The pants feature articulation at the knees and the hips, which combined give an increased range of motion and comfort. There is a partially elasticated waist for a comfortable fit. The leg openings are adjustable thanks to the drawcord, and the hook snap button prevents the pants from popping open at any point.
Additional Features
There are two slant pockets and one back pocket with zippers. Two additional pockets are also available for securing your belongings, and these are fastened with Velcro. The pants come in three colors and are available in sizes Medium through to XX-Large.
Pros
- Durable Water Repellent finish
- The breathability of the pants is 1000g/m2/24 hr
- Rated to 3000mm waterproofing
Cons
- Smallest size that’s available is Medium
3) Hubunucc Men’s Hiking Softshell Fleece Lined Waterproof Pants
Design
These fleece lined waterproof pants are designed specifically for men and are made from 100% polyester with their Spandex soft shell fabric. They have a fleece lining and can be either hand or machine washed. They are anti-static, and the surface layer is designed with water repellent coating to repel the rain and snow. You’ll remain cool and dry during winter sports, and the pants are extremely breathable. The lining is made from 100% soft polar fleece and is skin-friendly with superior moisture wicking treatment.
Comfort
Hubunucc’s pants feature a zipper closure and elasticated waist. The adjustable waist makes them extremely comfortable to wear all day long. There is a belt that comes with the pants, as well as knee darts and unique zippered cargo pockets on the thighs. The softshell pants’ inner layer offers next-to-skin comfort to keep you warm even in the middle of winter.
Additional Features
These pants offer five zippered pockets to protect your phone, keys and credit cards while out and about. They are available in a wide range of colors and sizes to meet your needs.
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable pants
- The lining is made from 100% soft polar fleece
- Five pockets to keep your belongings secure
Cons
- Still quite baggy around the thighs for a slim-fit pair of pants
4) Columbia Men’s Rebel Roamer Rain Pant
Design
These pants feature Omni-Tech technology, which gives air-permeable protection that’s both waterproof and breathable. Made from 100% nylon, these pants from Columbia feature their signature seam-sealed waterproof construction which helps to keep you comfortable and protected. With a drawcord adjustable elastic waist, these pants will fit comfortably to any wearer.
Comfort
With a nylon and elastane comfort-stretch fabric, these pants remain comfortable during any activity. They are true to size, and fit well to every man’s body.
Additional Features
These pants feature two side pockets that are zippered for extra security. There are also two back pockets that keep smaller items secure. These pants are available in X-Small through to XX-Large, and each size has the option of a 30” or 32” inseam.
Pros
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- With four pockets in total
- Made using their Omni-tech technology, which is waterproof and breathable
Cons
- Very loose and baggy design in comparison to other models on the market
5) Men’s Soft Shell Waterproof Winter Snow Ski Snowboarding Pants
Design
Made from 94% scratch-resistant polyester and 6% stretch spandex, these pants also feature a 100% soft polar fleece lining. The fleece lining is skin-friendly and anti-static, and offers you superior moisture wicking treatment and breathability. The surface layer is designed with water repellent coating, which will also help reduce the wind and pull moisture away to keep you dry while participating in winter sports. The soft shell won’t fade and resists wrinkles.
Comfort
The side elastic waist allows pants to fit comfortably, and there are wide belt loops for the ultimate flexibility to use with belts of different widths. The zip is a high-quality YKK zipper fly with a metal closure, and the Duraflex D-ring is perfect for hanging your key chain from while out and about.
Additional Features
The three secured zipper pockets are also waterproof and have a drawstring to keep your phone and wallet safe while on the move. The pants offer great freedom of movement, with articulated knees allowing for full mobility. The 3D tailoring offers exquisite stitching, making these a stylish option. They are available in four different colors, and in sizes Small through to XX-Large.
Pros
- Three secured pockets
- Fleece lining is skin-friendly and anti-static
- Designed with a water repellent coating on the surface
Cons
- No short or tall options available
- Cut of the leg is quite wide
6) Berghaus Women’s Deluge Waterproof Rain Over Pants
Design
These pants are easy to pull on thanks to the three-quarter-length side zips. They also allow you to let air in if you do find that you get too hot in them. Wherever you are trekking or exploring outdoors, these are the perfect option for traveling with. The Hydroshell fabric is fully waterproof and is extremely tough but also breathable.
Comfort
Thanks to the elasticated waist, these Berghaus pants are very comfortable for women. They also feature a side waist adjustment, for the perfect fit. The zips at the side of the trousers are ¾ length, and ensure that you don’t overheat at any point when wearing these pants.
Additional Features
These are a lightweight option for carrying around in your bag all day, weighing 226g in total. They are perfect for wearing over another pair of pants, and the zip allows you to reach into your pockets below.
Pros
- Advanced Hydroshell fabric keeps you dry during use
- ¾ side zips allow you to change quickly
- Elasticated waist and side waist adjustment
Cons
- No pockets
- Hard to find a size with the perfect waist and length to fit
7) BenBoy Women’s Outdoor Waterproof Windproof Fleece Slim Cargo Snow Ski Hiking Pants
Design
These hiking pants are made from 92% polyester and 8% spandex and are waterproof, windproof and warm. They are also abrasion-resistant and comfortable to wear. They are slim-fit with patchwork knees, steric knee darts and unique zippered cargo pockets on the thigh. The included fleece lining will keep you warm and dry in even the coldest weather.
Comfort
These softshell polyester fabrics are used with the aim of keeping you warm and comfortable. There is an elastic belt and adjustable elastic waist, which makes the pants fit perfectly to your body. The slim fit style is perfect for winter outdoor activities and offers style and comfort.
Additional Features
There are multiple zippered pockets on these pants, which will allow you to keep your phone, keys and credit cards safe and secure. BenBoy offers free returns and quick responses, so you can easily contact them if you need any assistance after purchasing. The pants come in a good range of colors and sizes.
Pros
- The slim fit style is both stylish and comfortable
- Softshell polyester fabric will keep you warm and comfortable
- Adjustable elastic waist
Cons
- The material is quite thick and stiff
8) Camel Crown Womens Softshell Pants Fleece Lined Waterproof
Design
These hiking pants are made from water-repellent polyester on the outside and feature a warm polar fleece lining. Polyester allows for high moisture absorption and excellent breathability, and these pants also have good elasticity and can be stretched without deformation. These pants are designed to repel rain and snow as well as seal out the wind. The fleece lining offers warmth and comfort as well as superior moisture-wicking properties.
Comfort
Camel Crown’s pants are made from a stretchy fabric, making your legs look slim whilst wearing them. The elastic material improves the toughness of these pants, so you can bend and squat if needed in comfort.
Additional Features
They have an elasticated waist for additional comfort and fit well to most body shapes. There are two slant zippered pockets which allow you to carry your personal belongings during outdoor excursions. They come in four different dark colors and are available in sizes Small through to 3X-Large.
Pros
- Wide range of sizes available
- Stretchy fabric is great for active pursuits
- Warm polar fleece lining
Cons
- Color choices are all quite dark and dull
- Many users find these pants run very small, so you may want to size up
9) Jessie Kidden Mens Waterproof Hiking Pants, Outdoor Snow Ski Fishing Fleece Lined
Design
Made from 94% Nylon and 6% Spandex, these insulated rain pants also have a lining that is 100% polyester, and they are machine washable. They feature a button closure, and are stretch and wear resistant. The surface layer has a waterproof coating that repels rain as well as oil stains. The inner layer is made from skin-friendly warm fleece with moisture-wicking treatment. They are designed to fit with your boots, to prevent any cold air from pouring in and to keep you nice and warm. They can be put into your boots if you prefer, without any bloating and while still allowing a good range of movement.
Design
These pants from Jessie Kidden feature 3D cutting and are mid to high rise. The side elastic waist allows the pants to fit comfortably to any body shape or size. The ripstop fabrics help to protect your legs from gravel, and they are scratch and tear-resistant.
Additional Features
A belt is included with the purchase. These pants have four large-capacity pockets as well as two button back pockets, which will keep your phone, wallet and other small accessories safe while walking. They come in a wide range of colors and sizes to fit all of your needs.
Pros
- Made with a fleece lining for additional warmth and comfort
- Six pockets in total, meaning your personal belongings will be safe and secure
- Inner layer has moisture-wicking treatment
Cons
- Sizing can be inconsistent, and many users claim they are better for taller wearers
10) TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Quick-Dry Lightweight Hiking Mountain Pants with Belt
Design
These men’s water resistant pants feature an adjustable waistband, to allow for a comfortable fit. The flexible knees allow you to flex your legs comfortably during exercise and activities. The trousers are made from 85% Polyamide and 15% Spandex and feature a zipper closure. They use a quick-dry fabric with surface adopting water-repellent, so you’ll feel cool and comfortable in all conditions. The thick option contains a fleece lining, so even in the harshest winter climates, you’ll feel warm and protected in these pants. A belt is included, and the waist is elasticated on the pants.
Comfort
These are an incredibly lightweight pair of pants that are anti-friction and don’t wrinkle. They are breathable yet warm, and the stretchy waist allows for maximum comfort. The belt allows you to fit these pants perfectly to your waist, so there’s no risk of them slipping down. They are available in a wide range of colors and in a thick or thin option. The thick option is warmer and contains fleece, whereas the thin option is quicker to dry.
Additional Features
The pants include zip pockets at the sides and back for security and convenient storage of your personal belongings during exercise.
Pros
- Available in two thickness options: thick or thin
- There are a wide range of color choices available
- Quick drying
Cons
- Belt is too big for smaller sizes
- Better for use in light rain showers
11) Jessie Kidden Hiking Pants Mens Waterproof
Design
These men’s pants are designed with a surface layer that’s made from three-stage waterproof treatment fabric, which prevents water from penetrating the material. The inner layer is made of warm fleece, with locks in heat and is soft to wear. The pants feature a zipper closure, and they are a slim fit pair of pants that prevent cold air from entering in. The shell is made from 94% polyester and 6% spandex, and the lining is 100% polyester.
Comfort
The 3D cutting of the knee position makes it more comfortable to stretch the leg and remain active while wearing these pants. They have a reasonable level of elasticity and are suitable for hiking, skiing and camping. These pants can also be tucked into boots without bloating.
Additional Features
The pants feature a belt with purchase. They are available in a wide range of sizes and colors, all of which are very neutral colors that are functional for everyday use.
Pros
- Stylish, slim-fit pants
- Wide range of color choices
- 3D cutting of the knee makes these a very comfortable choice
Cons
- Slim fit design is stylish but can be uncomfortable during long activities and trips
- Best for light showers of rain
12) 5Oaks Men’s Waterproof Comfort-Fit Rain Over Pants
Design
These pants are made of 100% polyester and are a lightweight and waterproof pair of rain pants. They feature DWR (Durable Water Repellent) and fully taped seams for the best protection. The material is highly waterproof and breathable, keeping your body completely dry and the rain out.
Comfort
5Oaks’ pants feature an elastic pull-on waist with a drawstring and stopper adjustment for the best fit and comfort. They are perfect for wearing over your regular pants and will keep you warm and comfortable all day long if needed.
Additional Features
They feature a security pocket on the left thigh with a waterproof zipper to keep your belongings dry. On the bottom cuffs you will find a snap button adjustment. They are available in four different colors and a good range of sizes. You can machine wash these pants on a cold setting and tumble dry them on a low setting.
Pros
- Elasticated pull-on waist with drawstring
- Waterproof and breathable
- Feature Durable Water Repellent
Cons
- No zipper to loosen around the ankles when pulling over boots
13) Frogg Toggs Men’s Signature Bull Frogg Waterproof Breathable Rain Pant
Design
These pants are created for use in the outdoors and are made from 100% other fibers. They have a hook and loop closure and are a water-resistant pant that’s perfect for hiking, camping and other outdoor adventures. The zippered leg openings allow you to easily pull these pants on and off when you are out for the day. These are an extremely breathable pair of pants, and won’t leave you sweating like many other options.
Comfort
Frogg Toggs always aim to manufacture comfortable clothing for your outdoor pursuits. These pants feature an elastic waist with cord-lock adjustment. This helps to provide a customized and comfortable fit for any user.
Additional Features
The pants feature pass-through pockets, which allow for ample storage. They are only available in black and come in sizes from Small to 3X-Large for men only. They are very light and easy to pack into a backpack ready for your adventure.
Pros
- Great value pair of pants
- Zippered leg allows you to pull these pants on and off easily
- Elasticated waist with cord-lock adjustment
- Very breathable
Cons
- Only available in Black
- Material is a little noisy and stiff when walking
14) Mountain Warehouse Pakka Mens Waterproof Rain Pants
Design
These pants are made from IsoDry, which is 100% nylon. This is Mountain Warehouse’s waterproof and breathable fabric technology. The advanced membrane allows perspiration out, all while keeping you dry, and is rated at 1,500g. The pants are waterproof to 1500mm, meaning they withstand 1500mm of rain over 24 hours, so they are suitable for light to moderate rain showers. Taped seams are used throughout the design to help make the pants fully waterproof.
Comfort
Mountain Warehouse’s pants feature a Velcro ankle opening that helps keep the elements out while making these easy to fit over walking boots. They are quick-drying and breathable, making them perfect for outdoor and indoor use.
Additional Features
The pants come with their own pack away bag. They neatly fold down into this handy storage bag, making these an ideal option for travelers and hikers. The pants come in three colors and are available in XX-Small through to 3X-Large.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Fold down neatly into the storage bag included
- IsoDry material is waterproof and breathable
- Available in a wide range of sizes from XX-Small to 3X-Large
Cons
- Very thin material
- Best for light to moderate rain only
15) Fleece-Lined Windproof Hiking Pants Waterproof Anti-Static
Design
Made from 100% polyester, these pants are available for both men and women. The polyester material is anti-static and has high abrasion resistance and pilling resistance. They use a zipper closure and are perfect for a wide variety of activities including skiing, hiking and fishing. The pants feature an ultra-warm soft fleece lining that keeps you warm and comfortable in the cold weather, making these perfect for winter sports.
Comfort
The adjustable stretch side waist provides a customized fit for additional comfort. With the combination of the soft shell and fleece, you will be comfy at all times while wearing these pants, regardless of what activity you are participating in.
Additional Features
The pants feature zipper pocket, two of which are at the side and one at the rear. They have smooth and durable zippers and are perfect for keeping your personal belongings safe and secure when out and about. These pants have separate options for men and women when you purchase and come in a few different color options. It’s important to not wash these pants with white or light color clothes.
Pros
- Options for men and women available
- Features an ultra-warm fleece-lining
- High abrasion resistance
Cons
- Only a few color options available for each gender
- You must ensure they are not washed with light colored or white clothing
Types of Waterproof Pants
There are two main options for these type of pants; soft-shell or hard-shell. Hard-shell pants will give you the best protection from rain and cold weather. These are usually worn over your regular pants as they are produced from thin material. Soft-shell pants are more flexible and breathable and can be more comfortable to wear.
Features of Waterproof Pants
Waterproofing
Naturally, the most important thing to consider is that these pants are waterproof. They will either use laminates or coatings to ensure the pants are resistant to water. Laminates, such as Gore-Tex, allow the inside moisture to escape while blocking water from the outside. They are very thin, and so can easily be damaged or ripped. They are the more expensive option usually but are very comfortable. Coatings use a layer of waterproof paint, with tiny holes for breathability. They are thicker and less comfortable to wear.
The ratings for waterproofing are measured in mm. The lowest is 5,000 mm, and the highest is 20,000 mm. The lower rating is only good for small drizzles of rain, whereas the higher ratings will protect you from heavy downpours, snow and wind.
Durable Water Repellent
Durable Water Repellent (often abbreviated to DWR) is not the same as waterproofing and is usually applied to the outer layer. It offers good resistance to water, breathability and protection against damage.
Breathability
The more waterproof a pair of pants is, the less breathable they usually are. Breathability is measured in grams per square meter. The higher the number, the better. A low figure would be 5,000 grams/m2, whereas 20,000 grams/m2 would provide great breathability. If you are planning to exercise or expect your temperature to increase while you are wearing the pants, it’s important to find ones with good breathability to ensure you don’t overheat while wearing them.
Articulated Knees and Gussets
If you are planning to hike or climb in your new pants, this is a great feature to have. They allow for more flexibility and a better range of movement.
Integrated Belts
This is a great feature to help the pants look more like regular ones you’d wear, although the belt can be a nuisance if you are using a backpack with hip straps.
Buying Considerations
Before you go ahead and read our guide to the top models of waterproof pants, there are many other things to consider. Here are the most important things that you should look for when purchasing a new pair of water proof pants.
Material
It’s impossible to find pants that are completely breathable and waterproof, however, some of the best options available to you are Gore-Tex, Pertex and eVent. Some brands listed below have their own high-performance fabrics that are also good choices. Try to find a pair that offers a good combination of waterproofing and breathability for active endeavors.
Seams
Taped seams on your new pants will offer you the best protection from inclement weather. Taped seams use a special waterproof seam stitch. Some pants use heat to join the material together, which is also effective for good waterproofing.
Weight
If you are particularly concerned about adding weight to your body when hiking or camping, consider looking for a pair of pants that are ultra-lightweight. Most waterproof pants are reasonably lightweight and don’t take up much space. It’s important that they can pack down to a small size and weight, as you won’t usually wear these trousers unless you are expecting bad weather and rain.
Waterproof Layers
When it comes to the different types of waterproofing fabrics, you will see three different options mentioned: 2-layer, 2.5-layer and 3-layer. From a quick glance, it’s almost impossible to notice a difference between these options.
A 2-layer pair of pants has an inner layer and an outer layer with a coating. The 2.5 layer fabric will also include a protective non-fabric layer, and the final option of 3-layers has a liner, face fabric and outer coating. These layers will affect your user experience, as they change the weight and breathability of the pants. The 2-layer ones will be cheaper, and 3-layers are generally more expensive as they last longer and are ideal for hardcore sports and climbing.
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to share our top 15 pairs of waterproof pants for men and women.
