Two people walking up snowy hill wearing waterproof trousers

Waterproof Trousers Buying Guide

Introduction

What fabric should I choose?

Waterproof trouser features

Which waterproof trousers should I get?

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Introduction

How to choose waterproof trousers

Waterproof trousers come in a huge range of styles. Each one is best suited to different activities, from lightweight race kit to hard-wearing and durable mountaineering pants designed to withstand long winter days.

This guide will help you recognise how different features make waterproof trousers more suitable for different activities and how they should fit. 

What fabric should I choose?

Fabric

The fabric of the waterproof trousers is a great indicator of what activity they are intended for.

Generally, super lightweight fabrics are for waterproof over trousers for use in emergencies. These don't have a particularly durable face fabric but can often be a kit requirement in adventure or ultra races.

Heavyweight fabrics have a higher denier face fabric and offer more durability and protection from the elements. They're usually designed to be worn all day in wintry conditions.

For hiking through late spring to early autumn, you'll want to look for something that offers a good balance of durability and protection. 

Waterproof trouser features

Zips, seams & hems

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Non packable vs packable waterproof trousers

Lightweight waterproof over trousers for hiking and trail running will pack away into a small stuff sack. These are designed to be a backup if you get caught out in the rain.

For all-day wear and harsher conditions non-packable more durable waterproof trousers will be the top choice.

How should waterproof trousers fit?

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Which waterproof trousers should I get?

Trail running

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Hiking

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Mountaineering

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