Anyone with kids knows just how important it is to keep them well protected on the trail. Kids are more active when they’re outdoors hiking pants for kids should be tough enough to stand up to all the big moves. Whether you’re looking for girls’ or boys’ hiking pants you’ll find quite a few hardy pairs to choose from. Depending on the weather conditions you’ll be hiking in, you can choose from heavy waterproof pants to more lightweight hiking pants.
Quite a few kids’ brands also feature on our list of the best waterproof hiking pants and the best winter hiking pants. So if you’re looking to buy hiking pants for the whole family it becomes a lot easier to choose.
How To Choose The Best Hiking Pants For Kids
It’s a known fact that kids can be pretty rough on their attire. So when it comes to choosing hiking pants for kids or even the best climbing shoes for kids need to keep in mind certain features.
Durable
Without a doubt, boys hiking pants or water shoes for kids need to be able to take some serious beating and still look good. The durability of the hiking pants for kids will largely depend on the material. Anything too lightweight or flimsy will probably last just one season.
Quick drying and breathable
You don’t want your kids struggling on the trail because of the wrong attire. Hiking pants for kids that are breathable and quick-drying should be at the top of your checklist. In summer or even with winter hiking pants there’s a big chance of sweating. Sweaty clothes if not dried off quickly get uncomfortable after a while. The same can be said for wet pants.
Good coverage
Depending on the kind of terrain that your kid will be hiking in, you want to be sure they’re well protected. With longer pants, your kid will not only be protected from thorns or protruding rocks but will also be safe from insects.
Easy to Clean
One thing with kids is they tend to attract dirt, especially in the outdoors. While you can’t stop the boys hiking pants from getting dirty, you want to be certain that they’ll be easy to clean. Hiking pants for kids that don’t stain too easily and clean up well are what you should be looking for.
Can My Kid Hike In Denim Jeans?
While denim is most people’s go-to casual wear, they’re definitely not comfortable for the trail. Denim can cause chafing and great discomfort on the trail. Hiking pants for kids have certain features such as breathability, stretch, and a quick-drying feature which jeans don’t have.
Are Convertible Hiking Pants A Good Option?
Convertible hiking pants for kids are a great option if you’re trekking in open terrain in the summer. With convertible pants, you have the option of unzipping the lower leg portions and wearing them as shorts. However, the downside to convertible shorts is the position of the seams. If the seams are placed too close to the knees they can be a bit uncomfortable.
JOMLUN Boys Convertible Hiking Pants
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If you’re looking for a pair of convertible boys hiking pants, the JOMLUN Boys Convertible Hiking Pants is an excellent buy. The detachable legs and multi-pockets will definitely be a big hit with kids. Converting these pants to shorts is pretty easy.
The longer pants also offer easy mobility due to the ergonomically pre-shaped knees. Additionally, they also feature gussets for enhanced comfort. With the partially elastic waistband, you can expect a good fit.
You won’t have to worry about your kid staying wet in these hiking pants as the fabric is quick-drying and breathable. It’s also scratch and abrasion-resistant which makes these boys hiking pants perfect for the outdoors. That’s not all. The UPF 50 fabric also protects from the harmful effects of the sun and wicks away moisture to keep your kid cool and dry.
Pros:
- Multi-pockets
- Detachable legs
- Easy mobility due to the ergonomically pre-shaped knees
- Gussets for enhanced comfort
- Quick-drying and breathable
- Scratch and abrasion-resistant
Cons:
- The zipper on the convertible part could be a little more smooth
Little Donkey Andy Youth Quick Dry Lightweight Convertible Pants For Boys Girls
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Many hiking pants for kids are convertible which makes them a convenient option in summer. The Little Donkey Andy Youth Quick-Dry Lightweight Convertible Pants are available for both boys and girls. With the zipper at the knee, the pants can be easily converted into shorts.
What makes these a great pair of hiking pants for kids is that they’re lightweight and comfortable. The material is a combination of polyester and spandex which is soft and also protects from harmful UV rays. Besides this, they also dry quickly.
Finding the right size for your kid should not be too difficult as the partial elastic band on both sides of the waist can be adjusted to the right size. Additionally, the four-way stretch elastic fabric will also help with sizing and mobility. Multiple pockets will provide enough storage for your kids’ knick-knacks.
Pros:
- Lightweight and quick-drying
- Protects from harmful UV rays
- Four-way stretch enhances mobility
- Partial elastic band on both sides of the waist
- Multiple pockets
- Convertible
Cons:
- These pants seem to tick all the right boxes as we couldn’t find anything to fault
Columbia Girls Silver Ridge Pull-On Banded Pant
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If you’re looking for easy-to-wear hiking pants for kids, the Columbia Girls Silver Ridge Pull-On Banded Pant is your best bet. With the signature features of the Columbia pant, you can’t go wrong with these hiking pants. For one, your kid will be well protected from the harmful sun’s rays with the Omni-Shade fabric.
Apart from this protection, the material also features the Omni-wick moisture management technology. This ensures your kid will stay cool on the trail. The durable ripstop nylon fabric also enhances comfort and mobility. Reinforced knee overlay panels make these pants ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities.
An adjustable elastic waist and pant cuffs give these a jogging style design. This design also makes them easy to put on or take off. You’ll also find a handy cargo pocket with a hook and loop closure to store your kid’s treasures.
Pros:
- Quick-drying
- UPF 50 sun protection
- Omni-wick moisture management
- Easy to wear
- Cargo pocket with hook and loop closure
- Durable
Cons:
- The cuffs at the ankle can feel a bit tight and make these difficult to put on
The North Face Girl’s Aphrodite Motion Pant
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The North Face is a well-known outdoor brand with some impressive fleece jackets for women and excellent North Face backpacks. It’s no surprise that one of the best hiking pants for kids is The North Face Girl’s, Aphrodite Motion Pant.
These stretch pants will give your little girl flexibility and mobility on the trail. The close-to-body semi-fitted pant also provides a rather flattering cut. With the elasticized waistband and adjustable internal drawcord getting these on or off is easy.
When you’re out on the trail you want all the protection that you can get and these pants provide just that. The fabric protects the skin from harmful rays while the combination of elastane, nylon, and polyester enhances comfort. Porkchop hand pockets are a convenient addition.
Pros:
- Stretchy material
- Elasticized waistband and adjustable internal drawcord
- Protects from harmful sun rays
- A combination of elastane, polyester, and nylon enhances comfort
- Porkchop hand pockets
Cons:
- As with most North Face products, we couldn’t find much to fault with these pants
LANBAOSI Kids Boys Girls Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Pants
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Most kids love a burst of color and the LANBAOSI Kids Boys Girls Waterproof Outdoor Hiking Pants give you just that. You can choose from a good range of interesting color combinations to find one that your kid will love.
These pants are ideal for hiking in chilly weather as they’re fleece lined and waterproof. They’re suitable for a wide range of winter activities from hiking, skiing, or snowboarding.
They come with a special OSY-dry fabric that keeps your kid dry if they start sweating. This fabric is also soft and comfortable, besides being breathable and windproof. With the reinforced seams you won’t have to worry about the chill seeping in. Two slant zipper pockets will help protect your kid’s hands in cold weather or provide storage space.
Pros:
- Warm fleece lining
- Reinforced critical seams
- Waterproof, breathable outer layer
- Partial elastic waist
- Hook snap button
Cons:
- The size of the waist could be an issue for some kids
Mountain Warehouse Active Kids Convertible Hiking Pants
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A stylish pair of convertible hiking pants for kids that your kids will love is the Mountain Warehouse Active Kids Convertible Hiking Pants. Made from a combination of cotton and polyester fabric, these pants are designed to last.
They dry quickly and wash easily which makes them an excellent pair to add to your travels. These boys hiking pants don’t shrink or fade easily and look good even after multiple washes.
You can easily convert these into shorts by unzipping the legs. The elastic waist is also a boon for someone extra slim as it helps keep the pants in place. When combined with a pair of long johns they provide good protection from the wind. Multiple pockets provide ample storage space for small treasures.
Pros:
- Quick-drying fabric
- Easy to wash
- Shrink and fade resistant
- Converts to shorts easily
- Multiple pockets
- Elastic waist
Cons:
- Apart from issues with sizing there’s not much to fault with these pants
Toomett Kids Fleece-Lined Soft Shell Insulated Waterproof Hiking Pants
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Toomett has some impressive hiking pants for both men and women and their Kids Fleece-Lined Soft Shell Insulated Waterproof Hiking Pants don’t disappoint either. 100% waterproof polyester ensures your kid will stay dry in light rain or snow.
The softshell exterior has a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that repels rain and snow. It also cuts wind. Besides this, the microfleece lining offers warmth, comfort, and superior moisture-wicking performance.
Two zippered pockets are a convenient option for storing small items. Additionally, the elastic waist helps with a comfortable fit as it gives you the option of customizing your fit.
Pros:
- Water and wear-resistant
- Windproof
- Warm fleece lining
- Zippered pockets
- Multiple colors
Cons:
- The sizing seems to be off
Asfixiado Boys Cargo Quick Dry Waterproof Hiking Pants
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If you’re looking for quick-drying boys hiking pants, the Asfixiado Boys Cargo Quick Dry Waterproof Hiking Pants are an excellent option. Your kid will love the multiple pockets with hook and loop on these pants. Two slant pockets, two back pockets, and two thigh pockets provide ample storage space.
These convertible pants are ideal for use in summer as they have a loose fit, repel water and dry quickly. Furthermore, they’re lightweight and have the Omni-wick technology to manage moisture. They also provide protection against harmful UV rays.
The side elastic waist helps with just the right fit. In addition to this, you can use a belt if you still need to adjust the fit. The straight legs make them comfortable and breathable.
Pros:
- Convertible pants
- Multiple pockets
- Lightweight and breathable
- Fabric provides UPF 50+ sun protection
- Omni-wick technology for moisture control
Cons:
- The pants don’t have much stretch which could hamper mobility on a hike
M2C Boys Girls Fleece Lined Softshell Waterproof Hiking Pants
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Winter hiking pants for kids should be versatile and breathable like the M2C Boys Girls Fleeced Lined Softshell Waterproof Hiking Pants. With its durable softshell fabric and inner warmth, your kid will be warm and comfortable.
These pants are also water-resistant which keeps them dry in light rain or snow. A combination of polyester and spandex fabric enhances mobility.
Another plus point about these hiking pants for kids is the small additional touches like the reflective stripes and colors. Also, the zipper pockets and elastic waist add to the comfort of these pants.
Pros:
- Durable softshell fabric
- Warm and comfortable
- Water resistance
- Good stretch
- Elastic waist
Cons:
- Not ideal for warmer climate
linlon Boy’s Casual Outdoor Quick Dry Waterproof Hiking Convertible Trousers
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Boys are generally quite rough on their clothes, they tend to wear out their attire fairly quickly so it goes without saying that boys hiking pants need to be tough. The linlon Boy’s Casual Outdoor Quick Dry Hiking Trousers are lightweight but durable enough to withstand a tough beating.
Made from breathable nylon fabric, these hiking pants dry off quickly. They also resist stains and are easy to clean. Like many of the hiking pants for kids on our list, these can also be converted into shorts for additional comfort. They also feature multiple pockets.
Your kid will be well protected from the harmful sun’s rays with the UPF 50 fabric. Due to the good stretch of the fabric, these pants are suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable
- Breathable nylon fabric
- Dry off quickly
- Can be converted into shorts
- UPF 50 fabric
Cons:
- The fit is a little off
Columbia Girls’ Silver Ridge IV Convertible Pant
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The Columbia Girls’ Silver Ridge IV Convertible Pant comes in a good range of colors and sizes so finding a pair that suits your kid should not be difficult. Columbia is a trusted name in outdoor gear so if you’re looking for something similar for a boy, you’ll find the same style in boys hiking pants.
You’ll find Columbia’s signature features on these pants such as the Omni-Shade and Omni-Wick technology. With the Omni-Shade protection, your kid will be safe from harmful UV rays. The Omni-Wick technology, on the other hand, will keep your kid cool in the summer. Moisture is quickly absorbed from the skin to the fabric to keep your kids’ clothing cool and dry.
The pant has a regular cut with a straight leg design that can be unzipped to shorts. Made from 100% ripstop nylon, these pants provide the ultimate comfort for the outdoors. They also feature a partial elastic waist with belt loops, multiple pockets, and quick-dry fabric.
Pros:
- Quick-dry fabric
- 100% ripstop nylon
- Omni-Shade and Omni-Wick technology
- Multiple pockets
- Convertible
Cons:
- The partial elastic waist is a bit of a let down from the earlier version which had an adjustable waist as it can be an issue with the fit
CQR Kids Youth Hiking Cargo Pants
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Standing out as the number one bestseller in Kids’ outdoor pants on Amazon, the CQR Kids Youth Hiking Cargo Pants live up to the hype. These hiking pants come in two styles, one that can be converted to shorts (BXP432) and the other as regular hiking pants (BXP426). You can choose the hiking pants according to your personal taste.
While the convertible version is convenient for warm weather, the regular trousers are pretty good too. They have a body geometry fit to maximize mobility and are easy to wear. Getting these on or off is easy with the pull-on design.
The functional fabric dries quickly and also protects from the harsh elements. Made from a mix of cotton, nylon, and others, the material has a good stretch. Both versions of these pants have multiple pockets for secure storage. One notable difference between the two styles is that the convertible pants come with an adjustable partial waistband with button pull tabs on each side.
Pros:
- Available as regular hiking pants and convertible pants
- Body geometry fit
- Easy to wear
- Quick-drying and protective fabric
- Multiple pockets
Cons:
- The material feels a little too thin
Jessie Kidden Kids Boy’s Windproof Waterproof Hiking Insulated Trousers
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Just like its hiking pants for adults, Jessie Kidden has a good range of boys hiking pants. Their Kids Boy’s Windproof Waterproof Hiking Insulated Trousers are perfect for hiking in cold weather. They have an inner polar fleece layer while the surface layer is waterproof, windproof, and breathable.
The mid-layer is also made from high-end fabric fiber so these pants will definitely go the distance. An adjustable elastic waist is a convenient addition for a good fit. Alternatively, you can use a belt if the pants still feel a bit lose.
Darts on the knees provide flexibility, allowing for big movements. The fabric made from a combination of polyester and spandex also enhances mobility. Multiple pockets are also an added bonus.
Pros:
- Wind, waterproof and wear-resistant
- Breathable
- Easy to wash
- Soft and warm inner polar fleece
- Articulated knees for comfort and easy movement
Cons:
- As with most hiking pants for kids, the sizing on these pants are also a little off
