Hiking rain pants have a lot of features to help you stay dry. Some of these features include stretchy fabric, full-length zippers, gusseted crotch, and Gore-Tex technology. Some models even have a mesh lining to prevent sweat from getting inside.
Stretchy fabric
If you’re planning on going hiking in the rain, you’ll want to buy a pair of hiking rain pants that are made of stretchy fabric. This type of material has an elastic waistband and a robber gripper, and it can help keep the rain off your legs during rough outdoor activities. These pants are also designed for comfort and mobility, so you don’t have to worry about the pants riding up or falling down during rough terrain. However, these pants usually run a bit smaller than your regular pants.
Some hiking rain pants have features that make them ideal for winter activities. These pants have an extra layer of protection for the lower body, with boot gaiters and a zip to hold the pants in place. They also feature anti-slip strips that prevent the pants from slipping off.
Full-length zippers
If you’re a fan of the convenience of full-length zippers on your hiking rain pants, you’ll find that many of them have them. Some are even made with stretch fabric, which will make them more comfortable to wear. These are a great choice if you wear bulky hiking boots.
Ventilation and breathability are crucial when hiking in the rain. Opening side zippers in heavy rain is impractical since your boots and legs will get soaked. So, full-length zippers are the best option. These features will keep you warm and dry without compromising your safety.
Full-length zippers can also make it easier to remove your pants. A zipper is an important feature for hiking rain pants, as it lets you quickly and easily get out of them when you need to. You should also make sure that the zipper is fully waterproof, as this will prevent water from seeping in.
Gusseted crotch
Hiking rain pants that are gusseted at the crotch have several benefits over standard trousers. One of these benefits is that gussets allow for more freedom of movement. A stretchy fabric is often used in these types of pants for this reason. These pants also have articulated knees to provide better fit and range of motion.
These pants are made with a water-resistant, wind-resistant, and breathable Schoeller softshell material. They are also made with a DWR coating and feature an articulated knee and seat. The pants are also made with an elasticized drawcord waistband and feature a gusseted crotch for extra protection.
Gore-Tex technology
When it comes to waterproof protection, few brands are as trusted as GORE-TEX. With their PACLITE(r) 2L solution, they offer the perfect balance of breathability, light weight, and durability. They also have a Guaranteed to Keep You Dry guarantee, which is a great feature for everyday use.
Gore-Tex technology is used in a wide variety of outerwear products, from jackets and rain pants to gloves and hats. This proprietary fabric is made from a microporous structure that prevents water from penetrating the fabric. Because of this, Gore-Tex outerwear and footwear will keep you dry even in the harshest weather.
The Foray Pants by OR combine Gore-Tex PacLite technology with a carefully thought-out design to offer maximum protection from rain and wind. With a hydrostatic head of 28,000 and MVTR of 25,000 g/m2/24h, these hiking rain pants are among the best waterproof pants on the market. However, they are slightly heavier than most other models.
Arc’teryx PreCip pants
Arc’teryx’s PreCip hiking rain pants offer a perfect combination of waterproof protection and flexibility. They feature waterproof Gore-Tex PacLite Plus membrane, 3/4-length WaterTight lower leg zippers, articulated knees, and a gusseted crotch. The pants also feature a reinforced instep for extra durability and tear resistance.
These pants are waterproof with a water-repellent finish applied at the factory. This helps shed water and snow. However, water-repellent materials such as nylon and polyester are also able to absorb water. Once this moisture penetrates the fabric, it forms a thin film on the exterior, making the pant heavier and reducing breathable capacity.
Other features of this pair of pants include a zippered hand pocket with a storm flap and articulated knees. This model is lighter than the two-layer and 3-layer options, but they’re not as durable. They’re best for backpacking on trails and mountaineering above treeline. But they aren’t recommended for canyoneering or thorny bushwacks.
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