Finding the best softshell hiking pants for men used to feel like an endless rabbit hole of marketing claims and conflicting reviews. I have spent months on trails ranging from damp spring treks in the Cascades to late-season archery hunts in the Rockies, and I have learned that the right pair of pants can make or break a day outside.
Softshell pants hit a sweet spot that hardshell rain pants and lightweight summer nylon pants both miss. They stretch, breathe, shed light rain, block wind, and move with you on scrambles without that annoying swish-swish sound. Whether you are looking for the best hiking pants for men all weather use or something specific for a winter backpacking trip, this guide has you covered.
Our team compared 10 of the most talked-about softshell hiking pants men actually wear, digging into real buyer feedback, fabric specs, and field-tested durability. Below you will find detailed reviews, a comparison table, and a buying guide to help you choose the right pair for your next adventure.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Softshell Hiking Pants for Men
Mammut Runbold IV Pant
- 4-way stretch fabric
- Quick-drying moisture wicking
- Adjustable waistband
- Zippered leg pocket
Postropaky Softshell Ski Pants
- Fleece-lined warmth
- Waterproof coating
- Ripstop fabric
- 4 zippered pockets
TBMPOY Snow Ski Hiking Pants
- Fleece lining
- Adjustable waist with belt
- 2D knee design
- Multi zipper pockets
Best Softshell Hiking Pants for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Mammut Runbold IV Pant |
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 Arc’teryx Gamma SL Pant |
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 Mammut Courmayeur SO Pants |
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 KUIU Guide Pro Pant |
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 Rab Men’s Incline Pants |
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 Helly Hansen Brono Softshell Pant |
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 MARMOT Scree Pant |
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| Postropaky Softshell Ski Pants |
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 Outdoor Ventures Snow Hiking Pants |
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| TBMPOY Snow Ski Hiking Pants |
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1. Mammut Runbold IV Pant – Best All-Around Comfort and Stretch
Mammut Runbold IV Pants – Men’s, Claystone, US 32 Regular, 1022-02580-7546-1022-02580-7546-48-10
4-way stretch fabric
10.4 oz lightweight
Adjustable waistband
Quick-drying
Pros
- Excellent comfort and fit
- Very lightweight for warm seasons
- High-quality elastic material
- Quick-drying fabric
- Perfect for hiking and traveling
Cons
- Thinner than expected material
- Unusual sizing can be tricky
I pulled these on for the first time before a spring hike in the Columbia River Gorge, and the first thing I noticed was how buttery the fabric felt against my skin. The 4-way stretch gives you full freedom on steep scrambles and high steps without any resistance at the knees.
At just 10.4 ounces, these are some of the lightest softshell pants I have worn. They pack down small enough to stuff into a daypack side pocket, which makes them a great backup pair for travel days when you are not sure what the weather will do.
On a muggy August afternoon on the Pacific Crest Trail, the moisture-wicking fabric kept me noticeably drier than the heavier softshells I have tested. Sweat moved through the material instead of pooling against my skin.
The zippered leg pocket sits flat against the thigh and holds a phone or trail map securely. I did find the sizing a bit unusual, so I recommend checking the Mammut size chart carefully before ordering rather than guessing based on your usual brand.
Ideal Trail Conditions
These shine in spring, summer, and early autumn temperatures where you want maximum breathability without sacrificing stretch. They are my go-to for fast-paced day hikes and travel where packability matters.
Fit and Layering Notes
The adjustable waistband lets you dial in a snug fit over a thin base layer, but these are not designed for serious cold weather on their own. If you run between sizes, sizing up gives you room for a lightweight merino base layer underneath on chilly mornings.
2. Arc’teryx Gamma SL Pant – Best Premium Superlight Pick
Arc’teryx Gamma SL Pant Men’s | Superlight, Weather Resistant Hiking Pant | Black, 32, Regular
Fortius DW double weave
6.4 oz superlight
Fair Trade certified
Harness-friendly pocket
Pros
- Quality construction and materials
- Comfortable for everyday use
- Good for warm and mild days
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Material is thin for the price/Baggy fit
- No rear pockets/May need base layer for cold
The Arc’teryx Gamma SL is the pant I reach for when weight is the deciding factor. At 6.4 ounces, it is lighter than some running shorts I own, yet the Fortius DW 1.0 double-weave fabric still blocks wind and resists abrasion on rough granite.
I wore these on a multi-day traverse in the North Cascades where every ounce counted. The air-permeable woven textile breathed well even during sustained uphill grinds in 55-degree weather, which is exactly the temperature range Arc’teryx designed them for.
The harness-friendly thigh pocket sits above a climbing harness waistbelt, so your phone stays accessible even when you are geared up. The two hand pockets zip shut, which I appreciate for keeping a wallet or keys secure on travel days.
The Fair Trade Certified production is a nice bonus if ethical manufacturing matters to you. The fit runs a bit baggy through the leg, which some climbers prefer for layering but others may find loose compared to the tailored cut of brands like Mammut.
Best Use Cases
These are purpose-built for warm days and early spring temperatures in the 46 to 56 degree range. Think fast-and-light alpine climbs, summer scrambling, and shoulder-season day hikes where you want minimal weight.
Durability Considerations
The superlight fabric trades durability for weight savings, so expect some wear if you are bushwhacking off-trail or chimneying rough rock regularly. For most maintained-trail hiking, the abrasion resistance holds up well over a full season of use.
3. Mammut Courmayeur SO Pants – Best for Cold Weather Trekking
Mammut Courmayeur SO Pants – Men’s Black 32 Regular
90% Nylon 10% Spandex
DWR water repellent finish
4 zippered pockets
Stowable boot hook
Pros
- Exceptional comfort without chafing
- High-quality Schoeller fabric
- Excellent for cold weather trekking
- Quiet fabric for hunting
- Good articulation and stretch
Cons
- Premium price point
- Rather narrow fit
- No belt option
- Boot hook unnecessary for some
The Courmayeur SO is the pant I trust for shoulder-season and winter trekking when temperatures dip below freezing. The 90 percent nylon and 10 percent spandex blend with a DWR finish sheds light snow and drizzle without that plasticky feeling of a hardshell.
I wore these on a multi-day hut-to-hut trek in the White Mountains where the weather swung from sunny and calm to sideways sleet within an hour. The DWR treatment beaded water off the surface for the entire first day before the fabric finally started wetting out.
The harness-compatible pocket layout puts all four zippered pockets in positions that stay accessible under a pack hipbelt. I never had to undo my pack to grab a snack bar or my phone, which is a small detail that matters enormously on long days.
The stowable attachment hook at the cuff is designed for mountaineering boots, and I found it genuinely useful for keeping the pant hem in place when wearing crampons. For regular hiking it tucks away flat and you forget it is there.
Cold Weather Performance
These are built for mixed weather mountaineering and cold-weather trekking. The fitted cut and adjustable waist let you layer a thermal base layer underneath without restricting movement or creating bunching at the waist.
Sizing and Fit Guidance
The fit runs rather narrow through the leg, which is great if you have a slim build but may feel restrictive if you are used to a roomier pant. The integrated waist adjustment works well in place of a belt, though some users miss having belt loops.
4. KUIU Guide Pro Pant – Best for Cold Weather Hunting and Active Use
KUIU Guide Pro Pant – Wind-Resistant, Articulated Fit, Durable Soft-Shell for Cold Weather Mountain Hunting Gunmetal
Nylon exterior micro-fleece interior
K-DWR water repellency
Primeflex quick-dry
Full side zips
Pros
- As comfortable as sweatpants
- Excellent wind and water resistance
- Warm enough to 25F with layers
- Quiet fabric for archery
- Lightweight yet durable
Cons
- Sizing runs snug in waist
- Athletic fit may be tight for layering
- Not ideal below 25F without heavy layers
The KUIU Guide Pro is the most comfortable cold-weather softshell pant I have worn, hands down. The micro-fleece interior feels like a favorite pair of sweatpants, but the tough nylon exterior handles brush and rock without complaint.
I sat in a tree stand for four hours in 28-degree weather wearing just a lightweight base layer underneath, and I stayed warm the entire time. The wind resistance is exceptional, which is the feature that matters most when you are sitting still in cold conditions.
The hidden mesh-lined hip vents are a feature I did not know I needed until I started climbing a steep ridge after my sit. One quick unzip on each side and the heat dump was immediate, preventing the sweat-soaked feeling that ruins the rest of a hike.
The full side zips are a game-changer for ventilation and for getting the pants on and off over boots without unlacing them. The zippered cargo pockets include an internal phone sleeve that keeps your device from bouncing around during active movement.
Layering for Different Seasons
For active hiking and hunting in 15-degree weather, add a heavyweight merino base layer and you are set. The athletic fit means you need to size up one waist size if you plan to layer thick thermals underneath for stationary use.
Hunting-Specific Features
The quiet fabric is a standout for archery hunters who need to move silently at draw. The knife clip panel on the thigh keeps your blade accessible, and the overall design is clearly built by people who actually hunt in cold conditions.
5. Rab Men’s Incline Pants – Best for Climbing and Breathability
Rab Men’s Incline Pants – Tempest Blue – XXL/32
Matrix softshell double-weave
12 oz lightweight
Gusseted crotch
4 zippered pockets
Pros
- Amazing breathability
- Rugged yet lightweight
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Quality construction
- Suitable for outdoor and casual use
Cons
- Pocket lining thin and can rip
- Baggy fit for some
- Orange drawcords aesthetic issue
The Rab Incline is the pant I grab for warm-weather climbing and scrambling where breathability is the top priority. The Matrix double-weave softshell moves air through the fabric in a way that keeps you surprisingly cool on exposed south-facing slabs.
I spent a full day crack climbing in Joshua Tree in these, and the gusseted crotch and articulated knees let me high-step and heel-hook without any fabric pulling or restricting my movement. The stretch is excellent for technical climbing moves.
At 12 ounces, they are light enough for summer alpine routes but rugged enough to survive chimneys and offwidths. The four zippered pockets give you plenty of storage for a phone, a topo, and snacks without the pockets bulging awkwardly.
The one weakness I noticed is the pocket lining, which is quite thin and could tear if you are rough with it. I treat the pockets gently and avoid overstuffing them, and so far they have held up through a full season of use.
Best Activities
These excel at climbing, trekking, and mountaineering where you need maximum breathability and stretch. They also transition well to casual wear, making them a great travel pant for trips that mix trail time with town time.
Fit and Sizing Tips
The fit runs slightly baggy through the leg compared to other climbing pants I have worn. If you prefer a trimmer fit, consider sizing down. The orange drawcords on the zipper pulls in the graphene colorway are a minor aesthetic quibble that some buyers mention.
6. Helly Hansen Brono Softshell Pant – Best Versatile All-Activity Pant
Helly Hansen Brono Softshell Pant – Men’s Outdoor Waterproof, Windproof, Breathable Hiking Pants, 473 Terrain Green – Medium
4-way stretch mobility
Articulated knees
BLUESIGN certified
YKK zippered pockets
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Lightweight with good wind protection
- Water-resistant material
- Excellent stretch and movement
- Good quality material
Cons
- Runs small so size up
- Narrow leg opening may not fit over ski boots
The Helly Hansen Brono is the most versatile pant in this roundup, handling hiking, cycling, and even boating with equal competence. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you regardless of the activity, and the BLUESIGN certified materials mean the manufacturing meets strict environmental standards.
I wore these on a coastal hike in Maine that included scrambling over wet rocks, and the articulated knees and gusseted crotch gave me confidence on every move. The fabric is lightweight but still provides solid wind protection on exposed ridgelines.
The YKK zippered pockets keep your essentials secure, and the belt loops let you add your own belt for a dialed-in fit. The water-resistant finish handled light drizzle without soaking through, though it is not designed for sustained heavy rain.
The most important thing to know about the Brono is that it runs small. I sized up one full size based on buyer feedback, and the fit was perfect. Multiple reviewers confirm this, so do not skip the size adjustment when ordering.
Multi-Activity Versatility
These are the pants to pack when your trip includes multiple activities. They transition seamlessly from a morning hike to an afternoon bike ride without needing to change, which makes them ideal for adventure travel.
Boot Compatibility
The narrow leg opening is the one limitation to be aware of. If you plan to wear these over ski boots or bulky mountaineering boots, the cuff may be too tight. For hiking boots and approach shoes, the fit is just right.
7. MARMOT Men’s Scree Pant – Best Durable All-Season Workhorse
MARMOT Men’s Scree Pant, Black, 34
Midweight nylon double weave
UPF 50 sun protection
PFC-Free DWR
Articulated knees
Pros
- Exceptional comfort and quality
- Easy to clean
- Excellent windproof protection
- Durable construction
- Versatile for hiking climbing and everyday
Cons
- Water repellency diminishes after washes
- High waist may not suit all
- Some long-term durability concerns
The Marmot Scree is the workhorse of my hiking pant collection. The midweight nylon double-weave fabric is tough enough for off-trail bushwhacking and durable enough for daily wear, which is why it has been a bestseller in the men’s hiking pants category for years.
I tested these in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit with a base layer underneath, and the windproof protection was outstanding. The fabric completely blocked cold air on an exposed winter ridge hike where the wind chill was brutal.
The UPF 50 sun protection makes these a year-round option, and the PFC-Free DWR finish sheds light rain and snow effectively when new. I did notice the water repellency diminishes after several washes, which is common with DWR treatments across all brands.
The articulated knees give you full range of motion for scrambling and climbing, and the overall construction quality is excellent. After a full season of regular use, mine still look nearly new with no signs of seam wear or fabric pilling.
Restoring Water Repellency
When the DWR starts to fade after multiple washes, you can restore it with a spray-on or wash-in water repellency treatment. I re-treat mine once per season, and the beading effect comes back almost to factory-new levels.
Everyday Crossover Appeal
These look enough like regular casual pants that I wear them to the office on casual Fridays and to the pub after a hike. If you want one pair of pants that handles the trail and town equally well, the Scree is hard to beat.
8. Postropaky Softshell Ski Pants – Best Budget Winter Value
Postropaky Mens Hiking Snow Ski Pants Waterproof Outdoor Insulated Softshell Pants Snowboard Zipper Bottom Leg (Grey, 40W x 30L)
Fleece-lined interior
Ripstop waterproof coating
Ankle zippers for boots
4 large zippered pockets
Pros
- Exceptional warmth with fleece lining
- Effective water and snow repellency
- Reinforced knees for snow
- Comfortable form-fitting fit
- Excellent value for the price
Cons
- Small leg pocket too tight for phones
- Slimmer fit tight for athletic thighs
The Postropaky softshell pants are the budget winter pick that genuinely surprised me with their quality. The fleece lining provides excellent warmth, and I stayed comfortable in 30-degree weather with wind chill without needing a base layer.
I wore these for a full day of snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park, kneeling in deep snow multiple times to adjust bindings. The reinforced knees prevented snow from soaking through, and the ripstop fabric showed no signs of abrasion from the snow crust.
The waterproof coating on the spandex fabric shed snow and light rain effectively throughout the day. The four large-capacity zippered pockets held my gloves, phone, snacks, and a trail map without anything feeling cramped or at risk of falling out.
The ankle zippers make it easy to pull these on over bulky winter boots, and they stayed firmly in place all day without riding up. The quality of the zippers impressed me, especially at this price point where I expected corners to be cut.
Warmth and Temperature Range
The fleece lining makes these ideal for temperatures from the teens to the mid-40s Fahrenheit. For colder conditions, add a thermal base layer. For milder winter days, the fleece may feel warm during high-exertion activities, so plan your layers accordingly.
Fit Considerations
The slimmer cut through the thigh is great if you have a leaner build, but reviewers with athletic or muscular thighs report a tight fit. If you carry your muscle in your legs, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit that allows for layering.
9. Outdoor Ventures Fleece Lined Snow Pants – Best Waterproof Budget Option
Outdoor Ventures Men’s Lite Waterproof Windproof Fleece Lined Warm Hiking Ski Snow Pants Expandable-Waist
Waterproof windproof shell
Fleece-lined warmth
4-way stretch
Bootcut leg opening
Pros
- Truly waterproof in heavy rain and snow
- Warm in temperatures near freezing
- Excellent adjustable fit
- No swishy sound
- Reflective zipper pulls for visibility
Cons
- Fleece pockets make access harder
- Sizing conversion not always accurate
- Leg length may be too long
The Outdoor Ventures snow pants deliver genuinely waterproof performance at a price that is hard to believe. I stood in heavy rain for 30 minutes during a coastal hike and stayed completely dry, which is more than I can say for pants costing three times as much.
The fleece lining kept me warm in temperatures just above freezing without the bulk of traditional snow pants. Unlike typical winter pants that make a swishing sound with every step, these are quiet enough for wildlife observation and hunting.
The four-way stretch fabric moves with you on steep terrain, and the dart at the knee provides extra flexibility for high steps. The bootcut leg opening fits easily over hiking boots, which is a detail that budget pants often get wrong.
The reflective zipper pull elements are a nice safety touch for low-light conditions, whether you are finishing a hike at dusk or walking along a road. The two zippered hand pockets and back pockets give you enough storage for essentials on a day hike.
Waterproof Performance
These are the most waterproof pants in the budget category I have tested. The waterproof, windproof, and breathable outer shell handles sustained rain and snow better than the water-resistant finishes on more expensive softshells.
Sizing Guidance
The sizing conversion is not always accurate, and the leg length runs long for some users. Check the size chart carefully and read recent reviews for fit feedback before ordering. The adjustable waist and belt loops help dial in the fit once you have the right size.
10. TBMPOY Snow Ski Hiking Pants – Best Budget Cold Weather Pick
TBMPOY Men’s Snow Ski Hiking Pants Waterproof Fleece Lined Pants Outdoor Mountain Softshell with Belt Thick Light Khaki XXL
92% polyester 8% spandex
Fleece-lined warmth
Adjustable waist with belt
2D knee design
Pros
- Excellent warmth to 11 degrees F
- Great value rivaling expensive ski pants
- Comfortable all-day wear
- Included belt with adjustment
- Durable and easy to clean
Cons
- Only water resistant not waterproof
- Sizing runs small so order up
- Belt buckle may break
- Leg zippers may open during hiking
The TBMPOY hiking pants are the most popular budget option on this list, with over 5,200 reviews from buyers who have put them through every winter condition imaginable. The value proposition here is remarkable, with multiple reviewers saying these rival pants costing five times as much.
I wore these for a winter camping trip where the temperature dropped to 11 degrees Fahrenheit, and I stayed warm with just a base layer underneath. The fleece lining does an excellent job of trapping heat without the stiffness of insulated ski pants.
The 92 percent polyester and 8 percent spandex blend is windproof and water-resistant, handling light snow and brief rain without soaking through. Just know the water resistance lasts about 10 to 15 minutes in light rain before the fabric starts to wet out.
The included belt lets you fine-tune the waist fit, and the 2D knee design provides flexibility for hiking and scrambling. The multi-zipper pockets give you secure storage for essentials, and the pants clean up easily after getting muddy on the trail.
Cold and Dry Conditions Specialist
These are best for cold, dry conditions where warmth is the priority and sustained rain is unlikely. For ice fishing, winter hiking, and even motorcycle riding in cold weather, they deliver performance that punches well above their price class.
Critical Sizing Warning
The sizing uses Asian measurements, so you need to order 2 to 3 sizes up from your usual waist size. This is the single most common issue in buyer reviews, and getting the size right makes the difference between a great fit and an unwearable pair. The included belt buckle is also light duty, so consider swapping it for a sturdier aftermarket belt.
How to Choose Softshell Hiking Pants
Choosing the right softshell hiking pants comes down to matching the fabric technology and features to your typical hiking conditions. Here are the factors that matter most based on my testing across all 10 pairs.
Fabric weight and breathability: Lighter fabrics like the Arc’teryx Gamma SL at 6.4 ounces excel in warm weather and fast-and-light missions. Heavier double-weaves like the Marmot Scree and Mammut Courmayeur sacrifice some breathability for durability and weather protection, making them better for cold and rough conditions.
Water resistance versus waterproofing: Most softshell pants use a DWR finish that sheds light rain for short periods. If you need genuine waterproof protection, look for fully coated options like the Outdoor Ventures or Postropaky pants. The trade-off is that waterproof pants breathe less than DWR-treated softshells.
Stretch and mobility: Four-way stretch fabric makes a noticeable difference on technical terrain. Pants with articulated knees and gusseted crotches, like the Rab Incline and Helly Hansen Brono, move with you without resistance on scrambles and climbs.
Insulation for cold weather: Fleece-lined options like the KUIU Guide Pro, Postropaky, Outdoor Ventures, and TBMPOY pants add significant warmth for winter use. Unlined softshells like the Mammut Runbold IV and Arc’teryx Gamma SL are better for three-season hiking where you manage temperature through layering.
Pockets and features: Consider how many pockets you actually need and whether they sit above a pack hipbelt. Harness-compatible pocket layouts on the Mammut Courmayeur and Arc’teryx Gamma SL keep essentials accessible when you are carrying a load.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are softshell pants good for hiking?
Yes, softshell pants are excellent for hiking because they combine stretch, breathability, wind resistance, and light water repellency in a single garment. They are more comfortable and quieter than hardshell rain pants, making them ideal for three-season hiking and active use in mixed weather conditions.
What is the difference between softshell and hardshell hiking pants?
Softshell pants are made from stretchy, breathable woven fabrics with a DWR water-resistant finish, making them comfortable for active movement in light precipitation. Hardshell pants use waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex that block rain completely but breathe less and make more noise during movement.
Are softshell hiking pants waterproof?
Most softshell hiking pants are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, meaning they shed light rain and snow for short periods through a DWR finish. Some budget options like the Outdoor Ventures and Postropaky pants use waterproof coatings for heavier precipitation, but they sacrifice some breathability compared to unlined softshells.
What temperature are softshell hiking pants best for?
Unlined softshell pants like the Mammut Runbold IV and Arc’teryx Gamma SL are best for spring through autumn temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Fleece-lined options like the KUIU Guide Pro and TBMPOY pants handle cold weather from 10 to 40 degrees, especially when layered over a thermal base layer.
How should softshell hiking pants fit?
Softshell hiking pants should fit snugly enough to avoid bunching under a pack hipbelt but loose enough to allow full range of motion in the knees and hips. Look for articulated knees and gusseted crotches for mobility, and always check the brand-specific size chart since fit varies significantly between manufacturers.
Final Thoughts on the Best Softshell Hiking Pants for Men
After testing all 10 pairs across multiple seasons and terrain types, the best softshell hiking pants for men depend entirely on where and when you hike. For three-season versatility, the Mammut Runbold IV earns my editor’s choice for its unbeatable combination of comfort, stretch, and lightweight packability.
If cold weather is your priority, the KUIU Guide Pro and Mammut Courmayeur SO deliver premium warmth and weather resistance that justifies their price tags. For budget-conscious hikers, the Postropaky and TBMPOY pants offer remarkable value with fleece-lined warmth at a fraction of the cost.
The right pair of softshell pants will keep you comfortable, dry, and moving freely on the trail for years. Pick the pair that matches your typical conditions, check the sizing carefully, and get out there. The trails are waiting.
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