Convertible pants are great when the mornings are cold and the days are hot, so you can switch back and forth regularly. When you’re up in mountain valleys, you zip on the legs in the morning to keep out the chilly wind, zip them off in the midday sun, and then back on around dusk when the mosquitoes come out.
Most convertible pants come with sturdy nylon clipping belts for precise and easy adjustment and ample pockets that give you space for everything. These pants give you a convenient 2-in-1 function that saves weight and space. You can zip off the legs if the weather turns warmer, or you can put them back on. To eliminate the possibility of losing your zipped-off pants, some pants convert with a roll tab rather than a zipper. But with roll tabs, you still need to test whether the rolled-up legs are comfortable. These features make them perfect for hiking and backpacking. When you can’t decide whether you need shorts or pants, just reach for a convertible pant and you will get both.
Below is the list of top convertible hiking pants with zip-off legs that become shorts in seconds.
1. REI Co-op Sahara
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 13.4 oz.
Pockets: 6
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Waterproof: No
The REI Co-op Sahara Convertible Pants are a great choice for hikers. They handle long days and changing weather with ease. The lightweight nylon and spandex blend is breathable and tough. It holds up well on rugged trails and around the campfire. A UPF 50+ rating protects your skin from harmful sun rays. The water-repellent coating helps moisture bead up and roll off. When the temperature rises, you can switch them into shorts. Vertical zippers let you remove the pant legs without taking off your boots. The elastic waistband adds flexibility and comfort. Six pockets provide space for essentials like snacks, maps, or a phone. Reinforced cuffs prevent wear and tear from hiking boots. A zipper fly with a button closure secures the fit.
However, these pants have a few downsides. The fit is slimmer than before, with flared bottoms that swish when walking. This can be annoying on the trail. Unlike past versions, there is no built-in belt. The small belt loops only fit narrow belts, which limits options. Despite these issues, they still offer great versatility and protection. The ability to switch between pants and shorts without removing shoes is a major plus. If you prefer a looser fit, consider sizing up or looking at other options.
What I like: Affordable and easy-to-remove legs
What I don’t: No integrated belt.
See the REI Co-op Sahara See the Women’s Sahara
2. Toomett Convertible Pants
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: Not specified
Pockets: 6
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Waterproof: No
The Toomett Pants feature concealed zippers at the knees, allowing easy conversion from pants to shorts. This design is perfect for changing weather conditions. The fabric is lightweight and quick-drying, keeping you cool and dry. Moisture transport technology pulls sweat away from the skin, helping it evaporate quickly. The material also has UPF 50+ protection, reducing exposure to harmful UV rays. This prevents sunburn and skin damage during long hikes. The ripstop polyester fabric ensures durability while remaining breathable. An elastic waistband and relaxed fit make them comfortable for movement. The gusseted crotch and articulated knees provide extra flexibility. A Teflon coating on the surface helps resist water, oil, and stains. The pants hold up well to wear and tear, making them ideal for extended outdoor use. However, they can be slightly noisy when walking.
These pants offer excellent storage with six pockets for convenience. They have two slash pockets, two thigh cargo pockets, and two hook-and-loop back pockets. Mesh pocket linings improve breathability. A detachable belt and wide belt loops provide a secure fit. The SBS zipper and metal button ensure durability. The fit is snug in the legs but true to size. Compared to the Kidden pants, the Toomett offers a better-constructed waistband with a soft inner lining. The cargo pockets are deep but not bellowed. The leg zippers are sturdy, and the shorts reach the knee. While the Toomett lacks leg cuff strings, it makes up for it with overall robustness. These pants can endure extended hiking trips and frequent washing. If durability is a priority, they are a solid investment. The only drawback is the slight noise when walking, but that is a minor issue.
What I like: Elastic waistband, relaxed fit, and a detachable belt for a secure fit.
What I don’t: The material makes a slight noise when walking.
See the Toomett Pants See the Women’s Toomett Pants
3. KUHL Renegade
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 9.5 oz.
Pockets: 7
Sun Protection: UPF 50
Waterproof: DWR-coated
The KUHL Renegade is tough and ready for any adventure. They handle different terrains and changing weather with ease. The fabric is quick-drying and water-resistant, making it great for wet conditions. With high abrasion resistance, they can withstand rough use. The two-way stretch allows for comfort and flexibility during movement. A zip-off design quickly turns them into shorts, making them perfect for warm days. The color-coded zippers help reattach the legs easily. The shorts have a curved hem that offers extra leg protection. These pants are excellent for hiking, camping, or traveling.
The Renegade pants feature a well-thought-out pocket design. There are seven pockets in total, offering plenty of storage. Three zippered pockets keep valuables secure, including a hip pocket for essentials like a phone or wallet. The two front and two drop-in pockets add extra convenience. Gusseted, expandable thigh pockets provide extra space without bulk. Lower knee darts improve mobility, and the cinch closures at the pant leg openings help keep out debris. The medium-weight fabric feels durable but remains flexible. These pants adapt well to different environments, making them a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether on a trail or exploring a new city, the KUHL Renegade Pants deliver comfort and functionality.
What I like: A versatile pant with ample storage; holds up well to rough use.
What I don’t: A little expensive.
4. Patagonia Quandary
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 13.4 oz.
Pockets: 6
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Waterproof: No
The Patagonia Quandary pants are a great choice for hiking and travel. They are lightweight and stretchy for all-day comfort. The zip-off legs make them perfect for changing weather conditions. Mornings can be chilly, but afternoons get hot. Just zip off the legs, and you have shorts. The fabric is 96% recycled nylon from fishing nets, reducing ocean plastic pollution. It also has 4% spandex for added flexibility. A durable water-repellent (DWR) finish keeps light rain away. Unlike some treatments, this one is free from harmful chemicals. These pants also offer 40+ UPF sun protection, making them a smart choice for sunny hikes.
The fit is comfortable and secure without being too tight. A curved waistband follows the natural shape of the hips. The customizable drawcord can be worn inside or outside for better adjustability. There are five pockets, including two front pockets, two back pockets, and one zippered thigh pocket. A built-in repair patch is included for quick fixes. Articulation behind the knees helps with movement, and the pants convert into shorts with contrasting zippers. With a 32-inch inseam as pants and a 9-inch inseam as shorts, they work well for different activities. Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability adds even more value, making these a reliable and eco-friendly choice.
What I like: Well-built and good-looking crossover hiking and travel pants.
What I don’t: The thin build is best only in the summer months.
5. REI Co-op Sahara Stretch
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 14.5 oz.
Pockets: 4
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Waterproof: DWR-coated
The REI Co-op Sahara Stretch is well-made and packed with great features. The fabric is a durable blend of nylon and spandex. It stretches well and moves with you on the trail. A nonfluorinated DWR finish helps water bead up and keeps you dry. The material is thick enough for fall and mild winter hikes but may be too warm for summer. Thankfully, the hidden thigh zippers let you turn them into shorts. The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection. The waistband has a soft elastic design with an interior drawcord for a secure fit. It lays flat and stays comfortable during long hikes. The faux fly keeps the design simple.
The pants have well-placed pockets, including deep hand pockets, two back pockets, and a zippered thigh pocket. The zippers are smooth and reliable. The overall quality feels premium. The regular size has a 31-inch inseam, while the tall size has a 34-inch inseam. As a 6’1″, 180-pound hiker, I found the large size fit well in length. However, the fit in the butt and thighs was baggier than I prefer. If you like a wider leg style, these will be great. REI’s commitment to sustainability is a nice bonus, as these pants meet bluesign® criteria and are Climate Neutral Certified.
What I like: The nylon/spandex blend moves well and holds up to rough hikes.
What I don’t: A looser style that may not suit everyone.
See the REI Co-op Sahara Stretch See the Women’s Sahara Stretch
6. Columbia Leslie Falls – Women’s
Fabric: Nylon/elastane
Weight: Not specified
Pockets: 4
Sun Protection: Not specified
Waterproof: Omni-Shield
The Columbia Leslie Falls Pants for women are a great choice for hiking and outdoor adventures. They are lightweight but strong, making them perfect for long trails. The mid-rise waist is comfortable, and the fabric has a little stretch for easy movement. One of the best features is the zip-off legs, which turn them into shorts. The zippers have different colors, so you won’t mix up the left and right legs. These pants also have Omni-Shield™ Advanced Repellency, which helps resist stains and water. The waistband is soft and comfortable, and the articulated knees make bending easier.
These pants have plenty of useful pockets, including hand pockets, a zip-closed security pocket, and a drop-in pocket. The utility loop is handy for attaching small gear. The snap-adjustable hems allow for a custom fit. They also have belt loops in case you need extra support. While they are super comfy, getting the right size can be tricky. Many find they need to size up. If you usually wear an 8, you may need a 10 or even a 12. It took three tries to find the right fit. Overall, these pants are a great pick for hiking, but consider sizing up for the best fit.
What I like: Great for long hikes without feeling heavy.
What I don’t: Takes practice to zip them on and off smoothly.
7. KUHL Freeflex Zip-Off Pants – Women’s
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 15.5
Pockets: 2
Sun Protection: UPF 50
Waterproof: Water-repellant
The KUHL Freeflex Zip-Off Pants are lightweight and water-repellent, making them perfect for changing weather. The soft-shell fabric stretches well, allowing easy movement on hikes. The quick-dry material helps keep you comfortable if you sweat or get caught in the rain. These pants also wick away moisture, so you stay dry during long hikes. Plus, they are odor-resistant, which is great for multi-day trips. The convertible design is a big advantage. You can easily zip off the lower legs and turn them into shorts. This is useful when the weather gets warm or if you need more ventilation.
The pull-on waistband makes these pants easy to wear. It has a drawstring waist, so you can adjust the fit. The waistband lining adds extra comfort and prevents chafing. The pants also have useful storage options. The thigh cargo pockets provide space for essentials like a phone, snacks, or a map. These pockets are easy to reach while hiking. The overall design is both functional and stylish. They look good on the trail but are also comfortable for casual wear. If you want versatile, breathable, and practical hiking pants, the KUHL Freeflex Zip-Off Pants are a solid choice.
What I like: Great for hiking in various weather conditions.
What I don’t: No Belt Loops
8. Jessie Kidden Safari
Fabric: Nylon/spandex
Weight: 11.36 oz.
Pockets: 6
Sun Protection: UPF 50
Waterproof: DWR-coated
Jessie Kidden Safari pants are a great choice for outdoor activities. They have a comfortable fit with a part-elastic waist that suits many body types. The straight-leg design allows free movement without tearing. These pants are also water-repellent and wear-resistant, making them durable for long hikes. The zip-off design lets you switch from pants to shorts easily. This makes them perfect for changing weather in spring, summer, and autumn. Their quick-dry fabric keeps you dry and comfortable. The UPF 50 protection shields you from harmful sun rays. The moisture-wicking technology helps pull sweat away, keeping you cool. With multiple pockets, they offer great storage for your belongings. The two slant pockets, two thigh pockets, and two back pockets provide easy access to essentials. The lightweight and stretchable material ensures flexibility, making them ideal for hiking, fishing, and casual wear.
These pants are perfect for people who need versatility and comfort. They fit well, and the leg openings are wide enough to cover shoes. They do run slightly large, but that may not bother everyone. The zip-off feature works smoothly, making it easy to switch between pants and shorts. However, the belt is a downside. It is made of flimsy plastic and may not last long. The buckle and end piece feel weak and can start to pull away from the fabric. A sewn end piece and an aluminum belt buckle would be better. You may need to replace the belt over time. Despite this, the pants remain a solid choice for outdoor adventures.
What I like: The part-elastic waist fits various body types, and the straight-leg design allows free movement.
What I don’t: The included belt is flimsy, with plastic parts that break over time.
Convertible Hiking Pants: Comparison Table
| PANTS | FABRIC | WEIGHT | POCKETS | SUN | WATERPROOF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REI Co-op Sahara | Nylon/spandex | 13.4 oz. | 6 | UPF 50+ | No |
| Toomett Hiking Pants | Nylon/spandex | N/A | 6 | UPF 50+ | No |
| KUHL Renegade | Nylon/spandex | 9.5 oz. | 7 | UPF 50 | DWR-coated |
| Patagonia Quandary | Nylon/spandex | 13.4 oz. | 6 | UPF 50+ | No |
| REI Sahara Stretch | Nylon/spandex | 14.5 oz. | 4 | UPF 50+ | DWR-coated |
| Columbia Leslie Falls | Nylon/elastane | N/A | 4 | N/A | Omni-Shield |
| KUHL Freeflex | Nylon/spandex | 15.5 | 2 | UPF 50 | Water-repellant |
| Jessie Kidden Safari | Nylon/spandex | 11.36 oz. | 6 | UPF 50 | DWR-coated |
Critical Convertible Pants Considerations for Hiking
Convertible pants are a popular choice for hiking throughout the year because their design means less packing. Here are some important things to consider before buying a pair of convertible pants.
Material
Nylon or nylon blend is usually the material used in hiking pants. But materials listed in the feature list doesn’t mean much because you can’t tell how the material will behave by simply reading that the pants contain 80 or 90% nylon or whatever. It is recommended that you prefer material containing spandex. Spandex is stretchy and does not limit your mobility.
Weight and Comfort
The weight of hiking pants matters because, in a long mountain climbing and hiking trip, every ounce matters. So you need to make sure that your pants are light enough to not cause you problems. Lightweight pants that are easy to pack also allow you to carry an extra without much effort. This makes comfort a very significant factor in making your outdoor trip enjoyable. Your pants should allow you to move freely and not push against your legs while walking or climbing. This will conserve your energy along the way.
Thickness and Durability
The thickness of hiking pants varies from thin to medium softshell to very thick depending on what season they are made for. You must know what you are dealing with when choosing hiking pants. Most hiking pants are usually made for 3-season use. Some extra layers underneath can make any pants suitable for winter. Thickness often correlates to durability and the resistance to wear and tear. So thick pants are great for winter hiking and rough mountain climbing that will expose you to a lot of sharp edges.
Pockets
Pockets are not for everyone. Too many pockets can drive some people crazy. They will stuff these pockets only to find out that they have taken over useless weight. This makes their trip uncomfortable and ruins their hike. Know what kind of person you are. You might want a simple pair of pants instead.
Gusseted build and Articulated Knees
One thing that improves the comfort of hiking pants is their ability to allow motion. Certain design aspects, like gusseted crotch and articulated knees, provide this comfort. Articulated knees mimic a person’s movement by being bent. This makes them push less against the knees as you walk or climb. A gusset is a patch of diamond-shaped fabric that runs along the inner side of the thighs replacing the normal seam. Of course, a complex design means more cost. But the cost is worth the comfort.
Water-Resistance
Most of the time and especially in hot summer weather, you won’t be bringing completely waterproof pants unless you are certain you will be facing heavy rain. The reason is that they are unbreathable. Most pants do a decent job keeping you dry in light rain. The nylon mesh doesn’t absorb water easily. It also dries up quickly if it gets wet. So it is recommended that you stick to normal hiking pants unless you are going in heavy rain.
Fit and Convenience
In the past, there used to be limited options to choose from. But recently, we have plenty of options, and many companies that have conducted years of research to develop hiking pants that give the user a perfect fit. You can find pants that have athletic to loose-fitted baggy pants. Other features add to the convenience of using the pants. Like integrated belts, zippers at the bottom of the legs left and right labels on the legs, such features provide convenience to the user and make them comfortable with the pants.
