An outdoor adventure can very easily turn sour when you get wet. You can still stay dry while keeping your legs breathable for hiking and other aerobic activities when you wear rain pants.
You can rely on rain pants to keep your lower half dry when it starts raining while you are hiking or doing another outdoor activity. All rain pants aren’t the same, though, so you’ll want to choose rain pants that offer good protection while also being comfortable, breathable, and durable. Rain pants should provide good protection from the elements while keeping you dry and comfortable no matter what you’re doing outdoors, including hiking, cycling, golfing, or exploring.
If you’re in a hurry, here are our top 3 quick picks for the Best Rain Pants:
- Little Donkey Andy Women’s Lightweight Waterproof Breathable Rain Pants
- RainRider Workwear Bib Rain Pants
- Columbia Women’s Storm Surge Waterproof Rain Pants
Criteria for Choosing the Best Rain Pants
Are rain pants really worth it?
Rainy weather causes shrubbery to become wet and causes your entire body to become sodden due to contact. It is for this reason that waterproof pants are so important. In addition to keeping your legs dry, they will add an additional layer of defense to keep your skin untouched and unscratched.
Are rain pants supposed to be baggy?
A good fit should encourage layering underneath without being too baggy. If the weather changes, make sure that your rainwear can be cinched down snugly.
What are you supposed to wear under the rain pants?
Wear waterproof gaiters under your rain pants if you use them to protect against rain. This will create an effect similar to shingle, keeping rain flowing off. The water can trickle down the gap between the gaiters and rain pants and land on your socks or down your boot if you wear them over rain pants.
Aren’t snow pants just the same thing?
These pants are waterproof, like snow pants. However, there is nothing warm about them. If you’ve got warm layers beneath them, they might be suitable for use in the snow.
Our criteria for choosing the best rain pants included ones with packability, waterproofing, breathability, and fit when choosing a pair of rain pants.
The 6 Best Rain Pants
Little Donkey Andy Women’s Lightweight Waterproof Breathable Rain Pants
Trail hiking can be challenging and unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared for any weather conditions you may encounter. Luckily, these rain pants won’t get wet or windblown, so they’re perfect for securing you against the surprise storm that you’ll inevitably encounter on trails, around campsites, or on patios. You’ll be comfy and protected inside and out thanks to the waterproof-breathable, fully seamed shell. When rain falls and winds blow, DWR finishes resisting intense, heavy rain. As it further enhances comfort and range of motion is the joint articulation at the knee and hip, it fits comfortably with partially elasticized waist; Leg openings can be adjusted with drawcord; Hook snap button prevents opening.
PROS
- These pants provide a hook snap button
- These pants provide a breathable mesh liner
- These pants provide an adjustable drawcord hem
CONS
- One customer reports that the pants are extremely tight
RainRider Workwear Bib Rain Pants
Consider these rain pants as well, if you’re looking for something more stylish! Despite its lightweight and flexibility, Ripstop polyester/PU is suitable for cold storage. The material also increases the garment’s cut, tear, and abrasion resistance. You will stay dry thanks to the taped seams on the rain pants. The waist can be adjusted with a snap, as a quick release buckle fastens the suspenders. Plus, the boot cuffs are also adjustable. The shoulder straps are high and the back is low to keep you protected, as well as the chest pocket. Featuring 100% waterproof and windproof properties, the classic rain bib makes the perfect hiking, fishing, boating, gardening companion.
PROS
- The price is worth its value
- These pants are easily adjustable
- These pants are machine washable
CONS
- There are no cons reported for this product
Columbia Women’s Storm Surge Waterproof Rain Pants
This waterproof and breathable technology makes these pants flattering and fully seam-sealed. It is as if an oasis of dryness has been created in the middle of a deluge thanks to Columbia’s Storm SurgeTM Waterproof Rain Pants. During wet weather, outdoor activities should be protected from the rain. With Omni-TECHTM nylon that sheds moisture and allows warm air to escape, along with a mesh lining that keeps you comfortable when the intensity increases. With an adjustable waistband and drawcord cuffs, you’ll stay comfortable all day long. These are excellent for outdoor activities, especially in wet conditions.
PROS
- The price is worth its value
- These pants provide elastic closure
- These pants are machine washable
- These pants can be used for all sorts of weather
CONS
- One customer reports that the pants are poorly fitted
Berghaus Women’s Deluge Waterproof Rain Over Pants
It’s never raining when you’re wearing Berghaus’ Hydroshell fabric, which offers excellent waterproof properties, breathability, and durability – making them ideal year-round. They will keep you dry and on the move no matter what the weather. Thanks to the three-quarter length sides zip in the Deluge Over Pants, you can pull them on at the first sign of rain. They’re also great for letting in the air when getting too hot. Overall, the waterproof over pants is a perfect companion for trekking up your favorite mountain or exploring new territory.
PROS
- The price is worth its value
- These pants are breathable and waterproof
- These pants provide an elastic waist adjustment band
CONS
- One customer reports that the sizing runs small
Acme Projects Rain Pants
These lightweight waterproof pants by Acme Projects are just right for any type of weather. These pants are water-resistant, wind-proof, and are fully sewn sealed. If you find yourself caught in the worst weather conditions and you are out taking a stroll through town or going on an adventure, you will keep dry and comfortable with these waterproof pants. You can adjust the fit around your waist with a drawcord and elastic system. There is a Velcro closure at the bottom leg that can be adjusted for different sizes and occasions. Outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, biking, fishing, trekking, and all other outdoor activities are perfect for this t-shirt. If you are on an adventure or just going about your daily commute, these functional rain pants are the perfect companions.
PROS
- These pants are breathable
- These pants provide a functional design
- These pants can be used for multiple purposes
CONS
- One customer reports that the pants are not waterproof
Mountain Warehouse Pakka Men’s Waterproof Rain Pants
These waterproof overtrousers will keep you dry and warm on those chilly days. Featuring their IsoDry fabric, this jacket is completely waterproof. You can wear these over your regular trousers because they have pockets and Velcro ankle openings. The hydrostatic rating of this waterproof material is 1,500mm based on laboratory testing. It indicates how water-resistant a garment is if it can withstand large amounts of water pressure. As the number increases, it can withstand more water pressure. Water doesn’t penetrate seams, stitching, or joints in the fabric due to taped seams, making the clothing waterproof throughout. An included pack-away bag allows easy storage of the item, as you can easily bring it on walks, outings, or on trips when the weather is changing.
PROS
- The price is worth its value
- These pants provide taped seams
- These pants include a pack-away bag
- These pants are breathable and waterproof
CONS
- One customer reports that there was a hole in the pants when delivered
In Conclusion
We hope you found the best rain pants that best suits your needs! Every outdoor adventurer should have a pair of waterproof pants. Additionally, they retain your body heat, keeping you warm and safe in the backcountry when the sky opens up.
Other Products You May Need
We hope you enjoy these products! But keep in mind, Grit Daily might take a small commission on the items recommended here—but that doesn’t mean we don’t believe in them. We only recommend products that we would buy or use ourselves, so don’t be wary of our suggestions.
