How to Find the Best Pants for Outdoor Adventures
When deciding on the best pants for outdoor activities, it’s essential to consider the sport, the environment, and the weather. In general, however, the best outdoor gear protects you while enjoying nature. It keeps you comfortable, dry, and safe so you can prolong your time outdoors—because, isn’t that the ultimate goal?
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the choices in outdoor clothing. With so many options for the same adventure, it’s hard to know where to start. The search itself may take longer than anticipated, but many retailers have you covered with the right gear. When in doubt, considering the following information to help you along the way.
Best Layering Pants for Outdoors
Let’s start with layers because when it comes to safety, layering is an essential part of the process. When choosing outdoor gear for colder temperatures, one of the best items is a base layer. Base layers keep you dry and warm, working as insulation under other outdoor clothing. They’re particularly helpful when camping, mountaineering, hiking, or participating in winter sports.
Base layers are all about the fabric. To make sure you’re comfortable and warm during your outdoor adventures, choose a high-quality wool fabric. It will naturally wick away moisture, keeping you dry and warm. Cotton or fleece are less expensive choices, although they’re best for sleeping or more sedentary activities as they won’t keep sweat off your skin as well as wool.
Best Long Pants
There are outdoor activities for every season, but long pants might be the best option even in the warmer months. Take hunting, for example. If you’re walking in hot weather in exposed terrain, you may want to wear shorts. But shorts won’t protect your skin like long, durable pants can, especially when trekking through the brush.
Proper outdoor clothing protects your skin from bugs, snakes, and scratchy plants, and it also provides a protective barrier from the sun and wind. Many options also offer handy storage for equipment that you may need along the way. Long pants are helpful for other activities, such as hiking, fishing, camping, rock climbing, and more.
Best Shorts
When the season, temperatures, and activity allows, shorts may be the best choice. As far as outdoor gear goes, shorts can make or break a sport. When running or cycling in warmer weather, you’ll need lightweight and breathable fabrics that offer comfort. For example, padded cycling shorts literally go the extra mile in providing protection and support that translates to enhanced performance.
Sports that occur in less controlled environments require a different type of outdoor clothing. Take mountaineering as an example. You may still sweat and need breathable shorts during hot summer months, but you also need a sturdier fabric to protect against the elements. Wind can be stronger at higher elevations, or you may slip and need a thicker material to withstand tougher terrain. There are plenty of choices for sturdy shorts that keep you going on your adventures.
