Decently experienced backpacker here. I’ve been finding that most hiking pants are too small though. And I mean, the cut is just so tight regardless of size that if I ever need to get on the ground (such as, you know, for sleeping or sitting) that I’ll almost always pop a seam when getting up. I’ve sized up two sizes, but it seems I’m still running into the problem. As a big guy, I’m very limited in terms of which brands offer my size(s) to begin with, which certainly isn’t helping anything. Anybody else on the ‘too big for most gear’ spectrum that’s had success with hiking pants? Would love some recommendations.
How big and how tall are we talking here?
I’m 6’2" and 250, and I can comfortably wear REI trail pants.
Quincy said:
How big and how tall are we talking here?
I’m 6’2" and 250, and I can comfortably wear REI trail pants.
6’5", ~350. 44x34/36 is my typical pant size, and that’s fine for jeans. I just always destroy my hiking pants.
@Jaden
Hmm. A few ideas:
- There are some big boys that have hiking channels on YouTube; DM them and ask about their gear.
- Hike in sweats.
- Hike in shorts.
- When cold, hike in shorts plus a base layer.
Keep at it, man!
I’m a big fan of the Wrangler ATG pants for hiking. They come up to waist 44 and inseam 34. Super comfortable, a little stretchy, and don’t break the bank. The only issue I’ve found is that they aren’t super durable; when hiking off-trail through the brush or thorn bushes, they will snag and pill pretty quickly.
Duluth Trading Company has awesome Flexpedition pants.
They have a gusset in the crotch to avoid the nutcracker effect and reduce the risk of splitting. They’re a blend of spandex and either nylon or polyester. There’s enough stretch that they don’t limit movement, they’re thin enough not to be too hot, moisture-wicking to dry fast, and the inside has a brushed finish so they don’t rub.