How to Choose Hiking Pants
REI Co-op Activator Pants - Men's
$99.95
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What's your perfect pair of trail pants? Wind-resistant and water-repellent? Breathable and stretchy? Plenty of secure pockets? That's the men's REI Co-op Activator soft-shell pants!
Key Details
Weight
15.1 ounces
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- Soft-shell fabric is a blend of nylon, polyester and spandex with 4-way stretch and a soft, brushed back
- Fabric repels light rain and resists wind up to 30 mph
- Nonfluorinated durable water repellent (DWR) helps moisture bead up on the surface
- Waistband has low-profile belt loops to help you dial in the fit
- Zipper fly with double snap closure
- Articulated knees and a center gusset let you move freely
- Drawcord cuff adjustments let you cinch pants down over boots to keep out debris, or roll 'em up to ford a stream
- 2 zippered hand pockets; 1 zippered thigh pocket; 2 back pockets with hidden plastic snaps
- Machine wash warm, wash separately, gentle cycle, cold rinse, do not twist or wring, remove promptly; do not use bleach or fabric softeners; tumble dry low
- Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria
- REI Co-op brand is certified to The Climate Label; we actively fund efforts to reduce carbon emissions across our business and support climate projects around the world
Imported.
View the REI Co-op Activator Product LineView all REI Co-op Men's Hiking Pants| Best Use | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Fabric | 63% nylon/26% polyester/11% spandex (bluesign approved) |
| Pant Fit | Standard |
| Pant Leg Style | Straight |
| Inseam (in.) | 29.5, 31.5, 33.5 inches |
| Gender | Men's |
| Weight | 15.1 ounces |
| Sustainability | Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria From a Climate Label Certified brand |
REI Co-op Clothing - Men's
| XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL | XXXL | 24 IN Waist | 26 IN Waist | 28 IN Waist | 30 IN Waist | 31 IN Waist | 32 IN Waist | 33 IN Waist | 34 IN Waist | 35 IN Waist | 36 IN Waist | 38 IN Waist | 40 IN Waist | 42 IN Waist | 44 IN Waist | 46 IN Waist | 48 IN Waist | 50 IN Waist | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest | 35 | 36 - 38 | 39 - 41 | 42 - 45 | 46 - 49 | 50 - 53 | 54 - 57 | |||||||||||||||||
| Sleeve Length | 32 | 32.5 | 33 | 33.5 | 34 | 34.75 | 35.5 | |||||||||||||||||
| Waist | 27.5 | 28 - 30 | 32 - 34 | 36 - 38 | 40 - 42 | 44 - 46 | 48 - 50 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 38 | 40 | 42 | 44 | 46 | 48 | 50 |
| Hip | 33.5 | 34.5 - 36.5 | 37.5 - 39.5 | 41 - 43 | 44 - 46.5 | 47.5 - 50.5 | 51.5 - 54.5 | 32 | 33.5 | 34.5 | 36.5 | 37 | 37.5 | 38.5 | 39.5 | 40.25 | 41 | 43 | 44 | 46.5 | 47.5 | 50.5 | 52.5 | 54.5 |
| Inseam | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 |
Sizing Notes
Measurements are stated in inches unless otherwise indicated. Size chart values represent body measurements, not garment measurements.
SHORT: Some pants are available in short sizes, which generally means an inseam that is 2.5 inches shorter than regular sizes.
TALL: Some pants, shirts, jackets and parkas are available in tall sizes, which generally means an inseam that is 3 inches longer and a rise that is 1 inch longer, a shirt or jacket body that is 2 inches longer, a parka body that is 2.5 inches longer and sleeves that are 2.5 inches longer than regular sizes.
Capri or cropped pants have an intentionally shorter inseam—reference the technical specs instead of this chart.
Inseam is measured to the floor.
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Most Helpful Favorable Review
Improvement over the 2.0 model
danny10104 years ago
As an owner of multiple of the v1, v2, and now the v3, I can say that the 3.0 was a nice significant improvement over the 2.0 pants. Both were comfortable with a nice fit and solid wind and water blocking abilities.
The big improvement to me was the return of the belt loops. The 2.0 version had a built in belt system but it wouldn’t always hold. That was made worse because there weren’t belt loops to use you own. It’s no fun when you’re always worried about dropping trou at any moment. This version fixed that and even did a double buckle enclosure.
This new version also takes a step up in having zipper enclosures for the front and side pockets. The 2.0’s front pockets were so wide and without zippers, it was actually pretty easy for a phone or something a little slick to fall out quietly and you none the wiser.
Lastly, the draw cord at the cuff is a nice add-on to pull the pants up to wading height.
The two main improvements I’d make is to return the back pockets to a zipper or even maybe Velcro. The snap enclosure scratches me every time I reach for my wallet. Not a huge deal, but definitely annoying.
The second one is to just offer a few more colors. I’d love a khaki or dark brown option to go along with the gray!
danny1010
Austin, TX
23 people found this review helpful
Most Helpful Critical Review
Strangely not meant for outdoors
Kyle4 years ago
I bought these pants for the four way stretch and foolishly overlooked the poor design choices made throughout the rest of the pants. I bought these for hiking and climbing, but they didn't even feel good sitting at my table. It's not that I bought a size too small - the waist fit great. It's that there simply isn't a lot of room built into the pants. The pockets are very small - only big enough to fit my hand. I can imagine things falling out of the, quite easily, except there's no room in the seat of the pants. The cargo pocket on the leg is in the front instead of on the side, which annoys me but maybe not others. The build quality feels great, it's just a shame REI is starting to cater to the appearances crowd.
If you're looking for pants that offer a feeling of freedom while you're on the trail, try something else. If you want to go get a bagel while looking like you might hike a city trail, but really you're just going to the mall after, you can still do better for $100.
Kyle
AZ
50 people found this review helpful
Customer Images
Stephen
Received free product
Woodbury, MN
Comfortable, flexible, and overall great pants!
7 months ago
After using these pants on a couple hikes and a cold weather camping session I have grown to really enjoy them. The pockets are really nice with all YKK zippers and are a good depth for carrying various items. The stretch on them is amazing, making hiking up rocky surfaces a breeze. I also found them fairly warm even though they lack a thermal liner, something I would actually prefer hiking pants without. I figure you can always wear a base layer in the winter so in the summer they are nice a cool. The fit is absolutely perfect as well. Overall I highly recommend these hiking pants as a great option for hitting the trails or just lounging around a campfire. There are definitely higher quality options out there but for the price and for my tastes, these are perfect.
Age:35–44
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:6'1"
Yes , I recommend this product
Tool Boy
Received free product
Turner, Oregon
Great pants that you will enjoy tremendously!!!!!!
8 months ago
Great fit and I love that the pants have stretching ability. Even though they are not waterproof they kept warm in 44 deg weather. In the 4 days I used them on trail, they withstood quite a bit of abuse as I do trail maintenance, such as logouts, tread work and brushing. The zippered pockets kept everything secure and they were super easy to use. Typically, I do not use the stretch cord provided on the cuff, however I can see that they would be great in cooperation with gators. The rear pocket, for wallet use, made me a bit sore as it rubbed me a bit. I will probably locate the wallet in a different location next time. When brushing trails with blackberries, they obtained only minor snagging. They are lightweight, but the thickness is excellent. They are probably the most comfortable pants I have ever used on trail!!!
Age:65–74
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Yes , I recommend this product
charlielima82
Received free product
Sacramento, CA
Very comfortable pants
7 months ago
I have used these pants now on 4 ruck walks and a few times doing jobs around the house. The material is comfortable, and has a nice stretch to it which adds to the comfort while moving. I would say these are on the slimmer side of standard fit. I think one size bigger would have been best for me. I have a larger butt and thighs and I find the pants to be a little snug in those areas. The fit comfortably on my waist and lower legs. After using for a few days I did notice that they stretched out a little and weren't as tight. They do a great job of blocking out wind, but they are not insulated so my legs did get cold. I did not get to test against rain. The zippers on the pockets move with easily with just one hand. The pockets are large enough to fit my phone and other EDC items. Drawstring on bottom of leg opening is a nice touch, I cinched it down to the top of my boots and didn't feel like my movement was hindered. I have 5 stars because quality of materials and well thought out details are great for light trail pants. The tight fit is more my fault as I should have sized up.
Age:35–44
Weight:225–250 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Yes , I recommend this product
Jeremyh84
Received free product
Central Texas
Functional and comfortable
8 months ago
Worn these a couple times and have to say they are some of the most comfortable pants I've worn. The waist line has a little give to it and keeps it from being extra restrictive. I love the zippers on the pockets for making sure everything stays secure, although the pockets are plenty deep within their own right. And the zipper for the pockets doesn't feel like one of those where you know you're going to have issues at some point. The only thing I wish they would have had are zippers at the bottom of the pant leg, but they put in a drawstring to be able to tighten them up and yet to be seen if it's a plus or minus.
Age:35–44
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Yes , I recommend this product
Josh
Received free product
Cleveland, Ohio
Warm and Dry in the Rain
7 months ago
I recently tested the REI Co-op Men's Activator Pants during a rainy and windy 40-degree day in Ireland, and they performed well. These pants kept me warm and dry in the rain and the ocean spray. The three zippered pockets were handy for stashing my keys, phone, and wallet. The fit of the legs was a bit looser than I prefer. While this didn’t affect the performance, it’s worth noting for those who prefer a more tapered or slim fit. Overall, these pants are a solid choice for staying comfortable in cold and wet conditions. I’d recommend them for anyone looking for warmth and weather resistance, with the added convenience of plenty of secure storage.
Age:25–34
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'10"
Yes , I recommend this product
Eric L
Received free product
Seattle, WA
Well made softshell pants with useful features
7 months ago
I’m always on the lookout for the ideal pair of hiking/trail pants, and the REI Activator softshell pants has become one of my top picks. The softshell material is relatively light and stretchy, including articulated knees and a stretch crotch gusset. For outdoor pants, I like having a jack of all trades pair, and I’ve found that these are good for hiking, travel, climbing, and even as a midlayer for skiing. Almost all apparel companies are now switching to nonflourinated DWR coating for water repellency, so I will have to see how this type of DWR holds up over time. It does bead and shed water when brand new, as expected. Aside from that, I do like the other features these pants have - a double metal button waist and a quality zipper fly. These pants have a total of 5 pockets - two side zippered pockets, a zippered thigh pocket, and two rear pockets that have a single snap each. I like that with the cuffs, I have the option to use a drawcord to cinch them up over the top of my boots. Fit wise, these fit me snugly at 5’7” and 182 lbs. I normally wear a medium, and that’s what I ordered. I appreciate REI making these available in different inseams - I’m wearing a 30 inseam with these. All in all, these are a quality pair of softshell pants that I expect to fulfill multiple needs, and I believe they will be durable in the long run.
Age:35–44
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'7"
Yes , I recommend this product
Josh
Buffalo,NY
The best winter softshell pants
4 years ago
Possibly the best hiking pants I've ever worn. Perfect for winter hiking, xc skiing, snowshoeing etc. Its nice to not have to use long Jons as much as they bunch and aren't super comfortable. These can definitely work in the shoulder seasons as well. May have to get another pair, theyre that good. Tons of range of motion with the stretch and the pocket system is perfect. Snaps instead of velcro on the back pockets is a nice touch. These pants are thoughtfully designed and priced fairly considering competitors are usually closer to $200. Im 5'9 175, medium fits like a glove.
Age:25–34
Weight:150–175 lbs.
Height:5'9"
Yes , I recommend this product
JoshuaRR
Great pants and will buy more
1 year ago
I pretty much lived in these pants for a week on a recent trip to Scandinavia, including the flights. They were warm without being bulky and the way the waist is designed to stretch was excellent for somebody built like a stalwart dwarf...which is when your pants fit fine, aren't too long and don't fall down as you walk but you sit down and suddenly your waist is 4" bigger and the top buttons of your fly dig into your stomach like Gollum digging for a fish in the mud. I had wind, light rain, miles of walking on cobblestones, museums, trains, a birthday party and even squished myself into the storage area of one of those electric cargo bikes and these pants were comfortable the whole time without being too hot or too cold.
Age:45–54
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:5'7"
Yes , I recommend this product
MikeP
Mississippi
Seriously the best pair of pants I’ve ever owned.
9 months ago
These are the most comfortable pants I’ve ever worn, and that’s not hyperbole. I feel like I’ve been looking for these pants my whole life and I’ve finally found them. I have given them 6 stars, but deducted a star because there are only 2 colors. If there were enough colors, I’d have a different color for each day of the week and donate every other pair of pants I own to someone in need. (Seriously) The fabric is soft, and very flexible. It’s not too thick or too thin. The water repellant is great for splashes and for keeping stains from setting in. Pockets are well placed, though I’d like to have another thigh pocket on the left side as well.
Age:45–54
Weight:225–250 lbs.
Height:5'10"
Yes , I recommend this product
jamiek
Colorado Springs, CO
Great for hiking/jogging in cold weather
2 years ago
I wore these trail jogging in 35 degree weather to test them. They're warm but breathable, and seem really sturdy and comfortable. The fabric is stretchy, so I never felt constricted. They're also not baggy, so they don't get in my way. I wish there were more colors; if there were I would buy all the colors. I think they would be too warm to be comfortable during summer, but they are great for cold fall and warmer winter active wear. They seem very wind resistant, so I think they would work well with a base layer in colder weather. I will probably wear them mostly for 30-50 degree hiking/jogging. Very impressed.
Age:45–54
Weight:150–175 lbs.
Height:5'4"
Yes , I recommend this product
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