How to Choose Hiking Pants

These Arc'teryx pants are made for climbing but suitable for so much more. They combine an easygoing feel with the durability and performance of technical climbing apparel. And they shed light rain.
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Imported.
| Best Use | Climbing |
|---|---|
| Fabric | RecNylon double weave solid, 186 g/m², warp knit mesh |
| Moisture Wicking | Yes |
| Quick Drying | Yes |
| Pant Fit | Standard |
| Pant Leg Style | Straight |
| Inseam (in.) | 31.5, 33, 34.5 |
| Gender | Men's |
| Weight | 12.5 ounces |
| Sustainability | Product meets the bluesign® criteria Fair Trade Certified™ Factory Contains recycled materials |
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My go-to choice for outdoor adventures. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or working long days in unpredictable weather, these pants deliver on every front. The fabric is tough yet flexible, offering great freedom of movement for climbing, trekking, or kneeling down without any restriction. They’re impressively weather-resistant — light rain just rolls off, and they dry fast when wet. The breathability is excellent too, keeping you comfortable even during high-output activities.
Bought these pants for hiking and they have delivered this far. Used them for an overnight backcountry trip and they were very comfortable. I always used to buy Arc’teryx pants one size bigger because they were built for tall skinny people however, by doing so, I had to return the first pair because they were too big and the second pair I bought were actually the same size as I always buy. The material is very comfortable and seems bulletproof. I really enjoy that they are a bit longer and narrow at the bottom so I don’t have to wear gaiters and nothing sneaks inside my boots while on long hikes.
Really disappointed with these pants. After a dozen or so washes the glued zipped leg pocket is coming apart. Why use glue in the first place instead of stitching? I am now going to have to pay to have these repaired/stitched locally. Another, thing these pants shrink even at a 30 degrees washing cycle and become too tight like skinny jeans. Please bring back the older version which was more comfortable and did not shrink in the was. Over the years, I have noticed that Arcteryx quality has been going downhill. Please focus on good quality outdoor wear instead of the chasing the casual market.
Not sure if its just my pair from the online store. The softshell fabric has changed, yet to see the long term effects. The micro fleece lining on the waistband is also missing. Which is a real shame as it made such a difference in comfort, especially under a harness. The cut has become baggy. Taking away from the sleek design language of the older model and making it more like streetwear in appearance. Aside from personal taste, the extra fabric around the lower leg will make these pants hazardous to wear with crampons. In conclusion, with this variation I would no longer recommend to a friend.
My favourite pair of pants for everyday and hiking
I now own 6 pairs of this Gamma pants, recently bought the Void & Dk Stratus, all size 30 and all fits perfectly well. Also own the Relic, Chloris & Relic colors. I used these pants for my hiking trips, recently in Patagonia for 100 miles. Quality is superb, walked through bushes and no scratches. Protects well again wind & rain as well. Love how much lighter these pants are, less weight on my back (backpack). The breathability & anti-stink technology is great for multiple days of wear.
Great pants but wish for some changes for the next version. I would love if there were zippers down the sides of the legs (starting from right blow where a harness leg loop would be and end a little below the knee) for venting. And these are 'climbing' pants but when wearing a harness in them it feels like my crotch area is getting smashed. I have other pants that are not climbing specific pants, and they are way more comfortable and relaxed in the crotch area. So, I would love some new design around the crotch being roomier and more comfortable while in a harness (especially when sitting in the harness).
I bought these pants as I needed a new set of hiking pants. I wore them for a 6 day trip. Both cuffs began to rip through about midway through the hike. The hike was not in rugged terrain and I see no reason why the cuffs should have sustained this much damage. Spending this amount of money for pants that can’t even survive a week of use without sustaining damage is terrible value.
I really like these pants. Fit is great for me. Durable and somewhat weather resistant. I like that there is no pocket on the back. You would only be sitting on what is in there. Only down side is the fly zipper is too short. Arc'teryx has done this on a number of there pants. I really can't figure out why they can't get this right. It's not that hard. Shorter than any zipper on any pants I have. Levis, Patagonia, Duluth trading company, etc etc. It makes it really hard to have a pee with a harness on or even without a harness you have to undo the waist so you can drop the pants a bit.
Great outdoor trousers. The fit is slightly tighter on the lower legs than the gamma (non-mx, former light) trousers but the upper part is roomy enough for good mobility, they fit well muscular legs. Great material, solid weather protection while still warm and breathable. Great pockets. The lace hook can be tucked in a fold when not needed, nice touch. The design of the new belt loop and press button is much better, the belt is now very unlikely to open by itself (an issue with the non MX gammas). As a great bonus, they do look pretty sleek and not unsightly at all if worn in town.