Trail activities ranging from afternoon hikes or biking tours to intensive climbing and caving have become popular. Beyond the skills you need to persevere, having durable, comfortable trail pants is essential to success in any journey into the great outdoors. Convertible pants that transform into shorts are both an easy solution to the demands of the trail and make packing for a journey that much simpler. They are crafted of lightweight materials, quickly go from full-length pants to cool shorts in the event of a water encounter, and offer extra storage of often-used tools or light snacks.
1. Columbia Silver Ridge Pants
Made from 100 percent nylon, these durable trail pants will go wherever you do. A straight-leg design with a belted waist gives them a comfortable fit, no matter what size you choose. Plus, side cargo pockets and rear flap pockets offer plenty of room to tote incidental tools or snacks. The Silver Ridge Pant converts to shorts with a 10-inch inseam with an easy zip, so whether you’re exploring marshland, fording a stream, or venturing into a wet cave, Columbia has you covered.
2. White Sierra Trail Pants
For those in need of a bit more length, White Sierra offers these 100 percent quick-dry nylon convertible pants. With ease, these durable trailblazers zip into shorts with a 32-inch inseam, rendering you fit to meet any challenge. Crafted from UPF protective fabric, they offer protection from the sun on the longest hikes. A side panel fitted with comfortable elastic and a belted waist will make these travel-friendly convertible pants your new best friend.
3. Silver Ridge Cargo Pants
Crafted of ultra-light fibers, these convertible pants are designed for those who find many trouser-cuts coming up short. A 31-inch center back measurement means there’s plenty of room to move or stretch on the trail without exposing tender skin to the mercies of the local insect population. They do fit at the natural waist, which centers one inch above the navel, unlike many other styles of outdoor gear. They’re also equipped with Omni-Wick advanced evaporation technology, which will keep you cool and dry in any climate.
4. Geval Windproof Quick Drying Convertibles
If you’re in the market for an import, these pants offer a superior experience. The sizing chart provided for U.S. sizing is quite accurate. Crafted from special quick-drying nylon, these durable, lightweight pants zip off at the knee for instant shorts in any outdoor context. They’re fitted with an adjustable waist, in case you have need of a snug fit or more generous measurement. These pants are ideal for spring, summer or autumn outdoor activities, and offer a UPF rating of 40.
5. Silver Ridge Stretch
Like their cousins, the Cargo Pants from Silver Ridge, these active stretch convertible pants offer a true fit with a center back measurement of 31 inches. Woven from synthetic fibers, they offer both protection from the sun with a UPF rating of 50 and advanced protection from insect life with Omni-Shield. With a more generous inseam, the pants easily zip into shorts for quick action in the field. In these pants, you’ll be cool, comfortable, and ready for whatever the trail offers.
6. No Nonsense from Makino
These durable, quick-drying convertible pants are equipped with four-way stretch material that enhances motion capability. They’re rated with a UPF of 30, rendering excellent protection from the sun’s harmful rays. The material resists staining, travels well, and offers superior wicking action for the serious trekker. They easily zip into above-the-knee shorts for instant response to your trail needs, and come with flap closure pockets to keep your tools and snacks near at hand.
7. Mr. Stream Lightweight Convertibles
Crafted from dyed nylon fibers, these convertible trail pants are designed for maximum coolness and convenience. Durable but lightweight, they fold into a small space, making gear packing a cinch. When put into action, these pants are equipped with an externally adjustable waistband and a zipper-front closure. Another zipper at each knee makes for easy conversion to shorts. But perhaps the most attractive feature of these tough trail pants is their zipper closure cargo pockets. For individuals who enjoy extreme trail sports or intense outdoor activities, you can ensure that your tools and snacks stay safe.
8. Bug Away from ExOfficio
These convertible trail pants are excellent for the casual hiker. Crafted from lightweight, durable, and stain-resistant nylon, they’re also equipped with a UPF 30 sun guard and Odorless Insect Shield that will last through 70 washings. Elastic insets at the waist permit a comfortable fit that accommodates climbing, reaching, or bending. A single zippered back pocket and a drop-in cell phone pocket along the leg mean you can keep basic needs close at hand. The easy-zip feature makes pants into shorts in a single motion.
9. Columbia Men’s Convertible 2
These convertible pants are excellent for individuals who conduct routine outdoor work or light exploration. A zippered security pocket and side pockets with flap closures allow plenty of storage for incidentals needed during a task or trek. The lightweight, quick-dry fabric provides UPF 15 protection from the sun and easily zips into shorts with a 7.5-inch inseam. They’re also great for casual outdoor excursions or light weekend activities.
10. Paramount Peak Walking Pants from the North Face
Well-known for their dedication to quality and durability in the field, the North Face offers these convertible walking pants. They’re comfortable to wear on long treks, with an elasticized waistband and a low-profile buckled belt. However, they’re made from abrasion resistant nylon, which means if you get into scrapes or tight spots, they’ll offer protection to your skin. These best-selling convertibles now offer more secure pocket storage. Zipping off just above the knee, the shorts have two flap-closure side pockets in addition to back and hip pockets for plenty of tool or snack space.
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