Optimal Trail Bottoms: Thru-Hikers' Top Picks for Long-Distance Journeys

Selecting the ideal lower body attire for an extended trek is a critical decision, much like any other piece of essential equipment. Your chosen bottoms must offer defense against solar radiation, wind, and chilly conditions, yet remain sufficiently breathable for scorching days on the path. Each long-distance hiker cultivates a unique preference. For instance, my personal journey involved an almost decadelong reliance on convertible trousers, specifically the REI Sahara Convertible model, until they reached a state of complete dilapidation during a Pacific Crest Trail endeavor.

We sought feedback from five experienced thru-hikers to uncover their preferred legwear for extensive trails and the reasons underpinning their selections.

Diverse Legwear Choices for Endurance Hikes

For those embarking on epic long-distance hikes, the choice of legwear is paramount, balancing protection with comfort across varied environments. Hikers demonstrate a wide array of preferences, from robust convertible pants that offer adaptability to changing weather to lightweight running shorts prioritizing breathability and freedom of movement. The article highlights how personal comfort, durability, and specific trail conditions heavily influence these decisions, showcasing that there's no single 'best' option but rather a tailored approach for each individual's journey.

Grace, a veteran of the John Muir Trail '24 and currently tackling the Colorado Trail, champions her Savanna Trail Pants from REI, appreciating their UPF 50 sun protection and availability in diverse sizes. She recounts their unexpected durability, having endured hundreds of trail miles without significant wear, even after tumbles. Strodo, with multiple thru-hikes under their belt, advocates for running shorts, specifically from Chicken Legs, citing superior movement, reduced chafing, and better temperature regulation. Yi Ting, a Taiwanese thru-hiker who completed the CDT '23 and PCT '25, relies on Hong Kong-brand Typhoon No. 8's Sherpa running shorts. These shorts feature integrated mesh pockets, perfect for stashing essentials without needing hip belt pockets, and are favored for their lightness and excellent airflow. Sam, also a JMT '24 and Colorado Trail hiker, opts for budget-friendly drawstring scrub pants from Walmart, emphasizing their quick-drying, wrinkle-free nature and sun protection. Finally, Cinderella, an AT '21 and PCT '25 alumna, prefers the versatility of a skort, particularly the Smartwool Skort, which combines the breathability of a skirt with the practicality of built-in merino shorts that prevent chafing and dry rapidly.

Performance and Practicality: Thru-Hikers' Insights

Thru-hikers emphasize that the ideal legwear must meet rigorous demands for both performance and practicality on the trail. This involves not only enduring thousands of miles of challenging terrain but also providing essential features like sun protection, quick-drying capabilities, and ample storage. The insights gathered reveal a common thread: while brand and style vary, the ultimate goal is apparel that enhances the hiking experience by minimizing discomfort and maximizing efficiency, reflecting a deep understanding of trail necessities.

Grace's experience with REI's Savanna Trail Pants (now the Trailmade Pant) underscores the value of unexpected durability, showcasing how even budget-friendly options can outperform expectations, especially when offering critical features like UPF 50 and accommodating various body types. Strodo's choice of Chicken Legs running shorts highlights a preference for unrestricted movement and superior ventilation, arguing that less fabric leads to greater comfort and less chafing for those who "run hot." Yi Ting's adoption of Typhoon No. 8's Sherpa running shorts introduces the innovative benefit of integrated waistbelt pockets, crucial for ultralight hikers who wish to keep navigation tools and rain gear readily accessible without a heavy pack. Sam's resourceful use of Walmart scrub pants illustrates that effective trail gear doesn't always require a high price tag; his choice provides lightweight, quick-drying, and protective qualities that prevent sunburn. Cinderella's advocacy for the Smartwool Skort demonstrates a blend of style and substance, offering the freedom of a skirt with the supportive, quick-drying benefits of merino wool shorts, proving ideal for varied conditions. Collectively, these diverse choices reflect the nuanced needs of thru-hikers, prioritizing functional design, material performance, and personal comfort to conquer long-distance trails effectively.