If you are one of those people who love to be outdoors no matter what time of year it may be, waterproof pants are probably something that you should seriously consider. While you may not mind getting wet on occasion, trying to continue any activity in wet, saturated clothes is something that most consider to be extremely uncomfortable, and in some circumstances, can even force you to quit your activity early. That is exactly where waterproof pants come in. With the right pair of waterproof pants, you can get outside in even the wettest weather and stay outside to do whatever it is you’re doing.
So what can a good pair of waterproof pants do for you? The chances are that when you were younger, one of your parents would tell you that if you went outside dressed like that, you might catch a cold. While this may not happen all the time, you actually can catch a cold while you are outside in the rain, as well as lower your body temperature if you get soaking wet. This lowered body temperature can then potentially weaken your immune system, which will increase your chances of getting sick, as well as increase your chances of catching hypothermia.
When it comes to wearing rain gear, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a big yellow rain jacket or even a garbage bag. However, there have been many huge strides in the waterproof pants department over the years, and you would be surprised how many different options are actually available to you. With the introduction of semi-permeable fabrics, waterproof pants today have great mobility and even better breathability.
While it can be tough to sort through all of your options when it comes to waterproof pants, here is a list of the top waterproof pants that offer not just quality, but comfort and efficacy as well.
1. Marmot PreCip
The Marmot PreCip waterproof pants are not just easy to pack but are lightweight and can easily be pulled on over other, thicker clothes if need be. Made of microporous fabric, these waterproof pants work by wicking away any sweat from inside, as well as block the wind and rain coming from the outside.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Convenient ankle zips
- Zippered front pockets
- Wicks perspiration away from the inside
- Packable
Cons
- Price
- Noisy swishing
2. Columbia Storm Surge
The Columbia Storm Surge waterproof pants provide excellent protection from rain and water, as well as wick away your sweat from the inside as well. These pants are deal when it comes to outdoor activities such as hiking, running and everything in between.
Pros
- Easy to layer
- Adjustable openings for your ankles
- Lightweight
- Effective in both the rain and wind
Cons
- Legs can be a bit baggy
- Have no pockets
3. Columbia Rebel Roamer
Being slightly heavier than other waterproof pants, the Columbia Rebel Roamer waterproof pants are very breathable nylon pants, which will easily keep you nice and dry in even the wettest of conditions. With plenty of room to layer your clothes, these wide-leg pants can easily be pulled on over your regular clothes if need be. And having a drawstring, as well as an elastic waistband, you will be able to adjust these pants for the perfect fit.
Pros
- Run larger to make layering easier
- Breathable
- Easy to take off and put on
- Flexible
- The perfect pants for layering your clothes
Cons
- No pockets
- Can be considered ‘heavier’
- The ankle openings may be on the larger side
4. Outdoor Research Foray
Being a bit more on the expensive side, the Outdoor Research Foray waterproof pants are definitely worth the price when you factor in all of the extra features that come along with them. With multiple pockets having two-way zippers, these pants provide excellent ventilation and can easily be put on or taken off over the thickest of boots. And to top it off, there is even a zippered pocket on the backside that can double as easy storage if you need it. Talk about convenience.
Pros
- Packs into zippered pocket
- Ankle snaps
- Two-way zippers provide maximum ventilation
- Made from a breathable, effective Gore-Tex material
Cons
- Price
- Thicker pant, so they do not have as much flexibility
5. White Sierra Trabagon
Being packable and extremely lightweight, the White Sierra Trabagon waterproof pants are the absolute perfect options when you need easy and quick protection from water. Being extremely easy to travel with, these are the perfect pair of pants to bring with you that won’t take up much space or add much weight to your pack.
Pros
- Easily pack into your front pocket
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Made of a very thin material which means can be damaged easier
6. Helly Hansen Voss Women’s Waterproof Pants
Being a bit on the heavier side, the Helly Hansen Voss waterproof pants offer much more protection from water and are more durable due to their rubbery polyurethane material. For a fraction of the price, you can get these waterproof pants that can be considered just one step down from a heavy-duty type of work pants.
Pros
- Ideal for wet weather hiking and working outside
- Keep you warm
- Protect you from the elements such as rain, wind, and snow
Cons
- Heavier and on the rubbery side
- Not very breathable
- Not an ideal pair of waterproof pants for warmer weather
When it gets wet and rainy outside, it is always best to stay dry with the best waterproof pants. A good pair of waterproof pants will help you stay dry, not overheat and allow you to enjoy any activity you may be doing. Being able to keep you dry, having the convenience of being lightweight, having good breathability, durability, and flexibility, are all things to look for when you are in the market for waterproof pants like the ones reviewed above.
Just be sure that when you are looking for waterproof pants that you keep in mind what you are going to be using them for, as well as the features you would like to have, and you will be able to pick out the perfect pair of waterproof pants for your individual needs.
