Take the Fjällräven Kaipak Curved trousers, for example. They are specifically built to accommodate a more curvaceous body type, including features like an accentuated waistband, a body mapped construction and stretch panels for freedom of movement. The Rugged Flex by Swedish brand Haglöfs are an evolution of their original Rugged Mountain Pant. You could call this new design a 2020 makeover with new stretchy fabrics and a much, much slimmer fit.

While Sasta include sizes starting at 34 (25”waist, 31” length), they also include plus size options ranging from an EU size 38 (33” waist, 32” length) to 54 (50” waist, 33” length). It’s worth noting that while the ‘regular’ Taival W trousers also have a size 38, the Taival W+ size 38 has been built specifically to accommodate larger builds. Full Specifications Halti’s Pallas 2 are designed for stretch and breathability, while also being windproof and water-repellent. Refreshingly, there’s also likely to be a pair to fit you even if you don’t conform to the slim outdoor stereotype, since they also come in plus sizes (up to an EU 46, or a UK 18).The articulation is impressive – we’d say they’d not only be a good option hillwalkers and scramblers, but for climbers and boulderers as well. Full Specifications OK, they’re not walking trousers per se, but they still deserve to be on this list – especially when you consider that many women (and men as well) choose to hike in leggings these days. Looking for something else? If you’re looking for some alternative options for your hiking leg wear, then why not take a look at our zip-off walking trousers, walking shorts, or even our range of walking leggings. WATERPROOF WALKING TROUSERS Are you going hiking in the mountains this summer and need functional hiking clothing that breathes? Here you will find everything from hiking shorts to t-shirts for hiking. The great thing about hiking is that you always discover something new every time. The best thing about hiking is that there are hiking trails for both beginners and hiking professionals. The equipment is an important part for the hiker and choosing the right clothes is a must. Your hiking clothes must withstand wear, moisture and wind but also be compliant and comfortable against the body. They feel very durable, with plenty of resistance to abrasion as well as a little stretchiness. This makes them perfect for three-season use, and since the generous cut allows for layering, they could even be combined with baselaye tights underneath for full-on winter weather too. Full Specifications

Many outdoor brands, such as Halti and Sasta, now include plus size options to accommodate a wider range of builds too. Though a long time coming, it’s refreshing to see these companies leading the way, with hopefully more to come across the industry. If you’re looking for a pair of walking trousers for just about every outdoor occasion or activity then you won’t go far wrong with the Mountain Equipment Ibex. Selected for our Outdoor 100 2021/22 – Read our full Halti Pallas 2 women’s trousers review. BUY NOW: HALTI.COM They feel very durable, with plenty of resistance to abrasion as well as a little stretchiness. This makes them perfect for three-season use, and since the generous cut allows for layering, they could even be combined with baselayer tights underneath for full-on winter weather too. Full Specifications The Taival trousers are made from 65% recycled polyester and 35% organic cotton. Both materials are PFC-free, whilst the polyester’s raw material is created using discarded plastic bottles. This type of blend gives you the toughness and abrasion-resistance of polyester fibres, but with the added softness and breathability of cotton. Cotton also generally absorbs moisture well, whilst – more specifically – organic cotton is produced without harmful fertilisers, and with minimal effect on the environment.

The freedom of movement they offer with the four-way stretch is second to none. I especially like how light they are, it barely feels like you have them on!” If you’re heading to a climate where mosquitoes and other biting nasties may lurk, a pair of trousers impregnated with insect repellent can be a very clever shout. Craghoppers rightly call their Nosilife Pro II a ‘travel standard’ - this smart pant boasts a hidden superpower – it’s made with Craghoppers’ own-brand Nosilife material, which has an insect-repellent treatment to provide permanent protection from mosquitoes and other biting insects. If you’re all about wearing outdoor kit that provides first-rate freedom of movement, you’ll dig these.” The Rugged Flex by Swedish brand Haglöfs are an evolution of their original Rugged Mountain Pant. You could call this new design a 2020 makeover with new stretchy fabrics and a much, much slimmer fit. The excellent Firewall hiking pants look bulky but actually feel very comfortable on, and have been designed with trekking in mind to provide freedom of movement as you hike. Zips to mid-thigh make it easy to get them on and off, and we liked the high waistband and the under-boot loops on the cuffs for wear with hiking boots - Ideal when the weather looks varied and you don’t want the faff of pulling waterproofs on and off.