In rock climbing, there is no set apparel or uniform. Whatever clothing makes you feel most comfortable, you can wear to climb. However, features, fit, and clothing materials may make specific articles of clothing preferable for comfort and mobility. If you’ve climbed before, you likely rotate through the same two to four climbing outfits (it’s okay; we all do) because they fit the best and do not hinder your climbing. If you want to add to your rock climbing wardrobe or find pieces that feel good and fit well, you will want to ensure they are the best the clothing market offers. Especially with some pricey brands, it is essential to research the perfect pair before dipping into your bank account.

Rock Climbing Pants for All Occasions

Two female climbers wears different types of pants while climbing

Are you looking for a pair that will keep you warm during winter outdoor bouldering sessions or a lightweight but durable pair to protect your legs from scrapes while allowing airflow in a stuffy climbing gym? Either way, there’s a climbing pant waiting for you. To help you find that pair(s), we’ve compiled a list of the best men’s and women’s pants across multiple categories: budget, lightweight, bouldering, outdoor, and jeans. Each pick has a list of pros, cons, and retail prices (keep an eye out for sales, though, as many outdoor apparel/gear companies like REI or Backcountry offer great sales throughout the year).

Best Men’s Rock Climbing Pants for All Occasions

  • Best Budget: Mountain Hardwear Basin Pull-on pants
    • Pros: Comfy and roomy fit, zippered rear pocket, and durable elastic waistband
    • Cons: The rear pocket is difficult to access while wearing a harness.
  • Best Lightweight: Patagonia Men’s Terrebonne Joggers
    • Pros: Adjustable waistband, zippered back pocket, lightweight
    • Cons: Expensive compared to other options.
  • Best for Bouldering: prAna Stretch Zion pant
    • Pros: Great mobility, an integrated belt, and snap closure to roll-up legs.
    • Cons: Lacks breathability in hotter weather; some climbers noted they were less durable than other brands.
    • Retail Price: $95 at prAna
  • Best for Outdoors: Arc’teryx Gamma Pants
    • Pros: Amazing warmth-to-weight ratio, suitable for cold weather climbing, secure pockets, and durable.
    • Cons: VeryExpensive
  • Best Denim/Jeans: Coalatree Decaf Denim
    • Pros: Very stretchy, breathable, and fashionable
    • Cons: Lacks a gusseted crotch
  • Other Noteworthy Men’s Picks
    • Arc’teryx Konseal Lightweight Pant – $130 at Arc’teryx
      • Four-way stretch Fortius Air 50 material, low-profile belt design, tapered fit, but not the most durable design
    • Black Diamond Notion Pants – $95 at Black Diamond
      • Drawstring waistband, elastic cuffs but not as durable as other brands, and no zippered pocket(s)
    • Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pant – $99 at Outdoor Research
      • Drawcord cuff closures, fashionable, lightweight

Best Women’s Rock Climbing Pants for All Occasions

  • Best Budget: REI Co-op Trailsmith Jogger Pants
    • Pros: Durable, comfortable, cheap, and deep pockets
    • Cons: Heavy material that can limit mobility
    • Price: $69.95 at REI
  • Lightweight: Mountain Hardwear Women’s Dynama/2 Ankle
    • Pros: Zippered pocket, very lightweight, UPF 50, cinch ankles, the elastic waistband sits comfortably under a harness
    • Cons: Low-rise fit, non-gusseted crotch, potentially less-flattering fit
  • Bouldering: Patagonia Caliza Rock Pant
    • Pros: Impressive stretch, durable, snap ankle closures, and comfortable.
    • Cons: Front pockets don’t close, and the pockets are shallow.
  • Outdoor: prAna Halle Pants II
    • Pros: Pant legs roll up, and there’s an inner drawstring. They are very similar to the Men’s Prana Stretch Zion Pants, which prAna only makes in men’s sizes.
    • Cons: The fit is less comfortable than the model’s predecessor, and the thinner fabric could wear down quickly.
  • Denim/Jeans: SoILL Women’s Denim
    • Pros: The super-stretchy fabric works well for yoga or other activities, and the fashionable design is for those who enjoy function and style.
    • Cons: Stretch with wear, front pockets aren’t functional
    • Price: $59 at SoILL (all colors listed at a reduced price)
  • Other Noteworthy Women’s Picks
    • Dickies Women’s Scrubs – $18.99 – $34.99 at Dickies
      • Although they are non-traditional climbing pants, they work well for indoor bouldering. They’re affordable, have many color options, are lightweight, and have good mobility.
    • Black Diamond Notion – $100 at Black Diamond Notion
      • An elastic waistband and cuff adjust. Not the most breathable material.
    • Patagonia Terravia Alpine Pants – $149 at Patagonia
      • It has a built-in belt, good stretch, cuff adjustment, and a secure and functional pocket, but it is expensive.

That’s the round of the best climbing pants (and jeans) for all the climbers. Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list, but these pants are popular for good reasons! Black Diamon, Patagonia, prAna, Arc’teryx, Outdoor Research, and Mountain Hardware are all well-known brands in the climbing community, each sponsoring a handful of professional climbers. If the pros trust their gear, it must be good. Remember that all the links in this article are to the brand’s retail store, but check for sales or other sites before you buy! You can probably find specific colors discounted or sales throughout the year. If you think we missed any noteworthy climbing pants, share them below!