When you decide to start rucking, on top of your rucking gear list are boots and a rucksack. This gear is absolutely indispensable. Many also opt for insoles and additional equipment, such as a hydration bladder and high-quality socks. But have you explored the best pants for rucking?

Pants are probably the most overlooked equipment in the rucking world. Choosing the right hiking pant can make or break your rucking session. If your pants are uncomfortable, get wet quickly, or tear when you run into the first thorn, you will have to go home too soon. Rucking is not an activity for wearing blue jeans.

As an experienced rucker, I’ve handpicked the best pants tailored specifically for this and other similar outdoor activities. With these, you can be confident that you’re well-equipped to handle whatever the trail throws your way.

The 6 Best Pants for Rucking 

Get ready to tackle any terrain confidently wearing one of the following pants.

Best Overall: GoRuck Indestructible Challenge Pants

GoRuck is known for GoRuck event, GoRuck Clubs, rucksacks and footwear in the rucking world, but they also offer perfect rucking pants.

These pants are all you need for both shorter and longer ruck sessions. GoRuck Indestructible Challenge Pants are light yet very durable, made from the same fabric as the USA flag Neil Armstrong planted on the moon. They dry quickly, keeping you dry all the time.

I don’t know what you should do to tear them; they look almost indestructible to me. They have plenty of pockets and many other features, and the price is reasonable, which all earned them the “Best overall” status on my list.

Best Budget: LA Police Gear Men’s Core Cargo Lightweight Tactical Pants

LA Police Gear has been on the market for over 20 years, and they have never disappointed me. They produce high-quality yet affordable products for police, military, outdoor recreation, etc.

Of all their products, I like tactical pants the most. Men’s Core Cargo Lightweight Tactical Pants are made from a mixture of 55% cotton and 45% polyester. Thanks to the cotton’s natural properties, they are lightweight, comfortable, and breathable. 

Rest assured, these pants are built to last. Despite their high cotton content, they feature RipStop fabric woven in a crosshatch pattern, ensuring exceptional durability. The elastic waistband is another feature I particularly appreciate. I often have a hard time finding the perfect waistband, which, as I’ve heard, is a problem for many other fellow ruckers, too.

Best Premium: 5.11 XPRT® Tactical Pant

Over $200 sounds unreasonably expensive for pants, but the 5.11 XPRT® Tactical Pant isn’t just another addition to the market.

Its blend of Cordura nylon ripstop fabric and NYCO Tactical ensures durability and performance. It gives peace of mind in the most demanding situations, whether you’re a soldier, a policeman, or a hardcore outdoor enthusiast.

With 16 pockets in total, including front hand pockets with Cordura nylon knife reinforcement and cargo pockets with TacTec System, those pants have more storage space than any other I’ve tried.

What sets it apart even further are the magnetic closures on the cargo, rear, and lower leg pockets, ENDO.K internal kneepads with D30 technology, and many more features.

Best Military: 5.11 Stryke® TDU® Multicam® Pant

If you need camouflage or just like that aesthetic (like my father), these pants made by the famous 5.11 company are a great choice.

Having explored the features of the 5.11 Stryke® TDU® Multicam® Pant, it is evident that this tactical duty uniform is designed with performance and utility in mind. They are made from patented two-way mechanical stretch fabric, so you can count on maneuverability and durability.

One notable aspect is the array of extra pockets sized for tactical use, providing ample storage options without compromising mobility, similar to the previous model of the same manufacturer, the 5.11 XPRT® Tactical Pant. The gusseted construction and double-layered articulated knees further enhance the range of motion and durability.

The Teflon® finish adds a layer of protection against stains and moisture.

Best for Winter: Rei Arc’teryx Gamma Pants  

Spending time in nature throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions, is healthy. Scandinavia is most famous for that, and we should all follow their example. But to be able to ruck during the winter, we need suitable equipment.

The Fortius™ DW 2.0 soft-shell fabric offers durability, wind and water resistance, and light insulation. These pants are suitable for various outdoor activities from rucking to hiking in the winter environment.

The design includes secure-zip hand pockets and an easy-access thigh pocket, strategically positioned below a climbing harness for convenience.

What I love about them is that they are sufficiently warm for winter, yet not too hot for spring or autumn. They are breathable enough that you can wear them for most of the year, making them an excellent investment, regardless of the price.

Best Lightweight: CQR Men’s Tactical Pants

Want lightweight pants for a short ruck when it’s warm outside and for daily workouts?

A blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton is ideal for getting lightweight but also durable pants.

One notable aspect is the Duratax ripstop fabric, which is abrasion resistant and enhances durability. it is also water resistant.

The tactical layout, featuring multi-purpose cargo pockets, delivers convenient storage for tools and equipment, eliminating the need to carry them by hand. While the exclusive tactical belt is not included, the pants provide ample functionality and versatility for diverse tasks.

Factors to Consider When Buying Best Pants for Rucking

The following are the features I took into account when choosing the 6 best pants for rucking. You should also analyze these factors before buying the perfect product for your needs.

Material and Durability

Anything intended for rucking must be made from durable materials; of course, pants are no different.

Different types of nylon and polyester are a must. In my opinion, blends of those artificial materials and natural materials, such as cotton, stand out as top choices.

This way, a balance of durability, flexibility, quick-drying properties, breathability, and other important features is achieved.

Comfort and Fit

I can’t give you one-size-fits-all advice here because we all find different things comfortable.

The best way to determine fit and, thus, comfort is to begin by considering your waist size. Rucking pants should provide a snug yet comfortable fit without feeling restrictive; so neither too tight nor too loose. Next, pay attention to inseam length. Most people are not familiar with the meaning of inseam length. Generally, a slightly longer inseam can help prevent chafing and discomfort.

Ergonomic design that contours to your body’s natural shape is also useful but not a must.

Weather Resistance

Think about environmental conditions you’ll be facing. If you ruck equally often during winter and summer, it is possible that you will need two pairs of pants.

For cold weather rucking, insulation is key to retaining body heat and staying comfortable in low temperatures. Look for pants with added insulation to provide warmth.

On the other hand, if you anticipate wet conditions, waterproofing or water-resistant are the most important features. These features will keep you dry and protected from rain, snow, or moisture on the trail.

Breathability 

Breathability seems most important during summer, but actually good airflow is essential for maintaining comfort and performance during winter as well.

If your pants prevent sweat from evaporating, you will be irritated, risking rashes and other problems.

During intense rucking marches, staying cool and dry is indispensable. While pants with ventilation features like mesh panels or zippered vents are great for air circulation, it’s the material that’s truly crucial. 

Pockets 

You probably won’t run out of space in your rucking backpack, but it’s frustrating to stop, take off your backpack, and look for things every half an hour.

That’s why I prefer rucking pants with plenty of pockets and storage options. Pants with various pocket configurations, including cargo pockets, zippered pockets, and secure compartments, are so handy for carrying water bottles, snacks, navigation devices, and first aid supplies near you all the time.

The pockets must be strategically placed and thoughtfully designed so that you can ruck without any hindrance.

Camouflage and Tactical Features

This may not be an important feature for you if you use pants only for rucking, but it is perfect for those who want pants for hunting, outdoor research, or military purposes, too.

Find pants with specialized camouflage patterns designed to mimic natural surroundings. Check whether the pants have tactical features such as reinforced knees and loops for attaching equipment like knives or flashlights.

Wrapping Up

To sum up this gear review, I’ll share with you one tip I wish I had known when I started — the right pair of pants can mean the difference between a memorable day in nature and a forgettable experience.

Explore the diverse range of premium models mentioned in our guide and consider key factors such as material, fit, and functionality to find the perfect pants. Choose wisely, and happy rucking!

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