Rock climbing is a challenging and exhilarating sport that requires skill and the right gear.
Finding the perfect pair of climbing pants can make all the difference in your performance and comfort on the wall.
As a woman, it can be incredibly challenging to find climbing pants that fit well and offer maximum flexibility, durability, and breathability.
With so many options available in the market, choosing the best rock climbing pants for women that suit your needs can be overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best women’s climbing pants that meet the demands of even the most experienced climbers.
In this blog post, we’ll review and compare the top brands and models of climbing pants, including their key features, pros, and cons.
We’ll also provide some tips on what to consider when shopping for climbing pants so that you can find the perfect pair that will give you the confidence to reach new heights.
The 10 Best Women’s Climbing Pants for This Year
It’s time to look back at some of the top-performing climbing pants for women.
After thorough research and consideration of various factors such as durability, comfort, and functionality, we have compiled a list of the ten best women’s climbing pants.
Whether you’re a seasoned climber or just starting out, these pants are sure to provide you with the support you need to reach your climbing goals.
1. Best Leggings for Climbing: Arc’teryx Oriel Legging Women’s
- ORIEL LEGGING - The Oriel Legging is tough enough for rock climbing and comfortable for everyday use. Constructed with a highly abrasion resistant stretch interlock of nylon and elastane, this legging...
- LIFESTYLE - Technical outdoor functionality, comfort and durability brought to everyday designs.
- SYNTHETIC FIBRE - Engineered materials that offer enhanced properties or performance.
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Arc’teryx Oriel women’s climbing leggings are the way to go if you prefer body-hugging pants. We tested them through various terrains like granite and limestone. They had no tears or pilling after several climbing adventures.
What’s more, the fabric endured wedged routes while we were trad climbing on sandstone. The narrow seams are made using robust thread, which did not reveal any wear or tear after using them multiple times.
The waistband, made of stretch mesh, has the ideal height to shield you against the harness. Besides, the abrasion-resistant fabric, made using elastane and nylon, dries swiftly.
Unfortunately, the pockets did not stretch much, meaning it was difficult to put a phone, camera, or wallet inside them.
This is extremely inconvenient, especially when you don’t have anywhere else to put them. However, if you’re searching for a pair of durable, high-quality leggings for climbing, this is the way to go.
2. Best Leggings for Cool Weather: prAna Rockland Matchstick
- STYLE AND FUNCTION:The prAna Rockand legging is the ultimate climbing legging with a high waited, fitted pant constructed with Chakara compression stretch jersey with a moss face finish. A wide...
- Cool and Comfy: The leggings are made with a recycled polyester blend 4-way stretch woven with moisture wicking to keep you dry and a triangle Coolmax gusset for added comfort and reinforcement.
- Protecting you, the planet and the workers: this legging is a bluesign product meaning it has the highest standard in the textile industry for chemical management to ensure envirionmental health and...
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The prAna Rockland Matchstick leggings are for the climber who prefers tights that will reliably hold up to the climbing surface. They are fortified using double “Chakra” material in most places, meaning that you can go for your adventure without worrying about them.
The flexible waistband remains in position, even on complex moves. Also, the side pocket features a zip for closing to keep your phone or wallet safe. However, if you have a big phone, it might not fit.
Even though these leggings are not ideal for hot weather, they are perfect for those cooler days since the material is rather durable and thick.
3. Best Gym Tights: Mammut Crashiano Tight
- Feminine and fashionable fit with an embroidered pattern
- Wide elasticated waistband on pants for perfect fit
- Fewer seams and high stretchability make it very comfortable
- Wicking finish for active moisture wicking
- Open zones support moisture wicking
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Mammut Crashiano Tights are ideal for climbers looking for a pair of pants that offers a secure and snug fit. We wore them to the gym several times for testing, and we found them to be very comfy and suitable for gym climbing.
Mammut Crashiano Tights do not feature any awkward wet zones regardless of us sweating a lot in the gym. This is due to the open parts in tandem with the moisture-absorbing finish in the fabric.
In addition, the flexible elastic waistband has no seams making it very comfortable while climbing. Also, the waistband is designed for a harness.
Irrespective of testing these tights for some time, they did not show any wear or damage. If you are searching for a comfortable pair of pants for your indoor workouts, you should definitely check these out.
4. Best Hot-Weather and Travel Climbing Pants: Cotopaxi Baja Pants
- Encased elastic waistband with drawcord
- Full zippered fly
- Hand pockets
- Concealed leg zipper
- Back patch pockets
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The Cotopaxi Baja climbing pants are ideal for multiple climbing conditions. On the other hand, they really did perform impressively when it came to hot weather. They are suitable for multi-pitch climbing, hanging out, bouldering, and cragging.
During our climbing adventure to test the Cotopaxi Baja pair of pants, we went hanging and climbing. The fabric stretches in four different ways, and the twill supporter makes these pants extremely comfy and robust.
The waistband is made using spandex, and the disguised pocket is perfect for putting your wallet or passport.
Since it is made using light fabric, it is not suitable for cold weather. Nevertheless, this highly breathable pair of pants will keep you feeling comfy and cool in warm weather.
5. Mammut Cammie Pants
- Comfortable climbing pants in a relaxed style.
- The Camie Pants Women feature a trendy chino look & feel and impress with their everyday look.
- The super stretchy material and relaxed fit make the pants feel extremely comfortable.
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The Cammie pants made us feel and look more like joggers, though they offer extra durability. The knee area is pre-shaped, and, together with stretchable material, this pair of trousers are really comfortable and flexible since they allow for complex moves.
For the past few weeks, we have been using these pants, and they are perfect for even yoga. The waistband is elastic, and it features adjustable cuffs and drawcord for different looks and styles. Besides, they would look really great with a tank top.
6. Cotopaxi Cerro Travel Tight Women’s
- Perfectly compressive but far from restrictive, the Cerro is our go-to high-rise tight for moving, lounging, and exploring.
- A wide waistband adds extra comfort, and flatlock seams prevent chafing and increase durability. Made from a quick-drying blend of 79% recycled polyester and 21% spandex, the Cerro also features five...
- Some subtle, striped style on the lower leg gives the Cerro a unique finishing touch.
- High-rise. Quick dry. Wide waistband for comfort.
- Five total pockets: back internal stash pocket, two side waistband stash pockets, two side drop-in hand pockets. Flatlock seams for anti-chafing. Fitted style. 27.5" inseam. Gusset.
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Initially, these Cotopaxi tights were not designed for climbing. Instead, they were designed to be general clothes for women. Nonetheless, most women prefer doing almost everything in tights, like running errands, climbing and going to the gym, and so on.
These leggings are so comfortable, making it hard for us to go climbing without them. They are good for outdoor activities and gym climbing. In case you are looking for ice climbing pants, we have selected the top 8 ice climbing pants for the winter.
The recycled polyester and spandex are typically not great for climbing during cold weather. However, the stash pockets, elastic waistband, and flat seams make them excellent for warm outdoor and indoor climbing.
7. Black Diamond Notion
- Organic Cotton
- Elastic waistband
- Elastic cuffs
- Two hand pockets and two rear pockets
- Reinforced knees
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The Black Diamond Notions have a soft cotton build and a drawstring waist. Unfortunately, they have no zip pockets, and the cuffs are made using basic elastic. The Notions are perfect for indoor use, and the flexible cotton is lovely and moves easily.
These pants are also good enough for doing yoga since they stretch and make complex positions easy to maneuver. The breathability is impressive, and the comfort is unmatched.
Also, these pants are rather versatile. That being said, the Black Diamond Notion pants are marginally weather-proof, and they are not steady enough to boot.
Also, the absence of a zip pocket is unfortunate. As a result, they appear more like streamlined pants than climbing-specific pants. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing since they are incredibly comfortable.
We found them to be more suitable for indoor climbing or mild outdoor adventures.
Meanwhile, these pants do look like modern do-it-all trousers. They are suitable for stretching, yoga, and cycling. Also, they are ideal for gym bouldering, and the styling is cute.
8. GoLite ReLite Jogger
- Comfortable elastic waistband joggers with Flex4 fabric for increased flexibility and comfort
- Drop-in hand pockets with welded security zip leg pocket with reflective tape; additional security pocket on back
- Gdry is utilized for moisture wicking for high activity use
- Provides 30+ UPF sun protection and is water and stain resistant
- Mid rise fit, looser through thigh, tapered at hem 28" Inseam (for a slimmer fit through leg, order a size down)
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
There is plenty to love about the GoLite ReLite Jogger pair of climbing pants, like the fact that they are made using recycled bottles.
Besides triggering the eco-warrior within us, these pants were among the lightest, water-resistant, UPF-shielded, and most breathable ones in this review.
GoLite ReLite Jogger are great for climbing during the hot weather, when you need to be covered but don’t feel like wearing pants with heavy material.
The Flex 4 material has more than enough stretch for complex moves, and the pockets will keep your items safe.
9. prAna Mariel Jegging
- The prAna Mariel Jegging for women is made from Stretch Zion performance fabric. Design features include a DWR (durable water repellent) finish, UPF 50+, quick-drying properties, front slash pockets,...
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
The Mariel Jegging is a product of a combination of their Zion fabric and the gratifying and versatile design of a chic legging look. They are great at outdoor and indoor climbing and can also be used as travel or all-around adventure leggings.
They are skinny pair of jeans that features narrow cuffs, making them the ideal pair of pants for scrambling to reach the end of your adventure.
In addition, the Zion fabric is their best-selling stretch fabric since it is sturdy enough for climbing on all types of rocks. What’s more, it allows you to stretch and move in any way you want while climbing.
The prAna Mariel Jegging are easily washable since you simply need to wipe them with a wet rag. The pockets were not built to meet climbers’ requirements because they are tricky to utilize when climbing.
Nonetheless, they don’t sacrifice performance. Also, the waist is designed to make putting a harness on easy.
10. prAna Kanab Pant
- All-day comfort whether you're hiking, climbing, or traveling
- Straight yoke seaming wrapping to front pockets
- Back pockets with envelope flap closure
- Zipper pocket at wearer's left leg
- Double layered fabric at knees with articulation for protection and comfort
Last update on 2024-10-22 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
These pants are the perfect blend of stretch, durability, and comfort. prAna Kanab Pant is made using canvas fabric which lasts a long time, and the fortified knees offer additional protection when climbing.
Even though they are designed for heavy utilization, they are as well trendy and breathable. We loved the useable and deep pockets to put our items like phone, wallet, and passport in.
The canvas fabric blended with reinforced knees, comfy waistband, and cuffed bottoms make these pants ideal for plenty of outdoor and indoor activities, from hangouts, and hiking, to yoga and climbing and so much more.
How to Choose the Best Women’s Climbing Pants?
The right pair of climbing pants can make all the difference.
They should provide comfort, flexibility, and durability to help you focus on the climb rather than on your clothes.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, it’s important to choose the right pants to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable climb.
We’ll take a closer look at what makes a good pair of women’s climbing pants and how to choose the best one for your needs.
We’ll discuss factors such as fit, material, breathability, and durability.
Consider the material of the rock climbing pants for women
When it comes to selecting the best women’s climbing pants, one of the key considerations would be the material of the pants.
The right material can make a huge difference in your climbing experience.
Ideally, the pants should be made from durable and stretchy materials like nylon, polyester, or spandex.
These fabrics offer great flexibility and durability, allowing you to move freely without worrying about tears and abrasions.
Furthermore, they dry quickly and wick moisture away from the skin, keeping you comfortable during prolonged periods of climbing.
Additionally, having a reinforced knee and seat area can add to the pants’ durability, especially in rough terrains.
Therefore, it is essential to choose rock climbing pants for women that not only look great but also offer optimal performance in terms of durability and flexibility.
Look for reinforced seams
When you’re in the market for the best women’s climbing pants, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting a product that’s durable and built to last.
One key factor to consider when making your selection is the quality of the seams.
Look for reinforced seams, such as bar tacks or triple stitching.
These added details help to distribute stress more evenly across the fabric, reducing the risk of tears or fraying.
Additionally, a reinforced seam can increase the overall resistance to wear and tear, which is especially important for rock climbing pants for women.
By choosing climbing pants with reinforced seams, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities with peace of mind, knowing your pants can keep up with your adventurous spirit.
Evaluate the waistband and pockets of the women’s rock climbing pants
When it comes to choosing the best women’s climbing pants or rock climbing pants for women, evaluating the waistband and pockets can be crucial.
The waistband of your pants should fit comfortably around your waist without digging in or creating any unflattering bulges.
Look for elastic waistbands that sit securely in place, or try pants with adjustable waistbands for a more custom fit.
Furthermore, pockets can be a lifesaver for carrying essentials like keys, phones, or snacks.
The last thing you want is to have to take off your harness and backpack to access items in a bulky pocket.
Consider choosing pants with zippered or deep pockets that securely hold your items while you climb.
By evaluating the waistband and pockets, you can help ensure that you choose the best women’s climbing pants for your needs.
Analyze the fit and stretch of the women’s climbing pants
When choosing the best women’s climbing pants or rock climbing pants for women, it’s important to analyze the fit and stretch of the pants.
The ideal climbing pants should fit snugly on the hips and waist without being too tight or too loose.
A good fit allows for free movement for climbing without hindering your range of motion.
The stretch of the pants is also essential as it provides the flexibility needed for an effective and comfortable climb.
Pants with four-way stretch technology are the best choice, as they allow for free movement in all directions.
It’s important to remember that the wrong size and poor stretch can limit your climbing ability and comfort.
So always consider fit and stretch when choosing the best climbing pants for women.
Ensure breathability and moisture-wicking properties of the rock climbing pants for women
When choosing the best women’s climbing pants or rock climbing pants for women, it is essential to consider the breathability and moisture-wicking properties of the fabric.
This is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing chafing during extensive climbing activities.
Breathable materials allow air to circulate through the fabric, preventing sweat and moisture build-up and reducing the risk of bacterial growth.
Moisture-wicking fabric draws sweat from the skin, quickly moving it to the surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate.
As a result, your skin stays dry and cool, reducing friction and enhancing mobility.
Look for pants that use performance fabrics such as nylon and polyester, or a blend of both, to ensure breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
In conclusion, choosing the best climbing pants for women is all about finding a balance between functionality, comfort, and style.
Consider the type of climbing you’ll be doing, the fit and material of the pants, and any additional features you may need, such as pockets or adjustable waistbands.
By keeping these factors in mind and doing your research on different brands and models, you’ll be able to find the perfect pair of climbing pants to meet your needs and help you tackle your next climb with confidence.
