The Best Women’s Climbing Pants of 2022

After months of testing, we found the best women’s climbing pants for every style and budget.

Finding the best climbing pants can be a pain. Women’s climbing pants need to allow full movement, keep you covered, endure heavy use, and let’s be honest — look good, too!

After spending months researching, testing, analyzing, and geeking out on everything from the feeling of the seams to the range of motion, we finally hand-selected the best women’s climbing pants for every style and budget.

Whether you’re planning an epic climbing trip in the backcountry or working on a project at your local climbing gym, we have the pant for you. For those wondering if climbing-specific pants are warranted, check out our Buyer’s Guide for the lowdown on these pants constructed for the vertical world.

Feel free to scroll through to see all of our recommended buys, or jump to the category you’re looking for:

• Best Overall
• Best Leggings for Climbing
• Best for Cool Weather
• Best Gym Tights
• Best Technical
• Best Travel and Hot-Weather Climbing Pants
• Best of the Rest

The Best Women’s Climbing Pants of 2022

Best Overall: Patagonia Caliza Rock Pant

The Patagonia Caliza Rock pants ($89) are the answer to the female climber’s prayers. There are so many reasons why these were deemed our best overall climbing pants. For starters, we were immediately impressed by how well they molded to the body.

Unlike other climbing pants that are either too baggy or too tight in the wrong areas, these seem to have the perfect amount of stretch in all the right places. Plus, these organic cotton-blend pants earn high marks for durability.

We also found the wide elastic waistband to be comfortable and perfectly placed for your harness to fit over. And let’s not forget the snaps on the bottom cuffs that can be adjusted to fit your ankle.

The pockets — both in the front and the back — are so flat and low-key that we didn’t even know they were there until we looked in the mirror. With that said, open shallow pockets like these don’t hold much or keep items from falling out. We wouldn’t use them while climbing to ensure the safety of others below.

Overall, the Patagonia Caliza Rock pants are remarkably versatile for all types of climbing and are comfortable enough for all-day leisurewear. And with five colors to choose from, you might not want to wear anything else.

For more, check out our full review of the Patagonia Caliza Rock Pant here.

Specs:

• Weight: 12 oz.
• Material: 93% cotton, 7% spandex
• Number of pockets: Four
• Special features: Large, comfortable waistband

Pros:

• Impressive stretch
• High durability for long-lasting use
• Snap ankle closures for zero interference
• Comfortable enough to wear all day

Cons:

• Front pockets don’t close
• Pockets are too shallow

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Best Leggings for Climbing: Arc’teryx Oriel Leggings

These Arc’teryx Oriel Leggings ($89) are for women who prefer the body-hugging feeling of tights and love to be on the wall in super-streamlined attire. What made these pants the best leggings for climbing was their ability to dry fast after withstanding beatings against wet multipitch granite and shimming up various cracks in Squamish, British Columbia.

Remarkably, they also showed zero pilling, tears, or visible wear after 7.5 hours of climbing the reputable Black Canyon of the Gunnison. If that weren’t impressive enough, the fabric — a highly abrasion-resistant, stretchy blend of nylon and elastane — survived wedged slides on sandstone!

Getting down to the nitty-gritty, the seams, which are narrow and made with tough thread, show no signs of failure after regular use. The Powernet Stretch Mesh waistband is the perfect height to protect against the harness.

But there is a downside. The underwhelming side pocket design isn’t ideal. The open stretch pocket didn’t warrant much confidence in securing our phone, camera, or wallet, especially when hundreds of feet off the ground.

Those who want to feel unencumbered and are looking for a durable pair of leggings on the wall should consider the Oriel. And aside from climbing, they can certainly be used as an everyday legging.

Specs:

• Weight: 5.5 oz.
• Material: 71% nylon, 29% elastane
• Number of pockets: Two
• Special features: Moisture wicking and quick drying

Pros:

• Abrasion-resistance for durability
• Incredible stretch with minimal sheerness

Cons:

• Open stretch pocket may not secure items in place

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Best Leggings for Cool Weather: prAna Rockland Matchstick Leggings

For the legging lovers who don’t want the bulk of pants but still want the warmth, prAna’s Rockland Leggings ($89) are your answer. They are reinforced in all the right places with an anti-abrasive fabric overlay that allows you to bushwack to the crag and climb worry-free all day without sacrificing warmth.

These leggings also offer additional features that some don’t: a wide waistband that stays in place, even on big dynamic moves, and side pockets with a zip enclosure to keep essentials in place.

Despite the great design for pockets that actually zip, don’t plan on using them for much beyond chapstick — there won’t be a lot of room.

The durable fabric is a bit thick for hot summer days, but it makes prAna’s Rockland pants our top-pick leggings for cool weather that will keep you out on the crag well into crisp fall climbing days.

Specs:

• Weight: 11.22 oz.
• Material: [body] 88% Supplex nylon, 12% Lycra, [overlay], 86% polyester, 14% spandex
• Number of pockets: Two
• Special features: Provides tough anti-abrasive overlay material

Pros:

• Warm for shoulder season climbing
• Stay in place while you move
• Offers pockets that zip

Cons:

• Not ideal for warm temperatures
• Pockets are small

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Best Gym Tights: Mammut Crashiano Tight

The Crashiano tights ($89) from Mammut are perfect for anyone who loves the snug and secure feeling of a seamless pair of tights for the gym. These pants have been through hours and hours of gym sessions over the last few months.

They have shown no embarrassing wet zones despite dripping sweat, thanks to the open zones and moisture-wicking finish on the polyester material; all reasons why we deemed them the best gym tights.

Beyond the gym, the super-wide elastic waistband seems like it was made for a harness, and the nonexistent seams make them the most comfortable and flattering pair of tights I own right now.

Despite testing these for over a few months inside, we can’t yet say anything about their durability of them for outdoor climbing. They may not have the same holding pattern as some of the more durable tights. It’s also worth mentioning that these tights don’t have any pockets.

But for anyone looking for a crush-worthy pair of tights for indoor projects, check out the Crashinos.

Specs:

• Weight: 8.11 oz.
• Material: 86% polyester, 14% spandex
• Number of pockets: None
• Special features: Absorbent fabric that conceals sweat zones

Pros:

• Conceals sweat zones
• Wide waistband perfect for a harness
• Non-irritating seams
• Back pocket for a cellphone

Cons:

• Unknown outdoor durability
• No pockets

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Best Technical: Patagonia Altvia Pants

Patagonia’s Altvia Alpine Pants ($149) have everything you would ever need for technical climbing and scrambling above the treeline. We labeled these the best technical pant for several reasons.

Their lightweight recycled polyester and spandex blend enables climbers to be ultramobile. The reinforced paneling on the knees, butt, and inside the calves gives an added dose of protection in all the right areas.

After taking a closer look, we appreciated all the little details like the adjustable cuffs keeping pants out of the way. And the zippered flat pockets do not interfere with a harness. Plus, a low-profile waistband with an integrated adjustable belt makes these our top choice for big pursuits.

Aside from the hefty price tag, the other issue with these pants is with their inseam — those needing a shorter inseam may need to utilize the pant’s adjustable cord lock on the cuff. This is a slight downside considering all the other bells and whistles on these pants.

There’s little to complain about because these pants have a lot to offer. When planning your big alpine missions this summer, consider the Altvia Alpine Pants — they’ll undoubtedly live up to their name.

Specs:

• Weight: 11.4 oz.
• Material: [body] 86% recycled polyester, 14% spandex dobby [panel], 85% recycled nylon, 15% recycled spandex
• Number of pockets: Four
• Special features: Reinforced paneling in high-stressed areas for added durability

Pros:

• Has a built-in belt
• Great amount of stretch for mobility
• Cuffs adjust with shock cord and cord lock
• Secure, functional pockets that lie flat.

Cons:

• The inseam may be too long for shorter legs
• Expensive

Check Price at Patagonia

Best Travel and Hot-Weather Climbing Pants: Cotopaxi Baja Pants

We found the Baja pants ($100) by Cotopaxi great for multipitch climbing, cragging, bouldering, and hanging out. These pants are super comfortable in a variety of climbing conditions.

But they really stood out when the temps started rising, which is why we ranked them the best travel and hot-weather climbing pants. For our weeklong climbing trip to Joshua Tree, I brought these as my sole pair of pants for both climbing and hanging out in, and I couldn’t have been happier.

The four-way stretch fabric finished with DWR coating and a twill backer makes these not only super comfortable but also very durable. The spandex waistband fits under a harness nicely, and the incognito stash pocket is great for money or a passport.

Because these are on the lighter side for fabric, we would not recommend these for colder climates. However, these breathed well under mild and warm conditions and kept me comfortable.

The Baja climbing pants fit the bill for those climbing, traveling, or simply socializing outdoors in hotter temperatures and who need a cool pair of pants (literally and figuratively).

Specs:

• Weight: Unavailable
• Material: 90% nylon, 10% spandex
• Number of pockets: Four
• Special features: Hidden pocket for concealing valuables while traveling

Pros:

• Incredible comfort and softness
• DWR coating
• Highly versatile

Cons:

• Not ideal for cold temperatures

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Best of the Rest

prAna Mariel Jegging

What happens when prAna combines its bestselling stretch Zion fabric with the flattering and functional design of a classic legging look? The Mariel Jegging ($89), of course. Not only do they work great as an outdoor/indoor climbing pant, but they also can double (or triple) as an all-around adventure and travel pant.

The skinny jean with tapered cuffs makes these pants great for scrambling to get to the climb. And the high-stretch Zion fabric is durable for bumping up against the rocks. It also lets you move in all the ways you need to for climbing.

Last but certainly not least, when the day is done and your muscles and fingertips can’t take it anymore, they clean right up with a wet rag for heading out to get a meal in town.

The pocket design was not made to fit the needs of climbers, hence they are hard to make use of while climbing, so we didn’t bother. However, they do not get in the way of performance, and the high flat waist makes wearing a harness comfortable.

Climbers and active explorers alike will appreciate the charming body-hugging silhouette of prAna’s Mariel Jeggings and the functionality that will withstand all your venturesome activities.

Specs:

• Weight: Unavailable
• Material: 97% nylon, 3% elastane
• Number of pockets: Six
• Special features: Provides UPF 50+ sun protection

Pros:

• More durable than most typical leggings
• Sleek appearance
• All-around performance pant
• Features lots of pockets

Cons:

• Pockets difficult to use while climbing

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Mammut Camie Pants

Love the relaxed look and feel of joggers but need a little more durability? The Camie Pants ($109) from Mammut may be the perfect fit. The gusseted crotch and pre-shaped knees, coupled with four-way-stretch material, make these pants my go-to when comfort and a wide range of movement are in order for the day.

From yoga to wrestling with the kids to climbing, these pants have seen a lot of constant use these past few months. The elastic waistband with a drawcord and elastic cuffs adds some fun, functional style and looks great with just about any cute tank.

Despite the high percentage of natural fibers, the cotton in these pants makes them prone to wrinkling and doesn’t provide the same water-resistant functionality compared to others. Although, it does make up for it by being lightweight and breathable.

Those always on the move keeping up with their kids, running errands, hiking, or sending their next climbing project — the comfort and versatility of the Camie Pants are ones to consider.

Specs:

• Weight: 12 oz.
• Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
• Number of pockets: Three
• Special features: Crotch gusset allows for extra mobility

Pros:

• Drawcord waist and elastic cuffs
• Relaxed fit for comfort
• Everyday look

Cons:

• Prone to wrinkling
• Lack moisture-wicking properties

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Cotopaxi Cerro Tight

The Cotopaxi Cerro Travel Tight ($90) pants are practically second-skin. These ultra-comfortable leggings weren’t originally designed with climbing in mind. Rather, they were made as a “do-everything tight.”

However, if you’re like most female climbers, your do-everything tight includes climbing, stretching, running, errands, lounging around, and much more! Ever since I put on these leggings, it has been hard to justify taking them off.

They work great as my climbing gym and warm outdoor cragging leggings. The five stash pockets, flat seams, and wide waistband make them my first pick for exploratory days and warm indoor or outdoor climbing sessions.

However, the spandex and recycled polyester material don’t lend themselves to be great for cold outdoor climbing days. And the lack of abrasion-resistant material won’t withstand chafing against rock, but again, they weren’t designed to really do so.

Adhering to warm-weather adventures, climbs, and gym workouts — the Cerro Travel Tight will do the job. Those who aren’t fans of feeling encumbered while relaxing (but still want to look cute) will love them.

Specs:

• Weight: 7.94 oz.
• Material: 79% recycled polyester, 21% spandex
• Number of pockets: Five
• Special features: Offers Polygiene to prevent odor

Pros:

• Insanely comfortable
• Flattering design and pattern
• Plenty of stash pockets
• A go-to pant for everyday errands and activities

Cons:

• Lower end of durability
• Not ideal for cold weather

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Backcountry Double Dyno Climbing Pant

Not too loose, not too tight, and great stretch — the Double Dyno Climbing Pant by Backcountry ($110) really impressed us in initial testing. The fit is comfortable (not restrictive), and you will quickly notice how they move and stretch with you. And they look great.

We also liked the cropped ankles and slight cuffs — tailored to make these pants work for not only climbing and bouldering but also mountain biking. The wide, adjustable waist also rivals that of our best overall pick. The wider band works seamlessly when climbing with a harness and has flat elastic cords to adjust fit.

We found the fabric to accurately live up to the brand’s claims. It’s fairly quick-drying, offers UV sun protection, and is durable enough for repeat days at the crag.

The main thing we don’t totally love is the price that is ticking toward the higher end, but the vast array of features makes them worth the price.

For all the climbers who need pants that feel like they’ve been custom-made in a way that anticipates your every dynamic move on the rock, then look no further. The Double Dyno Climbing Pant has you covered.

Specs:

• Weight: Unavailable
• Material: 60% CORDURA, 34% nylon, 6% spandex
• Number of pockets: Three
• Special features: Has an internal drawcord for an adjustable, secure fit.

Pros:

• Abrasion-resistant CORDURA for durability
• Quick-drying fabric
• Protection against UV rays

Cons:

• Pricey

Check Price at Backcountry

Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants

These Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants ($99) are perfect for long days on multipitch climbs. Their fast-drying, stretchy material coupled with a comfortable waistband make them one tester’s first pick for all outdoor climbing excursions.

The recycled polyester-spandex blend is light and breathable for hot summer days. And the DWR coating repels light moisture. The cuffs adjust with a pull cord, so you can guarantee proper foot placement without baggy pants getting in the way.

These pants aren’t loaded with features, which failed to tick all of our boxes at this higher price point. We also weren’t impressed with the drop-in front pockets that can’t hold a lot beyond small essentials. Yet, we still appreciate the addition of the zippered leg pockets — all of which lie flat and don’t cause any discomfort under the harness.

If you want something incredibly lightweight and stretchy to get you to the top of your multipitch climb on a blazing day while protecting your legs from unwarranted abrasions, then check out the Chambeau Rock Pant.

Specs:

• Weight: 7.9 oz.
• Material: 87% recycled polyester, 13% elastane
• Number of pockets: Five
• Special features: DWR coating to shed light precipitation.

Pros:

• Contoured waistband that adds comfort and functionality
• Perfect for staying cool while climbing
• Adjustable cuffs

Cons:

• Pricier than others
• Drop-in pockets not useful

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prAna Kanab Pant

The prAna Kanab Pants ($79) are everything a climbing pant should be — durable, comfortable, and stretchy. The organic cotton canvas blend holds up to abrasions, and the double-walled knees give an added dose of protection.

And while built for heavy use, they manage to also be incredibly breathable. Cuffed bottoms and the midrise waistband also make them quite stylish and comfortable.

We also appreciate the deep, usable pockets. We’re easily able to stash a phone or snacks comfortably.

To make these pants ideal, we would have valued a hidden drawstring in the waist for more security and to ensure that they fit different waist sizes — a feature these pants are currently lacking.

Overall, we included the Kanab Pants in our rest of the best because of their practical use for climbing indoors and out to camping, hiking, and Sunday morning hangouts.

Specs:

• Weight: Unavailable
• Material: 62% organic cotton, 36% nylon, 2% elastane
• Number of pockets: Five
• Special features: Reinforced fabric at knees add extra protection and durability

Pros:

• Abrasion resistance for durability
• Cuffed legs that are flattering and won’t get in the way
• Plenty of pockets

Cons:

• Lacks waist drawstring for staying power

Check Price at REICheck Price at Backcountry

Black Diamond Notion

These Black Diamond Notion pants ($79) warranted our attention due to their comfort while belaying and awesomeness for single-pitch sport climbing. Reinforced knees make them withstand tough routes, while its stretchy fabric allows mobility that’s required to assist you to the top.

The drawstring waistband has an easy fit for ladies who don’t like hugging on the midsection. The two hand pockets and two back pockets also make them useful for carrying extra items to the crag.

“If you’re sensitive to heat and humidity, and have a tendency to sweat a ton, this fabric — which is mostly cotton — isn’t really breathable for super long or sun-bearing days on the wall,” said one tester. But they’re a go-to comfortable pant for moderate temps and mild weather conditions.

Super comfortable on the wall, but also while camping, hiking, bouldering at the gym, and traveling, the Notion pant will keep up with all your activities.

Specs:

• Weight: 11.4 oz.
• Material: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane
• Number of pockets: Four
• Special features: Go-to pant beyond climbing.

Pros:

• Elastic waistband and cuffs
• All-around comfort
• Perfect for multiple activities

Cons:

• Material isn’t breathable

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Patagonia Escala Rock Pant

Looking for a climbing pant that works hard on rock but looks like an everyday pant? Then you need to meet Patagonia’s Escala Rock Pants ($99). It’s that functional, attractive everyday pant you love — but way more durable.

The organic cotton-polyester-spandex blend is comfortable and stretchy, useful for days out at the crag. And the streamlined pant legs taper for visible foot placement and properly shield the ankles.

While useful for multiday use, we found that the pants absorbed sweat well in the blazing summer sun but weren’t top-notch at fast wicking and drying. Better for use in mild temperatures.

Those who spend most of their time climbing in moderate weather outdoors, but don’t necessarily want to look like they live in climbing attire, will especially appreciate Escala’s practicality mixed with urban appeal.

Specs:

• Weight: 15.9 oz.
• Material: 58% organic cotton, 40% polyester, 2% spandex
• Number of pockets: Five
• Special features: Ultratough material is perfect for hardcore climbing

Pros:

• Breathable material, good for absorbing sweat
• Well built for long-lasting durability
• Tailored design that reduces bulk
• Look like typical pants

Cons:

• Not ideal for moisture-wicking
• Slow to dry

Check Price at Patagonia

Why You Should Trust Us

The team at GearJunkie are outdoor experts and enthusiasts. Our ranks include alpinists, mountaineers, crag rats, purely indoor climbers, and everything in between. Over several months, we put these climbing pants to the test, specifically looking at functionality, durability, and comfort.

Contributor Rebecca Ross knows what makes a great climbing pant. As a trained mountaineer, rock climber, and alpinist, she’s climbed peaks in the Pacific Northwest and led international climbing expeditions above 15,000 feet.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Climbing Pants

First, take a few moments to imagine your climbing habits. Do you plan to mostly use these pants climbing indoors or out? Will it normally be hot and muggy or cool and breezy? Do you prefer body-hugging clothing or a bit more room?

There’s no right or wrong answer, but having a clear idea of how you’ll use these pants will help determine the best option. For more guidance on choosing the best climbing pants for your needs, keep reading to understand the functions that differentiate them from nonclimbing pants.

Climbing Pant Materials

Climbing pants are often a blend of synthetics, sometimes cotton, and typically elastane (sometimes called spandex). The higher percentage of elastane, the more stretch the pants will have.

The added stretch will also result in a more skintight feel, much like the Arc’teryx Oriel Leggings with the highest percentage of elastane at 29%, compared to others. The Cotopaxi Cerro Tight came in a close second with impressive stretch capabilities with 21% elastane.

It’s not only the amount of elastane that makes climbing pants outperform regular pants. Other essential factors include breathability, reinforced areas that add durability, and design that allows fluid mobility, like the Patagonia Altvia Pants. A decent amount of stretch allows climbers to highstep, stem, and heel hook without restriction.

Other factors, like moisture-wicking properties, sun protection, and the ability to dry quickly, are not vital for indoor climbing. However, they are necessary for long, strenuous alpine or multipitch climbs.

Fit

There are a few things to consider when finding the right fit with climbing pants. A loose-fitting pant provides a comfortable, relaxed feel designed for maximum movement. However, the material often tends to be heavier.

If the pants are too loose and flowy, they can obscure your vision for when you need to hone in on technical footwork. On the other hand, tight-fitting pants like leggings and tights allow total freedom without feeling weighed down.

The downside to a tight fit is less durability against abrasions. Tight, thin leggings don’t provide as much buffer between your skin and the rock, although the Arc’teryx Oriel Leggings seemed to be an exception. The Backcountry Double Dyno Climbing Pant strikes the perfect balance of being neither too loose nor too tight.

Pockets

Insufficient pockets, or the complete lack thereof, tend to make it on our cons list more than other features on climbing pants. The pockets that tend to work the best are ones that don’t interfere with a harness, are deep enough to be useful, and provide a zipper to ensure that it stays in place while you’re climbing.

A standout in our line of pants is the Patagonia Altvia Pants. These pants offer zipped flat pockets that don’t interfere with a harness. If you find yourself climbing indoors or at a local single-pitch crag, you’ll be able to get away with climbing pants that offer a more basic pocket design.

Weight

Generally speaking, the more technical the pant, the more they will weigh because of features that allow them to withstand various elements and terrain. The Patagonia Escala Rock Pant, for instance, weighs close to one pound but has several features that make it a durable pant for everyday climbing.

The known lightest on our list is the Arc’teryx Oriel Legging, weighing only 5.5 ounces. This pant is breathable and lightweight — perfect for warm weather without weighing you down.

Weather Protection

Some climbing pants are treated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating. This water-resistant coating helps you stay dry by preventing light precipitation from saturating the fabric. While the DWR won’t protect you from a heavy downpour, it will keep light rain beading off the pants and allow them to dry quickly.

Several pants in our lineup have a DWR finish, including the Cotopaxi Baja Pants and the Patagonia Chambeau Rock Pants. This feature is specifically helpful for those conducting long alpine ascents and who may find themselves in unpredictable weather.

It’s important to note special instructions to care for your DWR-treated pants to make the coating last longer. Dirt and oils can impede the coating’s moisture-repelling ability, and frequent washing can help maintain its water repellency.

Thickness and Durability

Beyond choosing a silhouette that complements one’s ergonomics, an important component of a pair of pants is that they are durable. They’ll need to withstand walks through abrasive brush, scrambles up and down steep spur trails, grinding against granite, and rubbing against rough sandstone.

For long-lasting pants, look for thicker fabric, anti-abrasive or abrasive-resistant overlay or material, and reinforced high-wear areas like the knees.

Climbing pants that received our high praise for durability are the Arc’teryx Oriel Leggings and the prAna Rockland Matchstick Leggings. Both withstood beatings against the terrain. Although pants designed for rugged use tend to be warmer, keep that in mind if you climb in hot temperatures.

Articulated Knees and Gussets

A climbing pant’s ability to stretch extensively makes them different from slacks and most everyday jeans. Beyond elastane material, climbing pants are designed to extend the range of motion by having articulated knees and gussets.

Pants with articulated knees will provide the same natural range of motion as a knee while walking and bending. These features are helpful, especially on pants with less elastane and that need a boost in flexibility. As for gussets, the diamond-shaped piece of extra fabric sewn in the crotch area make pants more breathable and creates more freedom to move.

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