The best Bushcraft pants for your outdoor adventure 2024 [+Buying guide]

Finding a good pair of bushcraft pants can be difficult given the immense selection. Here you will find the best and most established bushcraft pants.

from Martin Gebhardt | Gear | reading time 14 Min
Updated on 17 December 2023 32.580 views 97% found this guide helpful
The best Bushcraft pants for your outdoor adventure 2024 [+Buying guide]

Martin Gebhardt

From Martin Gebhardt. Check out my “About me” page.


👉 The key facts from this guide

  • Bushcraft pants are sturdy and durable, ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing. They are often made of robust materials like canvas, Hypershell, or a blend of polyester and cotton.
  • The Sitka Timberline pants are the ultimate bushcraft pants, they are extremely durable, waterproof, and have removable knee pads. However, they are also expensive.
  • The Fjällräven Vidda Pro is another suitable option, it is comfortable, has many pockets, and is wind and water-resistant.
  • The Wrangler Riggs Ranger pants are a more affordable option, they are made of cotton ripstop material and have reinforced knees and back pockets.
  • For hot weather, the LA Police Gear Tactical pants are a good choice, they are lightweight and quick-drying.
  • For winter, the Carinthia G-LOFT Loden pants are ideal, they are warm, breathable, and water-repellent.

It can be a challenge to find the best bushcraft pants that can withstand your next adventure.

Do you want a lightweight, breathable, and durable pair of pants, but with the right details to ensure comfort as well?

The right pants should be more than just a piece of clothing on the body.

It should seamlessly fit you and your lifestyle. The perfect pants for you are out there, and I'll help you find them!

This article is about finding the best bushcraft pants for your next adventure, so you don't have to waste time reading reviews.

What is a Bushcraft pant?

Bushcraft pants are a type of pants that are rugged and durable. They are best suited for people who enjoy exploring nature and enjoying bushcraft, survival, camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and more.

Bushcraft pants are designed for outdoor wear. They are often made of durable fabric and designed to be long-lasting and comfortable.
Bushcraft pants are designed for outdoor wear. They are often made of durable fabric and designed to be long-lasting and comfortable.

These pants are usually made of a sturdy fabric such as canvas, Hypershell, or a material blend of polyester and cotton. Bushcraft pants often have additional pockets and loops to store tools and other supplies.

The best bushcraft pants are not only made for men, but also for women. There are also a variety of different styles and colors to choose from. These pants are designed for durability so that they can withstand all types of outdoor conditions.

When bushcrafting, you should invest in a sturdy outdoor pants
When bushcrafting, you should invest in a sturdy outdoor pants

Some good brands of bushcraft pants are Helikon-Tex, Fjällräven, Sitka, or Wrangler.

Now that we have clarified what Bushcraft pants are, let's discuss some of the best pants on the market and how to decide the best Bushcraft pants for you.

A selection of the best bushcraft pants

The Ultimate Bushcraft Pants: Sitka Timberline Pants

If you want the best of the best, go for the Sitka Timberline Pant.

SITKA Gear Herren Timberline Pan Tarnung, Jagdbekleidung, Lead, 52
4,8 (56)

Data updated 23 hours ago

SITKA Gear Herren Timberline Pan Tarnung, Jagdbekleidung, Lead, 52

  • Stoff: 4-Wege-Stretch-Polyester-Außenhülle, Nylon-Ripstop-Sitzfläche und Knie
  • Verstärkter Sitz und Knie: Der Sitz und die Knie sind mit einem wasserdichten Nylon-Ripstop-Gewebe verstärkt, so dass ein langer Schlag auf einem nassen Sattel oder ein schneller Sitz im Schnee Sie nicht kalt und nass macht
  • Abnehmbare Knieschoner – Abnehmbare Knieschoner bieten zusätzlichen Schutz, egal ob Sie in den nördlichen Rockies durch Talus krabbeln, sich durch Kaktus in der Sonora-Wüste pflücken oder ein Tier auf dem Feld kleiden
  • Bewegliches Muster – die Passform ist sportlich mit konischen Beinen und einer flachen Taille, die sich nicht unter einem Rucksack bündelt oder scheuert
  • Entwickelt für wechselnde Bedingungen: Diese Softshell-Hose ist die erste Wahl für die harten Bedingungen der mittleren bis späten Saison im Hinterland. Sie besteht aus ultra-strapazierfähigem 4-Wege-Stretch-Polyester, das sowohl wasserdicht als auch atmungsaktiv ist

no price can be determined (B01B6QZVCS)

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These pants are the most high-performance brand for comfort and performance. They are extremely durable, with waterproof seat and knee inserts, removable molded knee pads, and a water-resistant surface.

Admittedly, the big downside is the breathtaking price.

But these pants fit like a dream and are durable enough to last for years. Combined with warm leggings, they are suitable for three-season use.

Advantages

Excellent design and comfort

Durable

Removable knee pads

Water-resistant

Disadvantages

Expensive

Knee pads may sit slightly high or low depending on body type

Second Place: The Fjällräven Vidda Pro

Fjällräven pants are an absolute favorite among experienced Bushcrafters and the Fjällräven Vidda Pro is one of my favorite pants.

Fjällräven Herren Vidda Pro Trouser Regular Lange Hose, Grün (Dark Olive), 50 EU

Amazon
Offer

-30%
4,5 (460)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Fjällräven Herren Vidda Pro Trouser Regular Lange Hose, Grün (Dark Olive), 50 EU

  • Regelmäßige Beinlänge
  • Vorgebildete Knie mit Öffnungen für Kniepads
  • Sie sind mit mehreren praktischen Taschen für zusätzlichen Stauraum ausgestattet
  • Die lange Länge und die vorgeformten Knie bieten eine bessere Abdeckung
  • Mit doppelten Schichten über den Knien und hinten verstärkt

$ 139,97
List Price: $ 199,99

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It is made of a polyester/cotton fabric that has been treated with wax to give it wind and water resistance.

It is worth checking the fit and size before purchasing - with the right fit, the design of the pants allows for good freedom of movement. There is also a long version for taller people.

The pockets were designed for specific functions. There is a map pocket, an internal cell phone pocket, and a pocket for multiple tools.

It is nice to see that thought has been given to the functionality of the pockets, although the lack of back pockets may bother some people.

Advantages

Excellent design and comfort

Good selection of front and cargo pockets

Knee pockets for (optional) padding

Elastic cuffs keep snow out

Disadvantages

Expensive (although not as expensive as the Sitkas!)

No back pockets

Mid-range pants: Wrangler Riggs Ranger Pants

If you're looking for a fairly inexpensive bushcraft pant, then the Wrangler RIGGS is definitely the right choice for you. Although it is one of the cheapest pants on my list, it has a lot to offer and is exceptionally well-suited for bushcraft.

Wrangler Riggs Workwear Herren Ranger Hose, Navy, 34W / 32L
4,4 (20950)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Wrangler Riggs Workwear Herren Ranger Hose, Navy, 34W / 32L

  • Entspannte Passform. Diese Arbeitshose mit lockerer Passform wurde mit Blick auf Funktion und Komfort entwickelt. Mit einer entspannten Passform durch Sitz, Oberschenkel und Knie sitzt diese Arbeitshose bequem auf der Taille und lässt viel Platz, um über Ihre Arbeitsstiefel zu passen.
  • ROOM2MOVE COMFORT Für lange Tage am Job wollen Sie eine Arbeitshose, die Sie bequem hält. Diese Hose mit verbesserter Passform verfügt über einen Schritt mit Zwickel und tiefe Vordertaschen für mehr Bewegungsfreiheit und Komfort.
  • Langlebige Materialien. Hergestellt aus 100 % Baumwolle Ripstop-Gewebe, für lange Haltbarkeit und Komfort, bietet diese Ripstop-Arbeitshose eine Schicht Schutz vor den Elementen während des Arbeitsplatzes.
  • Verstärkte Konstruktion. Gebaut für lange Haltbarkeit bei der Arbeit. Diese Arbeitshose ist in den Knien, Nähten und einem Bandmaßclip verstärkt. Gesäßtaschen sind mit 1000 Denier Cordura gefüttert für zusätzliche Haltbarkeit.
  • Zusätzlicher Stauraum. Ein sicherer Platz für alle Ihre Werkzeuge, diese Arbeitshose ist ausgestattet mit (1) Hammerschlaufe, (1) verstärktem Lederbandmaßclip, (2) geräumigen seitlichen Cargotaschen, (2) Gesäßtaschen, (1) Uhrentasche und (2) tiefen Vordertaschen.

$ 65,56

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For example, it is made of 100% cotton rip stop material. Rip stop is a special weaving technique that produces an exceptionally tear-resistant fabric.

This material is ideal for bushcraft, where your clothing can be subjected to extreme wear and tear.

All important elements have also been reinforced, contributing to great overall durability. The back pockets have also been lined with 1000 denier Cordura. This is a strong nylon-based material that gives the back pockets, which are the most susceptible to tearing, good durability.

Speaking of pockets: it's worth noting that there are a total of 7 pockets around both legs, and a tool storage loop on each leg.

In terms of comfort, Wrangler has opted for a fairly relaxed fit. The pants are not particularly tight, nor are they overly baggy. They are essentially designed to maximize comfort, so you can focus on the task at hand without having to worry about your clothing.

Even though these pants are more geared towards industrial work, they are still suitable for bushcraft.

Advantages

Very durable

Provides adequate protection against the elements

Reinforced seams and knees for additional protection

Multiple large and cleverly placed pockets

Comfortable and improved fit to increase mobility

Available in a variety of sizes that fit most people

Disadvantages

Requires special care when cleaning, as it can wrinkle and shrink

Can be a bit tight around the waist

Affordable Pants: Double-Knee Work Pants by Dickies

Although not labeled as bushcraft pants, the versatile work pants by Dickies are known for being comfortable and virtually indestructible.

The work pants by Dickies come with reinforced knees, front and back pockets, and a leg pocket in cell phone size.

Dickies Herren Flex Regular Straight Fit Doppelknie-Arbeitshose, Dunkles Marineblau, 36W / 32L
4,4 (2654)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Dickies Herren Flex Regular Straight Fit Doppelknie-Arbeitshose, Dunkles Marineblau, 36W / 32L

  • Knitterarm
  • Fleckenentfernung
  • Längere Tunnel-Gürtelschlaufen
  • Doppelknie

$ 51,28

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This is a great pair of pants for dry conditions when you're fighting through trees or bushes or completing tasks at camp. However, since the fabric is not water-resistant, it may not be the best choice if you're exposed to a lot of rain.

Dickies pants don't have the bells and whistles of the Sitka line, but since they cost about a tenth of the price, they're great for budget-conscious bushcraften.

Advantages

Robust, durable fabric

Reinforced knees

Comfortable and long-lasting

Affordable

Disadvantages

No cargo pockets

Fabric is not water-resistant

Best for hot weather: LA Police Gear Tactical Pants

Another popular brand for affordable pants, LA Police Gear pants come in a wide range of colors and are inexpensive.

The Tactical Pants with Elastic Waistband are particularly good for hot weather. The polyester/cotton fabric is lightweight and dries quickly when wet.

LA Police Gear Herren Urban Ops Tactical Pants, Leichte Cargohose für Herren, Wasser/Fleckenresistent, Durable Ripstop Pants, Schwarz, 28W / 30L
4,4 (10816)

Data updated 23 hours ago

LA Police Gear Herren Urban Ops Tactical Pants, Leichte Cargohose für Herren, Wasser/Fleckenresistent, Durable Ripstop Pants, Schwarz, 28W / 30L

  • Vielseitig – Mit vielen Funktionen kann unsere taktische Urban Ops Hose als Wanderhose, Arbeitshose, Arbeitshose oder EDC-Hose getragen werden, ohne dabei aus Platz zu schauen.
  • Langlebig – Hochwertige Materialien, verstärkte Steg-Tack-Nähte, RipStop-Gewebe, vorgeformte Knie und ein Zwickel im Schritt bieten Bewegungsfreiheit und Reißfestigkeit, um sicherzustellen, dass diese Tac-Hose auch unter rauen und unermüdlichen Bedingungen hält.
  • Taschen – 7 Taschen insgesamt; darunter 2 Fronttaschen, 2 Gesäßtaschen, 1 Einschubtasche vorne und 2 große Cargotaschen. Diese Cargohose bietet viel Platz zum Verstauen und Organisieren Ihrer EDC- oder Arbeitsausrüstung.
  • Stoff – Ripstop-Gewebe verhindert das Ausbreiten von kleinen Rissen und Rissen, während eine spezielle Gewebebehandlung diese Hose wasser- und schmutzabweisend macht. Damit sehen Sie sauber und professionell aus.
  • Dehnbarer Bund – Diese taktische Hose hat einen selbsteinstellenden, elastischen Bund, der eine präzise Passform für zusätzlichen Komfort bietet, während Sie gleichzeitig mehr Platz für das verdeckte Tragen eines IWB-Holsters oder zum Einstecken in Ihr Uniformhemd geben.

no price can be determined (B01CF3J03M)

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The pants have an elastic waistband for a comfortable fit, but many people find them a bit tight and the low rise may not be for everyone.

Advantages

Lightweight and cool in hot weather

Wide range of colors

Good number of pockets

Inexpensive

Disadvantages

Fabric is not water-resistant

Fit may not be for everyone

Best for Winter: Carinthia G-LOFT Loden Pants

When the temperature drops and the landscape turns white, you need pants that will keep you warm and protected. The Carinthia G-LOFT Loden Pants combine warmth and durability in one.

Carinthia G-LOFT Loden Hose Olive Größe S 2020 Lange Hose
5 (10)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Carinthia G-LOFT Loden Hose Olive Größe S 2020 Lange Hose

  • Elastischer Gummibund mit Knopfverschluss und Gürtelschlaufen
  • Abgedeckter seitlicher Reißverschluss vom Saum bis zum Knie für ein leichtes Anziehen
  • Zwei große Seitentaschen mit Munitionsschlaufen
  • Verstärkter, anatomisch vorgeformter Kniebereich

$ 369,00

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The Carinthia Loden Pants, known for their quality and warmth, are made of 75% virgin wool, 25% polyamide, and Loden.

Unlike most fabrics, wool is both breathable and naturally water-repellent. And most importantly, if the pants do get wet, they will still keep you warm.

The Carinthia Loden Pants have two large side pockets and a knife pocket on the right, and can be worn with either a belt or suspenders. A word of warning - never wash the pants in the washing machine, as wool shrinks in the machine.

One of the useful features is the zip-in inner pants - this keeps you nice and warm in the winter.

Advantages

Very warm

Breathable and water-repellent

Plenty of natural material

High-quality, durable workmanship

Reinforced inner leg and hem area

Adjustable inner leg closure

Sturdy shoe hook for attaching to shoes

Zip-in inner pants for additional insulation

Includes stuff sack

Disadvantages

Only dry clean

Expensive

If you're looking for a cheaper pair of Loden pants, refer to the Pinewood Edmonton Hunting Pants.

Best Bushcraft Pants for Women

If you are looking for a feminine fit, you may feel limited in your selection of pants.

Since the target group for bushcraft pants are men, the selection of bushcraft pants for women is quite limited
Since the target group for bushcraft pants are men, the selection of bushcraft pants for women is quite limited

But you don't have to resort to buying men's pants unless you want to, as there are several brands that offer the same quality and features in a woman's fit.

Fjällräven Vidda Pro

If you have money to spare and are looking for an extremely high-quality bushcraft pants, then I recommend the Fjällräven Vidda Pro. I have already written about the pants in more detail above.

Fjällräven Damen Vidda Pro almindelig Hose, Black-black, 36 EU
4,6 (21)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Fjällräven Damen Vidda Pro almindelig Hose, Black-black, 36 EU

  • Strapazierfähiges und wasserabweisendes G-1000 Original Material
  • An Knien und Gesäß mit zweilagigem Material verstärkt
  • Sechs praktische Taschen
  • Eine Kartentasche
  • Eine Axttasche

$ 199,95

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Overall, this is a good quality outdoor pants, well constructed with multiple pockets and cut to fit comfortably. These pants keep you warm and dry and are recommended for any season.

The Fjällräven Vidda Pro is definitely a good choice if you are looking for the best bushcraft pants for women.

Helikon-Tex OTP Pants

Making outdoor pants is one thing, but making outdoor pants that are truly high-quality is another thing. This is something that Helikon has perfected over the years to create the best bushcraft pants for women.

The Helikon-Tex OTP tactical pants are a comfortable 4-season pants that are perfect for outdoor use all year round.

Helikon-Tex OTP Hose (Outdoor Tactical Pants) - VersaStretch - Khaki
4,6 (13)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Helikon-Tex OTP Hose (Outdoor Tactical Pants) - VersaStretch - Khaki

  • Elastischer Bund mit Klettverschluss für zusätzliche Anpassung
  • Zwei Fronttaschen mit verstärkten Kanten für die Clips
  • Zwei Gesäßtaschen für Taschenmesser, Taschenlampen, Pistolenmagazine
  • Zwei Cargotaschen mit YKK-Reißverschluss für Dokumente und kleine persönliche Gegenstände
  • 93% Nylon, 7% Elasthan

$ 84,90

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Many female Bushcrafters find these to be the ultimate tactical outdoor pants because it is designed to withstand all types of terrain use.

The fabric is effortless to wear, and the pants are super breathable, allowing for most outdoor activities. These tactical pants protect against rain and winter weather, dry quickly, and keep you warm.

If you are looking for a bushcraft pants that have a rugged design, many pockets, and high-quality comfort, then the Helikon-Tex OTP pants could be a practical option for you.

Bushcraft pants must adapt to the diverse weather conditions and be comfortable in all possible positions
Bushcraft pants must adapt to the diverse weather conditions and be comfortable in all possible positions

Singbring Women's Outdoor Pants

Now we have another great option for women. These fleece-lined Singbring outdoor pants for women are wind and waterproof bushcraft pants.

The best activities for these outdoor pants are skiing, climbing, camping, fishing, and hiking. It is a four-season pants that is perfect for most leisure activities.

Singbring Damen Outdoor-Fleece-Futter Winddichtes Wanderhosen wasserdichte Skihose Damen-Medium/US:8-10 Gray801 (mit Vlies)
4,3 (490)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Singbring Damen Outdoor-Fleece-Futter Winddichtes Wanderhosen wasserdichte Skihose Damen-Medium/US:8-10 Gray801 (mit Vlies)

  • Dickes Fleece und dünne und schnell trocknende Typen. Dicke Fleece-Hose ist besser geeignet für kaltes Wetter
  • Mehrere wasserdichte Reißverschlusstaschen halten persönliche Gegenstände sicher
  • Verstellbare Taille ermöglicht eine bequeme Passform
  • Das Patchwork-Knie ist atmungsaktiv, stark und verschleißfest
  • Damen-Outdoor-Hose, ideal zum Wandern, Bergsteigen, Camping, Skifahren, Snowboarden und für andere Winteraktivitäten

no price can be determined (B07GGY7QD9)

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The pants are an affordable alternative to some of the more expensive outdoor pants on my list, but overall they are good for most outdoor activities. In summary, I would say that these pants are great for someone who is just getting into an outdoor hobby or simply does not want to spend a lot.

Under Armour Tactical Patrol Pants

The Under Armour Tactical Patrol Pants for Women is a comfortable mid-range option with a good selection of pockets and colors.

Under Armour Damen Tactical Patrol Pants II
4,2 (1080)

Data updated 23 hours ago

Under Armour Damen Tactical Patrol Pants II

  • Das Material leitet Schweiß ab und trocknet sehr schnell
  • Strapazierfähiges Rip-Stop-Gewebe hält der härtesten Behandlung stand
  • Offene Taschen für die Hände, sichere Klappenverschluss hinten und Cargotaschen
  • Schrittlänge: 81 cm
  • Under Armour Mission ist es, alle Athleten durch Leidenschaft, Design und das Streben nach Innovation besser zu machen

$ 114,72

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Blackhawk Women's Tactical Pants

For budget-conscious female Bushcrafters, the Blackhawk Women's Tactical Pants are a lightweight option - good for warm weather or as a second pair of pants for the Bug Out Bag.

BLACKHAWK! Damen Taktische Hose leicht, Damen, Schokobraun, 28 x 31
3,9 (42)

Data updated 23 hours ago

BLACKHAWK! Damen Taktische Hose leicht, Damen, Schokobraun, 28 x 31

  • Konstruktion aus Polyester und Baumwolle
  • Falten-, farbe- und fleckenresistent
  • Langlebige, wasserabweisende Behandlung.
  • Große versteckte Reißverschlusstasche hinter der rechten Vordertasche
  • Vertikaler Reißverschluss an Cargotaschen öffnet sich in separate Netztasche

no price can be determined (B008A4W0JM)

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Do I really need a Bushcraft pants?

An outdoor pants is an essential piece of equipment for any type of outdoor activity, especially in winter. It is a layer that protects your legs from wind, snow, and water. A good pants also provide additional warmth.

There are many reasons why someone might want an outdoor pant. Maybe you are just starting with Bushcraft, or perhaps you enjoy hiking.

No matter what you do, there is a possibility that you will eventually encounter extreme weather conditions or require pants that are extremely durable.

If you're still running through the woods in denim fabric, that's not a good choice as it doesn't hold up well to water and isn't durable.

Furthermore, denim fabric is not particularly breathable, dries slowly, and is overall heavier than many other fabrics. A better choice would be a synthetic fabric such as polyester or nylon, which are lighter and more breathable.

With a pair of jeans in the woods? You can do it, but don't expect them to be suitable for bushcrafting. Especially if you're on the road for several days, you should stay away from jeans.
With a pair of jeans in the woods? You can do it, but don't expect them to be suitable for bushcrafting. Especially if you're on the road for several days, you should stay away from jeans.

The advantages are obvious because Bushcraft pants are often:

  • Protective, because it's robust
  • Water-repellent
  • Quick-drying
  • Warm, depending on the pants
  • Breathable
  • Lightweight

Good bushcraft pants often come with a high price tag. But are they worth it?

In my opinion, YES.

Usually, you're not just paying for a brand name. You're paying for a fabric that repels water, dries quickly, and is sturdy enough to walk through thickets and bushes without tearing.

A cotton pants worth 15 euros may be okay for summer hiking trails, but if you're looking for clothing that can withstand a disaster scenario, you should set your standards a bit higher.

Comparison of bushcraft pants to regular pants
Comparison of bushcraft pants to regular pants

A good pair of pants lasts a decade or longer. The upfront investment may make you cringe, but eventually, it could be cheaper than having to buy a new pair of pants every season.

How to choose the right Bushcraft pants? - What to consider when buying Bushcraft pants

Surely, when buying pants, you think about good comfort. That is still the most important factor, but if you are looking for the perfect pants for Bushcrafting, there are a few other things to consider.

Durability

Durability is the main feature to look for in Bushcraft pants.

Sure, you can buy several cheap pants, but you will regret it when your legs are full of scratches, and you constantly wonder how that could happen again.

Especially when you are traveling with a lot of luggage, your pants should support you in the most important areas
Especially when you are traveling with a lot of luggage, your pants should support you in the most important areas

Instead of owning multiple pairs of pants, it's better to invest in a high-quality bushcraft pant that will accompany you for your entire life.

Remember that they are much more robust than your normal clothing, as these pants are designed for outdoor use.

The cost of your pants should be directly proportional to their quality and durability. Bushcraft is a serious activity that is all about your safety.

The fact is that we often work with dangerous tools such as knives, saws, or an axe, so it is incredibly important to always be protected.

Since we work with tools when bushcrafting, a sturdy pair of pants is ideal
Since we work with tools when bushcrafting, a sturdy pair of pants is ideal

If you want something you can trust, then invest in a matured Bushcraft pants.

Comfort in Bushcraft Pants

At the end of the day, it is incredibly essential to feel comfortable. It doesn't make sense to have the most durable and functional pants in the world if they are not comfortable to wear.

I can still remember my first time Bushcrafting well: after a long day in the woods, I was plagued by my itchy, stiff, and chafing pants. At the latest from this point on, I wished for more comfort.

Comfort is a top priority when choosing a good bushcraft pants
Comfort is a top priority when choosing a good bushcraft pants

Therefore, comfort is one of my top priorities. Practical features include a wider waistband for more support, a gusset in the crotch area, and additional padding in the knees.

A few different factors contribute to the overall comfort of a pair of pants.

  • General fit: Fortunately, most brands offer their outdoor pants in a fairly wide range of sizes. The right fit is important if you don't want to constantly adjust your pants while on the go.
  • Adjustability at the waist: Due to the general nature of Bushcrafting, you will be doing some pretty strange things in some pretty strange positions. Whether you're climbing a tree, crawling through underbrush, or whatever, your pants must fit and adapt to your body shape. The problem is that everybody is different, which means we need to be able to adjust our pants to our specific body shape.
  • Fabric - The fabric not only plays a key role in protection, but also in comfort. Fortunately, both cotton and polyester (the two most common materials) tend to be quite comfortable.
  • Ventilation - Just as bushcraft pants are meant to keep you warm in the cold, they should also help you stay cool in the heat. To this end, most brands integrate mesh inserts into a range of pockets to support airflow in and out of the pants.

Which fabric should I choose?

During a bushcraft tour, you will most likely come into contact with dangerous and sharp objects: not to mention thorns, branches, and twigs!

You should consider where you want to wear your pants. If you spend most of your time in damp environments, wool may be a better choice than cotton or polyester as it dries faster and does not absorb water as easily.

Generally, cotton is not a good choice of fabric for outdoor activities, as it absorbs and retains moisture and draws your body heat away from your body and outwards.

A polyester blend wicks sweat away better and dries quickly after getting wet. In freezing conditions, wool is your friend.

Bushcrafter in the forest with outdoor pants
Bushcrafter in the forest with outdoor pants

You may find that there is a compromise between weight and durability. If you can rule out being outside in very hot weather, a medium-weight fabric is a suitable option.

Some pants also have a water-repellent treatment, although you can always do this yourself at home with a chemical or wax treatment. I do not recommend a fully waterproof pants for Bushcrafting.

Also read

The Ultimate Guide: What Clothing to Wear for Survival Training and Bushcraft? - The right clothing can make the difference between life and death in survival situations. In this guide, we cover what you should wear outdoors.

Waterproof and weatherproof

Being outside while it's raining is a burden. You won't feel comfortable or be able to fully exercise your Bushcraft skills if you're afraid of getting wet.

Furthermore, you will encounter different weather conditions. It can be hot during the day and extremely cold at night.

A good bushcraft pants will support you in bad weather and in winter
A good bushcraft pants will support you in bad weather and in winter

As it is not realistic to change clothes with every change in weather, the best pants for Bushcrafters provide the weather protection they need. This way, you are always safe from the elements.

Bags from Bushcraft Pants

The more pockets, the better, right?

Well, only if you require them.

If you are out in the wilderness, it is naturally useful to have your bushcraft tools and equipment within reach. This is especially important when you are carrying a heavy backpack.

Most pants have a variety of pockets and belt loops to store money, tools, phone, and snacks. It is useful to have at least one zipper pocket for valuables that should be easily accessible.

A good pair of pants for bushcraft should have at least two pockets and a compartment.

The most significant pockets are placed near the waist for simplicity.

Reinforced fabric or knee pads

If you often kneel and sit down to carry out your Bushcraft projects, you should primarily protect your knees and buttocks. You do this with additional fabric or reinforcements on the knees.

Remember: You can always replace a pair of pants - replacing your knees is more difficult.

Ideally, your bushcraft pants have reinforced knees
Ideally, your bushcraft pants have reinforced knees

Zippers and ankle closures

Leg zippers can contribute to ventilation in warm weather and ankle cuffs provide a snug fit and secure your pants high above your boots, making them less likely to get wet.

Conclusion: Consider carefully where you want to use the pants

Before you start looking for a specific pair of pants, you should carefully consider under what conditions you will be using them.

No matter how expensive or feature-packed they are, the best pants are the ones that are comfortable for you and keep you warm, cool, or dry in all weather conditions.

If you want a more flexible clothing system, add a thin thermal pants for cooler conditions.

If you know that you will be spending a lot of time outdoors in the rain, you should get yourself a waterproof pants that you can wear over your regular pants.

Take care, Martin
Martin Gebhardt

Author of the guide


Martin Gebhardt

Hey, I'm Martin. On my blog, you will learn the basics and numerous details about living in the wild. I think survival, bushcraft and the good life in nature are the keys to happiness. Find me here on Instagram or on YouTube. You can find more about my mission on the About Me page.

Since this is a gear guide, here ...


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So when I introduce the best survival knives or flashlights, you can be sure that every recommendation is based on solid experience and extensive knowledge.

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