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. 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.
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.
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 Men's Timberline Pan, Lead, 36R
- Fabric: 4-Way Stretch Woven Polyester Shell, Nylon Ripstop Seat & Knees
- REINFORCED SEAT AND KNEES - The seat and knees are reinforced with a waterproof nylon ripstop fabric, so a long slog on a wet saddle or a quick seat in the snow won't leave you cold and wet
- REMOVABLE KNEE PADS - Removable knee pads offer additional shield whether you're scrambling through talus in the Northern Rockies, picking your way through cactus in the Sonoran Desert, or field dressing an animal
- ARTICULATED PATTERNING - The fit is athletic with tapered legs and a low-profile waist that won't bunch or chafe under a pack
- DESIGNED FOR CHANGING CONDITIONS - This softshell pant is the go-to for those tough mid-to-late season conditions in the backcountry; it's constructed with ultra-durable 4-way stretch polyester which is both waterproof and breathable
no price can be determined (B01B6QZVCS)
View ProductThese 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.
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trouser - Men's Dark Olive 50 Regular
- Six practical pockets
- Equipped with knee pad pockets
- Mid waist and regular fit with pre-shaped knees
- Pocket suitable for knee pads
$333.00
View ProductIt 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.
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Wrangler Riggs Workwear mens Ranger work utility pants, Navy, 34W x 32L US
- RELAXED FIT. This relaxed fit work pant is designed with function and comfort in mind. Built with a relaxed fit through the seat, thigh, and knee, this work pant sits comfortably on the waist and leaves plenty of room to fit over your work boots.
- ROOM2MOVE COMFORT. For long days on the job, you want a work pant that keeps you comfortable. Made with an improved fit, this pant features an action gusset crotch and deep front pockets for added range of movement and comfort in wear.
- DURABLE MATERIALS. Constructed with 10oz 100% Cotton Ripstop fabric, for long-lasting durability and comfort, this Ripstop work pant offers a layer of protection from the elements while in the workplace.
- REINFORCED CONSTRUCTION. Built for long-lasting durability on the job, this work pant is reinforced in the knees, seams, and tape measure clip. Back pockets are lined in 1000 Denier Cordura for added durability.
- EXTRA STORAGE. A secure spot for all of your tools, this work pant is equipped with (1) hammer loop, (1) reinforced leather tape measure clip, (2) roomy side cargo pockets, (2) back pockets, (1) watch pocket, and (2) deep front pockets.
$49.99
List Price: $56.50
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.
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.
- Reliable & Functional: LA Police Gear Men's Urban Ops Tactical Pants are designed to suit various needs, from outdoor activities to professional use. With the combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design, it can be worn as hiking pants, work pants, duty pants, or EDC pants without looking out of place.
- Durable Fabric Construction: The RipStop fabric in our men’s pants aids in preventing small tears and rips from spreading, while a special fabric treatment makes these pants water and stain resistant. With the addition of reinforced bar tack stitching, articulating knees, and a gusseted crotch, it provides freedom of movement and rip/tear resistance to ensure these tac pants will hold up in rough and unforgiving conditions.
- Functional Pocket: Our pants feature 7 pockets for comprehensive storage including 2 front pockets, 2 rear pockets, 1 front slip pocket, and 2 large cargo pockets. These cargo pants offer plenty of room to store and organize all your EDC or duty gear.
- Stretch Waistband: These tactical trousers have a self-adjusting elastic waistband that offers a precise fit for added comfort while also giving you more room for concealed carry of an IWB holster or to tuck in your uniform shirt.
- Reliable Craftsmanship: With a reputation built on reliability, we combine expert craftsmanship with quality materials to create tactical gear that stands up to the toughest challenges, ensuring you stay prepared and protected.
$44.99
View ProductThe 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: MAGCOMSEN Men's Winter Fleece PANTS
When the temperature drops and the landscape turns white, you need pants that will keep you warm and protected. The MAGCOMSEN Men's Winter Pants combine warmth and durability in one.
- Please refer to the US size chart in the description before purchasing
- Material:92% polyester 8% spandex, Dintex soft shell fabric
- Characteristic: Wear-resistant zipper, Instant water resistant fabric, 3D pocket, Fleece lining, prevent cold
- Function:comfort, water resistant ,windproof,wear-resisting,breathe freely,wrinkle resistant,stylish,keep warm
- Suitable for: hunting,hiking,mountaineering, travelling, skiing, walking, camping, fishing, climb kayaking, biking, cycling, snowboarding,running.Even can be used during a snowfall and cold temperature.
$41.98
View ProductThe Fleece Pants, known for their quality and warmth, are made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex.
Unlike most fabrics, polyester is naturally water-repellent. And most importantly, if the pants do get wet, they will still keep you warm.
The MAGCOMSEN Men's Winter Pants have two large side pockets and a knife pocket on the right, and can be worn with either a belt or suspenders.
Advantages
Very warm
Water-repellent
High-quality, durable workmanship
Reinforced inner leg and hem area
Cheap
Disadvantages
Not breathable
Best Bushcraft Pants for Women
If you are looking for a feminine fit, you may feel limited in your selection of pants.
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.
Fjallraven Vidda Pro Trousers - Women's Mountain Blue 40
- Hardwearing trousers in G-1000 Original.
- Mid waist and regular fit with pre-shaped knees.
- Reinforced in back and knees.
- Hand pockets, map pocket, multitool pocket, internal phone pocket.
- Openings for knee pads (an accessory).
no price can be determined (B0B8CZGWXK)
View ProductOverall, 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 pant that are perfect for outdoor use all year round.
- CHOOSE - between our 2 fabrics. VersaStretch (20.5 oz) and VersaStretch Lite (10.5 oz)
- UNIQUE COMFORT - Thanks to its 4-way elastic fabric, you get a comfortable, slim look with an increased range of motion without unnecessary stress on its seams. Its stretchable waist gives you up to 2 additional inches for improved comfort
- SOFISTICATED - It’s lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking materials provides an increased comfort during prolonged use during outdoor activities and trekking
- LOW PROFILE DESIGN - combined with is stretchable material gives the versatility and capabilities to fulfill the needs of professional users while in many different settings. It has a perfect, patented pocket arrangement for carrying all your essential equipment in an organized fashion without losing your tactical advantage
- ACCESORIES AND BELT NOT INCLUDED
$99.99
View ProductMany 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.
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 Women's Outdoor Fleece Waterproof Ski Snow Hiking Pants Medium Black(W08FR-Black-M)
- Thick & Fleece and Thin & Quick-Dry types available.Thick fleece pants are more suitable for cold weather
- Multi waterproof zipper pockets keep personal belongings safely
- Adjustable waist allows pant to fit comfortably
- The patchwork knee is breathable,strong and wear-resistant
- Womens outdoor pants,perfect for hiking,mountaineering,camping,skiing,snowboarding and other winter activities
$36.99
View ProductThe 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.
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Under Armour Womens Tactical Patrol Pants II , Bayou (251)/Bayou , 8
- Material wicks sweat & dries really fast
- Durable rip-stop fabric stands up to the toughest treatment
- Open hand pockets & secure, flap closure back & cargo pockets
- Inseam: 32 ¼"
- Under Armour’s mission is to make all athletes better through passion, design and the relentless pursuit of innovation
$66.28
List Price: $79.99
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 Women's Lightweight Tactical Pants, Navy, 34 x 31
- Don't sacrifice price for quality, with Blackhawk you get what you pay for
- Segmented webbing in cargo pockets allows ''intelligent'' vertical storage of magazines, lights, etc
- Constructed of wrinkle, fade and stain-resistant polyester/cotton blend
- Double layer of fabric on seat, knees and hem
$55.46
View ProductDo 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
🤝8 reasons to trust my recommendation
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Practical Experience: I have tested most of the products I recommend under extreme conditions myself.
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Independence: As a wilderness mentor, I am not tied to any specific brands - this means my recommendations are unbiased.
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Expertise: My many years of experience allow me to understand the intricacies and details of various products that a layperson might overlook.
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Target group understanding: I understand the needs and challenges of outdoor enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned experts.
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Quality focus: I attach great importance to quality and longevity. These are characteristics that are crucial in the wild.
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Clear communication: I try to explain the pros and cons of each product clearly and understandably so that you can make an informed decision.
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Currentness: I always keep my guides up to date and adapt them to new findings or products.
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Community Feedback: I work in wilderness schools, teach courses myself, attend courses and am active in various outdoor and survival communities and therefore integrate the feedback and experiences of others into my recommendations.
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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