There’s quite simply nothing worse than being caught out while on a lovely, long and meandering walk in the countryside. The journey begins gloriously sunny, but before long you find yourself sprinting for shelter under the nearest collection of trees due to an unexpected opening of the heavens.
While we’d love to romanticise the experience and implore our readers to enjoy a dance in the rain, we consider ourselves to be realists here at ES Best. We’re certainly not going to advise you to engage in activities which could leave you chilled to the bone with a rotten cold and mind-numbing headache.
The worst part about getting stuck in a torrential downpour without proper waterproof protection? When your trousers get soaked through and start sticking to the skin, causing a profoundly itchy sensation which leaves you wondering why you left the house in the first place.
This is why waterproof overtrousers are a hugely underrated outdoor accessory for avid hikers, walkers, climbers and general countryside enjoyers. Pairing your favourite rain jacket with a pair of packable waterproof trousers ensures you can enjoy gorgeous, mountainous adventures no matter the weather.
What to consider before purchasing waterproof overtrousers
- Waterproof rating: According to Mountain Warehouse, waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres using what is referred to as a Hydrostatic Head test. This is when a fabric is pulled tight under a sealed tube of water to see how many millimetres of water the fabric can withstand before soaking through. Water resistance is approximately 1,500mm, standard waterproofing is 5,000mm and extreme waterproofing begins at 10,000mm.
- Packability: Rain is a fickle creature. You never really know when it’s going to start, if it’s going to start at all, or when exactly it’s going to stop. This makes carrying packable, lightweight waterproofs which won’t overload your backpack an essential.
- Ease of movement: While waterproofs should fit snugly to avoid rain from leaking through, they should also offer freedom of movement on long walks, climbs and hikes.
- Side zips: These are an oft-forgotten essential for waterproof trousers which makes slipping them over your shoes, leggings, trousers or shorts a breeze.
We’ve curated a selection of the best unisex waterproof overtrousers to keep you dry on outdoor excursions. Torrential downpour is no match for these perfectly packable pants.
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Origin Packable Waterproof Overtrousers
- Waterproof rating: 10,000mm
Beloved for producing the original packable waterproof anorak, Mac in a Sac is also home to an array of other durable, weather-proof clothing covers.
The Origin overtrousers, just like the brand’s other hero product, come in a handy drawstring bag that is slightly bigger than the average palm. Highly waterproof up to 10,000mm with fully taped seams, an elasticated waist, Velcro adjustable legs and reflective detailing, the 100 per cent polyester trousers are a value-for-money must-have for hiking enthusiasts. The unisex overtrousers are available in three neutral hues with a relaxed fit and a breathable, 8,000gsm finish.
Buy now £22.50, Amazon
Men’s Extreme Downpour Waterproof Over Trousers
- Waterproof rating: 10,000mm
Though technically listed as men’s waterproof trousers, these handy button-down overtrousers are available in sizes ranging from XXS-4XL making them suitable for everyone. They have taped seams and a soft polyester lining for the utmost comfort and are suitable for use in heavy rain thanks to their high waterproof rating. Mesh lining improves breathability while the half-leg buttons make slipping them over your footwear in a pinch easier than ever.
Buy now £39.99, Mountain Warehouse
Caperlan Wading Trousers
- Waterproof rating: 30,000mm
Wading trousers are a must-have for long fishing trips, water hikes and excursions during particularly inclement weather. They’re waterproof up to 30,000mm, meaning you can essentially submerge the lower half of your body without running the risk of getting your clothes wet. These trousers are a lightweight, puncture-resistant option which comes with a zipped carrier bag and detachable, adjustable straps. They even come with a pair of brilliantly reinforced neoprene wading socks for the utmost protection.
Buy now £119.99, Decathlon
Berghaus Paclite Pant
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
Though on the more expensive end of the spectrum, these packable overtrousers by Berghaus are worth the investment. They’re made with Gore-Tex Paclite technology which provides a tried-and-tested, lightweight, packable and highly waterproof shell. The trousers are also equipped with three-quarter length side zips for speedy changing and ventilation.
Buy now £150.00, Berghaus
Arc’Teryx Alpha Pant
- Waterproof rating: 28,000mm
For a pair of waterproof overtrousers designed to last for as long as you’re capable of adventuring, look no further than the Arc’Teryx Alpha Pant. Available for both men and women, these trousers have been specifically designed with climbers in mind. They’re a lightweight and minimalist option which are suited to alpine environments and helps climbers maintain freedom of movement. Gore-Tex fabrication makes them fantastically waterproof, windproof and breathable while full side-zips make slipping in and out easy as pie.
Buy now £320.00, Arc’Teryx
Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Pants
- Waterproof rating: 20,000mm
Like all garments by Patagonia, the Torrentshell waterproof overtrousers are made using recycled and eco-friendly materials. With partially elasticated cuffs for a snug, fully waterproof fit, these breathable pants weigh just 335g making them a fantastically packable option. Quickdry technology also means that they’ll be ready to go within hours of a particularly rainy hike, should poor weather strike again.
Buy now £130.00, Cotswold Outdoor
The North Face Antora Rain Pants
Crafted with 100 per cent recycled nylon, The North Face Antora Rain Pants are equipped with an array of premium features which make them any hiker’s dream. For instance, the trousers have an elasticated waistband with an internal drawcord for adjustability, articulated knees for freedom of movement and handy lower-leg zippers. Though an official waterproof rating isn’t listed, they have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish which makes them suitable for average, but not torrential, downpour.
Buy now £67.50, Cotswold Outdoor
Helly Hansen Voss Waterproof Rain Trousers
These practical rain trousers are brightly coloured for brilliant visibility no matter where you are. Lightweight and comfortable, they are coated with a highly waterproof polyurethane coating. No waterproof rating is listed, but they’re considered to be highly protective waterproof trousers for outdoor jobs.
Buy now £36.00, Helly Hansen
