Stay warm and dry on drizzly walks this springtime with our pick of the best waterproof trousers for women…

Columbia Wyldwood Waterproof Hiking Trousers

£180, columbiasportswear.co.uk

At a glance:

  • Fully sealed seams for waterproof protection
  • Four-way stretch for freedom of movement
  • Packable into a pocket, with leg zips for access over boots

What the brand says: Tackle wet weather with these waterproof hiking trousers, featuring a fully seam-sealed breathable finish and external taped seams to keep the rain out and you feeling fresh and dry. Designed for adventure and flexibility, the articulated knees and four-way comfort stretch, alongside a drawcord adjustable waist and hem, mean you can move freely and without restriction as you explore. They are also packable into a pocket so you can throw them in your bag and be ready for anything. Plus, they are made from 100 per cent recycled polyester and have a 3/4 leg zip for quick and easy access over your boots.

What we say: Prior to trying these out, I’d only experienced the sort of waterproof trousers that fail to keep you dry when the rain gets heavy and tend to feel like thin and slippery bin bags on your legs. It’s safe to say, these are a huge upgrade. From a first impression, they are incredibly stylish and flattering, especially for waterproof trousers – the slim fit prevents any awkward bulkiness, and I love the neutral Dark Stone colour. Ideal for active hikers, the breathable fabric is slightly stretchy, offering complete freedom of movement while protecting you from the elements. I tried them out on a variety of rainy walks and was impressed at how cosy and dry I felt every time: I wore some thick leggings underneath and not one drop of water made it through – not even around the seams or zips! I’m usually a size 10 and the medium fits me perfectly – the elasticated waist promises comfort, while the adjustable drawstrings around the ankles help you customise the fit and prevent any rain from getting in. Even when sat down on wet surfaces, no water was able to seep through, thanks to the external taped seams. I also decided to take the testing process one step further by seeing how they would fare in the shower: lo and behold, despite blasting my legs with the strongest showerhead setting available, the fully waterproof exterior kept me perfectly dry! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend these to anyone who’s after some comfy, effective and stylish waterproof trousers.

Rab Women’s Ladakh Paclite Plus Pants

£210, cotswoldoutdoor.com

At a glance:

  • Lightweight and packable
  • Made with recycled Gore-Tex Paclite Plus fabric
  • Adjustable waist cord lock for a secure fit

What the brand says: Designed to offer superior waterproof protection in sudden downpours, these trousers are crafted from 100 per cent recycled Gore-Tex Paclite Plus fabric, promising to keep you dry in the harshest of conditions. Combining functionality, durability and eco-friendly design, the lightweight and breathable trousers are perfect for packing away until a storm hits.

The 3/4 length two-way zip makes it easy to slip them on over your boots, while the internal storm guard, elasticated hem and snap fasteners work together to keep out the elements. The part-elasticated waist and adjustable cord lock offers a secure and comfy fit, while enhanced knee articulation ensures full mobility, so you can move freely.

What we say: I’ve come across numerous waterproof trousers over the years. From the ugly and the il-fitting to the not-fit-for-purpose. In fact, I think there’s a super uncomfy pair squashed at the back of my wardrobe somewhere as I write. So, it’s with absolute sincerity that I say these trousers are not only comfortable to walk in but also pretty flattering for waterproof bottoms. Weighing in at just 269g, I doubt you’d get much lighter than these, which makes them the perfect addition to any hiking holiday bag. I certainly wouldn’t think twice about packing them in my rucksack if I was heading to another part of the country to tackle some hills. The part-elasticated waist with drawcord is a blessing, as you can fashion your own personalised fit depending on the thickness and design of the leggings or thermals you’ve got on underneath. I also love how easy these are to get over my walking boots – it takes seconds! Made with recycled Gore-Tex Paclite Plus fabric, which uses a 2.5 layer construction that is both packable and light, there’s absolutely no chance of the rain penetrating these trousers to soak your layers underneath. Water simply trickles off them, so you remain dry for when the sun comes back out again.

And if you do get drenched and muddy, the 3/4 length zip makes it easy to take the trousers off when you need to. What’s more, these are sure to keep the wind out and legs warm – they certainly did on my cold, wet and breezy stroll!

Best waterproof jackets for women

Best of the rest:

H&M StormMove Unisex Rain Trousers

£44.99, hm.com

Offer a loose and lightweight fit with an elasticated drawstring, while the StormMove functional fabric works to protect you from the wind and rain.

Craghoppers Kiwi Pro II Waterproof Trousers

£95, craghoppers.com

Waterproof, stretchy and breathable, with AQUADRY technology and a warm brushed lining for complete wet-weather protection, without restricting agility.

Montane Women’s Phase Waterproof Pull-On Pants

£280, montane.com

Offer reliable waterproof protection thanks to the GORE-TEX fabric. They are also breathable, lightweight and comfortable, thanks to the zipped side seams and
elasticated waistband.

TOG24 Silsden Women’s Waterproof Trousers

£70, tog24.com

Are comfortable, breathable and shaped to fit in all the right places. Designed in West Yorkshire, they are fully waterproof and windproof to stand up to the wildest weather.