Rain pants protect the lower body when sustained rain, wet vegetation or strong wind would overwhelm ordinary hiking pants. They are useful emergency layers for day hikes and essential protection for longer trips in persistently wet conditions.

Compare waterproofing, breathability, seam sealing, side-zip length, fabric durability and packability. Longer zips make rain pants easier to put on over shoes and improve ventilation, while reinforced cuffs are useful in rough terrain.

Rain pants and water-repellent hiking pants provide different levels of protection. DWR-treated hiking pants handle brief moisture and dry quickly; waterproof pants use a barrier and sealed seams for sustained rain, but usually feel warmer during high-output movement.