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Best Gore-Tex Pants – 2024 Edition
The features that Gore-Tex bring to your clothing, is it will protect you from the rain and will also allow your clothing to breathe and allow for the musky air to exit and fresh air to come in. Now, one of the most important pieces of clothing that you will want to make sure is made from Gore-Tex material is your pants. Your pants are important as they are the piece of clothing that is most susceptible to getting wet, this way even if you find yourself in wet weather, you will be protected.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Fit
What these all have in common is the implementation of Gore-Tex technology.
As you already know, this is a type of fabric that is suitable to withstand all kinds of certain weather conditions. Thanks to its membrane and laminate, you can enjoy the material that is waterproof and windproof. With a Gore-Tex, licensed product, this is a guarantee. No matter the product, this is a certainty if it uses authentic Gore-Tex technology. However, past this, there are some design features that you can look for that enhance the durability and weather-resistant properties.
One of which is the reinforcement that is used in the high-wear areas (for example the instep and hems). It is a good sign when these areas have extra protection against abrasions and chafing. To do so, manufacturers can use different types of technology and fabric. Also, keep an eye out for enhancement in the waterproofness, which could include both the seams and zippers. To ensure that you are guaranteed to be kept dry, past the Gore-Tex fabric, it is a huge addition when the seams are fully-taped and when the zippers are resistant to water.
Comfort
The incredible fabric immediately delivers a breathable experience for your legs, but the comfort of these Gore-Tex pants goes way beyond that.
While there are several features that you can look out for, prioritize the pants that sport a gusseted crotch and articulated knees. If you were wondering why so many entries on this list implemented these two design features, you are about to find out why.
When you see “gusseted crotch” it is in reference to the way the crotch area of the pants is sewn. A gusset is simply a piece of denim that is shaped in the way of a diamond. When this is sewn into the crotch area of trousers, it eliminates several seams and ensures you have more maneuverability and a higher amount of comfort. Meanwhile, articulated the knees is a very similar technology.
If you closely look at a pair of pants that have articulated knees, you will notice that they closely resemble the shape of a human leg. As opposed to a straight fit, this allows you to have a greater range of movement. In times where you need to crouch or kneel down, you will immediately see the difference.
Features
It is possible that you are sitting there asking yourself how a pair of trousers could have convenient features.
Normally, you are right to think so but Gore-Tex pants are special. There are actually quite a lot of features to look out for that will deliver convenience to you. Some may even be a deal breaker in certain circumstances. For example, some will come equipped with full side zippers that give you an easy way to put them on/off with boots on. Or, with laminated powered cuffs that will easily fit over your boot to keep out any snow.
Of course, convenience does not have to be in-depth or complicated, either. Features as simple as having an elastic waistband with a drawcord for adjustability and having a standard fit to accommodate underneath clothing can play a major role in the decision process. Basically, if you come across a feature while searching through these types of products and you find yourself saying “Man, that would be convenient”, you know it is a worthwhile addition.
Value
Speaking of user-preference, this personifies that with flying colors.
With any type of apparel that exists in the world, the seller options will always come into play. For Gore-Tex pants, it comes down to size and color. These are the primary options you will have at your disposal and one is optional and the other is mandatory. To explain, choosing between colors is all about your style. If the colors provided do not satisfy you, then it may force you to go in a different direction. However, if you wanted to, you could still invest in a pair where you were not in love with the color and get some use out of them.
But, the same thing can’t be said in terms of size. This is critically important as though some will have an elastic waistband, you still need a general size to adapt for you. For instance, if you are a heavier individual who wears XL clothing, pants that stop at large may not work for you. The same goes for extra-small folks.
Top 10 Pairs of Gore-Tex Pants
1. Arc'teryx Beta AR
Men, you can brag now because you have the best option available. The Beta AR pants from Arcteryx is the reason why people love Gore-Tex pants in the first place. Being made from Pro-3 Gore-Tex fabric, they are completely breathable, windproof, and waterproof. It also has reinforced Keprotech technology to protect all the patches against abrasion and chafing. All in all, these pants are built for heavy-duty and rugged use.
Read moreComfortability
Do not think just because they are designed to withstand the punishment that they suffer in comfortability. On the contrary, it has an articulated and reinforced seat and knees that provide ease of motion. Plus, it has fewer seams to make it more lightweight.
Convenient Features
The Beta AR are built with convenience in mind with side zippers (with back flaps) that provide a simple way to remove boots and crampons. To incorporate boot-lace hooks, there are also laminated powder cuffs.
Storage and Pockets
While these types of Gore-Tex pants are not known for their storage, you can find a pocket attached to the hip stash.
Size and Color Options
The sizes are available for small to large, with an option for xx-large. As far as colors go, you can choose between black and blue smoke.
Overall
It really does not get much better than this when talking about Gore-Tex. Besides its integrated technology for ultimate weather protection, it is loaded with convenient features and enough comfortability for everyone.
2. Burton Reserve
This pair of Gore-Tex pants will make a great addition to your outdoor gear. Not only do they provide great protection for your legs but they also come up as a bib and protect your lower abdomen as well. If you are looking for full protection, and a pant that is made from Gore-tex, these just might be the pants for you.
Read moreComfortability
Talk about comfortability, these Gore-Tex pants not only provide a great fit but also feel great against your skin while wearing them. They will offer the best protection while at the same time providing maximum comfortability.
Convenient Features
They have great storage pockets and allow you to store your other gear or clothing in these pants without issue or obstructing your comfortability. They also have adjustable suspenders, to allow you to customize these pants for a perfect fit.
Storage and Pockets
They have a good variety of storage pockets. They have pockets on the side of your pants and on the front of your pants as well to give you great accessibility.
Size and Color Options
These Gore-Tex pants come in a variety of sizes to ensure you will find the perfect pair that will fit you and keep you comfortable. They come in xx-small all the way up to XX-large. They come in black and dark green.
Overall
Overall, if you are going to find yourself in some colder weather or want more protection than a standard pair of pants will provide you with, then these pants might be the ones for you.
3. Quiksilver Forever
For those of you with a large budget to spend, the Quiksilver Men’s Forever 21 Gore-tex pants have plenty to offer. Waterproof and well ventilated, the seams on these pants have been fully taped to prevent any potential water seeping through. Plus, zipped pockets and button closure, give the snow pants a stylish finish.
Read moreComfortability
These Quiksilver snow pants are certainly comfy. They have a mesh lining and an inside waist adjuster linked to a jacket-to-pant attachment system.
Convenient Features
The Gore-Tex snow pants have fully taped seams and a reinforced bottom hem panel. They have mesh-lined venting, allowing your body to breathe comfortably. The pants also have a taffeta boot gaiter with a lycra stretch panel.
Storage and Pockets
These snow pants feature a variety of zipper pockets. They have storage pockets on the side of the pants, with one on the back of the pants and one at the thigh. All of these offer plenty of storage for your personal belongings.
Size and Colour Options
The Gore-Tex snow pants come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the best fit. They come in x-small to x-large. For colors, they come in a grape leaf, flame, and black.
Overall
This option will keep you dry and well ventilated. Extremely comfy, this stylish pair of paints from Quiksilver does however come at a high price which may not be suitable for some.
4. Berghaus PacLite
When the biggest issue with a pair of pants is how difficult it is to get them on while wearing boots, you know you have something special. This is, in fact, a great way to describe the Men’s Paclite pants from Berghaus. Rest assured, these pants will accommodate any weather you traverse in. Thanks to its water-resistant zippers and micro-taped seams, all water will be kept out. In addition, Gore-Tex technology also provides resistance to the wind and great breathability.
Read moreComfortability
Once again, there are 3/4-length zippers that will allow for ventilation. In times where your legs are beginning to sweat profusely, these can come in handy.
Convenient Features
On your trip, if you wish to store these Gore-Tex pants away, you can do so with the included mesh sack. It compressed down easily and makes storage an absolute breeze. But, what is not convenient, they can be troublesome to get on and off with boots on.
Storage and Pockets
A notable piece of knowledge to be aware of is when wearing these Gore-Tex pants, it is nearly impossible to access any pant pockets that are worn underneath.
Size and Color Options
While there is only one color option to choose from, thankfully being black, you can choose from various sizes from small to xx-large.
Overall
Unless you plan on constantly taking these pants off with boots on, they should be a terrific addition to your next trip. Its Gore-Tex technology provides a tremendous amount of breathability and comfort.
5. Marmot Minimalist
These particular Gore-Tex pants are not necessarily loaded with many features or built to withstand extremely severe weather conditions, but their construction and comfort really speak for themselves. With Gore-Tex and Paclite technology, the result is a waterproof pair of pants with a protective inner layer. To enhance the waterproof nature, the seams are 100 percent taped. In addition, it is made 100 percent from Polyester material.
Read moreComfortability
They are constructed with the least amount of weight and bulkiness possible, creating a more comfortable experience for you. With articulated knees, your motion and movability are also enhanced.
Convenient Features
While it is not loaded with features, it does include an elastic waist with a snap closure. Plus, it also has a zip fly and ankle zips when needed.
Storage and Pockets
Not only are there hand pockets that you can utilize, but they also have zippers that are completely water-resistant.
Size and Color Options
Some sizes may not be available, but you can choose from small to xx-large. Color-wise, the options are there for black and slate gray.
Overall
They do not necessarily bring anything new to the table but utilize Gore-Tex technology as well as you possibly could. This should be enough to warrant a purchase.
6. Outdoor Research Foray
Outdoor Research can make stellar men’s Gore-Tex pants. Their men’s Foray pants are nearly just as good but one factor to note is that they tend to fit long. To the core, these pants are made to be waterproof. Besides the obvious Gore-Tex Paclite membrane that provides protection, the seams are fully-taped to eliminate any potential for water to seep through. Plus, the zippers are resistant to water and will seal out moisture.
Read moreComfortability
Even on the hardest of adventures, this option will keep you comfortable. For ventilation, there are ¾-length zippers that you can open up. In addition, they feature a gusseted crotch and articulated knees that add to the overall comfort and ease of mobility.
Convenient Features
The main feature to take note of here is that it is a standard fit. What is nice and convenient about this is that you can layer underneath with little to no hassle. This comes in handy when you need to dress for extremely cold conditions.
Storage and Pockets
Located on the back is a pocket that will carry your essentials, for example, your wallet. Plus, it has a back-pocket stuff sack for an easy way to store away these pants when not in use.
Size and Color Options
Only one color is available here, that being Coyote, but you have various size options including everything from small to xx-large.
Overall
The lone color option, which may not accommodate every guy, and the lengthy size may veer some away from these. If those two factors are not an issue, though, then enjoy the terrific design and quality of the Foray pants.
7. Volcom Lo
The Volcom Lo Gore-Tex Articulated snow pants can certainly withstand the elements. Highly breathable, waterproof, and featuring fully taped seams, nothing will prevent you from enjoying the outdoors.
Read moreComfortability
These Gore-Tex pants from Volcom have a GPT articulated fit which provides plenty of room for movement. The mesh-lined zippered vents allow you to get rid of excess heat easily, wherever you are.
Convenient Features
The Volcom pants have fully taped seams that prevent water from soaking through and help keep the cold out. The pants include a breathable lining system and mesh-lined zippered vents that help keep you cool. Aqua guard water repellent zippers also provide enhanced water resistance.
Storage and Pockets
These snow pants have numerous pockets enclosed by zippers, allowing you to store personal items.
Size and Color Options
Some sizes may not be available, but you can choose from x-small to xx-large. However, when it comes to color you can pick from teak, orange, black print, burnt red, and black.
Overall
Style and warmth go hand-in-hand with this pair of snow pants from Volcom. Suitable to withstand the elements, these are the perfect pants for any outdoor adventurer, however, be aware the pants can only be dry cleaned and the sizing may be larger than expected.
8. Zero Restriction Women’s Stacy
If you enjoy golfing, these Zero Restriction Women’s Stacy Gore-Tex Pants have been specially designed and created by golfers for golfers. Using innovative technology and patented features, these pants offer plenty of freedom so you can achieve the perfect swing.
Read moreComfortability
The designers at Zero have developed and constructed these pants so they offer an ergonomic fit. Made from soft and stretchy fabric, these women’s pants have an adjustable waistband so you can achieve the perfect fit. They also have a zipper fly and gripper elastic.
Convenient Features
The main feature here is the adjustable waistband which is great because it allows you to get the perfect fit. These women’s Gore-Tex pants are also extremely waterproof, breathable, and allow plenty of movement.
Storage and Pockets
this option has three zipper pockets, two located on the front of the pants, and one on the back.
Size and Color Options
Only one color is available here, being Black, but they offer a variety of size options including everything from x-small to x-large.
Overall
These make a fantastic pair of pants to wear for golfing however apart from an adjustable waistband, they lack any additional features. Plus, the pants are quite pricey.
9. Burton Women's AK 2L Summit
The AK 2L women’s Summit pants are terrific when it comes to comfortability, but do not have too many extra features to provide convenience for you. However, when you are wearing them, you will not be paying attention to the lack of features but the amazing comfort. These Gore-Tex pants combine the intelligence of Burton and the technology of Gore-Tex to provide a breathable, waterproof and windproof pair of trousers. They are guaranteed to keep your dry, no questions asked.
Read moreComfortability
A performance mid fit provides a loose, but not baggy, fit to allow your legs to breathe. However, the membrane itself is what makes these so comfortable and gives you unparalleled comfort throughout the day.
Convenient Features
Not too many to speak of here, but there are inner thigh vents to allow your legs to breathe.
Storage and Pockets
Equipped in these Gore-Tex pants are thigh cargo pockets that allow you to carry around some basic items and accessories.
Size and Color Options
You have a decent amount of colors to choose from including eclipse, grapeseed, storm camo, and true black. For sizes, choose from extra-small to extra-large.
Overall
Comfort and wearability are probably the most important aspects of clothing and the 2L Women’s Summit Pants excel in both categories. When it comes down to it, is there really anything more you could ask for?
10. Under Armour Storm
This pair of Under Amour men's Storm Gore-Tex Paclite pants will make a great addition to your outdoor wardrobe. Not only are they built with UA Storm Technology, but the Gore-Tex construction is 100% waterproof and still manages to remain breathable. If you are looking for a lot of protection these pants may be exactly what you have been looking for.
Read moreComfortability
The 2.5-layer bonded fabric creates a brushed interior and smooth, durable exterior. Waterproof and windproof, these pants will keep you protected from the wet and windy weather. Elastic side adjusters on the waistband will give you a comfy fit.
Convenient Features
They feature elastic side adjusters positioned on the waistband, giving you a comfy fit. The pants present a tapered fit which makes them look clean and sharp as well as comfy. Built with UA Storm Technology, these pants will repel water without sacrificing breathability.
Storage and Pockets
They have two secure hand pockets and a back right pocket.
Size and Color Options
Only one color is available here being Black/Silver. Size-wise, this pair of pants is quite limiting, being only available in 3X-Large.
Overall
Overall, these men’s pants from Under Armour are a durable construction that will protect you against the wind and rain without sacrificing breathability. However, these tapered pants only come in one size and color which is a little disappointing.
11. GORE WEAR Tights
The GORE WEAR Men’s tights are great if you need some pants that will protect you against the wind and rain but at the same time improve your performance.
Read moreComfortability
These tights may be fitted, but they will give you the freedom to move and improve your athletic performance. The running tights feature an elastic closure, giving a stretchy and comfortable fit.
Convenient Features
These tights have been constructed with Gore-Tex Infinium with Windstopper technology making them highly water-resistant, windproof, and extremely breathable. A 3-layer Windstopper laminate provides further wind protection across areas that are more vulnerable to the cold like knees and the crotch. These running tights have also been designed with reflective material, making them suitable for night-time runs due to their 360-degree visibility.
Storage and Pockets
This option includes a small zipper pocket along the back of the waistband and has a media pocket positioned on the left thigh. Both pockets are great for storing your keys and phone.
Size and Color Options
A few color options are available including Black and Black/Neon Yellow. For the running tights, you can pick between small to xx-large sizes.
Overall
Overall, these are a great pair of tights for running because they protect you against the wind and rain. Built with gore Windstopper laminate, they will protect you in colder weather. Featuring reflective detail, you can also be seen in the dark. The black color makes these a little dull to look at however they come in a range of sizes so you can choose the correct size for you.
Sources
- , Best Gore-Tex Pants , Website
- , WATERPROOF PANTS: DO YOU NEED THEM?, Website