Arc'teryx Rampart Pants
The Arc'teryx Rampart Pants use TerraTex fabric (94% nylon, 6% Lycra) for breathable, quick-drying hiking performance with UPF 50+ sun protection. The relaxed fit, articulated knees, and gusseted crotch allow unrestricted movement on technical terrain. Six pockets, including two cargo pockets, provide storage for trail essentials.
I bought these for warm-weather hiking where breathability matters more than weather protection. The TerraTex fabric moves moisture away from skin and dries within minutes after stream crossings. The UPF 50+ rating handles full-sun exposure on exposed ridgelines without additional sun protection.
TerraTex Fabric with UPF 50+ Sun Protection
The TerraTex fabric weighs less than cotton-blend hiking pants while providing better abrasion resistance. The nylon-Lycra blend stretches with movement and recovers its shape without bagging out at the knees. The fabric resists light rain and dries quickly when wet.
Arc'teryx built these with articulated knees that bend naturally during high steps. The gusseted crotch eliminates binding during scrambles and steep climbs. The wide waistband sits comfortably under a pack hipbelt without creating pressure points.
How Do the Arc'teryx Rampart Pants Fit?
The relaxed fit provides room for movement without excess fabric that can catch on the brush. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I found the length runs slightly short for my preference. The pants sit on a mannequin now because the inseam doesn't work for my proportions, but the quality and performance are excellent.
The waist sizing runs true to Arc'teryx standards. The integrated belt system adjusts fit without requiring an external belt. The cargo pockets add bulk at the thighs, which some hikers find annoying under pack hipbelts. The hand pockets sit high enough to remain accessible with a hipbelt fastened.
Quick-Drying on Hot Climbs and Stream Crossings
The TerraTex breathes well on hot climbs where heavier pants would cause overheating. The quick-dry performance handles sweat and stream crossings without staying wet for long. The UPF 50+ protection proved valuable on exposed alpine terrain, where sun exposure accumulates over long days.
The articulated construction allows full range of motion on technical terrain. High steps, scrambling, and steep descents all feel natural without the pants restricting movement. The fabric resists abrasion from rock contact and brush without showing wear.
Bulky Cargo Style and Limited Wind Protection
The relaxed fit with cargo pockets creates a bulkier silhouette than trimmer hiking pants. For fast-and-light approaches where every ounce matters, the Rampart might feel excessive. The Lefroy Pant offers similar performance in a trimmer cut.
The TerraTex fabric doesn't block wind as effectively as softshell materials. On exposed ridgelines with strong wind, these pants feel cold. For variable conditions, the Gamma Pant provides better wind resistance. The prAna Stretch Zion II offers similar cargo-style hiking performance at a lower price.
For other hiking gear, see the Acrux TR GTX boots and best beanies for hiking.