We have been out in all kinds of weather conditions. The best bushcraft pants we have found are the 1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pants.
I prefer these pants since they are super durable and made 100% in the USA. They’re made using 1620 workwear’s proprietary fabric, which is water-resistant and the most durable I have found.
Plus, the pants have a reinforced knees – a vital feature for bushcraft pants.
As an ex-military member, I’ve had my fair share of experience with tough bushcraft pants. I also participate in monthly primitive camping trips, which involve a lot of time in the woods. I’ve gone through many pairs of pants – and have several lying around the house.
However, the best bushcraft pants for you depend on your preferences and situations. For instance, some are best for cold weather, while others are better for warmer weather.
Keep reading for my specific suggestions and guidance on how to choose the best bushcraft pants for you.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison of our Favorite Bushcraft Pants
- Best Bushcraft Pants
- 1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0 – Best Overall
- Nebu Rob Roy Pants – Most Comfortable
- Fjallraven Men's Vidda Pro Trousers – Best All Weather
- 5.11 Tactical Men's Taclite Pro Performance Pants – Best Budget
- Helikon-Tex HOP Hybrid Outback Pants – Best Waistband
- Prana Stretch Zion Convertible Pants – Best Lightweight
- Kryptek Men's Stalker Camo Hunting Pants
- Carhartt Men's Rugged Cargo Pants
- TBMPOY Men's Outdoor Hiking Pants with Reinforced Knees
- Carhartt Men's Flame Resistant Canvas Cargo Pants
- Tips for Choosing Your Bushcraft Pants
- Bushcraft Pants Video Guide
- Which Bushcraft Pants Should You Get?
Quick Comparison of our Favorite Bushcraft Pants
1620 Workwear Double Knee Pants
NYCO Fabric
Super Durable
Water Repellant
MSRP: $198.00
Nebu Rob Roy Pants
Lightweight
Comfortable
Water Repellant
MSRP: $89.00
Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Trousers
Durable
Comfotable
Plenty of Pockets
MSRP: $170.00
5.11 Tactical Men’s Taclite Pro Performance Pants
Comfortable
Lightweight
Teflon Coated
MSRP: $58.00
Helikon-Tex HOP Hybrid Outback Pants
Comfort Waist
Durable
Breathable
MSRP: $99.00
Best Bushcraft Pants
1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pant 2.0 – Best Overall
- Material: Proprietary Cordura NYCO
- Pockets: Nine
- Good For: All but very Hot Weather
I have been wearing the 1620 Workwear Double Knee pants for a few months now and they have quickly become my favorite outdoor pants.
While they are designed to be a heavy-duty work pant, the design carries over into the work I do outside whether it be bushcraft, cutting wood, or other tasks on my property.
What sets these pants apart is the fabric and the design.
The fabric is 1620 workwear’s own proprietary design called Cordura Stretch NYCO. It was inspired by the US military and improved upon. It is very durable, but breathes, stretches, and dries quickly.
Most other outdoor pants I have tried use a cotton duck type fabric with a layer of heavier nylon for abrasion resistance. This usually makes the knees not very flexible and uncomfortable. These pants do not have that issue since the entire pant is made with NYCO fabric.
These pants are also coated with a water repellent finish, and I find that water just runs right off them.
The front of the pants has two layers of NYCO, from just below the pocket to halfway down my calf. I walked through a thick field of briars with them on and did not have any even catch on my pants, they just can’t penetrate.
I like the design of the pockets as well. The front pockets are deep and have a large double pocket. I can put my keys in the main front pocket and keep my phone or multitool separate in the second pocket.
These pants do not have the annoying cargo pockets around my knees. I find these are hard to use for much on other pants except for light items.
Instead, these have longer side pockets down my thigh. I found these are perfect for my folding bushcraft saw or even a fixed blade knife.
There is also a zipper pocket on my right leg, and I find it a perfect place to keep my wallet.
I also like that there is a tool loop on both sides. The location is perfect for carrying my bushcraft axe when I am gathering firewood or even hiking for a short distance. I don’t hit the handle with my knees.
Also see my 1620 Workwear Review for more on these pants and the other clothing that they have.
Recommended for:
The 1620 workwear Double Knee utility Pants 2.0 are for anyone that spends time outside bushcrafting, camping, and for any type of work. They will outlast most other pants and their design is well thought out.
PROS
Proprietary Fabric
Pocket Design
Durability
Lifetime Warranty
CONS
Warm in Hot Weather
Nebu Rob Roy Pants – Most Comfortable
Save 15% at Nebu on all items with our discount code “survivalstoic”
- Material: Nylon & Spandex
- Pockets: Seven
- Good For: Hot Weather
I have always liked rock climbing pants for their comfort. But, over the years I couldn’t find any that were durable enough for wearing out in the woods.
I have been trying out the Nebu Rob Roy pants for the past few months and think they are the perfect combination of comfort and durability. They also have some unique design elements that make them stand out.
The fabric is a Nylon and Spandex combination, so they are very comfortable, and I have a full range of motion (after all, they are for climbing!) They are also lightweight and moisture wicking, which makes them perfect for the warmer months. I found that water runs right off them, and they dry quickly as well.
When I walk, these pants do make a sort of “swishing” sound. In the woods it is hardly noticeable, but if I am walking around at home or on a quiet surface, I can hear them. If you want to be super quiet when you walk, keep this in mind.
I especially like the pocket layout. Besides the normal front and rear pockets, there are also three unique pockets on the right side. Instead of the typical cargo pockets on the legs that bang my knees, these are about midway up my thigh.
The main pocket is a large “slip” pocket that is perfect for my phone. It is large enough to carry other items as well like a folding saw or radio.
Between the front and rear pocket is a smaller knife pocket. I found it a great place to keep my Leatherman multitool. It fits nice and snug, and I can just push up on the bottom of it to get it out.
Behind the larger pocket is a zipper pocket. This pocket is smaller than the main side pocket. However, I found it a great place to put my wallet.
I do wish the front pockets were a little deeper. It is really my only gripe on the pockets.
These pants also have a built-in adjustable belt but have belt loops for a regular belt as well. This is a unique feature I haven’t found in other pants like this. At night when I am relaxing, I can take off my main belt and my pants still stay up.
But what I really like about these pants is the price. They are considerably cheaper than most others with the same features. Plus, with our discount code you can save an additional 15% plus free shipping. They also have a lifetime warranty and a 30-day risk-free trial.
Recommended for:
The Nebu Rob Roy Pants are for anyone that wants a lightweight, comfortable, and affordable pair of bushcraft pants.
PROS
Comfortable
Affordable
Lightweight
Water Repellant Finish
CONS
Front Pocket Depth
Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Trousers – Best All Weather
- Material: Cotton & Polyester
- Pockets: Seven
- Good For: Cool and Warm Weather
The Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Trousers are great in just about any condition. They’re made from Fjallraven’s signature G-1000 fabric, fabric that you can’t get anywhere else. This fabric is made from a blend of cotton and polyester, making it water-resistant and wind-proof.
I love the reinforced knees and seat. In my experience, this is the first part of the pants to go. Therefore, having them reinforced increases the longevity of the pants.
There are also plenty of pockets. These include several cargo pockets, a knife pocket, and a map pocket. There is even a sleeve to hold my hatchet. I find that taking a short hikes away from camp without a pack is easy with these pants since I can carry everything I need.
Compared to others, these are more expensive. Sizing can also be tricky, since they are made in Europe.
I have found that I can wax these pants for added water resistance – something that can’t be done on some of the other pants that are not cotton duck (the 1620 pants come with a water resistant treatment already.)
Recommended for:
I recommend the Fjallraven Men’s Vidda Pro Trousers to anyone who likes the brand and wants a traditional outdoor pant.
PROS
G-1000 Fabric
Reinforced Knees and Seat
Many Storage Pockets
Comfortable, Adjustable Waist
CONS
More Expensive Than Others
Needs Breaking In
Sizing
5.11 Tactical Men’s Taclite Pro Performance Pants – Best Budget
- Material: Cotton & Polyester
- Pockets: Eight
- Good For: Warmer, less rough conditions
If you can’t afford our top pick, I recommend the 5.11 Tactical Men’s Taclite Pro Performance Pants. They’re made from a polyester/cotton ripstop fabric, making them durable. Plus, they’re also very lightweight, which helps when you’re in the field for a long time.
They also have a Teflon finish, which helps repeal stains and liquids. I found that this finish also makes it easier to wash the pants off quickly in the field. I have a few different pairs of 5.11 pants and I am impressed how good they look after major abuse from camping and training.
However, these pants don’t have reinforced knees and seats. I find that it can’t just barrel through briars and other brush, these can’t take a heavy beating.
But, overall, they hold up better than most other pants, and are a great option if you are on a budget.
Recommended for:
In my opinion, the 5.11 Tactical Men’s Taclite Pro Performance Pants are a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and affordable option.
PROS
Lightweight and Breathable
Teflon Fabric
Affordable
Comfortable
CONS
Knees not Reinforced
Not Good for Cold Weather
Helikon-Tex HOP Hybrid Outback Pants – Best Waistband
- Material: Nylon, Cotton, & Polyester
- Pockets: Six
- Good For: Warm Conditions
As an avid outdoorsman, I really appreciate durability in my gear. The Helikon-Tex HOP Hybrid Outback Pants are some of the most durable I have tried.
These pants are extremely waterproof. Their ability to repeal water really impressed me, especially given that tall, dew-soaked grass is very common in Appalachia in the spring and summer. The rugged blend of DuraCanvas and VersaStretch can withstand practically everything – even thorns and briars.
The storage design on these pants are fantastic. The zippered pockets and Velcro pouches provide ample space for my handheld radio and tools. The major pockets are located in the front, rear, and on the thighs.
I also appreciate the comfort-fit waist on these pants. It’s stretchable to make moving around easier. Furthermore, internal pockets (like on the knees) allow for extra padding to be added. I personally don’t add padding all that much, but it is very helpful for more extreme conditions.
These pants are climate resistant. You can increase their waterproofing with wax, providing some extra protection against moisture.
With that said, there are some negatives. For instance, the sizing isn’t the most accurate. The inseam seems to be slightly longer than advertised. These pants are also extremely light, which some people may not like.
Recommended for:
The Helikon-Tex HOP Hybrid Outback Pants are great for nearly any outdoor bushcraft camping or backpacking activity. They’re especially good for those that need extra padding or durability. They’re thinner pants, making them best for warm climates.
PROS
Rugged Durability
Comfort-fit Waist
Ample Pockets
Climate Resistance
CONS
Slightly Longer Inseam
Thin Material
Prana Stretch Zion Convertible Pants – Best Lightweight
- Material: Nylon & Spandex
- Pockets: Six
- Good For: Very hot conditions
I have found that the Prana Stretch Zion Convertible Pants are a great option for warmer weather when I want to prioritize staying cool. They’re a bit stretchier than other pants, making them a bit easier to move in. Plus, they’re convertible, so I can easily adjust them to different weather conditions.
They’re made with a “durable water repellent” finish, which helps repel water.
Compared to other heavier duty pants, these are more lightweight and breathable. However, they aren’t nearly as durable or protective, as they don’t have reinforced knees. The Prana pants also only have one cargo pocket, which is less storage than I would like.
Recommended for:
The Prana Stretch Zion Convertible Pants work great in warmer conditions when the others are just too hot. They’re convertible, too, which is always a nice plus. If I am going to be out in the heat of summer, these are the ones I go for.
PROS
Breathable Fabric
Durable and Water Repellent
Convertible to Shorts
Affordable
CONS
Knees not Reinforced
Does Not Have Many Pockets
Kryptek Men’s Stalker Camo Hunting Pants
- Material: Cotton & Polyester
- Pockets: Six
- Good For: Hunting and bushcraft
The Kryptek Men’s Stalker Camo Hunting Pants make excellent bushcraft pants, as they’re designed for rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions. They’re designed specifically for hunting – but they have many features that also make them good bushcraft pants.
For instance, they’re made with durable, water-resistant fabric and articulated knees. They even have several different pockets, providing ample storage for tools and other bushcraft essentials.
Obviously, the significant advantage of these pants is their camo pattern. This helps me blend in when I need to. They’re a great option for bushcrafters that also hunt. There are several different camo patterns available, so you can choose the best one for your environment. (The best camo pants for you should match where you plan on being.)
With that said, unless you really want camo pants, few people may want to spend the money on specialized bushcraft pants.
Recommended for:
I recommend the Kryptek Men’s Stalker Camo Hunting Pants for bushcrafters that also like to hunt while camping. In some cases, it may be good keeping them as a backup pair, too.
PROS
Rugged and Durable
Water Resistant Fabric
Lots of Pockets
Various Camo Patterns Available
CONS
Not as Versatile as others
Relatively Expensive
Carhartt Men’s Rugged Cargo Pants
- Material: Cotton & Spandex
- Pockets: Eight
- Good For: Unextreme weather
For those that always like to be prepared, you may be interested in the Carhartt Men’s Rugged Cargo Pant. In my experience, you can never be too prepared. These pants are casual enough to blend in easily in an urban or suburban setting.
These pants are crafted from sturdy ripstop fabric, allowing them to hold up to normal wear and fit well. There are eight pockets available, so I never have an issue finding a place to put tools or other items. The reinforced knees and back pockets add some durability as well.
With that said, these pants aren’t as specialized as others on this list. They lack some of the features these pants have, but they still make reliable, everyday bushcraft pants.
Recommended for:
The Carhartt Men’s Rugged Cargo Pants are for those looking for reliable bushcraft pants that don’t look like bushcraft pants. You can wear them around town and then head into the woods without getting any weird looks.
PROS
Cotton Ripstop Fabric
Ample Storage
Reinforced Knees
Can Wear Everyday
CONS
Not Water Resistant
Not as Flexible as others
Not as Comfortable as others
TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Hiking Pants with Reinforced Knees
- Materials: Nylon & Spandex
- Pockets: Four
- Good For: Rough terrain
Many of the pants I’ve discussed are reinforced. However, none are reinforced quite as much as the TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Hiking Pants with Reinforced Knees. They’re built to last – even against the rigors of bushcraft.
They feature reinforced knees and seats, adding some durability. When I am going through rough country with a lot of under brush, these are the pants that I use.
The material is also quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which is always a nice bonus. The fabric moves with me and provides an excellent range of motion. In my experience, having mobility makes it much easier to move quietly and quickly.
These pants don’t have as many pockets as others. However, their lightweight and breathable design makes up for this a little bit. They are great in warmer weather when thicker pants just don’t make sense.
Recommended for:
If you tend to go through pants a lot or bushcraft in particularly rough terrain, the TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Hiking Pants with Reinforced Knees may be called for.
PROS
Reinforced Knees and Seat
Flexible and Comfortable
Moisture Wicking
Lightweight and Breathable
CONS
Few Pockets
Not Water Resistant
Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Canvas Cargo Pants
- Material: Polyester & Spandex
- Pockets: Six
- Good For: Fire safety
If you’re primitive camping, you’re probably creating a fire. While fires are great, getting caught on fire isn’t. Flame-resistant pants can go a long way to keeping your legs intact and burn-free. While there are many options on the market, I prefer the Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Canvas Cargo Pants.
These pants are designed for jobs that involve fire. However, they also work well as bushcraft pants, especially if you’re concerned about getting caught on fire for one reason or another. These pants have been proven to be incredibly durable and fire-resistant, making them a reliable choice for a bushcraft excursion.
If you plan on practicing your firecraft skills, these pants may be a solid option.
Compared to other fire-resistant pants, these offer a nice balance of comfort and protection. They’re flame-resistant and not a pain to wear for extended periods of time. Plus, I love that they include so many cargo pockets.
Recommended for:
If you’re going to practice your firecraft skills (or sleeping by a fire), I highly recommend the Carhartt Men’s Flame Resistant Canvas Cargo Pants. They’re the best fire-resistant pants on the market that also work well for bushcraft.
PROS
Flame Resistant
Durable
Relaxed Fit and Comfortable
Plenty of Pockets
CONS
Not as Breathable
Pockets not very Secure
Tips for Choosing Your Bushcraft Pants
Choosing the best bushcraft pants for you depends a lot on your preferences and needs. Those living somewhere colder will need something different than those living in the sun-baked South.
When choosing the outdoor pants, there are a few things you can look out for. By considering these factors, you can cut through the noise and choose the best bushcraft pants for you.
Material
Bushcraft and survival pants can be made out of many different things, like cotton, polyester, and nylon. Most contain a mix of fabrics. There isn’t one fabric that is absolutely perfect; they each have their place:
- Polyester: A synthetic fabric that’s very strong and durable. Polyester resists tearing and fading, allowing it to withstand tougher outdoor conditions. Plus, it’s also rather lightweight. However, it isn’t breathable or moisture-wicking, making it uncomfortable in humid, hot weather. Polyester also melts.
- Cotton: A natural fabric that has always been a go-to choice for many survivalists. It’s comfortable and breathable, allowing it to absorb moisture to keep you cool. Washing and caring for cotton is often easy, too. However, cotton isn’t nearly as durable as polyester. It tears and rips much easier. Plus, it can be very heavy when wet.
- Nylon: While not as popular as polyester, you can find nylon bushcraft pants. Nylon is durable and flexible while also being lightweight. Like polyester, it isn’t breathable at all. Plus, when exposed to sparks, nylon can melt.
- Spandex: Some people like spandex because it is stretchy and flexible. However, I don’t recommend it as the main material because it isn’t very protective. Spandex can rip and tear easily.
Bushcraft pants made from several different materials are often the best option, as they usually follow a middle-ground approach. Many pants are also treated with wax or special coatings to enhance their durability and water resistance.
The exact pants you purchase will depend on your preferences and environment. You want pants that are durable enough to withstand the rigors of bushcraft, while also being comfortable and breathable.
With that said, here are my recommendations for certain climates:
- For hot weather: I recommend a lightweight, breathable, quick-drying pair of pants. Nylon/spandex blends or cotton/polyester/rayon blends work best.
- For cold weather: I recommend a material that is warm, insulating, and windproof. You may choose 100% cotton pants or polyester/cotton blends with wax.
- For wet weather: Choose something that’s water-repellent, quick-drying, and mold-resistant. Nylon/spandex blends and polyester/cotton blends fit into this category.
Pockets
I’ll let you in on a secret – I love pockets. I’ve been in many different situations where I’ve needed more pockets than I had. I carry a lot of stuff, and pockets help me stay organized.
Pockets help you store all your tools, equipment, and essentials in an arm’s reach. It also clears a bit of room in your backpack.
However, the number of pockets depends largely on your preferences and how many items you’re carrying. You want at least enough to carry frequently used essentials – like a Swiss Army knife or Multitool, flashlight, map, compass, and fire starter. You want to ensure that the pockets can fit these items easily without becoming insanely bulky.
The location of the pockets also matters. You want the pockets within easy reach without making you uncomfortable if you sit or lie down.
Some people prefer cargo pockets and think knee pockets are an amazing invention. I personally don’t like my knees getting beat up by heavy objects in my pockets. It all just depends on the person. You may need to try several different pants before you figure out your preferences.
Reinforcements
You want your pants to last. Luckily, most companies know that the outdoors are a rigorous place and design their pants appropriately.
Tough, durable fabric is hands-down the best option for bushcraft. This sort of fabric helps prevent tears and rips. I included several of these pants above, and this is the sort of material I prefer. Of course, it isn’t the only reinforcement option.
Many pants include extra stitching and layers to improve durability. Often, extra fabric is placed in the knees and seat area of the pants, which helps prevent wear in those areas. Your knees can get worn down very quickly, so added reinforcement is vital. I prefer pants with at least some extra reinforcement.
You can also wax pants to improve their wind and water resistance. However, you can only wax pants that are made to be waxed. Some pants even come pre-waxed. Waxing does wear off overtime and affect the breathability of the pants. Therefore, waxed pants aren’t always the best option.
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance helps protect you from the outside elements. This feature is the point of pants. Wind, water, and cold can kill you; it’s the pant’s job to keep that from happening. Therefore, any bushcraft pants you purchase should be weather resistant.
However, weather resistance means a lot of different things. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all option.
There are some main elements you want your pants to protect you from:
- Water: You don’t want water to soak through the fabric of your pants, if at all possible. Water-repellent pants will keep you dry in rainy weather, and they’re less likely to grow mildew. Often, this is achieved by synthetic fabrics, which repel water. However, wax and coatings can help, too.
- Wind: You want your pants to stop the wind, too. Windproof pants can prevent hypothermia in cold weather. Again, synthetic fabrics work best here. However, wax or other coatings can make natural fibers windproof.
- Breathable: Breathable pants allow air exchange from your legs to the outside, preventing moisture build up and overheating. In hot weather, unbreathable pants can become miserable very quickly. Natural fabrics are the most breathable, but synthetic fabrics can be mesh-lined or vented to add breathability.
- Insulated: In the cold, having some amount of insulation can be extremely beneficial. You want your pants to trap your body heat in these situations. Many natural fibers are insulation, like wool and fleece. However, the thickness of the material also matters.
You won’t find a pair of pants that protects you from everything. Each pair of pants will come with it’s trade-offs. Most pants won’t work in all conditions, as they’re often specialty made for a certain situation. Your winter pants and summer pants probably won’t be the same.
Here are some trade-offs you need to be aware of:
- Water-repellent pants may not be very breathable, which can make them uncomfortable in hot or humid weather.
- Windproof pants may not be very flexible, which can make them restrictive in movement.
- Breathable pants may not be very water-repellent or windproof, which can make them unsuitable for rainy or windy weather.
- Insulated pants may not be very lightweight or quick-drying, which can make them unsuitable for wet or warm weather.
Bushcraft Pants Video Guide
Which Bushcraft Pants Should You Get?
There are many different kinds of bushcraft pants available. However, the 1620 Workwear Double Knee Utility Pants are my favorite. They will last a long time and are really the only pants you will need. They are a little more expansive, but make up the difference in buying multiple pairs of other pants in the future.
In hot weather, the Nebu Rob Roy pants are my favorite. They are not as heavy as other pants but still protect my legs. They are also a great everyday pant that I can wear anywhere.
Now that you know all about the pants I like, check out our other guides and reviews on Bushcraft gear. We discuss how even if you live in the city, bushcraft can help you survive in our Urban Bushcraft Survival Skills guide.
