Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants vs REI Co-op Trailmade Pants

Breathability is crucial for hiking pants, especially in warm weather, as it helps regulate body temperature and keeps you comfortable during intense activity. When a pant excels in breathability, it means you'll stay cooler and drier, reducing the risk of overheating and discomfort. The Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants, with their ultra-thin, highly breathable fabric, are the clear winner in this category. Their fabric is designed to offer a barely-there feel, making them ideal for hot and humid conditions. In comparison, the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, while breathable, do not match the Terravia's level of air flow and moisture management.

Durability is essential for hiking pants because it ensures they can withstand the rigors of the trail, including abrasion from rocks and brush. A more durable pant will last longer and provide better value over time. The REI Co-op Trailmade Pants take the lead in durability, offering excellent resistance to trail abrasion and general wear and tear. This makes them a reliable choice for rugged hikes and extended use. The Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants, while durable for their weight, do not match the Trailmade Pants in this category.

Weather protection is important for hiking pants as it helps keep you dry and comfortable in various conditions, from light rain to windy environments. Pants with better weather protection will keep you more comfortable in changing weather. Both the Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants and the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants offer minimal weather protection, with fabrics that wet through quickly and provide little wind resistance. This category is a tie, as neither pant excels in weather protection.

Mobility and stretch are key for hiking pants, allowing for a full range of motion during activities like scrambling and high stepping. Pants with better mobility and stretch will enhance your comfort and performance on the trail. The Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants win in this category due to their light stretch fabric and athletic cut, which support easy movement on fast hikes and scrambles. The REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, while decent, have limited stretch that can restrict movement during more intense activities.

Functionality and storage are important for keeping essentials handy and secure during hikes. Pants with better functionality and storage offer more convenience and utility on the trail. The REI Co-op Trailmade Pants edge out the Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants in this category. While both pants have useful features, the Trailmade Pants offer more practical utility for regular day hikes and backpacking. The Terravia Trail Pants, though functional, have small hardware issues that reduce overall confidence.

Weight and packability are crucial for hikers who need to carry their gear efficiently and comfortably. Lighter and more packable pants are easier to carry and store, making them ideal for long hikes and backpacking trips. Both the Patagonia Terravia Trail Pants and the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants perform well in this category. The Terravia Trail Pants are slightly lighter and more packable due to their minimalist fabric, but the difference is negligible for most users. This category is a tie, as both pants offer excellent weight and packability.