What To Look For
Rock climbing pants have to be extremely tough and versatile. At least that's what you want to be when you wear them, and for that to happen, you need pants that are durable, don't restrict your movement and wick moisture away while you scale tall rocks.
Common Pitfalls
The worst thing when you're climbing is to see a perfect foothold only to have your pants cramp your style. For that reason, a lot of people go for pants with a gusseted crotch.
Some people like to climb in shorts or yoga pants to avoid mobility problems, but yoga pants aren't very durable on rough rock faces, and neither is your skin. Instead, cover your legs with something that can bear a lot of wear and tear.
Where To Buy
Most outdoor and sporting goods stores, like REI, Mountain Gear and Backcountry, will have a large selection of suitable pants. As far as large retailers, Backcountry generally has the best range of pants to choose from, but local shops can also have a decent selection. Unfortunately, if you're a woman looking for pants, most places will try to sell you something you would wear for yoga. Try Arborwear as an alternative. It sells clothes for tree climbing, not rock climbing, but its pants let you stretch and they last a long time.
Cost
The prices are pretty comparable across stores, and the different brands, such as Northface, prAna, Patagonia and Arc'teryx, likewise have a range of designs costing from $19.95 to well over $100, and some even up to $500. Consider your level of rock climbing activity and select the pants with the corresponding price.
Insider Tips
You don't have to buy "rock climbing pants." Loose-fitting, stretchy denim pants can be just as good as those specifically made for climbing, and they have the added benefit of being useful everyday pants, too.
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