How to Buy Desert Hiking Pants

The best desert hiking apparel keeps you cool and protected from the sun, while also protecting you from getting scratched and stabbed by desert plants.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Desert Hiking Pants
• Outdoor Magazines

1. Thumb through a couple of reputable outdoor magazines for articles and reviews on equipment purchases to find out the most recommended models and manufacturers of outerwear. If there is a particular product which interests you and you can't find a review, call the manufacturer and ask if the product has been reviewed in an outdoor magazine.
2. Check the fabric for durability. You want something which will withstand the occasional stab or scratch of cactus needles.
3. Look for a fabric which is lightweight and breathable.
4. Choose a light color of pant which will reflect the sun.
5. Make sure the pants fit loosely to allow for ventilation and layering over shorts.
6. Considering buying pants with legs which zip off and convert to shorts. This will give you more flexibility when you lope along terrain which fluctuates between barren and thorny.
7. Make sure the zippers are covered with hems or folds so that your legs aren't fried or scratched by the zippers.
8. Look for pockets which are still accessible with your backpack on.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a reputable brand from a reputable outdoor company, and make sure there are a return policy and warranty in case you have a problem.