The Absolute Best Jeans for Hiking (Personal Experience)
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Now, I know what you might say - any avid hiker will tell you that wearing jeans is not an optimal option for hiking. They are neither comfortable nor conducive to handling sweat. They have limited stretch and they restrict mobility. Basically, they are the antithesis of hiking pants. However, there is a brand of jeans that uses stretch technology combined with CoolMax fiber structure to provide ultimate comfort and unrestricted movement. Let me introduce you to DUER.
The best jeans for hiking are DUER’s. DUER uses high stretch LYCRA spandex and CoolMax technology in the construction of their jeans. The signature gusset allows for a wider range of motion and the triple-stitched seams add to the durability of these pants.
A quick breakdown of the key features:
LYCRA spandex - LYCRA is just a brand name for spandex. Lycra was invented in 1958 by Joseph Shivers and is a registered trademark of the DuPont Corporation. It is an incredibly flexible material and gives the DUER jeans their signature 4-way stretch. Unlike many other types of synthetic fabrics, Lycra is highly resistant to heat, and it was quickly recognized as an excellent addition to heat-sensitive synthetics like polyester and nylon.
CoolMax technology - CoolMax is a form of polyester that creates perpetual moisture-wicking capabilities. The jeans themselves do not need to be treated with any type of chemical to retain this capability. They simply exist as moisture-wicking garments.
Signature gusset - DUER has an unusual hem from the knee to the crotch area of the jean. As you see can see in the picture below, the hem breaks off from the knee in two directions. This allows for a wider range of motion while eliminating the stress placed upon what would be a traditional hemline.
Triple-stiched seams - The stitching for the inseam, gusset, and back rise are all triple stitched. The pockets are also double layered to add reinforced durability. Traditional jeans are only double stitched with single layer pockets.
The DUER Experience for Hiking
DUER also has an all-weather jean that has a wind and waterproof membrane. I have heard mixed reviews on this pair of jeans. I would encourage you to watch a few YouTube video reviews on the all-weather alternative.
I use the Performance Slim Denim. They are perfect for coll summer, spring, and autumn hikes. I was a bit hesitant to purchase a pair of jeans that are this pricey but they are well worth the price. I usually do not wear them when the weather is going to be over 80 degrees but if the weather is accommodating I will happily throw this pair on for a solid day hike. I never feel too hot and I believe they do a serviceable job of wicking away sweat. I think DUER has gone above and beyond to create a pair of jeans that is appropriate for the trail and casual outings alike. I have never worn another pair of jeans quite like these.
Not only do I wear them hiking, but I also wear them to complement t-shirts for a casual outfit. They are by far my most worn pair of jeans in my wardrobe and the only pair of jeans I wear in the summer.
Get your DUER Jeans Here on Amazon.
Conclusion
DUER jeans are extremely versatile, they are like the swiss army knife of jeans. I would probably not choose these for a multi-day hike but they are perfect for hikes that are less than 7 miles in moderate temperatures. They are extremely flexible, and that is an understatement. I noticed they do run a tad bigger than you would expect and since they also have significant stretch I would recommend that you size down. I would give these jeans a shot - at the very least they will become a staple in your closet. They are so comfortable they might render your other pair of jeans useless. Let me know in the comments below if you have a pair of DUERs and if you do any hiking or outdoor activity in your pair.
