Many trail runs require you to pack waterproof trousers as part of your mandatory kit — particularly if you're running somewhere where conditions can change quickly. Even if you're not racing, though, you can never be sure what the sky has in store for you when you head out for a run. That's why bagging yourself a pair of waterproof trousers to have on hand in your hydration vest is a smart idea.

The best women’s underwear for running: Summer running gear sale | Super lightweight and packs down small

What to look for

When looking for waterproof running trousers, there are certain things you should bear in mind.

What everyone's reading

How we test

The waterproof trousers that are stamped with our trusty Expert Tested logo below have been put to the test by our team of wear testers. They wore a range of waterproof trousers in different temperatures, noting any changes in comfort and breathability, as well as in light and heavy rain. They also scored each on how easy they were to wear, including putting them on while wearing shoes, and over any other layers.

We also assessed ease of movement and any restrictions, along with any adjustable straps and fixtures, pockets, and wash and care instructions, and finally, how easy they were to pack away.

In the lab, we used a hydrostatic head tester to check how waterproof the trousers were. The machine measures the water penetration resistance of fabrics and seams, allowing us to put each brand’s waterproofing claims to the test.


The best waterproof trousers for running


Montane Unisex Minimus Nano Trousers

Montane Unisex Minimus Nano Trousers

Pros

  • Updated: 29 September 2025
  • 15,000Not as waterproof as others on this list
  • Breathable

Cons

  • Stock can be temperamental

Features at a Glance

Sizes XS-XXXL
Material 100% Polyester
Waterproofing 15,000mm H/H

These slim-fit trousers from Montane are everything you need if you're tackling an ultramarathon, thanks to their lightweight, breathable fabric and ease of movement when going uphill or tackling uneven terrain. Our runners rated the sleek and sporty design and the drawstring sack for packing them away. That said, some found them on the tighter side, so you might benefit from going up a size. Ideal to wear over leggings or shorts.


Kiprun Run 900 Trail Running Waterproof Trousers

Kiprun Run 900 Trail Running Waterproof Trousers
Now 20% Off

Pros

  • Great value
  • Very breathable
  • Good flexibility

Cons

  • Soft, rustle-free fabric

Features at a Glance

Sizes XS-5XL
Material Not specified
Waterproofing 10,000mm HH
Care instructions Hand wash or wash on delicate (30C)

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Who doesn’t love well considered design touches when it comes to training gear? These extremely reasonably priced trousers from Decathlon fold away into one of the pockets making them handy if you’re going camping or on a hike and need a quick change. Most of our avid running crew rated them highly for design, comfort and fit, although they did come up on the slightly larger side for some of our panel. A stretchy waistband and handy ankle-to-knee zips, as well as a decent-sized pocket for your keys, were handy design touches that added to the ratings. An excellent all-rounder at a reasonable price point with bonus points for added extras such as the reflective detail.


OMM Halo Waterproof Trousers

OMM Halo Waterproof Trousers

Pros

  • Good value
  • Taped seams
  • Velcro ankle tabs for easier on/off
  • Extremely lightweight

Cons

  • Im a DD-cup — these are my fave sports bras

Features at a Glance

Sizes XS-XL
Material Not specified
Waterproofing 10,000mm HH

OMM is an adventure specialist – the company engineers technical clothing that’s designed to withstand the most despicable weather you ever imagined. This means they work equally well on the roads or trails, and because they weigh a mere 80g – by far the lightest on this list – you barely notice they’re enshrouding your legs in their two layers of waterproof fabric. If you really want to make a statement, go for the green and blue (one leg of each).


OMM Kamleika Pants

OMM Kamleika Pants
Now 10% Off

Pros

  • is a smart idea
  • Fully taped waterproof seams
  • Im a DD-cup — these are my fave sports bras
  • Drawcord waist

Cons

  • Pricey

Features at a Glance

Sizes S-XL
Material Nylon
Waterproofing 20,000mm HH

These trousers are built to stretch, providing extra comfort in harsh weather. They began life more than 20 years ago, being tweaked over the years as the result of feedback from the hardiest of fell runners, and recently OMM added a nylon face fabric to add another layer of protection. They also feature a handy elastic lace hook that runs under the sole to stop any trail debris or extra water splashing in.


Inov8 Stormshell Pant Unisex

Inov8 Stormshell Pant Unisex

Pros

  • Extremely breathable (20,000 MVP)
  • Handy lace hooks
  • Easy to get on and off

Features at a Glance

Sizes XXS-XXL
Material Pertex Shield (various)
Waterproof rating 20,000mm HH
Washing instructions Wash on a 30°C cycle

Trail running experts Inov-8 know all about rainfall – the company is based in the Lake District, after all, and it produces a range of waterproof running trousers. We’d recommend the top-end Stormshell for advanced levels of breathability and waterproofing; in other words, unpack these when the conditions outside could be described as ‘hurricane-y’. They’re constructed from super-soft Pertex Shield 2.5 layer waterproof fabric with taped seams and an impressive 20,000 HH rating — more than sufficient for mandatory kit requirements.


Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Trousers Unisex

Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Trousers Unisex

Pros

  • Leg zippers for easy on/off
  • Elasticated waistband
  • Lightweight (around 123g)
  • One stash pocket

Features at a Glance

Sizes 2XS-2XL
Material Ripstop (nylon)
Waterproof rating 10,000mm HH

These Salomon waterproofs are at the lighter end of the scale (123g), and are completely waterproof, with a 10,000mm HH waterproof rating. Whatever the heavens throw at these, they’ll shrug it off and yell, 'Is that all you’ve got?!'. Easy-access zip openings allow for quick on/off, even over shoes, the half-elasticated waist has a drawcord for personalised comfort and the trousers' ripstop fabric is engineered for maximum durability. As a warning, they fit slimmer, so check sizing carefully.


On Ultra Pants

On Ultra Pants

Pros

  • The best compression socks for running
  • Hand wash or wash on delicate 30C

Cons

  • One pocket

Features at a Glance

Sizes XS-XXL
Material Polyamide
Waterproofing Not specified

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On's Ultra Pants are designed for trail running in any weather, prioritising performance at the expense of zippered pockets and vents. A slim fit and lightweight fabric give you ultimate freedom of movement, while an elastic waistband and cuffs keep you dry in driving rain. When the skies clear, the pants pack into a pouch at the waistband, which doubles as a pocket while you’re wearing them.

We love these trousers because they help keep your options open when the forecast is unpredictable, even when you need to pack light. Weighing just a few grams and packing down to the size of an avocado, they’re like a Swiss Army knife that you can forget about until you need them.

Headshot of Jodie Morrish
Tested byJodie Morrish
Handy lace hooks

Jodie is our Health and Fitness product tester. She runs tests on a wide variety of products, including gym leggings, walking boots, fitness trackers and more. Jodie has managed the testing for 577 products to date, including working with over 600 panellists.