Searching for the perfect set of bottoms for air travel? Something that prioritizes comfort but doesn’t skimp on style? The answer is hiding in plane, er, plain sight. Our favorite outdoor brands market their pants, leggings, skorts, and more to those on the move, but we love them just as much when the “fasten seatbelt” sign is on and we’re stuck in a bucket seat. Read on for our picks for the best women’s pants for air travel, plus the perfect top to pair with them.
Duer LuxTwill High Rise Trouser
Look first class with the LuxTwill High Rise Trouser ($139) from Duer. Their high rise, wide leg, and welt pockets will turn heads as you strut to your gate (especially when worn with a tucked tee and heeled booties), but their soft hand and touch of stretch ensure you can kick back and relax when you get to your seat (even if it’s in coach). Pair the trouser with the LuxTwill Trucker Jacket ($139) for an extra dose of sophistication. shopduer.com
Patagonia Hampi Rock Pants
Designed with a blend of organic hemp, recycled polyester, and spandex, Patagonia’s Hampi Rock Pants ($99) are technically made for movement–especially up a rock face. After all, they’re breathable, durable, and offer enough stretch to nail a heel hook. In our book, those characteristics also make the Hampi Rock Pants a great option for long-haul flights that require twisting, adjusting, and rearranging to find some way (any way) to fall asleep. Pair the pants with the Capilene Thermal Hoody ($139), which features HeiQ® Pure odor control (just in case a tight connection gets sweaty). patagonia.com
Free Fly Bamboo-Lined Active Breeze Skort
The Bamboo-Lined Active Breeze Skort ($74) from Free Fly just landed this summer. Why not take this easy-wearing layer back up to the skies? The lightweight, recycled polyester skirt provides freedom of movement on top, while down under the buttery, built-in short liner prevents unwanted peek-a-boos. Available in 13″ and 15″ lengths. Pair the skort with a deliciously soft Bamboo Slub Hoodie ($68). freeflyapparel.com
Fjallraven Abisko Tights
If you plan to head from tarmac to trailhead, dress the part in a Fjallraven set-up that’s just as comfy in the middle row as it is hiking up to treeline. The Abisko Tights boast the flexibility of four-way stretch, along with moisture-wicking power and thoughtfully positioned seams designed to flatter any silhouette. Pair the tights with another trail-worthy companion, the Keb Fleece Hoodie ($210), an insulating mid-layer made with recycled polyester and a traceable wool blend. fjallraven.com
Royal Robbins Spotless Evolution Jogger
Flying with kids (and their pouch snacks and juice boxes)? Then you need the Royal Robbins Spotless Evolution Jogger ($100), which features stain-release technology that’s up to whatever your youngster might throw at it (literally). These bottoms are also breathable, stretchy, and wrinkle-resistant, so you’ll appear put together even if you feel put out. Pair the joggers with the Vacationer Tank ($58), a packing list staple that looks great solo or when worn under your favorite mid-layer. royalrobbins.com
Outerknown Hightide Sweatpants
Wearing your bathrobe on the plane is generally frowned upon. The Hightide Sweatpants (on sale for $135) from Outerknown, which combine a tapered cut with a traditional terry toweling fabric, are a far more chic yet just as comfy alternative. Bonus: They’re made with an earth-friendly organic cotton and recycled polyester blend. Pair the sweatpants with (what else?) the just-as-snuggly Hightide Crew (on sale for $115). outerknown.com
prAna Sancho Short
If you’re prone to overheating on long-haul flights, opt for the Sancho Short (on sale for $56.25) from prAna. These slightly stretchy bottoms pair more refined elements like embroidered detailing on the back pockets and a clean front aesthetic with a laid-back overdye wash and jagged hem. The result is a surfer-chic vibe that’s ready for any runway. Pair the shorts with the Eileen Top ($95), a simple yet stylish long-sleeve crew. prana.com
