Carhartt Force Lightweight Pocket Legging Review

Bottom Line

The Women’s Carhartt Force Lightweight Pocket Leggings provide an excellent combination of durability and stretch. Designed to endure challenging outdoor conditions, they can handle everything from sharp branches to rugged granite. Equipped with a utility loop, two stacked drop-in pockets, and a zippered pocket, they offer practical options to keep belongings secure.

Furthermore, they are quite affordable compared to most other durable leggings. The Carhartt Force Leggings feature a loose fit around the hips and a snug high waist. Some may find that the waistband slides down without a drawstring, particularly those with a straighter figure or narrow hips.

Additionally, the waistband may feel stiff and tight for certain body types, such as those with more belly volume. For anyone in search of tough, dependable leggings that can withstand the elements, these are an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a drawstring or if the fit doesn’t quite align with your body type, we suggest exploring other top-rated hiking leggings for women in our complete gear collection guide.

How We Tested

We wore these leggings on the trails in Nevada, around 4,800 feet, while hiking up a canyon, on flatter trails around South Lake Tahoe, California (6,200 ft), and while sitting at the computer or moving around on a regular day.

We tested these over a 30-day period, wearing them for probably 4 to 5 days for most hours of the day. To address the challenges or lower-ranking aspects, we aimed to use them in a variety of situations, such as sitting and walking the dog.

Comfort

These leggings aren’t very soft, especially when compared to the other models we’ve tried. However, they are surprisingly soft for our expectations, given the ruggedness of the brand. Similarly, the stretch is impressively good.

While not as flexible as other products on the market, it’s quite remarkable for such a tough fabric. There was no restriction when hiking uphill, sitting, or squatting. The main factor that reduces the comfort level is the waistband. It’s much smaller and tighter compared to the hip/pelvis region, so it requires some wiggling to get in and out of the pants.

The snug waist does aid in the fit (see below), but it can also become uncomfortable when not standing and moving (i.e., sitting). The waistband is quite thick, but we were very aware of the elastic band inside rather than the entire waist being elastic. It dug into the belly when sitting.

Fit

The biggest issue with these leggings is the waist. It’s loose, and there’s no drawstring or any way to secure it. The fabric isn’t stretchy enough to cling to the body, resulting in us constantly pulling them up.

On the second day of wearing them on a hike, we found ourselves adjusting them throughout the day. The waist stretched out quickly, even though it initially felt tight enough to require some effort to put them on. While hiking, the waist didn’t dig in at all.

We liked the overall fit, but the waistband needed more stretch to conform comfortably to the waist and should accommodate movement while sitting; alternatively, adding a drawstring would help. Around the thighs and lower legs, the fit is wonderful. The fit around the hips and pelvis is looser, which is nice for comfort, but it probably doesn’t assist in keeping the pants up.

Features

These pockets feature a unique double pocket design on one side, consisting of two stacked drop-in pockets. In the pocket closest to your thigh, you can store a map, trash, or any flat item. The top pocket is slightly shorter in height and has a flat opening rather than an angled one.

Additionally, there is a zippered pocket on the other side. All of the pockets are spacious enough to accommodate our phone. A loop for a carabiner or similar item is also included. All pockets are easily accessible while hiking, and nothing fell out while we were moving. Made from a lightweight technical fabric, all pockets appear to be water resistant.

Breathability & Warmth

These leggings are probably better suited for winter or the shoulder seasons. They feel thicker and bulkier than other models, and the material appears to be water-repellent.

We didn’t test these in extreme temperatures—cold or hot—because we didn’t expect them to perform well in those climates or for us to be comfortable.

Durability

For durability, these leggings rank the highest. We feel confident wearing them anywhere and doing just about anything without worrying about rips or tears. The thickness of the material also makes them suitable for snow and rain.

We didn’t hesitate to sit on rocks or logs, or let the dog jump up on us. We would wear them while bushwhacking or working on a trail with equipment. We would wear these for any outdoor activity that might scratch, scuff, or mark up pants.

Should You Buy the Carhartt Force Lightweight Pocket Legging?

These leggings would be best for someone who has much wider hips than their waist, that can hold up these pants. We do not recommend these for someone with a straight hip-to-waist ratio.

They are designed for those seeking rugged leggings made from durable fabric throughout. We wouldn’t recommend them for very long hikes or hikes in hot weather.

What Other Hiking Leggings Should You Consider?

If you like some of the qualities for these leggings, but not all, be sure to review all of our favorite hiking pants for women.

Fjallraven Abisko Trekking Tights HD W Review: These leggings are highly durable, featuring technical fabric throughout, along with reinforced knees and seat. While the price is significantly higher than the Carhartt model, the fit and comfort are notably superior with the Fjällräven.

Athleta Headlands Hybrid High Rise Cargo Legging Review: These leggings are similar in style to the Carhartt, featuring a snug fabric around the legs, a loose fit around the hips and pelvis, and medium snugness at the waist. While the Carhartt leggings don’t label themselves as hybrid, they have that appearance. The Athleta scored much higher for fit and comfort and is actually our top choice overall for women’s hiking leggings. Additionally, they include six zippered pockets and a drawstring.