Walking pants must move with you, wick away moisture, and keep you comfortable on your walks. I prefer modern technical fabrics that wick away sweat, but some will feel most comfortable in cotton.
1. Sporthill Gym Pant
Wendy Bumgardner ©
I'm thrilled that my favorite walking pants are now available in plus sizes. There is one difference, however - these don't have zippered pockets but only have an inside key pocket. I've worn Sporthill pants for walking for many years. The loose fit and straight leg is comfortable - it doesn't bind in the wrong places or have excess fabric to flap in the wind. The fabric wicks away moisture and is quick-drying - I've worn Sporthill pants through many a rainy walk. Comes in plus sizes 1X-4X.
2. Lands' End Active Knit Sport Pants
Wendy Bumgardner © 2007
The Lands' End Active Knit fabric feels very soft and cottony, it's a pleasure to wear these pants whether walking our lounging. During exercise, the wide waistband is comfortable and there is a back zip pocket for your keys and id, plus a gadget pocket for your cell phone or iPod. The fabric wicks away sweat, and is beefy enough for walking in colder weather. There is a reflective stripe down each leg for night safety. Comes in sized 1X-3X.
3. Basic Qwikwik Capri
QuikWik® fabric pulls moisture away from your body, keeping you dryer and more comfortable. They also dry fast once you are done sweating. These capris also provide light compression and control to give your legs a little more energy. Inseam 17 inches. Plus sizes 0X to 6X.4. Tactel Pant
These nylon/spandex pants have plenty of stretch and feel satiny and sleek while wicking away moisture. They breathe and dry fast. They have side pockets. Available in plus sizes 1-4.5. Sporthill Traverse Pants
This style is the most similar to the Sporthill pants I wear throughout the winter. But these have a "tweener" waist that sits 1 inch below your waistline, and a hidden front zipper. I love Sporthill's zippered side pockets - it keeps items secure while also preventing you from hooking your thumbs if you are walking fast with arm motion. It's made of a wicking polypro/lycra blend. The price tag might induce sticker shock, but I can attest that these pants will last for years of regular walking wear. Comes in plus sizes 1X-4X.6. Danskin Plus Size Capris
Danskin has capris with narrow leg or bootleg styles, perfect for autumn or spring walking or for walking indoors. Plus sizes 1-4.
7. Champion Plus Mesh Capri Pants
Capri pants are a great choice for spring or autumn. These have a 21.5-inch inseam and are made of wicking polyester mesh. They have a roll-down waistband and no pockets. Available in plus sizes 1X-3X.