What features to look for in men's safari pants?
- Technical fabric: These high-performance fabrics offer a range of benefits over other materials - and are lightweight and durable for comfort and packing convenience.
- Insect protection: Look for safari pants that are treated with an effective, tested insect repellent finish. Our BUGTech+ collection is powered by Insect Shield - a proprietary, EPA-registered formula - and offers bug repellency through the weave of the fabric.
- Sun protection: Covering up is the best way to protect yourself from the sun. Look for safari pants that provide high sun protection factor. Our BUGTech+ fabric has been independently tested to provide UPF50+ sun protection.
- Wicking and quick drying: Wicking is the action that draws moisture from the skin. By effectively wicking moisture and drying quickly, wicking fabric helps to regulate temperature and keep you cool in hot weather. Technical fabrics perform way better than material like cotton and linen when it comes to this. Quick drying benefits are also handy for washing and wearing on a cycle when you have to pack light in safari - or for when you walk through dewy long grass on early-morning bush walks.
- Versatile designs: Should you pack shorts or longs for a safari? Get both in one garment with men's safari pants in zip-off designs. Not only does this help you to pack light and smart, but it helps to you adapt to changing conditions throughout the day on safari.
- Stretch and comfortable fit: Safari pants need to be comfortable for a range of activities - from long hours of sitting on game drives to walks, climbing in and out of boats, and other activities.
Safari Pants for Men FAQs
What is the best material for men's safari pants?
Look for lightweight, technical fabric like BUGTech+. This fabric is feather-light with built-in insect defense and UPF50+ sun protection. It wicks moisture and dries quickly and has stretch for a bit of flex when climbing in and out of game viewers or boats - and for bush walks and activities.
Are convertible or zip-off safari pants worth it?
Yes. Packing light is the first rule of safari prep and zip-off safari pants give you two garments in one. They also provide versatility during the day on safari, with the option to change between long pants and shorts while you're out and about on safari activities.
Do I need safari pants in insect repellent fabric?
The option is yours, but we always recommend insect repellent safari pants like BUGTech+. To avoid the buzz, bite, and sting while you're exploring wild places, covering up is important - and insect repellent clothing adds an extra layer of defense. This is especially important for peace of mind in malaria areas. Always back up insect repellent clothing with a reliable bug spray for full-spectrum defense.
What color is best for safari pants?
Always choose safari colors. Look for safari pants in neutral shades like khaki, brown, tan, and olive green. This helps you to blend into the landscape for better game-viewing and these colors are the more practical choice for dusty areas. Stay away from white, bright colors, and dark colors. This is important for the latter as dark colors attract tsetse flies and other bugs.
Should I choose cotton or synthetic safari pants?
100% cotton is not the best fabric for safari clothing. Lightweight technical fabrics offer a range of benefits over cotton. This includes superior wicking abilities, as well as built-in insect defense and UPF50+ sun protection. BUGTech+ also dries faster is very light, and provides some stretch for comfort as you travel and for safari activities.
How many safari pants should I pack?
For a 7-10 day safari, aim to pack 2-3 pairs of men's safari pants. By choosing quick-drying fabrics like BUGTech+, you are able to wash and wear on a cycle while you travel.
What kind of fit is best for safari pants?
When it comes to fit, the most important considerations are practicality and comfort. From walking safaris to climbing in and out of game viewers and boats and long periods of sitting on game drives, a relaxed fit with an elasticated waist and fabric with a bit of stretch are all great features for comfort.
Can I wear safari pants in the city or for general travel?
Absolutely. The right safari pants are classically styled to be a fit for every leg of your travels. In a khaki cargo pants design, they are perfect for all adventure travels, but are equally easy to wear every day during summer or in the city as you travel.
Do men's safari pants offer sun protection?
Not all brands of safari pants offer sun protection. Look for safari pants that provide built-in UPF50+ sun protection. UPF is the sun protection rating given to garments and 50+ is the highest rating available. Our BUGTech+ men's safari pants have been independently tested to provide UPF50+ sun protection.
Should safari pants be waterproof?
During the wet season or for a visit to Victoria Falls in full flow, you might consider packing some waterproof overtrousers. However, waterproof pants are not a must on safari. Rather, focus on packing safari pants in fabrics that dry quickly.
