I’m a 5’2” Writer in Need of Breathable Summer Pants That Still Look Polished — Here Are My Petite-Friendly Picks

They’re great for work and travel

Petite-Friendly Lounge Pants at Quince:

• Wear-Anywhere Pants: Free Country Get Out There Ruch Up Pants, $49 (orig. $70)
• Breathable and Stretchy: REI Co-op Activator Pants, $100 
• UPF 50+ Sun Protection: REI Co-op Trailmade Pants, $80 
• 4-Way Stretch: REI Co-op Active Pursuits Pants, $70 
• Performance-Ready: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants, $110
• Padded for Biking: Terry Coolweather Bike Tights, $82 (orig. $165)
• Cloud Knit Material: Free Country Wide-Leg Pants, $40 (orig. $65) 
• Dress Up or Down: Marine Layer Saturday Pants, $96 (orig. $128)

Free Country Wide-Leg Pants $65 $40 at REI	Free Country Get Out There Ruch Up Pants $70 $49 at REI

Between working at the office, travelling, and running errands, life is filled with moments that require comfy pants — and that even includes the hottest days of summer. 

While I’m a fan of reaching for midi skirts and dresses to fill the gap between airy and polished clothing, I’m currently adding equally versatile lounge pants to my closet for more variety. At 5-foot-2, this can be difficult without the help of a tailor. Thankfully, REI is filled with so many petite options that are ready to wear the moment they arrive. Shop my picks from $40. 

REI Co-op Activator Pants

$100 at REI

Rather than relying solely on leggings and sweatpants, I’m also considering these trail pants made from a slightly stretchy spandex blend for optimal comfort, with a drawcord waistband and belt loops to ensure a customized fit. The durable material is ideal for activities like hiking or traveling, especially since the pants are water- and wind-resistant, and they have five pockets for functionality. Plus, all four colors come in petite sizing, so I won’t have to worry about them fitting properly. 

REI Co-op Trailmade Pants

$80 at REI

Activities that result in prolonged sun exposure might not seem ideal for pants, but this pair provides UPF 50+ sun protection and is made from a moisture-wicking material to keep you dry on even the sweatiest days. They have a drawcord to create a comfortable fit without a belt, and one shopper who brought them on a trip to Iceland and Thailand shared that they are “lightweight” and “easy to pack.” Since they come in four colors, I’m considering adding multiple to my closet. 

REI Co-op Active Pursuits Pants

$70 at REI

While functional and durable clothing is essential, I’m also eyeing comfy lounge pants that can be easily thrown on for quick walks with my dog, running to the grocery store, and relaxing on the couch. This pair has four-way stretch and is made from a “buttery smooth” material that is “amazingly comfy,” according to one customer. These pants not only come in petite sizes, but one shopper said they are “comfortable for curvier ladies” as well, since they are “so light and airy.” 

Marine Layer Saturday Pants

$128 $96 at REI

I’m typically anti-jeans during summer, but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel the need for structured pants. This pair from Marine Layer is made from a cotton blend, has a fixed waist, and can be easily dressed up or down. One shopper said it “feels like wearing pajama pants,” adding that they are “insanely comfortable and soft.”  

Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants $110 at REI	Terry Coolweather Bike Tights $165 $82 at REI

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