These pants are great for hiking. Put them on like you would any regular pants. The ¾-length side zips are handy for ventilation when it's hot, and you can open them to layer up quickly if it starts to rain. The single thigh pocket is a good place to keep small items like your phone or keys. As for maintenance, if you notice the fabric wetting out faster than you'd like, wash the pants with a gentle detergent and dry them. This will remove any oil contamination and bring the DWR (water - repellent coating) back to its full strength. Remember, the pants are free of intentionally added PFAS, so they're a more eco - friendly choice. Avoid using harsh chemicals on the pants as it could damage the waterproof membrane.