This editor’s sport of choice used to be poledancing, one of the few fitness activities done in heels. But two years later, add a dog and a baby, and spinning around a pole was simply not fun for the whole family.

Which is why hiking became a favourite workout. But what does one wear? Leggings are impractical, jeans are too stiff, and most fancy performance hiking wear is just too serious for a fair-weather hiker. That’s why we love Columbia’s Passo Alto Straight Leg Pants. The fabric wicks away moisture, offers 50 SPF protection, and they are really comfortable. Best part? They look like a slim cut black pant.

Happy trails to us. —Alexandra Suhner Isenberg

Passo Alto Straight Leg Pants, $79.99 from www.columbiasporstwear.ca or at Sport Chek, 18 W. Broadway, Vancouver, 604-874-6530, www.sportchek.ca