Quechua MH500 Trekking Pants Review

The Quechua MH500 pants are one of the pieces of gear I use most in my daily life for trails and travel. After trying different brands and models over the years, this was the pair that finally made me feel I had found trekking pants that truly delivered everything I needed: freedom of movement, breathability, practicality, and excellent value for money. Since then, I’ve never switched models again.

I bought my first Quechua MH500 mountain pants in 2019, in Chamonix, during an international meeting with Sea to Summit. It was the black and gray version. In 2024, I bought a second pair — blue — which became my official companion during the 35 days of the French Way on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. Over hundreds of kilometers, it was tested across different temperatures, terrains, and levels of exertion — and it passed every test.

In this review, I’ll detail the usage recommendations of the Quechua MH500 pants, explain their main technical features, highlight the differences between the older version (which I own) and the current line, and share my real-life experience to help anyone looking for reliable trekking pants for hiking, trekking, and pilgrimages like the Camino de Santiago.

Recommended use of the Quechua MH500 pants

The Quechua MH500 is designed for those who regularly practice hiking, trekking, and mountain walking. Decathlon itself positions this model for an intermediate level — users who hike frequently, tackle longer trails, accumulate elevation gain, and want a product that’s a little more technical than entry-level pants.

It comes in both men’s and women’s versions, with identical technical characteristics and intended use, differing only in cut, fit, and belt system (the men’s version includes a belt, while the women’s has an internal adjustment system without one).

They’re ideal for people who:

• go on day hikes;
• do multi-day treks, sleeping in shelters or tents;
• plan to do pilgrimages such as the Camino de Santiago;
• prefer to travel light, carrying few clothes and washing along the way.

They’re not designed for cold, snow, or strong wind conditions; in those situations, they work as a lightweight base layer combined with thermal underwear and outer shells. The main focus of the MH500 is to be breathable, lightweight, comfortable, and durable enough for most three-season trekking conditions (spring, summer, and fall).

About Quechua and the MH line

Quechua is Decathlon’s brand dedicated specifically to camping, hiking, and outdoor walking. Within Decathlon’s ecosystem, it stands out for its excellent value for money, offering well-designed and affordable gear for regular outdoor enthusiasts.

There’s a natural overlap between Quechua and Forclaz, the brand focused on trekking — especially long and demanding expeditions. While Quechua targets lighter mountain activities, Forclaz focuses on extended autonomy and remote environments. Even so, categories like pants and lightweight jackets complement each other across both brands.

The MH line appears in multiple products (pants, shirts, jackets) and is generally associated with “Mountain Hiking”. In the case of the Quechua MH500 pants, the number indicates an intermediate level of technicality: better fabric, more features, and superior finishing compared to entry-level models — but without reaching the premium niche brands’ top-tier products.

My experience with the Quechua MH500 pants

My relationship with the Quechua MH500 trekking pants began in 2019. Over the years, I had tried several different brands — both international and local — with a variety of fabrics, technical cuts, zip-off versions (pants-shorts), reinforced models, and more casual options. When I tried the MH500 in Chamonix, I liked the fit and especially the stretch right away, but I had no idea it would become my “official” pair of pants for trails and travel.

Since then, I’ve worn them for:

• short hikes and urban walks while traveling;
• weekend treks;
• longer mountain treks, such as the 15-day FEAL Serra do Cipó program by Outward Bound Brasil;
• and trips where I needed a versatile garment that worked equally well on trails, in restaurants, or during flights and bus rides.

The real test, however, came in 2024, when I took the blue MH500 as my main pants for the Camino de Santiago. For 35 consecutive days — nearly 800 km — it faced all kinds of weather, wind, sun, dust, steep ascents, and long descents. The pants handled it all: they didn’t tear, lose shape, or stretch out, and they remained comfortable until the very end.

There’s also a zip-off version (convertible pants, as Decathlon describes it), which turns into shorts. I own that one too and have used it often on other trips. On the Camino de Santiago, I carried both versions: the regular and the zip-off. The regular pair was my daily hiking pants, while the zip-off served a more strategic purpose — for sleeping, resting at the albergues, or as a backup when I needed to wash my main pair. It worked perfectly for that, but for long hiking days, I still prefer the regular version, which is lighter and quieter when walking.

Comfort and freedom of movement

If I had to choose one single reason to recommend the MH500, it would be freedom of movement. The main fabric is a blend of 85% polyamide and 15% elastane, a bi-stretch fabric that stretches in two directions. Combined with a thoughtful cut and pre-shaped knees, it allows full mobility for climbing, crouching, long strides, and technical terrain.

When walking all day, the difference between pants that “move with you” and those that restrict your knees, thighs, or waist is huge. The Quechua MH500 pants feel like they disappear on your body — nothing chafes, nothing pulls, nothing gets in the way. For long-distance treks or pilgrimages, that’s a crucial factor.

The cut is described by Decathlon as “skinny” or “slim fit.” This means it’s more form-fitting than traditional straight-cut trekking pants. In many cases, it’s worth sizing up, especially if you have strong thighs or prefer a looser fit. The key is to try them on before buying.

Breathability and quick drying

Another area where the Quechua MH500 pants excel is their combination of breathability and quick drying. The lightweight synthetic fabric helps sweat evaporate efficiently, preventing that constant damp feeling even during high-effort days.

On the Camino de Santiago, this feature made a daily difference. Since I was traveling with few clothes, my routine was simple: hike all day, shower, put on the spare pants, wash the used pair, and by morning it was dry and ready for another day. In more humid weather, drying took a bit longer, but never to the point of inconvenience. In some albergues, I even used the dryer — which has become quite common along the Camino.

Decathlon’s Spanish website lists a 3/5 breathability rating for this model, which matches my field experience: it’s not an ultrathin summer-only pair, but it ventilates well enough for warm-weather hiking, especially when you’re moving and airflow is good.

Pockets, fit, and practicality

I’m a big fan of pants with functional pockets, and the Quechua MH500 gets this right. It comes with four zippered pockets — two standard hand pockets and two thigh pockets. For hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities, this is incredibly practical.

During hikes, I usually keep my phone, ID, money (when in town), tissues, snacks, and other small items within easy reach. The fact that all pockets have zip closures adds peace of mind: I can bend, sit, or climb without worrying about losing anything important.

Another useful detail is the integrated belt. The pants include a lightweight belt, and the waist is semi-elastic, which helps achieve a comfortable fit — especially on long trips where your body weight may fluctuate. In newer models, Quechua has added an internal silicone strip to prevent slippage, further improving stability. My older version has a metal buckle, but newer ones often come with a plastic one.

The adjustable ankles allow you to taper the hem when needed — whether to keep it off your shoes, increase ventilation, or wear them comfortably with high socks.

Technical features of the Quechua MH500 pants

The line is periodically updated in colors and small details, but the technical base of the Quechua MH500 trekking pants remains nearly identical to the model I’ve used since 2019. In short:

Main fabric composition: 85% polyamide, 15% elastane

• Pocket lining: 100% polyester;
• Waist: regular, semi-elastic with silicone, detachable integrated belt;
• Fit: slim/skinny, designed for freedom of movement;
• Pockets: four zippered pockets — two front and two thigh;
• Length: full-length pants;
• Weather protection: not waterproof or windproof; designed for comfort and breathability;
• Ventilation system: none extra; breathability comes from the fabric itself;
• Colors: vary by country. In Brazil, available in black and blue, subject to change.

In terms of maintenance, they’re easy to care for: machine wash at 30°C, quick-drying, and no need for ironing — essential for travel routines.

Strengths of the Quechua MH500 pants

As someone who has used the same model for years, a few points stand out:

The stretch is one of its biggest strengths. The bi-stretch fabric and anatomical cut offer outstanding freedom of movement on technical trails.

The breathability and quick-drying performance make it perfect for long trips, treks, and pilgrimages — especially when you need to wash and reuse it often.

The four zippered pockets are extremely functional and secure, ideal for storing important items.

The durability is impressive. My 2019 pair (black and gray) is still going strong after countless hikes, trips, and washes. The fabric hasn’t frayed, the elasticity remains solid, and the stitching has held up perfectly. My 2024 blue pair already has over 1,500 km of wear and has only slightly faded.

Finally, the value for money is excellent. Even as a mid-range Decathlon product, it performs close to more expensive trekking pants from niche brands.

Points to consider and limitations

No piece of gear is perfect for every condition, and the Quechua MH500 pants are no exception.

The first thing to note is the slimmer cut. Those who prefer looser pants or have larger thighs or hips may find them a bit tight, especially if buying their usual size. I recommend trying them on carefully — and, if needed, sizing up. That said, thanks to the fabric’s stretch, this isn’t a major issue.

Another point is that the MH500 isn’t waterproof or windproof. For rain and strong winds, it should be paired with a waterproof layer; for cold, a base layer works best. Still, that’s by design — within a layering system, it performs its moisture management role exceptionally well. There’s even a specific MH500 Waterproof version.

Lastly, it doesn’t feature reinforced panels in high-wear areas like the knees or seat. For me, this hasn’t been a problem despite heavy use, but it’s worth noting if you spend a lot of time sitting on rough or abrasive terrain.

Who are the Quechua MH500 pants for?

In my opinion, the Quechua MH500 trekking pants are an excellent choice for:

• those planning the Camino de Santiago or other long pilgrimages and want versatile, breathable, quick-drying pants;
• hikers and trekkers seeking comfort and freedom of movement;
• travelers who pack light and value durable, easy-to-wash clothing;
• anyone getting into technical mountain wear without jumping straight into high-end niche brands.

For extreme cold, technical climbing, or snowy conditions, I’d look for pants with more reinforcements or insulation. But for most trekking situations, the MH500 performs beautifully.

Conclusion

After many years testing different trekking pants, I can confidently say that the Quechua MH500 pants have become my benchmark for comfort, mobility, and practicality. I walked nearly 800 km on the Camino de Santiago with them, use them for hikes in the Pyrenees, and pack them for almost every long adventure. Whenever I need lightweight, durable, and reliable pants for any outdoor activity, the MH500 is the one I reach for.

They’re not waterproof, nor do they claim to be ultra-technical gear for extreme use, but they more than deliver as three-season hiking and trekking pants. They offer excellent freedom of movement, solid breathability, fast drying, practical pockets, and an unbeatable value for money.

If you’re looking for pants for hiking, trekking, or the Camino de Santiago that will last for years, the Quechua MH500 definitely deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Where to find them

The Quechua MH500 pants can be found both at Decathlon stores and on the brand’s official website. The company regularly updates product links, so if any of the addresses below no longer work, simply search for “MH500 Pants” in the site’s search bar.

Here are the available versions:

• Women’s MH500 Pants
• Men’s MH500 Pants
• MH500 Convertible Pants (Zip-off)
• MH500 Waterproof Pants

This post is also available in: Português (Portuguese (Brazil)) Español (Spanish)