A comfortable, durable, weather-resistant pair of walking trousers should be on everyone’s kit list. We put men’s and women’s options to the test
Reviewed by Rob Slade, Rachel Howatson Photos by Dave Caudery
MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT IBEX MOUNTAIN MEN’S PANT £90
mountain-equipment.co.uk
• Material: 92% polyamide, 8% elastane
• Weight: 438g (size medium)
Mountain Equipment’s Ibex Mountain Pants are a firm favourite with our reviewer, mainly thanks to their excellent range of movement, good durability and fantastic features. There’s a microfleece waistband and an integrated belt, articulated knees for mobility, zips at the ankle and the inner fabric feels nice against the skin, so you’re covered for comfort too.
As for features, you get two roomy zip pockets on each hip, a deep zip pocket on your backside and two zip pockets on your thigh, ideal for stashing emergency snacks, maps and gloves. You may find the Ibex Pants aren’t suitable for warm-weather hikes, and they’re not the lightest of designs, but if you’re after a durable, weather-resistant pair of trousers for coast paths to blustery summits, you’re on to a winner. RS
PROS: Excellent range of movement, good durability, fantastic features.
CONS: Original belt was flawed, not the lightest weight.
JACK WOLFSKIN HOLDSTEIG PANTS £125
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
• Material: 90% polyamide, 10% elastane
• Weight: 340g (women’s size 36)
Instantly comfortable and allowing excellent freedom of movement, of all the trousers on test, it was the Holdsteig Pants that made us want to tackle the hills the most. Available in men’s and women’s sizes, these softshell trousers are pleasingly stretchy and offer an almost legging-like fit. The inner material is notably soft – you’ll struggle to save these trousers just for hikes, they’re that comfortable. The built-in belt paired with the high waist allows for a secure fit, while the four zipped pockets are super practical.
The Holdsteig Pants held up very well in low temperatures, so these offer decent warmth and wind protection for winter. The brand recommends sizing up, but if you prefer a slim-fitting feel, we suggest sticking with your usual size. RH
PROS: Secure fit, built-in belt, great range of movement, stretchy fabric.
CONS: Not the lightest weight for packing.
FJÄLLRÄVEN KEB AGILE TROUSERS £195
fjallraven.com/uk/en-gb/
