Buying Guide Legwear
YOUR COMPLETE BUYING GUIDE TO
Gear Country walking
Expert advice on the kit that makes a difference
IT’S A SOURCE of delight to us that one of our most-liked videos on Facebook, some years back, was an Oscar-worthy film of gear tester Nick demonstrating a new pair of zip-off trousers atop Crag Fell in the Lake District. Obviously the scenic setting helped, but we hope it was the subject matter that actually brought people to the video. Trousers – and legwear in general – might seem to sit firmly at the unglamorous end of the gear spectrum, but they are still vital in a dozen different ways, given that they wrap, support, warm and cool the hardest-working part of your body when you do that thing we like doing. They matter. So this review has been conducted in the spirit of that video: rejoicing in the importance of good legwear, explaining each product as clearly as possible, and helping you make a decision that we hope makes you happy for years to come. So, whether you’re after unfussy, go-anywhere trousers for everyday walks, technical softshell pants for the mountains, sunny summer shorts or lithe leggings, we’ve got you (and most importantly your legs) covered. Perhaps you’ll be so excited about your choice you’ll make a video about it. Alas our film was criminally overlooked in the Palme d’Or at Cannes that year, but perhaps you’ll have more luck.
About our reviews
We’ve selected 15 pairs of trousers, shorts, leggings and capris that should be available online and/or in shops in the lifetime of this issue. These dots •• indicate whether the product is available in men’s and women’s versions. Lara wears waist size 16/XL; Nick is a 34in waist, but we have listed all size options for every product. Nick and Lara have each selected a Tester’s Choice, plus one product we think represents the best value for money.
TROUSERS
RRP: £50 Target price: £50
For many walkers – perhaps even most – the search for a great pair of walking trousers could begin and end here. The Teleki pants will take you pretty much anywhere from farmyard to mountain summit, in great comfort. They are incredibly light and breezy (just 258g in men’s 32in), and stretchy to
