HEAD TO HEAD
High quality HILLWALKING TROUSERS are comfortable, protective, breathable and offer excellent freedom of movement – meaning your hard-working legs will be as happy as possible.
STITCHING & PATTERNING
For improved durability in high-wear areas, double or even triple-stitched seams are important. Other features such as a gusseted crotch, articulated legs and knee darts can improve the all-round fit and comfort of a pair of trousers.
WAIST
Unless the fit is absolutely spot-on, you’ll need adjustability in the waistband. Some trousers have an integrated belt, others have belt loops only. A drawcord or Velcro tabs are also sometimes used for cinching-in the fit. An elasticated waist with a soft lining is usually the comfiest.
STRETCH
If you want a stretchier fit to your trousers, with better freedom of movement and improved agility, look out for fabrics with added elastane (also known as spandex or Lycra). The higher the percentage of elastane, the stretchier the fabric will be. Two-way stretch fabrics stretch either vertically or horizontally. Four-way stretch fabrics stretch in both directions, crosswise and lengthwise.
FABRICS
Most hillwalking trousers are made from either a tightly-woven nylon or a polyester soft shell, with varying percentages of elastane blended in for extra stretch. Some pairs have a DWR coating, enabling them to shed light rain. Other trousers are made from polycotton, which can be waxed for added weather protection. Polycotton has good durability and wind resistance, but is often heavier and takes longer to dry.
ANKLE CUFFS
For a closer fit around the ankles, some trousers can be cinched-in using a press stud or Velcro tabs.
Some hikers find this provides better integration between their trousers and boots, preventing the trouser cuffs from flapping around. Another useful feature is a lace hook, which enables the top of the trouser cuff to be attached to the laces of your boots.
POCKETS
The number and orientation of pockets can vary quite significantly from pair to pair, so think carefully about what you need. Some hikers will want large thigh pockets for an OS map, others will only need a zippered rear pocket for a car key or wallet.
VENTILATION
On steep ascents, you can easily overheat in a pair of toasty hillwalking trousers. The answer is zippered thigh vents, which can be unzipped to increase airflow, dump heat and help you better regulate your temperature. Longer vents will provide better all-round breathability.
REINFORCED PANELS
Areas prone to more abrasion and wear and tear, such as the knees, seat (bum) and instep, often have thicker
