MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR Ridgetop (£60)

MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR Ridgetop (£60)

By Chris Townsend

April 01 2010

TGO Rating 4 stars

The Ridgetops are basic soft shell trousers made from a very stretchy thin fabric. They’re not very wind resistant or warm and more suitable for summer than winter. However the cut is loose enough that long base layer pants can be worn under them in cold weather.

Overtrousers are needed in cold winds or rain. Breathability is good and the Ridgetops are comfortable to wear. The stretch is greater than on other trousers and there’s a crotch panel for complete freedom of movement. They’d be great for scrambling and climbing in warm weather. The front pockets are deep with zips angled for easy access. The thigh pocket is set very low though: the pocket bag is over my knee, which means it’s just about useless. There’s a wide soft band round the waist that absorbs and wicks sweat and grip bands at the ankle for holding the trousers down on boots plus loops for attaching cords to run gaiter-style under footwear. These can be used year-round, with the addition of long underwear in winter, so are very good value for money.

Technical Spec

Fabric: 85% nylon/15%Elastane
Pockets: 2 zipped front, 1 zipped rear, 1 zipped thigh
Waist: belt
Ankle: zip, elasticated
Vents: no
Weight: 443g
Sizes: S-XXL
Likes: low cost
Dislikes: not very windproof

Mountain Hardwear
01572 724499
www.mountainhardwear.com

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