TGO Rating: 4
These tick all the usual Paclite boxes: they are lightweight, with the same breathability in real terms as coated trousers when wet, better when dry.
TGO Rating: 2.5
Wearing these felt like being encased in a crisp packet – it certainly gives “Walkers” a new dimension. Lightweight, but the noisy fabric ensured I was never going to sneak up on a summit.
TGO Rating: 3.5
These are water repellent, not waterproof. As soft shell pants, Roca Q are designed to withstand damp, cold conditions (but not proper rain), with waterproof–ish patches on the bum and knees, and reinforced ankle guards.
These are for wearing, not carrying. Cut is medium at the thigh and wide below the knee. A crotch panel and articulated knees allowed good movement, scuff guards were effective
The fabric is so silky it was tempting to wear these next to bare skin – right up until the condensation kicked in. Epic pants are very lightweight and comfortable, with a generous cut that slides easily over other legwear.
TGO Rating: 5
You wear, rather than carry, Páramo clothing. It feels heavy in the hand and in the pack, but light on the body.
These pants are fabulous. The very low weight of 210g includes laminated full side zips, so these pants can be quickly whipped on or off regardless of footwear, without getting mud on the inside of the trousers.
Rab has gone for proven, foul-weather three-layer technology.
I find Sprayway’s women’s trouser cut narrow at the hips and thighs (and very wide below the knee), so went up a size for the test pants. New this winter, these use Gore’s three-layer ProShell, which I found breathable and comfortable.
Marmot has covered all bases with this overtrouser: the size and leg length options are comprehensive. It’s a straightforward garment, with an elasticated waist and static drawcord.
