Mountain Hardwear Epic Pant - Men's - 2006 BCS

That's the bottom line. The pants fit well, are a good length, and are crazy light, but what it comes down to is that they are legitimately waterproof, and that's what you want in a pant.

I have had these pants for almost a year (bought them at the start of 2009). They are extremely waterproof and I have never had an issue with water getting. I have taken them mountaineering many times and been in summer monsoons in the Rockies with them. They work great. HOWEVER, the waterproofing around the ankles has totally disappeared! It is now ultra thin and doesn't have the waterproofing on it. Also, the seam taping is coming off too. I am in the process of sending them back for a new pair (and new model). Hopefully I get my moneys worth this time.

I bought this for a 5 nighter in the mountains of Northern GA in March. As would be expected, it rained some, snowed some, and the wind blew some. I hiked about six easy miles in the rain with it and it did pretty well. It breathed alright, but there was certainly some condensation on the inside. That night we got dumped on with rain, and I really wasn't impressed with the waterproofness. The material didn't bead all that well, and my pants underneath got pretty wet after an hour or two in the rain. So long story short, if you are an ultralight nut that needs some water resistance, this is a fine match. But if you need absolute waterproofing, this isn't for you. Also, I spent a lot on these to still get damp.

The Epic is a great pant for cross country skiing, and snow shoeing. Their ability to help control heat transfer and their ability to keep you dry in wet weather is an unbeatable combination. Not to mention that they move with you and are light weight.
Great pant and I have order a second pair.

I own the previous version of these before then had a belt or any venting but they are still made of the same fabric. These pants just are NOT WATERPROOF. They do provide a barrier to the weather and would be just fine for a jaunt in the rain but if you are counting on your pants to protect your from prolonged exposure to precip. these are not for you. Spend a few more bucks and i suspect you will get alot more pant!