These pants are a dependable all-around backcountry ski pant. Zippers are sturdy and waterproof. Of course, you are not going yank like the dickens on them, but they appear to be the self-healing type. The side zips extend from the hip points to the ankle. Edge guards are sturdy and do not make the pants heavy. The drawcords around the pant openings reliably keep out powder. The pants are light, with no insulating lining, and the material is stretchy and has a sturdy feel. I have used these pants when it's sunny warm spring skiing and when it is dead of winter cold, with wet sticky snow. The pants breathe well and will keep you dry as a bone. The wise choice of an insulating layer for your legs is paramount. I use a midweight Capilene and it is perfect year round.

These pants ride just a bit below the belly button, almost like a pair of Levi 501s. Make sure your jacket compensates for that. My only concern is that since the pants are supposed to stretch and they do, the fit is quite athletic in the waist and the hips. If you are not a runner and super fit, or have a big build, these pants may be a little tight in the rear end and crotch.

Finally, the pants make almost no sound when you are skiing, and have a softer and heavier feel than nylon. The black on brown trim looks rather sharp in the parking lot. You will not look like the Michelin Man or Farmer John is these pants. Also, the price is quite nice and will not blow a hole in your wallet.