So here's the dilemma... These pants are such a great product that I can't help but rave about them, but if I let too many people how good they are, everyone will get them! As a pro patroller and backcountry skier who's very hard on my gear, these pants are proving to be bulletproof! Rugged construction and super durable fabric has allowed these pants to stand up to the wear and tear of patrolling on Blackcomb and touring on Coast Mountains. As a guy with a thermostat set on high, I've found the vents on these pants to be very effective and easy to use. The handwarmer pockets also do a great job of venting. Once the vents are closed, however, the Rubicons are plenty warm to drop into waist deep pow or stand around camp in subzero temps. The cargo pocket on the legs have enough space to carry enough food for a days touring or can carry whatever you need for charging the steeps in the resort. Last but not least, they look great. Stylish cut and comfortable fit ensure that these pants have taken the place of three other ski pants in my wardrobe. Enough said. I'm a happy customer an dexpect to be using the Rubicons for a long time to come.
Miles Randell. Squamish, BC, Canada.

I skied with these pants for 5 days in a row in Zermatt and 4 days in Chamonix. They never let the water in and with only runners tights as a base layer I stayed warm. The pockets are well positioned and the vents on the legs help keep you cool when it really starts heating up. Buy these pants and you won't be disappointed.

So.. an update. After 200+ days of skiing the pants have seen some wear. The crotch seams have blown out in two places and I've replaced a handwarmer pocket zipper, plus I've sewn the zip pocket back on. The fabric still looks great and has worn well but Patagonia (I hope you're reading) should use a stronger thread.
Miles.

These are some serious duty pants. Really thick fabric but yet stretchy and comfortable. I love them. It has great pockets, four in all and two huge vents. The cuffs on the bottom fit around a ski boot and also have a sinch incase you want to put them around smaller boots. The waistband is very comfortable and has an internal adjustment to get the fit just right. I have worn these pants through many days of skiing front and backcountry, ice climbing, and up to 19,400 feet climbing in Ecuador. I can wear these pants with a single baselayer down to -20 F and still be comfortable. If this pair ever wears out I will buy the Rubicon pants again.

These pants are perfect for inbounds skiing. They are super warm even without a baselayer. The cut is generous enough for almost anybody, and they're comfortable all day.
I'm convinced they're nearly indestructible, with over 250 days on them they show no wear. There is a part on the top of the size zips that fell off after about 200 days, but Patagonia fixed it up for free and they're good as new.

Easily the best pants I have ever purchased. They're made with very durable material that I suspect will hold up much longer than I anticipate. The thigh vents are in the perfect spot to dump lots of heat, and dont have the crappy mesh lining. There are two thigh pockets off to the side and at an angle, meaning they never get in the way of sidestepping, booting, or skiing no matter how much crap you stuff in them. The fit is relaxed but still dexterous enough for any uphill movement. Typical Patagonia quality and style -- built to last.

real nice pant. great for resorts and for heading into the backcountry, but maybe a little heavy for b/c tours if thats what you do all the time. really well made as is all of patagucci's stuff. fabric is really tough and nice all around pant.

that says it all...these have everything. cargo pockets one secured by a zip, one via velcro, nice little pass attachment inside the pocket as well makes it easy to grab when the liftie needs it. Vents are huge and make dumping the heat easy. Miles said it these things are tough...I have had mine for two full seasons with 150 plus days in bounds and a handfull out of bunds, the fabric is bomber, the scuff gaurds have held up to some real abuse, and when I did blow out a vent zipper but Patagonia fixed it in no time and at no cost to me other than shipping. I wear these things in all sorts of conditions from Blower in Mid Feb to Mashed Potato's in late April. Great all around pant if you're in the market.