Rab Fusion Softshell Pant - Men's - 2009 BCS

this is my second pair of soft-shell pants (returned the MH Winter Wander) and I'm really liking these. paired them with Rho leggings today for a 22dF / 25mph wind ridge hike; not rated as wind-stopper pants they performed like them without any moisture build-up. they don't have a gusseted crotch but this wasn't a problem as the fabric has so much stretch, binding is not an issue. no unnecessary bells and whistles. belt loop stitch let loose but nothing major.

These pants are really remarkable- enough of a shell to keep the wet out (even in light rain, crawling through snow) yet breathable enough to vent effectively no matter how hard I sweat.
The material is stretchy in all the right spots, the ankle closures are great at keeping the snow out of my cuffs, the fit is articulated and basically I never have to think about them, beyond making sure the zip vents are closed before I go off into deep powder.

The belt is simple and works.
The cuffs have elastic closures that snug quite effectively- I have never had issues with snow getting in, despite some fine post-holing missions in damp, bottomless snow.
The knees and seat are in eVent, cut and articulated such that there is absolutely no binding or resistance to free movement.

The inside bits are soft and friendly enough that they can be worn with no layering underneath. They are a fantastic option when you want a little more than a soft-shell, but need breathability like a soft-shell.

I've worn these pants while snowshoeing, climbing and skiing. They've been through some pretty severe weather and were bomber. The full leg zips are great for donning and doffing without having to remove your boots and the cuff cinch helps keep the elements out if you're not using a gaiter. Very comfortable and very functional. I have nothing negative to say about these pants.

I wore these whilst in a severe snow storm which lasted for 3 hours they performed fantastic and once the weather had cleared I was feeling great.

I would say that these are the most comfortable pants I have worn.

This is just a fit and impressions review. Ordered these simultaneously with OR Trailbreaker pant. XL had a nice athletic cut that was loose enough for my larger than normal thighs and they fit better than the OR. Solid feeling construction and fabrics but ended up going with the XL OR pants for several reasons. Side zip vents are poorly designed, starting below mid thigh which limits their usefulness IMO. Pockets are minimal, and no gaiters for breaking trail through new snow. Still a very solid option for a bc touring pant.