The Facts: The crotch isn't gusseted. The material, however, is stretchy; 88% polyester, 12% elastane. The pants I received were made in El Salvador. The stitching is black. The embroidered Marmot logo is either grey or dark purple and located on the lower right leg at the ankle, not the top right hip area. The fabric panels and stitching on the pants I received are not the same as shown in the picture; there is no separate panel or stitching on the outside of the calf going down to the ankle.

The Opinions: A gusseted crotch, while a nice extra feature, may not be needed given the stretch of the pants. I like the discrete Marmot logo at the ankle better than at the hip. The smaller number of fabric panels and reduced stitching on the pants I received may actually stretch better than the pants shown.

The Sizing: At 6' 4" and around 103 kg, the XL provides a snug fit in the waist and thighs. The length of the pants is on the longer side. Although these pants are made to fit close, one might want to try the XXL if a looser fit, especially in the waist, is preferred.

A worthy addition to any gear chest. The material is is soft and stretchy so the balaclava feels nice and conforms to your head, neck, and face. The longer length of the balaclava keeps wind from making its way into your jacket. If the full protection of the balaclava is not needed, it can be pulled down to expose your face, or pulled back to expose your entire head, all while remaining very comfortable. I've never owned a neoprene or fleece balaclava, but I can't imagine it any more comfortable than the R1 by patagonia.