Contributions by sporkbunny (4)

I have been using 5 pairs of North Face's older style of zip-off pants for 5 years now and they are my favorites. I was stoked to find this new style, which is stylish enough to wear in public! Better yet, it comes in long length (hard to find!). The fabric is indestructible, and stands up to rock abrasion and bushwhacking better than even Mountain Hardwear. I've been butt-sliding down rock faces in Joshua tree and burrowing through brambles in Anza Borrego and the fabric doesn't even show wear! Note, however that the fit runs small and the thighs are a little narrow; consider going up a size if you are using these solely for hard hikes/backpacking/climbing. Stick to your normal size if you are also wearing these around town and like to look good.

I have 6 capilene shirts and this is my favorite. I'm normally a medium (about a women's size 8) but I got this one in a small for layering, and it fits nice and trim and a little more feminine looking. The print is so cute and colorful, and it brightens up all my photos (especially those ones on above-treeline mountain moonscapes like Whitney!). The silkweight capilene is best for baselayer or hot weather. So soft against the skin!

The Lightweight Capilene is my favorite because it feels like air on my skin, dries incredibly fast, has enough give that I don't feel "bundled up" when layering, and it provides enough warmth for all but the coldest winter weather. I love Patagonia's clothes in general because they are so well-made and they always fit perfectly. Medium is about a women's size 6-8. I'm on the tall side (5'10") and these pants are _just_ long enough. They even look kind of cute, IMHO, under a pair of shorts.