The North Face Prolix Pant - Women's - 2009 BCS

I needed a waterproof pant for running -daily - often through waist high grasses, stream crossings, and every kind of precip - from sprinkles to downpours. However, most waterproof material is loud, stiff, and uncomfortable, so I opted for TNF's Apex line of water/wind resistent softshells. When I read other reviews that said the fabric is thin, having only experienced Mountain Hardwares' Alchemy Jacket (thick, fleece lined, and gore-tex enhanced), my heart sank with the realization that these pants would need liners to work below 45 degrees. It's b/c they're so thin that I'm keeping them. They're light, fluid, and silent, so much so I can hardly tell I'm wearing anything. I have used mid (smartwool), heavy (Patigonias Capilene 3) and lightweight (TNF bamboo) liners and all have stayed put and been unbinding under these. Order up if you plan to use them all year round b/c the drawstring waist tightens past what the waist snap will do. Color matches most of what I have, but would prefer 2 front, slant zip pockets, not just the tiny front lip zip. The downpour day was 60 minutes total (30 running, 30 dog walking), and my knees were wet after. BUT, every other time, through streams, tall soaked fields, and on one blustery 19 degree day, these softshells get it done and do so in comfort and slightly flattering fit. I might get a second pair just cuz these are already always in the hamper.

They're cool looking but not the right fit. I am 5'7" and 125lbs. Normally a size 2 (when the gods are friendly) to a 4. I ordered the 4 and had to return - they were tight without a base layer. And unacceptable with a base layer. They also have that funky fit some pants can have, wear the crotch area (around the zipper) wrinkles up. I liked the fabric and the overall design. Had they fit - I would have kept them to try for hiking but would not have likely used them for running.

These are great for just hanging around the house or to run down to the local coffee shop, or pub. Pretty good wind resistance, as well as water. I am about 5' and ordered a size 4, they were a bit long.

These are great and they are nice enough to wear every day. The fabric is thin and stretchy and they feel very light. I bought two of these as I had ones that were the same design but the fabric was thicker and I wore them all time. The logo print on the front fell of both of mine almost immediately.