Fjallraven

Bergtagen Touring Trousers - Men's

What I have been looking for

I had been looking everywhere for the right pants to ski-tour. I had tried on a variety of options, mostly hard shell, until I had realized that for casual touring (i.e. single day or overnight), you just don't need that level of waterproofing. The tradeoff that come with it for an otherwise unnecessary level of protection caused me to start looking elsewhere for touring pants. I most began trying out softshell options more appropriate for nordic skiing until I got fed up with the fact that none would provide over-the-boot protection. On top of which, if you tucked them into the ski boot, it would be rather uncomfortable. But the downsides were worth it for me - increased range of motion, quieter (so you can hear the sounds of nature around you), and far better breathability/heat dumping when you need it. This was a step up, until I found the Bergtagen Touring Trousers. These seamlessly blend all the pros I was searching for. Breathable, flexible, quiet, with just enough protection from the elements. On top of which, they are designed to accommodate a ski boot. They slip over and lock down - with easy access for when you switch from touring to ski mode on your boots. As for fit, finish, etc... These rock. They fit athletic throughout, with just enough flare at the bottom to accommodate a boot. There is a significant amount of stretch, and a waist cinch-down strap to make sure they don't slip down. They look great - almost an around the town kind of a style if you don't mind the extra width at the bottom, nonetheless I don't feel like I am bringing the mountain with me when I stop somewhere for a beer on the way home from a longer touring session. Took well over a decade, but I found the winning solution for +95% of my touring sessions.