Versatile soft-shell alpine pants

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Fit:

True to size

Size Bought

32/30

Height

5` 9"

Weight

150 lbs

I generally prefer the lighter-weight "Silencr" guide pants to the somewhat heavier "Klash," but these pants perform really well in snow and cold, wet weather. Water-resistant and stretchy, these pants don't restrict movement and don't feel baggy or heavy, but they provide good protection in rough conditions and they breathe well to keep you dry inside as well as out. I've stayed warm and dry in heavy, wet snow, and the boot lace hook keeps the pant leg snug over the tops of boots and provides sufficient protection that there's really no need for gaiters in most cases. The zippered pockets keep everything secure. One minor complaint is that the zippered thigh pockets sit on the top of the thigh, as opposed to the side, but this is a nitpicking complaint. These are tough, high-performance soft-shell pants that breathe well yet provide excellent protection from the elements, perfect for cross-country skiing, alpine hiking, and any vigorous activity in foul weather and rough conditions. Kuhl pants have never disappointed, and finding the right fit is much less of a crap shoot thanks to having both waist and inseam size options to choose from. I wish all brands offered the same.

Kenneth S.

Comfort for three-season alpine

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought

30 - 32

Height

6` 0"

Weight

157 lbs

For months I've been on a quest for an alpine climbing pant. It felt like I had tried on every pant under the sun when finally I came across these. The moment I put them on I was taken with the comfort and fit. They allow full range of motion while maintaining a close cut. I have only worn them on one trip so far, so this review is mostly just first impressions. But after just fourteen miles, including both snow post-holing and warm sun, I am blow away by these pants versatility. It's a mid-weight soft-shell; thick enough for brisk mornings but breathable enough for when you're generating heat on the approach or climb. The textile is stretchy and soft but seemingly robust. After a couple hours of slushy snow, the DWR kept me dry. The side pockets are all zippered, crucial for when you're on a climb or approach and don't want anything falling out. Pockets are also positioned well for wearing a harness but still having access. The hook on the front seemed to keep the pant legs positioned nicely under my gaiters. The bottom of the pant legs also have a zippered gusset for going over your boots. Again, what I love most about these pants is the complete range of motion they allow, from squat to high-foot. I'm 6', 156 lbs and the fit for me is simply outstanding. I wish I could have ordered these from Backcountry, as they are less expensive then the local shop I bought them from. If you're looking for a good alpine pant for early to mid-season attacks, definitely check these out. My one gripe? Made in China. I like to support brands that bring a little more manufacturing closer to home but I simply couldn't find a pant that fit as good as these. While I can't speak to the longevity of these pants yet, if my other three pairs of Kuhl pants are an indicator, these will take years of abuse.

Stephen

Mid-Weight Soft Shell Pant

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Fit:

Runs large

Size Bought

33/30

Height

5` 9"

Weight

170 lbs

A nice and versatile pant. I can foresee wearing them on most occasions when cool-cold out. Fairly water resistant but not very wind resistant. Fit is relaxed (not baggy) so look around if you enjoy a slim-fitting pant. They run slightly long and loose in the waist. Boot-lace clip is a nice add and will allow for use when snowshoeing, except perhaps on the colder winter days. Tons of pockets - all zippered.

MPA

pant for all sorts of activities

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Height

6` 1"

Weight

180 lbs

This is a medium weight softshell pant. I've got some Rab and other brand softshells that are lighter/thinner but also some Patagucci etc., that are thicker. Great for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits. Cut and color are subtle that you may even get away with wearing it to work and heading straight out after for your outdoor pursuits. I'm curious to see if I can get them over my AT boots this winter as they may be great for fast and light touring. The one place they may not work great is under fishing waders. The boot hook on the hem kept digging into my lower leg when deep wading. I had the pant legs tucked into socks and the compression when submerged in water made one leg a little irritated. May even overcome that little annoyance with some careful folding and tucking of the pant leg in the socks. But on that trip, the pant was a great piece of kit to bushwack a few miles into the river. Then suit up for wading. Bushwack out and straight to the bar/restaurant for dinner.

Josh R

Perfect for outdoor activities

Familiarity:

I've used it several times

Fit:

True to size

These pants are worth every penny. Used these on an outdoor adventure that included bushwacking, scrambling, and glissading. These pants protected my legs from the bush and rocks. There is a built in clip to attach to boot laces, so I didn't need to put on gaiters. Water resistant. Great pants!

Alan C

Country of origin of these pants?

Michael D.