Background: I spent the summer (7 weeks) climbing and mountianeering in the Cascades. Purchased these for the glaciated routes.

This is probably the only piece of gear I’m going to fail. It has a slew of problems, some just are pants problems, some are soft-shell problems.

So I got the smallest size that OR sells figuring they’d be long but otherwise fine (I think I have a pretty average hip measurement…). Lets start with fit. They initially fit pretty well actually. As I’ve worn them though, they’ve become way, way too big. I can pull them a good couple inches off my hips. Belt does nothing. They are fairly flattering in terms of the rest of the fit though. I had to take off 10cm off the bottom, but that’s just because I’m small. It would be nice though if they sold a short version of their pants.

Other features: I like the pocket on the leg. It’s big enough to fit my phone, knife and snack no problem. It stays out of the way of my harness when climbing and it very convenient.

Material: Let’s get something straight: THESE ARE NOT SOFTSHELL PANTS. They do absolutely nothing to keep water out. Alright pants, but don’t advertise something as soft-shell if they are not. Honestly my prana halle's probably do better in wet than these things.

I bought this as a gift for my girlfriend and here's what she had to say about the Outdoor Research Voodoo softshells..

Originally i wanted these for backpacking in the summer, but they have come in hand for winter snowshoeing! Layer them over legs and they keep me warm and dry! They are true to size as well and love the charcoal gray color.

I bought these pants last year, and they are easily my favorite pair for several reasons: 1) they are super comfortable and fit well (note: this year I took them in a bit at the waist since I am really more in between a 6 and 8 than a true 8). 2) they are great for all kinds of activities. I've worn these pants climbing, hiking, doing yoga, bike riding, and they can do it all! 3) they can help you get through all kinds of weather! I wore these pants while sailing and hiking in New Zealand last year and have continued to put them through the wringer. They are good in the rain, wind, and snow, and sometimes I put leggings underneath them for extra warmth. 5) on a style note, they can be dressed up *just* enough when you need it, since they are pretty modest and plain. 6) I highly recommend them!

I am between a size 2 and 4. I ordered these pants in a 4 and they were way too large. I haven't any experience with them as I returned them.

These may run a little short for leggier folks, but were great for me. 5'2" 110 lbs and size 2 fits perfectly.

APR 2013 - These instantly became one of my favorite pants ever! They are an excellent technical pant and the description is correct, they perform great in the field and look stylish at the same time. They are comfortable and range of motion is A+ top notch. They resist rain excellently, which is great for wet climates like I live in (Alaska). Would recommend these to the avid outdoorsman/woman or just average joe.

UPDATE AUG 2015: A few months after purchasing these pants I bought a second pair in black and have worn them both hundreds of times, I'm completely blown away with the quality of material how it's withstood hiking, everyday casual wear, etc (it's impenetrable, so tough). They continue to resist and bead water/rain. Best pants I've ever bought.

I love the VooDoo! I already have the Ferrosi Pant, and like the VooDoo as well because the fabric is a little burlier and stand up to my abuse just great. Climbing, hiking and backpacking are my activities of choice for the VooDoo. And, because it has a fun style, I can wear them out to the brewery after a fun day outside, or even in to work!