Over 50 years ago, everyone venturing into the high mountains wore heavy corduroy trousers. That was the norm of the era, and technical progress has allowed it to change and improve significantly. Today's mountain trousers have the enormous advantage of combining many technical qualities with a much lighter weight. This allows everyone to fully enjoy the landscapes without enduring excessive effort from dead weight on their legs. But how do you choose mountain trousers? There are many possible criteria, but we'll look at the most important ones, giving you a solid framework to make the right choice for your next ascents on the high peaks!
Criteria for choosing mountain trousers
Use
It goes without saying that the characteristics of a good pair of ski trousers are not the same as those of a hiking trouser or a mountaineering trouser. If you dedicate time to a particular activity, it is important to choose trousers specifically designed for that use. Not only will there be differences in fabric construction, but also in design, resistance to impact and abrasion, and activity-specific features.
Weight
The higher the altitude and the more demanding the mountaineering, the less lightweight the trousers. The presence of reinforcements at the ankles and knees, and the thickness of the material, are elements that add weight — but generally make the product more versatile and built-to-last. That said, many mountain trousers, better suited to hiking or temperate seasons, remain very lightweight and easy to wear.
Protections and reinforcements
These additions are essential whenever you take part in a demanding activity — that is, mountaineering, high-mountain hiking or skiing. Only light summer hiking on fine days requires no particular reinforcements.
Reinforcements at the ankles, knees and seat — more or less robust and wide — contribute greatly to the lifespan of your trousers, as well as to your safety. A minor impact can cause real damage, and the protections significantly absorb the various knocks you may receive during your activities.
Integrated gaiters
These are generally found on the most versatile and technical models. They are most effective and useful in fresh snow, as this is the main factor in moisture penetration. In other cases, the tightening systems or Velcro bellows closures found on many trousers are sufficient.
Belt and/or braces
In the mountains, you are often carrying equipment (a backpack) or wearing a harness (mountaineering). That's why you need trousers with an effective and reliable support system. You can choose trousers that combine both, but bear in mind that braces systems are better suited to intense activities such as mountaineering. The best option is to choose mountain trousers with a removable braces system, which offers genuine and highly valuable versatility.
Garment stretch
Depending on the model and materials used, the elastic effect — the garment's stretch — varies. A light stretch is preferable to a strong one. Too much stretch will stiffen the product and restrict freedom of movement. On the other hand, trousers with no stretch at all will quickly become uncomfortable in any activity requiring good freedom of movement. Generally speaking, the stretch in quality mountain trousers is well-calibrated and allows good freedom of movement in all circumstances.
Thermal protection
This is an important point for all high-altitude and winter activities, where it's best to choose trousers that protect against the cold. The thermal protection of your trousers needs to be adequate, but not necessarily excessive. Your legs are in motion and already generating heat. That said, it remains an important point to check, especially in high mountain environments. It will essentially be the windproof properties of the material used that are key to keeping you well protected.
Water repellency and waterproofing
This too is an essential characteristic in the demanding conditions of the high mountains. This property deserves even closer attention than the previous one, as it will ensure your comfort is maintained. There is nothing worse than having soaking wet legs because your trousers are neither waterproof nor breathable (moisture-wicking). Look closely at waterproofing test results and statistics, and bear in mind that for high mountain use you should choose trousers with approximately 10,000 mm of water resistance.
Breathability
This characteristic matters regardless of the activity you practise. In fact, it becomes even more critical the more dynamic the activity. For skiing, for example, non-breathable trousers are a deal-breaker: your perspiration will quickly build up on your legs, creating a chilling effect the moment you stop moving. The breathability of the materials used is essential for choosing mountain trousers that are comfortable and pleasant to wear.
Other features
When choosing mountain trousers, pay close attention to the cut, the number of pockets, the closures, etc. These are details, but they can greatly influence how much you enjoy wearing those trousers. Finally, in snowy conditions, don't overlook trousers equipped with Recco technology. A simple sensor is embedded in the fabric, enabling rescue teams to locate you more quickly in the event of an avalanche. A small but significant feature that can save lives!
Choosing mountain trousers is a real investment. By selecting a quality, reliable product, you are choosing a garment that will last many seasons and bring you great satisfaction and real pleasure in pursuing your mountain activities with comfort, ease and wellbeing!
