Whether in fair weather or on routes not too exposed to harsh conditions or technical terrain, the mountaineering softshell trouser is an excellent choice for summiting peaks and traversing ridges. Today, Softshell products designed for mountaineering offer an appealing compromise between comfort, weight and technical performance. Here you'll find a review of their key properties and the main features to look out for when making your choice.
In the past, thick corduroy trousers were standard issue for mountaineers. Some would add a base layer tight underneath or waterproof overtrousers to complete the kit. However, the combined weight of all three items is no match for today's modern products. Indeed, so-called Softshell mountaineering trousers are, for many situations, highly suited to all-terrain mountaineering, offering adequate protection with optimal lightness.
Softshell is not a specific material but a concept: literally translated as a "soft shell", it stands in contrast to the Hardshell — a fully waterproof shell that keeps out all the elements. Softshell products are made using a wide range of polymer materials, such as polyamide, lined with flexible and elastic fabrics like elastane or natural fibres, sometimes reinforced with a microfleece-type layer. The aim is to offer a product that is breathable, waterproof but not entirely so, wind-resistant but less so than a simple single-layer Gore-tex Hardshell — and comfortable to move in. In essence, softshell is an intelligent compromise that delivers genuine versatility in use.
Softshell trousers prove highly suited to mountaineering in all its forms. Ultimately, it is temperature and wind conditions that will determine whether this type of product is appropriate, as will the nature of the terrain: a crack in a chimney of sharp granite can quickly damage a fine pair of trousers; likewise, north faces can be bitterly cold, even in summer. It's up to you to assess the conditions in which you'll be using your mountaineering softshell trouser.
The features of a mountaineering softshell trouser
Weight: mountaineering softshell trousers generally weigh between 500 and 880 grams, making them very light for intensive sport. Reinforcements at the ankles and knees, along with thicker materials for greater warmth, will inevitably add weight — but also make the product more versatile and built-to-last. For mountaineering, avoid trousers that are too lightweight, as they are unlikely to be built-to-last or suited to this type of activity.
A mountaineering and mountain softshell trouser must therefore be reinforced (sometimes with kevlar layers for highly effective protection), particularly at the knees, lower legs and seat. Furthermore, if your trousers can be fitted with laces at the ankle level, that's even better. The presence of an integrated elasticated waistband is also a plus for comfort and should not be overlooked.
The stretch factor: depending on the model and the materials used, the degree of stretch in the garment varies. This freedom of movement to follow the body's motion is essential in mountaineering. Trousers made from a stretch fabric will be more comfortable to wear and offer greater freedom of movement.
Warmth: choose trousers with good thermal insulation. This is essential to avoid getting too cold when the wind picks up or towards the end of the day. To achieve this, opt for trousers that incorporate fibres (such as bamboo fibre) that retain the body's heat through a kind of mirror effect.
The water repellency of your mountaineering softshell trouser reflects its level of waterproofing. These trousers are not 100% watertight — nor is that the aim. However, good moisture protection is always useful. A water resistance of around 8,000 mm is a sound benchmark when choosing.
Finally, to round off the list of features to look for, also consider antibacterial treatments — a real plus for comfort — as well as breathability and, of course, ease of care, which is a point not to be overlooked.
You're now equipped with the essential features to look for in a mountaineering softshell trouser and for mountain use in general. This type of product is perfect for moderate, non-extreme weather conditions — don't hesitate to add it to your kit list for tackling the summits. Their versatility and well-judged compromises let you enjoy the mountains with unmatched lightness and comfort.
Check out our collection of softshell jackets.
