Whether in fair weather or for routes not too exposed to harsh conditions or technical passages, the mountaineering softshell trouser is an excellent choice for reaching summits and traversing ridgelines. Today, softshell products designed for mountaineering offer a compelling compromise between comfort, lightness and technical performance. Here you'll find a review of their key properties and the main features to look for when making your choice.
In the past, thick corduroy trousers were standard issue for mountaineers. Some would add a pair of tights underneath or waterproof overtrousers to complete the setup. However, the combined weight of all three items simply can't compete with modern alternatives. Today's softshell mountaineering trousers are, in many cases, highly suited to all-terrain mountaineering, offering solid protection with optimal lightness.
softshell is not a precise material but a concept: literally a "soft shell", as opposed to the hardshell — a fully waterproof shell that keeps out all the elements. softshell products are made from a wide range of polymer materials, such as polyamide, lined with soft, stretchy fabrics like elastane or natural fibres, sometimes reinforced with a microfleece-type layer. The aim is to offer a product that is breathable, water-resistant (though not fully waterproof), windproof — yet less so than a simple single-layer Gore-tex hardshell — and comfortable in movement. In essence, the softshell is an intelligent compromise delivering genuine versatility in use.
softshell trousers prove highly suited to mountaineering in all its forms. That said, it is of course temperature and wind conditions that will determine whether this type of product is appropriate, as well as the aggressiveness of the terrain: a crack in sharp granite can quickly damage a fine pair of trousers; equally, it can often be bitterly cold on a north face, 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: softshell mountain trousers typically weigh between 500 and 880 grams. They are therefore very lightweight for intensive sport. The addition of reinforcements at the ankles and knees, along with thicker materials for extra warmth, will inevitably add weight — but also make the trouser more versatile and built-to-last overall. For mountaineering, avoid trousers that are too lightweight, as they are unlikely to be robust or well-suited enough for this type of activity.
A mountaineering and mountain softshell trouser should therefore be reinforced (sometimes with layers of Kevlar for highly effective protection), particularly at the knees, lower legs and seat. If your trouser can also be fitted with laces at the ankles, that's even better. An integrated elasticated waistband is also a comfort bonus that shouldn't be overlooked.
The stretch factor: depending on the model and materials used, the degree of stretch in the garment varies. This freedom of movement is essential in mountaineering. A trouser made from stretch fabric is easier to wear and offers significantly greater freedom of movement.
Warmth: choose a trouser with good thermal insulation. This is essential to avoid getting too cold when the wind picks up or at the end of the day. To achieve this, look for trousers that incorporate fibres (such as bamboo fibre) that retain body heat through a kind of mirroring effect.
The water repellency of a mountaineering softshell trouser reflects its waterproof capability. None of these trousers are 100% waterproof, and that's not the goal. However, good moisture protection is always an asset. A waterproofing rating of around 8,000 mm is a solid benchmark to look for.
Finally, to round out the list of features to look for, also consider antibacterial treatments — which add a real comfort benefit — as well as breathability and ease of care, which is a point well worth factoring in.
You are now equipped with the essential features to look for in a mountaineering softshell trouser and for mountain activities in general. This type of product is ideal for moderate, non-extreme weather conditions — don't hesitate to add it to your kit list for exploring the summits. Thanks to their smart compromise and versatility, they let you enjoy the mountains with unrivalled lightness and comfort.
Explore our collection of softshell jackets.
