Soft Sheel Pant / Trousers - Recommendation

[LennyJ1]

Hey Guys

Really wanting to get a pair of soft shell pants and have never worn any.

Do any of you have a pair and what did you think or for the gear expert's (you know who you both are) what would you recommend?

[twentyclicks]

I have 3 that might fall in this category but mostly not really:

1. Ronhill's - glorified lycra tights. Great for cold runs or mountain marathon. Comfy when wet, pretty windproof & warm.  Cheap. 

2. Rohan Goa's - a 200g travel trouser. A real surprise... these are really windproof, dry instantly, mud brushes off them, and have taken 3 years of abuse.  Great in winter with long-johns under them.  Unbelievable!  Their classic 'bags' are pretty similar, although there is now an 'epic bags' that are silicon impregnated so pretty much water-proof... could be awesome (anyone tried these? I'm really interested).

3. Proper soft-shell Berghaus Borazon.  Stretchy, DWR coated, ankle cords, thigh vents.  Very nice so far, but look more technical compared to the hippy Rohan.


Most of the 'soft-shells' are £70- £100, quite trim fit, stretchy and have DWR.  Some have venting options.  The Schoeller fabric ones are more expensive - not sure why it is special, but apparently it is.  There are a few other alternatives such as Rab Vapour-Rise trousers, or Paramo Fuera (windproof) or Cascada/Velez (waterproof).

The Berghaus Ortlers are a decent starting place - quite cheap, and more discrete style than most.

[chris]

I wear the Svalbard flex pant from Norrona. I would honestly say they are the most comfortable trousers I have ever owned! (i'll admit I got them pretty cheap but honestly if I need to get a new pair I'd pay full price with out a second thought)
Other than that I'd get the Mountain equipment Ibex pant, their stuff is awesome aswell.
Soft shell is def the way forwards and you'll not regret getting a pair.

[suspectmonkey]

Just out of interest, what advantage do soft shell pants offer over normal walking trousers such as the Montane Terra pants?  Not being rude, just genuinely curious!

[chris]

Loads! They are warmer, highly wind resistant, highly water resistant, stretchy, and uber comfy! Downsides are that that they are  generally a bit more expensive than normal walking trousers but I've found them more durable since they seem to stretch when snagged on things instead of ripping so while a high initial investment in the long term it works out better value cuz your buying less trousers!

[suspectmonkey]

They do look very comfortable I must say!  Would be nice in this chilly weather, but my Montane Terra's will have to last me a bit longer yet