ExOfficio

BugsAway Sol Cool Ampario Convertible Pant

£85 n Men’s 30-42 n Women’s 4-20 n Weight 322g (size L) n Material BugsAway Sol Cool Jade fabric (100% nylon)

ExOfficio are well known for producing practical travel clothing and this trouser is ideal for hiking in warmer climates. The material is a nylon impregnated with permethrinbased insect repellent that lasts 70 washes, as well benefiting from a jade infusion treatment that absorbs and quickly releases heat. You also get hip pockets that easily swallow an OS map whole, plus slightly smaller, zipped thigh pockets and a zipped rear pocket. Ankle zips enable easier boot removal – and these are neatly tucked away on the inside of the leg, so are more discreet. A nice touch is that the waistband has a soft, brushed lining for more comfort.

Other trousers have a larger thigh pocket that does take maps and which is often easier to access while wearing a rucksack with a hipbelt. There is no stretch in this fabric either, and it’s not the warmest or toughest option out there. The waist isn’t elasticated, so there is no give or take for holiday weight loss or post-holiday weight gain, but you do get belt loops at least, although no belt is provided. The ankle zip is discreet but may be liable to getting trashed by undergrowth, perhaps.

Great trouser for warmer climates and less arduous trails, where its many benefits outweigh its fewer drawbacks.