Vented hiking trousers

When you get too hot you can always peel off a layer from your upper body, but what if your lower half is overheating? For some reason, vents in hiking trousers are rare, but they are a great way to keep cool when the weather turns warm.

Fjällräven Vidda Pro Ventilated Trousers (m/f) £180, fjarllraven.com

These well-made, tough and durable trousers will doubtless survive 1,000 gnarly scrambles – as well they should at an undeniably stiff price. They will also keep you cool, thanks to the zip-vents. These open from hip to knee (a meaningful 25cm long on the men’s size 48 I tested), letting cool air in when you need it.

The wind-resistant polycotton fabric can be waxed to repel water and is extremely robust, with extra reinforcement over the knees. These trousers have a lot of features without looking fussy, including two pockets at the hip and three on the thigh. A panel of stretchy fabric tapers from groin to knee, to help you move freely. (JP)

Montane Men’s Terra Pants £90, montane.com

Launched in 2001, Montane’s classic Terra Pants were among the first walking trousers to feature vents. There may be some readers who prefer not to show a glimpse of thigh through the vents. You’ll be pleased to hear that unlike the Vidda Pro trousers above, the Terra’s vents are fitted with a mesh fabric that preserves your modesty, while allowing cool air to circulate.

Cut for comfort and ease of movement, these trousers are tough and breathable. The nylon fabric feels like cotton; panels of tough Cordura fabric reinforce high-wear areas: knees, inner ankles and backside.

The classic version of the Terra is for men only, but the range has several offshoots. Terra Ridge Pants for women (£95) include vents and have a closerfitting cut, made with stretchy fabric for comfortable movement. (JP)