Rab Torque Pants

£95 356g

all-round comfort, reverse fly no seat reinforcement Material: ‘Matrix double weave’ – mix of polyamide, elastane, polyester, polyurethane Fabric treatment: DWR Sizes: S-XXL, 2 leg lengths rab.equipment

For more technical two-to-three season trips, these are my trousers of choice. The matrix fabric is exceptionally comfortable and stretchy, and seems to manage a wide range of temperatures, with the just the right amount of wind and weather resistance. They dry fast and the reinforced areas on the knee and ankle mean less worry about wear or tear. The slim fit feels ‘just right’ for me, meaning no excess of material to catch on the terrain or flap around in the wind; and the availability of a short leg length keeps things tidy at the ankle. The zip at the ankle with an extendable gusset is excellent for getting them on and off, as well as sitting them over winter boots. There are also hem loops to attach the trousers to your boots should you wish. There’s no belt fastener, but the elastic clasp at the waist is low-profile and secure. Both hip pockets and the rear pocket are zipped, and the fly is reversed (it opens from the bottom) – a small but ingenious detail that makes access under a harness or heavy winter layers a cinch.

Torque Pants are deservedly popular – versatile for walking, climbing and everything in between, and durable over the long term. I’ve had a pair for several years now, and there’s little I’d change.