Mo■ta■e Atomic Pant £90
■ Materia● 2.5-layer Pertex Shield ■ Me■’s S-XXL plus two leg lengths ■ Wome■’s 8-16 ■ Weight 225g (men’s L)
IT'S GOOD
There are lots of trousers around this price that are similar to these, but for me the Atomic has a slight edge. The fabric is Pertex Shield without a mesh lining, and this makes them lightweight and packable, but loads of trousers can claim this benefit. What sets them apart is the thigh-length zip which makes them easy to fit over boots. I also noticed the elasticated waistband with its drawcord tended to sit flat and more comfortably against the body than others. Another bonus was a press-stud ankle cuff adjustment plus a Velcro tab calf adjuster, so you can control the fit. The knees are articulated too. Overall the fit was just slightly neater than others.
HOWEVER
Like many lightweight trousers, these are clammier than heavier trousers, as they don’t have such good protection against condensation. This isn’t a major problem but don’t be surprised if the trousers underneath get a little damp from condensation. The fabric is also very thin, which means it will tear more easily than heavier fabrics, so some care is needed when scrambling over rocks. Like most others, there is no internal gaiter and no braces attachment option, so you do have to tug them back up occasionally. The drawbacks are mainly down to these trousers being so lightweight.
VERDICT
If low-weight trousers at a good price are your preference these are better than most, but they still have drawbacks compared to some others.