Acai Stretch Max £69

+ Lightweight, stylish, weather-resistant - Skinny fit might not suit everyone, women’s-fit only

When it comes to women’s outdoor gear, it wasn’t too long ago that the industry’s standard approach was – rather insultingly – to simply ‘shrink it and pink it’. Fortunately, things have moved on since then, though in some areas, female-specific kit design is still rather lacking. Hillwalking trousers are a case in point. Which is why it’s refreshing to see Acai making gear that is, in its own words, ‘made by women for women’. Trail’s deputy editor Jenna was pretty impressed with the brand’s midweight Granite trousers when she tested them back in February. The lighter Stretch Max Skinnies are just as good. Designed for warm weather adventures ‘from town to trail’, they look more like skinny jeans. Riveted front pockets, twin back pockets (one of which is zipped), belt loops and a rear leather-look logo patch all emphasise the casual styling. But they boast plenty of hidden performance, being made from hard-wearing and quick-drying nylon with four-way stretch. They also have a showerresistant DWR finish. They’re lightweight and breathable too, though can be layered with the brand’s base layer tights for additional warmth in the shoulder seasons. We were impressed with their overall cut, which offers excellent freedom of movement. And they come in a wide range of sizes too, plus four leg lengths.

■ Women’s sizes 6-20

■ Men’s sizes n/a

■ Leg lengths P (petite)/R/L/EL (extra long) ■ Fabric 89% nylon, 11% elastane

■ Weight 236g (women's 6, R leg)

Verdict

Versatile and stylish outdoor trousers with enough technical performance to get out there all summer long.