Fjällräven Keb Agile £190

2023-04-01 -

This new offering from Fjällräven is a lighter and even more flexible version of the Swedish brand’s standard Keb trousers – a previous

Trail ‘Best in Test’ winner. They use a zoned fabric construction, largely consisting of fast-drying, doublewoven nylon stretch fabric.

Thigh pockets, knee panels, hems and ankle scuff patches feature G-1000 Lite Eco reinforcements for extra durability. This is a tough ripstop fabric incorporating organic cotton and recycled polyester, which can be waxed for extra waterresistance. Pre-shaped knees and a crotch gusset allow superb freedom of movement, while the tapered legs ensure minimal flapping in windy weather.

The lower legs have press-stud ankle cinches, and you also get zipped thigh vents to help dump heat when working hard uphill. Twin zipped thigh pockets provide secure storage (the right-hand pocket has a stretch mesh inner to hold a smartphone). There are also two open hand pockets and a waistband fitted with belt loops, finished with a button closure and a zip fly.

These well-built and versatile trousers feel protective and robust without being too hot or heavy. They work well for hillwalking and scrambling in most conditions, from spring right through to autumn.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY

There’s no women’s version yet. We think the hem cinches could use some additional snaps for an even closer fit with trail shoes or mid boots. They’re the most expensive trousers on test too.

■ WEIGHT 414g

■ MEN’S SIZES 27-42in waist

■ WOMEN’S SIZES n/a

■ LEG LENGTHS 30in, 32in, 34in

■ MATERIALS G-1000 Lite Eco Stretch (65% recycled polyester, 35% organic cotton) with stretch panels (89% polyamide, 11% elastane)