[Trail Blazer]

Hey everyone! As the chilly winds start to creep in, I find myself on the hunt for the perfect climbing pants to keep me warm while battling the elements. After testing out a few contenders, I’m excited to share my top picks for cold weather climbing. You know, those pants that make you feel like you can tackle Everest, even if it’s just a trip to the local crag in subzero temperatures.

In this post, I’ll give you the lowdown on my three favorite pairs of climbing pants, along with a handy little buyer’s guide to help you make the best choice for your next adventure. So, let’s dive in and get our gear sorted for those frosty ascents!

• Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants
• Arc’teryx Sigma AR Pants
• Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Pants

[Trail Blazer]

Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants

Ah, the sweet symphony of a zipper gliding up. That’s how my journey with the Outdoor Research Cirque II Pants began. For anyone who’s been on the rocky paths and vertical challenges, you’ll know that not all pants are created equal, and finding the right pair is like finding the perfect climbing partner. Spoiler alert: these pants are an absolute keeper!

Comfort & Fit:

• First things first, slipping into these pants feels like a hug for your legs. And not the uncomfortable bear hug from that overly enthusiastic uncle at family reunions, but more like a supportive, snug embrace that knows when to give you space. The Cirque IIs seem to stretch in all the right places, which is critical when you’re trying to not-so-gracefully scramble over that awkward boulder.
• They fit true to size, but here’s a wild concept: they also make you look halfway decent in summit selfies, even when you’ve been drenched in sweat and most certainly have a bird’s nest hairdo.

Durability:

“Will these outlast my last pair of climbing shoes?” That was my question. Friends, I think they just might.

• After several rock faces, a delightful slide down a scree slope (pro tip: you might want to avoid shortcuts that look like trash chutes), and a surprise rainstorm, these pants have not just survived, they’ve thrived. The reinforced scuff guards are a game-changer, especially if your coordination isn’t stellar (like… maybe you trip on a slightly inclined surface called ‘the ground’).

Weather Resistance:

• Speaking of rainstorms, the Cirque II Pants didn’t turn into soggy leg weights! They handled the wet like a champ. While they’re not entirely waterproof, they’re impressively resistant, which was both a surprise and a relief.
• They also breathe better than my last goldfish—a true win for reducing that questionable outdoorsy odor.

Features:

• Big pockets. I mean it, these are serious Mary Poppins pockets. I managed to fit my phone, keys, a granola bar, and a small celebratory sandwich for after the climb. Practical AND delicious.
• The integrated belt is a nice touch—no more worrying about a potential plumber’s moment when bending over to tie your shoes.

In short, if you’re on the fence about these bad boys, you might want to hop off on the side of yes. The Cirque II Pants are dependable, durable, and down for whatever adventure you dream up. Plus, they might just make you the best-dressed climber on the cliff (this is a low bar, but hey, take what you can get). Go forth and conquer those peaks with comfy legs!

[Trail Blazer]

Arc’teryx Sigma AR Pants

Hey fellow climbers and mountaineers! I recently took the plunge and snagged a pair of the Arc’teryx Sigma AR Pants, and let me tell you, these pants could probably survive an encounter with a Yeti!

First Impressions: Right out of the box, these pants scream quality. I mean, they felt like the James Bond of climbing pants—slick, durable, and definitely better looking than anything else in my closet.

Comfort & Fit: Honestly, slipping into them was like wrapping myself in a cloud of athletic prowess. They fit like a glove, except you know, for legs. They have just the right amount of stretch, so whether you’re scaling a brutal multi-pitch or awkwardly reaching for the last slice of pizza in the lodge, you’re covered. My friends did make sure to point out that the articulated knees made me look like a total pro on the wall. Thanks, Arc’teryx!

• Durability: These pants have seen their fair share of rough granite, sharp branches, and even a failed attempt at parkour (don’t ask). They haven’t shown a single sign of wear. Honestly, at this point, I wouldn’t be surprised if they outlasted my climbing career.
• Weather Resistance: Ever tried climbing in the rain? It’s basically climbing… but with a free sponge bath. While I’m not saying the Sigma AR Pants turn you into an all-terrain rain warrior, they definitely do a stellar job at keeping your bum dry. The water-repellent fabric is no joke.
• Pocket Space: It’s like they say, you can never have too many chalk balls. And thankfully, with the sturdy zippered pockets, you’re not losing your treasure trove mid-climb. I counted them out, and there’s enough room to stash snacks, which is an essential criteria in any mountaineering apparel, IMHO.
• Style Points: You’ll look amazing—period. I’m pretty sure these pants upgraded my attractiveness score by at least 2 points. And from someone who’s eternally stuck in the “6” zone, that’s saying a lot.

Verdict: If you’re in the market for a bombproof pair of climbing pants, you definitely want to give these a shot. They’re a bit hefty on the wallet, but hey, they’re cheaper than therapy… and twice as effective for stress relief! Plus, think of the bragging rights when you tell your pals, “Yeah, these are Arc’teryx.”

So there you have it—a pair of pants that might just make you climb better, be drier, and look cooler. Go get ’em and maybe I’ll see you hanging out on a crag somewhere, pretending we know what “beta” means. Stay safe out there!

[Trail Blazer]

Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Pants

Hey fellow wall spiders and peak seekers,

I just got back from a weekend of rock hugging and slope-clinging in the Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Pants, and I figured I’d share my thoughts before the dust settles—or, knowing my clumsy behind, before I take another harmless tumble!

First off, if these pants were a climbing buddy, they’d definitely be the one cracking jokes while effortlessly scaling the crag. Super comfortable and flexible, these pants made me feel like a rock ninja. Imagine my surprise when I realized my cartwheeling attempts (don’t judge, it’s a thing) didn’t lead to any embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions. Seriously, the stretch in these is impressive—I wouldn’t be shocked if they were weaved with unicorn hair.

And while I’m on the topic of mythical qualities, let me address durability. Sometimes, I take ‘route-finding’ a bit too literally, but despite my bushwhacking escapades, these pants emerged unscathed. The fabric might as well be called the “Houdini weave,” because it made sharp branches and abrasive rocks disappear from existence.

In terms of features, the Chockstone Pants come jam-packed like your favorite belayer’s backpack! They threw in some well-placed pockets, perfect for holding a granola bar for instant, hangry relief, and a map, just in case my natural instincts decide to lead me to another wilderness dead-end.

Though I did briefly consider the fashion implications of rocking them around town, after catching a sideways glance from a backpacking squirrel (true story), I say why not? These pants are versatile enough for an impromptu coffee date after a morning ascent, or even just lounging around pretending you’re getting ready for your next adventure.

In conclusion, whether you’re conquering summits or desperately conquering your fear of heights by sticking to bouldering, the Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Pants are a delightful mix of practicality and comfort. They’re like your favorite snack: fulfilling, reliable, and always up for the next adventure. Anyone else have these gem of a pant? How are they treating you?

[Trail Blazer]

Best Climbing Pants for Cold Weather Buyer’s Guide

So you’re gearing up to conquer those vertiginous peaks and frosty crags, and you need the perfect pair of climbing pants to keep you warm and toasty without sacrificing flexibility. You’re in the right place. Allow me to take you on a personal expedition to find the best climbing pants for cold weather.

I’ve tried a variety of climbing pants over the years—some good, some… let’s just say they’re better suited for a muppet than a mountaineer. Let’s hop into it, shall we?

Materials Matter
This is like choosing the right friend to bring along on a road trip. When it comes to cold-weather climbing, I always opt for pants with a mix of nylon and elastane. Nylon gives you the durability you need when you’re rubbing up against rocks, and elastane gives you that lovely stretch that’ll have you feeling like a yoga master, even when you’re definitely not.

Insulation vs. Breathability
Ah, the classic debate. Here’s the deal: you want pants that offer insulation to keep you warm, but breathability to prevent turning into a human sauna. Personally, I’ve been happy with pants featuring fleece lining. Not too hot, not too cold—just right, like a bowl of Goldilocks’ porridge.

Features to Look For
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of those nifty features that have made my climbing life a little easier:

• Articulated Knees: You ever tried doing a high-step without these? It’s like trying to do ballet in cowboy boots.
• Reinforced Knees and Seat: My last pair of pants without this feature ended up with more holes than Swiss cheese, and not in a good way.
• Gusseted Crotch: For when those climbing moves require a bit more than average flexibility. Just trust me on this one.
• Zip Pockets: Nothing ruins a climb faster than losing your phone at altitude. Secure those essentials!
• Adjustable Cuffs: Whether you hike them up or lock out the cold, adjustable cuffs are the unsung heroes of climbing pants.

Brands That Hit the Mark
Now, I’m not here to sell you on any one brand, but I’ve had good experiences with a few. For instance, Arc’teryx and Patagonia tend to balance warmth, durability, and style like they were born to do it. If you’re willing to invest, you can’t go wrong. For those on a tighter budget, REI Co-op always has options that are kind to both your wallet and the environment.

A Little Personal Wisdom
Here’s my final nugget of wisdom: try them on! I once bought a pair online and realized, mid-climb, that they were so tight they turned me into a Christmas ham. Go to your local outdoor store, do some high-knees, lunges, and maybe a few questionable yoga poses in the dressing room. Because when you find the right pair, the mountains look a little less daunting, and the adventure a little more inviting.

May your hands always find holds and your pants always fit just right! Happy climbing!

[Outdoorsman Toolkit]

I love how you guys are all about those climbing pants like they’re the holy grail of adventure legwear! 😄 Personally, I think choosing the right pair is kind of like picking a sidekick for your epic journey through the vertical wilderness. Here’s a fun way to think about it:

• 💪 The Durable Daredevil: If pants could have a superhero name, the magic combo of nylon and elastane would definitely top the list. This material blend turns your pants into an indestructible second skin that even rocks are a little afraid of!
• 🎨 The Fashion Forward Fleece: Look for that ideal fleece lining, because nobody wants to look like they’re wearing their grandma’s knitting project. Winter climbs might freeze everything else, but you’ll want to keep your style reputation unfrosted.
• 🕺 The Move Master: Articulated knees and a gusseted crotch make you feel like you can dance across the cliffsides. Who knew you could channel your inner ballet dancer mid-climb? Though, pirouettes on a crag might be a bit ambitious!
• 🔧 Pocket Preppers: But seriously, pockets are crucial! It’s not just about fashion, folks. It’s about survival (and snack storage). Keep your pockets deep, because you never know when you’re going to need a surprise peanut butter cup reward at the summit.
• 👟 The Versatile Voyager: Adjustable cuffs mean you can go from ‘getting down to business’ on the rocks, to ‘heading to the post-climb cafe for a latte’ with a quick snap. Who says climbers can’t do apres-climb chic?
• 💼 The Budget Buster: Remember, a good pair of pants is an investment. They might be a bit pricey, but isn’t it like a personal insurance policy against unexpected colds and embarrassing rips?

With the right climbing pants, you’re not just facing the elements—you’re making the mountains a stage for your next legendary climb. Rock on and stay warm out there! 🌄🔥 Who knows, maybe one day we’ll be swapping stories about yeti sightings up there. Happy climbing! 🧗‍♂️

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