Topic

Windpants vs alternatives

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John G BPL Member
PostedAug 9, 2008 at 4:50 pm

I'm trying to decide between the following alternatives for hiking and morning / evening camp-use for spring / fall (temps between 45 and 80 degrees F). Any advice ?

Alternative 1: Nylon running shorts + nylon running long pants over the top when needed for warmth or bug protection. Question: Do two elastic waist bands cause bruising under a hip belt of a 30-35 lb pack ?

Alternative 2: Supplex zip-off pants. Questions: Are they warm enough for camp use in 45-60 degree weather ? How does the bug protection compare to alternative 1 or 3 ?

Alternative 3: Nylon shorts + Wind pants. Questions: Are they too hot to hike in for temps between 45 and 60 degrees ?

Thanks.

PostedAug 9, 2008 at 7:09 pm

I would go with Alternative 2, but I'm not a big fan of zip-offs so I'd just go with the pants. It can be tricky finding a good material that will block some breeze, add a little warmth, but still breath like crazy when the sun comes out. Examples are the Arc'teryx Gamma LT and the Ibex Alpstar. They should be warm enough for evening camp use, but you can always just bring a lightweight pair of fleece tights for extra warmth.

Dont' worry so much about windpants. I've never yet been on the trail and actually said to myself, I wish there was less wind on my legs.

PostedAug 9, 2008 at 8:29 pm

I agree, go with something light for the hike, you rarely notice your legs when you're walking. Bring something decently warm for when you're at camp and you should be fine. I hike in shorts generally, but then again we don't really have many nasty bugs to worry about. Hell, the ticks don't even carry Lyme disease here!

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