I'm heading up to the Desolation Wilderness (Lake Tahoe Sierras) and forecast is calling for 40% of T-Storms both days. I usually don't bring rain pants but every other trip has had clear forecasts.
Typical Clothing:
Patagonia Wool 2 Zip Neck
Nylon Hiking Pants – Mountain Hardware
ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs
Wright Socks (two pair)
North Face Diad Jacket
Eddie Bauer Midweight Baselayer Pants (Microgrid fleece similar to Patagonia R1)
Wool Buff
Montbell U.L. Parka
I could bring my REI Taku Pants – but they're quite heavy 25.4oz Manuf. weight. Or I could run around town to find some DriDucks pants somewhere.
I don't mind getting my pants/shoes wet so long as the pants have some time to dry out. I can always retire to the tent with my midweight pants if it gets too cold and still by dry.