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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum Gear Forum Favorite canoe/outdoor pant and belt? |
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04/13/2018 10:11AM
I haven't used them yet on a trip, but I just bought a pair of Duluth Trading Post Dry On The Fly Flex pants. All I know so far is that they are super comfortable. I'm hoping they will be durable. I'm looking forward to trying them out on my trip in June. They come with a built in belt.
04/13/2018 10:49AM
I got some decent, reasonably-priced zip-offs from Campmor years ago, then they either shrunk or I got fatter, depending if I'm a glass half full or half empty guy on any given day, and then I picked up a pair of Columbia ones that I'm very happy with. I tend to get a webbed belt, as a leather one might feel uncomfortable on a hot day, though the stretchy webbed ones admittedly don't last that long. I specifically avoided pants with built-in belt because I like to hang various things from my belt (knife sheath, etc.).
"Enjoy every sandwich"
04/13/2018 11:22AM
I’ve been looking for an opportunity to extol the wonders of the Wintergreen BW guide pants. Lately I’ve been wearing mine to wade in and out of salt water to launch and recover boats and floating docks at our sailing club. They’re tough, dry really fast, block wind so that I didn't get chilled while they dry, double layers for knees and butt, belt is built in, and the side pockets stay out of your way while working and the flaps keep your stuff from falling out. Just an awesome design and so glad the company reverted back to the original owners in Ely.
They’re pricey but worth it to me.
Last year we were in the shop while I was buying a second pair and two couples walked in, looked at a few items, and one of them said, “this is serious stuff.” I think that’s the right description.
They’re pricey but worth it to me.
Last year we were in the shop while I was buying a second pair and two couples walked in, looked at a few items, and one of them said, “this is serious stuff.” I think that’s the right description.
04/13/2018 11:25AM
I use 5.11 Tactical Pro pants. They are a cotton/poly blend (gasp) and I use them during the colder months when nylon is just not enough to keep me warm. I bring a spare pair of pants so I never worry about getting wet.
5.11 Tactical
5.11 Tactical
The best part of this journey here is further knowing yourself - Alan Kay
04/13/2018 12:02PM
Got some of the Piragis Canoe Pants a few years back and they're the best I've worn. I got mine on sale for about 1/2 what they're selling for now, though!
"Let us live so that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry." Mark Twain
04/13/2018 12:48PM
I really like polyester Columbia zip off pants. They have nice big pockets and sturdy zippers. Too hot, just zip off your pant legs and put in your pocket. I also use an REI nylon belt. If your belt gets wet it’s like wearing a strip of bacon around your waist. Nylon dries fast.
"So many lakes, so little time." WWJD
04/13/2018 01:00PM
Savage Voyageur: "I really like polyester Columbia zip off pants. They have nice big pockets and sturdy zippers. Too hot, just zip off your pant legs and put in your pocket. I also use an REI nylon belt. If your belt gets wet it’s like wearing a strip of bacon around your waist. Nylon dries fast. "
I'm also happy with my Columbia Silver Ridge convertible pants. I have fallen down twice hard enough to cause bleeding and the pants did not have any rips or abrasions on them. I only knew I had a cut because blood was seeping through the pants.
04/13/2018 02:14PM
Prana Stretch Zion or Bryce - The most comfortable stretchy pants ever. They keep me dry when sweating or light rain. There is a zip off version if you need shorts, but I just use the roll up with snaps that hold them in place. There is an integrated belt also. Extra material in the crotch allows that extra space for guys that is needed. Can't recommend highly enough.
"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to." – Bilbo Baggins
04/13/2018 02:20PM
Oldtown13: "I haven't used them yet on a trip, but I just bought a pair of Duluth Trading Post Dry On The Fly Flex pants. All I know so far is that they are super comfortable. I'm hoping they will be durable. I'm looking forward to trying them out on my trip in June. They come with a built in belt. "
I also use the Duluth Trading Dry on the Fly pants. They come in two different fabric weights (normal and Flex). So far they have been very durable. I ditched the belt that comes with them and use a 1.75" TDU belt from 5.11.
https://www.511tactical.com/tdu-belt-175-plastic-buckle.html
Don
04/13/2018 02:55PM
Savage Voyageur: "I really like polyester Columbia zip off pants. They have nice big pockets and sturdy zippers. Too hot, just zip off your pant legs and put in your pocket. I also use an REI nylon belt. If your belt gets wet it’s like wearing a strip of bacon around your waist. Nylon dries fast. "
+1, great multi-use item. I wish the poly/nylon was a little tougher, but overall I have been really happy with them. Mine actually came with the belt!
04/13/2018 03:13PM
Almost all of my zipoff pants are REI Sahara zipoffs. They were (and presumably still are) pricey, but I always bought them on sale and I've had them for years with no issues at all. That makes them a good investment in my eyes.
"Keep close to Nature's heart, yourself; and break clear away, once in a while, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean." ~ John Muir
04/13/2018 04:10PM
+1 on the Rail Riders. They've lasted me almost 25 years with only a split crotch seam needing some easy sewing repair. Back in the day, RR used Kevlar material in the butt and knee areas - looks like they're using "Railtex" now in those parts (not sure if that's good or bad). These pants are still in great condition after about 20 trips. My only regret is I'm having to replace them soon for a pair of RR with a larger waist :-(
AdamX
AdamX
04/13/2018 04:48PM
I like the EMS Compass pants, they come in short & have a stretch to them...one of the few that I can wear right off the rack. They are rollup style with buttons to hold the cuffs up, very lightweight but tough. Stretch style belt. Unfortunately they change the style every year & fortunately last a long time, so I haven't bought the newer ones. They also make shorts & capris in the same style along with skirts/Skorts. I wear them daily, not only on trips, because they are great for work. They dry faster than any other outdoor pants I own & seem to shed dirt.
It does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you do not stop. -Confucius
04/13/2018 05:52PM
Swampturtle: "I like the EMS Compass pants, they come in short & have a stretch to them...one of the few that I can wear right off the rack. They are rollup style with buttons to hold the cuffs up, very lightweight but tough. Stretch style belt. Unfortunately they change the style every year & fortunately last a long time, so I haven't bought the newer ones. They also make shorts & capris in the same style along with skirts/Skorts. I wear them daily, not only on trips, because they are great for work. They dry faster than any other outdoor pants I own & seem to shed dirt. "
+1. I just picked up a pair when I was back east (Boston) for a week or so.
"It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.”
04/14/2018 04:19AM
Rail Riders and Columbia brands. I have to use a belt w/ buckle so I can adjust as needed. I have a couple of stiff cotton ones which I found at Kmart. They are light and suffice but don't think durability is a strong point. Those web belts slip too much.
“If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Sir Isaac Newton
04/14/2018 05:30AM
kuhl|cid:43125997|agid:3780426145|tid:pla-4580221844680920|prd:KUH00BK-PT-S34X30|crid:8823334172|nw:search|dvc:c|st:kuhl%20renegade|mt:be&msclkid=7836099797e1122dca6e53464fd1d62b
i had been looking for pants, i ran across these at a gander store, found them on backcountry with a 20% off price. they have the same blend as piragis canoe pants, loose knees, and very comfy, i use a patagonia nylon belt .
i had been looking for pants, i ran across these at a gander store, found them on backcountry with a 20% off price. they have the same blend as piragis canoe pants, loose knees, and very comfy, i use a patagonia nylon belt .
04/14/2018 07:27AM
I have several trips in the Duluth Dry on the Fly and also replaced the provided belt (worthless) with a heavy web belt. Definitely durable as they show little wear even in the knees. I have a light pair that have cleaned up very well with oxy presoak once back home, even the ground in stuff from being on my knees at the fire grate. They dry fast. Lots of pockets.
My primary negative is I have large thighs and when stepping up to climb rocks or over a log they tend to bind and can limit my movement. Not good. I am reading this thread looking for some options.
My primary negative is I have large thighs and when stepping up to climb rocks or over a log they tend to bind and can limit my movement. Not good. I am reading this thread looking for some options.
04/14/2018 08:04AM
Jackfish: "Almost all of my zipoff pants are REI Sahara zipoffs. They were (and presumably still are) pricey, but I always bought them on sale and I've had them for years with no issues at all. That makes them a good investment in my eyes."
^^^^
Started wearing these backpacking in Arizona. Kept using them after moving back to MN. I wear these even for a cold trip (I.e. fishing opener, not true Winter) and just put synthetic long underwear under them. The quick dry ability is great on the water, they wear really tough, and they are very slow to “feel” dirty. Comes with an internal belt, so no other choices.
04/14/2018 07:49PM
ozarkpaddler: "Got some of the Piragis Canoe Pants a few years back and they're the best I've worn. I got mine on sale for about 1/2 what they're selling for now, though!"+1 and happy after many Colombia nylon zip offs. I also went to a nylon belt after getting a leather belt wet on a rainy trip. My nylon belt slips so that needs a fix but the pants are super comfy and functional.
04/15/2018 07:06AM
unshavenman: "I've been tripping for years in the ExOfficio Bugsaway Ziwa convertible pants, but this year I'm trying the Rail Riders Bushwacker pants. "
It is very hard to beat the Railriders........The Bushwackers are a good overall choice for summer tripping. The Extreme adventure pants are a bit heavier and hotter. They will last a very long time.
Last summer I knew I was going to be doing some hiking on Isle Royale so I purchased the Kuiu Tibouron pants. Amazing! They are tough but yet EXTREMELY lightweight and the most ventilated pants I have ever owned. AHhhhhh! Dry quickly for those who wet boot and they are a bit stretchy. My go-to summer tripping pants from now on.
When I say the Tibouron pants are tough I mean it. I hiked several miles through thimbleberry bushes which crowded the trail.........they cost me much in time spent eating the little fruits but the thorny bushes never even dented the pants.
Tibouron Pant
Lets Go!
04/15/2018 07:37AM
I am thinking very hard about getting these. Fjall Raven Vidda Pro
The company Moosejaw has them on sale right now for $118.00. I gave the link to the home site because you get more info about them there. Very solid reviews and a very tough pair of pants.
And if money is no object for you give a look at these.
Bergtagen pants
The company Moosejaw has them on sale right now for $118.00. I gave the link to the home site because you get more info about them there. Very solid reviews and a very tough pair of pants.
And if money is no object for you give a look at these.
Bergtagen pants
"Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." --- George Bernard Shaw
04/15/2018 09:11AM
TomT: "I am thinking very hard about getting these. Fjall Raven Vidda Pro
The company Moosejaw has them on sale right now for $118.00. I gave the link to the home site because you get more info about them there. Very solid reviews and a very tough pair of pants.
Bergtagen pants
"
I dunno Tom.........If I were you I would head to a Moosejaw store and try them on. Tough does not always equate to comfortable in my book. I am suspicious of the material.......whats it made of? How dense is it? Does it flex or give at all? Nice looking pants and I might own a pair just for that reason (1/2 of being cool is looking cool ;-).
What I like about the Railriders Weather pants is some elastic around the waist as well as velcro cuffs at the bottom of the legs to keep unwanted intrusions out. Gusseted crotch adds considerably to the practicality.
The Kuiu pants are state of the art when it comes to comfort. The material actually stretches........I own the Attack Pants which are super stretchy and exceptionally comfortable and the Tibouron pants feel like I am wearing something like Camo pajamas thats how light and comfortable they are. Perfect for summer canoeing or hiking. I don't know about you but I tend to run a bit hot anyways so ventilation is key.
Lets Go!
04/15/2018 10:10AM
I have used three different brands. Bass Pro sells World Wide Sportsman quick Dry zip offs for a decent price. They have lasted four trips. Last year I tried LL Bean Cresta hiking pants. Didn't get the zip off variety. I really liked these. They dry quick and don't have the huge cargo pockets which I find kind of annoying.
One year I did use the 5.11 Tactical pants someone else mentioned. They are built very well and I did like all of the pockets. They are warmer than I like or an August trip and do not dry well.
My go to belt is a riggers belt I picked up at Cabelas. It's nice and wide, nylon, and expands easily with your waistline.
One year I did use the 5.11 Tactical pants someone else mentioned. They are built very well and I did like all of the pockets. They are warmer than I like or an August trip and do not dry well.
My go to belt is a riggers belt I picked up at Cabelas. It's nice and wide, nylon, and expands easily with your waistline.
04/15/2018 10:16AM
Found these at Costco in the spring of 2015. I was skeptical but bought a pair to try them out. Have worn the same pair on about 15 canoe and car camping trips and they are still going strong. Not wearing out or failing anywhere. They are a good, summer weight pant. Dry fast and feel cool and comfortable when the weather is hot.
I remove the belt and just use a regular web belt with sliding-type buckle into them that I use with other pants.
$20. Best outdoor clothing deal I've ever found. Saw them again about 3 weeks ago in the store and bought 2 more. They only seem to have them once in a while in the store but it looks like you can order them.
BC Clothing Convertible Pant at Costco
I remove the belt and just use a regular web belt with sliding-type buckle into them that I use with other pants.
$20. Best outdoor clothing deal I've ever found. Saw them again about 3 weeks ago in the store and bought 2 more. They only seem to have them once in a while in the store but it looks like you can order them.
BC Clothing Convertible Pant at Costco
Want to make God laugh? Tell him your plans...
04/15/2018 10:27AM
mastertangler: "TomT: "I am thinking very hard about getting these. Fjall Raven Vidda Pro
"
I dunno Tom.........If I were you I would head to a Moosejaw store and try them on. Tough does not always equate to comfortable in my book. I am suspicious of the material.......whats it made of? How dense is it? Does it flex or give at all? Nice looking pants and I might own a pair just for that reason (1/2 of being cool is looking cool ;-).
"
I am influenced by this quirky out doors woman on you tube. For this episode she brings her wardrobe into the woods and models and reviews what she uses. I love brown stuff and those seem like really tough well made pants (not the winter version she shows). This is very entertaining if you have the time to watch.
German young lady modeling pants
"Life is not about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." --- George Bernard Shaw
04/15/2018 12:43PM
She is interesting and amusing all at the same time. My favorite kind of people ;-)
Whats the weight of those pants? Compare the weight of those with Railriders weather pants. If they are comparable then pull the trigger. If they weigh more then they are probably overkill and going to be hot. They look like something I would coon hunt in with the reenforced nylon. A good pant for bushwacking or fall hunting is my take........not so sure about canoeing.
I just read some product info.........That G-1000 fabric is dense and they claim "windproof". Tough as nails but hot as....................... (well, you know ;-)
Not much ventilation.........but they are super cool looking so you will have to decide > "I can self combust on the portage trails but look really good doing it" (LOL).
Whats the weight of those pants? Compare the weight of those with Railriders weather pants. If they are comparable then pull the trigger. If they weigh more then they are probably overkill and going to be hot. They look like something I would coon hunt in with the reenforced nylon. A good pant for bushwacking or fall hunting is my take........not so sure about canoeing.
I just read some product info.........That G-1000 fabric is dense and they claim "windproof". Tough as nails but hot as....................... (well, you know ;-)
Not much ventilation.........but they are super cool looking so you will have to decide > "I can self combust on the portage trails but look really good doing it" (LOL).
Lets Go!
04/15/2018 12:48PM
gkimball: "Found these at Costco in the spring of 2015. I was skeptical but bought a pair to try them out. Have worn the same pair on about 15 canoe and car camping trips and they are still going strong. Not wearing out or failing anywhere. They are a good, summer weight pant. Dry fast and feel cool and comfortable when the weather is hot.
I remove the belt and just use a regular web belt with sliding-type buckle into them that I use with other pants.
$20. Best outdoor clothing deal I've ever found. Saw them again about 3 weeks ago in the store and bought 2 more. They only seem to have them once in a while in the store but it looks like you can order them.
BC Clothing Convertible Pant at Costco "
Those pants are interesting and what a deal! A few thoughts, my take is they incorporate positives and negatives. They are 70% cotton with nylon and spandex added. So they are comfortable (cotton), tough (nylon) and stretchy (spandex). Quite a combination for $20!
The negatives is cotton takes a while to dry so if you wet foot it like me fast drying pants are required. Cotton suddenly loses its appeal when it gets wet. But if you stay mostly dry and have good rain gear I really like them.
Lets Go!
04/15/2018 03:34PM
mastertangler: "gkimball: "Found these at Costco in the spring of 2015. I was skeptical but bought a pair to try them out. Have worn the same pair on about 15 canoe and car camping trips and they are still going strong. Not wearing out or failing anywhere. They are a good, summer weight pant. Dry fast and feel cool and comfortable when the weather is hot.
I remove the belt and just use a regular web belt with sliding-type buckle into them that I use with other pants.
$20. Best outdoor clothing deal I've ever found. Saw them again about 3 weeks ago in the store and bought 2 more. They only seem to have them once in a while in the store but it looks like you can order them.
BC Clothing Convertible Pant at Costco "
Those pants are interesting and what a deal! A few thoughts, my take is they incorporate positives and negatives. They are 70% cotton with nylon and spandex added. So they are comfortable (cotton), tough (nylon) and stretchy (spandex). Quite a combination for $20!
The negatives is cotton takes a while to dry so if you wet foot it like me fast drying pants are required. Cotton suddenly loses its appeal when it gets wet. But if you stay mostly dry and have good rain gear I really like them. "
Yes they do not dry as well as some mostly nylon pants I have. I probably don't notice it so much as I started using Chota Hippies the same year I found the Costco pants.
Want to make God laugh? Tell him your plans...
04/16/2018 07:50AM
MT,
Do the Tibouron pants have ample room in the butt and crotch area? They are designed for climbers. I like to have a bit of room in the crotch and butt area when I am sitting in my canoe for several hours. I prefer very loose fitting pants .. especially when tripping in the summer months in the Q.
As I age ... I don’t seem to be as lean and mean ... maybe I just need to go up a waist size? LOL
Do the Tibouron pants have ample room in the butt and crotch area? They are designed for climbers. I like to have a bit of room in the crotch and butt area when I am sitting in my canoe for several hours. I prefer very loose fitting pants .. especially when tripping in the summer months in the Q.
As I age ... I don’t seem to be as lean and mean ... maybe I just need to go up a waist size? LOL
04/16/2018 08:50AM
Wally13: "MT,
Do the Tibouron pants have ample room in the butt and crotch area? They are designed for climbers. I like to have a bit of room in the crotch and butt area when I am sitting in my canoe for several hours. I prefer very loose fitting pants .. especially when tripping in the summer months in the Q.
As I age ... I don’t seem to be as lean and mean ... maybe I just need to go up a waist size? LOL "
I haven't used them canoeing as of yet Mike.........But they stretch so they are very comfortable. I was very happy with them as I usually get hot hiking but I ended up wearing them instead of shorts just to try them out.........good thing too as the trail was not oft used and heavily grown over in many places with thimbleberry bushes which are very similar to raspberry bushes. Nary a nick on the pants over 16 miles which was astonishing because they are so light and airy. They will definitely be my summer pant for canoe tripping. They sent me the modern type of camo pattern and I hated it, I literally not only felt like i was wearing Pajamas but looked like it to. I opted for the traditional camo pattern and am pleased. I see they have some solids now as well.
I picked up a matching lightweight vest which I really like. I like their clothing.......I wear the Attack pants around town and to church ;-) Nice looking IMO and so comfortable that it makes falling asleep in church very easy LOL.
Click on the link and read the product overview........crotch is gusseted which is a requirement for outdoor pants IMO plus there is side zips in case its really baking out. Expensive yes but they are about as perfect a warm weather pant as you could get IMO. But time will tell..........I wonder if I will still have that opinion in 5 years? And of course if it gets cold and windy the pants will need a shell or some long underwear as you will freeze........the wind goes right through them (literally).
Lets Go!
04/16/2018 10:23AM
mc2mens: "Prana Brion pants. Stretchy and water resistant. Comfortable. "
+1
"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to." – Bilbo Baggins
04/16/2018 11:41AM
TomT: "I am thinking very hard about getting these. Fjall Raven Vidda Pro
The company Moosejaw has them on sale right now for $118.00. I gave the link to the home site because you get more info about them there. Very solid reviews and a very tough pair of pants.
And if money is no object for you give a look at these.
Bergtagen pants
"
Fjallraven makes great stuff. These are great in cooler weather, and the Keb Trouser is better in the summer because of the venting in the legs. Excellent pant, very durable but also surprisingly breathable.
MT, the material is G1000 which is a cotton poly blend and you can actually wax these areas if you want to which is pretty neat. Similar to a frost river pack.
“When one finally arrives at the point where schedules are forgotton and becomes immerised in ancient rhythms, one begins to live. “ -Sigurd Olson
04/16/2018 03:15PM
Lotw: "I love my Prana Zions, they are very comfortable and dry super fast. "
They are reviewed very nicely.
Prana Zions review
I would note, however, that they are 97% nylon with 3% spandex and for me that would translate to hot. The plus side is they dry fast, love the stretch and are reasonably priced.
But if your into ventilation my guess is the Kuiu would reign supreme. I tend to trip in August so heat is definitely a factor.........the Tibourons might be a liability in May or June letting to much air in.
Lets Go!
04/18/2018 06:46AM
pamonster: "Another vote for the Kuhl Renegade. Quite expensive but I can't go back since trying them out. "
I typically live in shorts but when I have to wear pants I NEVER wear jeans. Kuhl is my go to for casual wear........try the Konfidant Air if you like the Renegade. The best ventilated pants I own for casual wear.
Konfidant air
Pa while I was on their website I got roped into getting a pair of the Renegade on your advice. They have some very cool jackets and shirts as well. Try the Bandit shirt.......material is silky smooth, gives a bit and looks and feels very sharp.
Lets Go!
04/18/2018 12:18PM
mastertangler: "Lotw: "I love my Prana Zions, they are very comfortable and dry super fast. "
They are reviewed very nicely.
Prana Zions review
I would note, however, that they are 97% nylon with 3% spandex and for me that would translate to hot. The plus side is they dry fast, love the stretch and are reasonably priced.
But if your into ventilation my guess is the Kuiu would reign supreme. I tend to trip in August so heat is definitely a factor.........the Tibourons might be a liability in May or June letting to much air in.
"
I don't feel that they are hot at all, you can get them in a lined version I believe but mine aren't.
I have a fair amount of Kuiu gear but no pants. I'm happy with all of it especially the new underwear they released this year.
04/18/2018 03:40PM
mastertangler: "pamonster: "Another vote for the Kuhl Renegade. Quite expensive but I can't go back since trying them out. "
I typically live in shorts but when I have to wear pants I NEVER wear jeans. Kuhl is my go to for casual wear........try the Konfidant Air if you like the Renegade. The best ventilated pants I own for casual wear.
Konfidant air
Pa while I was on their website I got roped into getting a pair of the Renegade on your advice. They have some very cool jackets and shirts as well. Try the Bandit shirt.......material is silky smooth, gives a bit and looks and feels very sharp. "
Thanks for the suggestion.....I'm due for some new pants, I think I'll get some!
This could get dangerous :)
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