Right out of the gate the Chilkoot trousers impress with a look that straddles the line between outdoors and 'smart outdoors' making them a viable travel trouser.
I found the cut quite loose compared to some of the other trousers we've been testing lately but this adds to the freedom of movement for your multi-activity jaunts and they aren't so baggy that they flap around in the wind.
The nylon/spandex mix has a lovely 4-way stretch further enhancing the versatility of the trousers into the realms of cycling and climbing. The softshell fabric is breathable enough for summer use, but the tight weave is also windproof making it a go to trouser into the spring and summer as well. Winter use is a goer as well providing that you have some decent thermal base layers on underneath.
The breathability is helped along massively by large mesh hand, cargo and bum pockets, if you have all these open at the same time you get a delightfully refreshing breeze running through them. All pockets are equipped with YKK zips with a smooth, snag free action. The cargo pocket has a security sleeve inside that stretches out to accommodate most modern phones.
The material actively wicks moisture away from the skin and when you do you get wet, whether by rain or perspiration it dries out quickly. This adds even more viability to the Chilkoots as a travel option where you might need to do a quick hand wash.
I'm often irritated by uncomfortable waistbands on walking trousers but the Chilkoots gladly don't put you through this suffering. They have a fleece backing around the full circumference as well as elasticated sections across the back so that you barely feel it's there and, if you choose your sizing right you won't have to wear a belt. This is a massive bonus when you're hiking with a big heavy pack strapped around your hips as you're massively reducing the chances of chaffing. The waist fastens with a popper and there's also a zip fly.
The softshell material is surprisingly durable, lasting many poundings by bike, hike and travel. You'll eventually get problems at the knees, bum and instep if you're a serious mountain user but that's to be expected.
For £60 you can't go wrong with these versatile trousers.
