Berghaus is aiming the Explorer ECO trousers at 'hillside adventures' and states that comfort and durability are their main attractions. They come loaded with a bevy of interesting storage options, have a loose and casual fit, weigh 389g and boast very impressive green credentials too. With all that in mind they could be the ideal outdoor trousers for the general user.
The cut of the trousers is very loose compared to more alpine-minded alternatives. By this we mean that in the calf section particularly they're very spacious and more suited to scrambling or climbing than walking around in high and windy mountain environments. However, they do come with draw cord adjusters at the ankle - and this means you can cinch them as tight (and as high or low) as you wish. They do not come with a belt, although you can easily fit one.
Storage is truly superb and the Explorers offer six options: a rear zipped pocket, two drop-in hip pockets (the right-hand one with a built-in pouch), a right thigh zipped pocket and behind it a drop-in pouch large enough to hold a map. We were consistently impressed by how well judged they were during testing.
Comfort levels are absolutely excellent, and the nylon construction really works to make a pair of trousers that you'll want to wear on and off the hill for their supple and unobtrusive feel. They come with a DWR (durable water repellant) coating, are rated UPF 50 for sun protection and, although not the most wind resistant on the market, they'll easily fulfil most people's needs in the British outdoors.
Those eco credentials aren't just marketing guff, either. The ECO range reduces environmental impact primarily by using pre-coloured yarn. Berghaus claims this eliminates the need for a dyeing process thereby making savings of up to 89 per cent in the amount of water and chemicals needed to produce the trousers, as well as producing 62 per cent less CO2. It might not be the main reason people will buy their trousers over another pair, but it's a truly admirable achievement and important for many of us.
In conclusion: Excellent outdoor trousers that marry superb design to luxurious comfort. They're not ideal for higher end pursuits, but for this price they could be considered an essential purchase.
