From the get-go these walking trousers feel just right. They’re softshell trousers with a load of 4-way stretch designed to be perfect for walking up hills and mountains. The stretch really does help when you have a lot of ups and downs, the last thing you want is your trousers restricting movement. Knee articulation also features heavily in the Nevis trousers so there is absolutely no restriction, even in extreme movements.
The softshell material is not only stretchy but also super soft against the skin. With a comfy waistband too, no digging in, riding up or falling down (given the right sizing of course) it barely feels like you’re wearing them. There is very little of that annoying swooshing sound you sometimes get when walking in outdoors gear which is a bonus.
We found the cut bang on although this is a question of personal taste. There is enough bagginess for the average Brit, but the cut is still what I would call technical meaning they work perfectly as performance outdoor wear without looking too daft.
Most summer weight softshell trousers don’t feature reinforced panelling, but it’s a welcome addition to these walking trousers that lends them an air of extra utility. It extends to the bum, knees and inner ankles and adds greatly to durability. It’s also in a stretch material so takes nothing away from comfort.
We found the Nevis trousers to be nice and airy while walking at a pace, thanks to a breathable material and venting through the mesh lined pockets. There are also zips at the ankles which help with getting on and off as well as dumping heat.
In winter the panelling will help a bit with fending off moisture from wet grass and there’s also a DWR coating for basic rain protection.
We were surprised by the Nevis trousers, they offer everything you could want in a pair of hill walking trousers but at a lower price than the competition.
