It is the fabric that Patagonia are keen to highlight in relation to the Hampi Rock Pants - the key feature is the blend of 53% hemp, 46% recycled (of course!) polyester and 3% elastane. It's Patagonia's contention that the durability of hemp, the lightness of polyester and the stretch properties of elastane, in a highly breathable blend, can keep you cool on the warmest routes.
Named after Hampi in southern India, which is famous for abrasive granite bouldering, Patagonia must be pretty confident in the durability and cooling properties of these pants. And they should be. From the first try-on these pants make you feel like it's summer - the similarity with linen (at least in terms of airy comfort) cannot be ignored. So far, so travel-friendly.
But the stretch element adds another level of comfort and freedom of movement - we've tested these pants at a yoga session and they handled the downward-dog admirably.
One element lacking from a traveller's point of view is pockets. There are only two hand pockets, and neither is secured (although there is a 'soft-catch' insert in the right hand pocket, which offers a slightly more sturdy grip on valuables). This isn't ideal for the process of travelling, but proves less important once you've arrived...
The 'belt' however is genius. A webbing tail attaches directly to the button providing low-bulk, minimalist adjustment that works a treat. It makes me wish I'd bought a size up just so I could use the feature - as it is they fit perfectly without adjustment.
Available in a lovely range of earth tones, and smart enough to wear under a Panama hat in a colonial garden with a gin cocktail, the Hampi Rock pants will become your go-to hot weather wear.
