Sub Zero thermal base and mid-layers are highly regarded amongst the outdoor community and rightly so. The Factor 2 Bloo John leggings are designed to be used as a thermal mid-layer for extreme cold temperatures such as those found in winter mountaineering environments as well as for activities where your lower body is idle for long periods of time such as canoeing.
The Factor 2's are designed to be worn over a base layer so are a slightly looser fit than a classic base layer but still tight enough to retain warmth. The built in stretch and the low bulk of the waistband along with the flat ankle cuff makes them very comfortable to wear overall with no noticeable rubbing in any of the usual areas. Another nice design touch is the high rise back which helps prevent cold spots during activity.
The lining is brushed fleece, similar in weight to a Polartec 100, initial thoughts were that this material wouldn't allow moisture to pass through quickly enough but in use the Factor 2's perform admirably well in this respect.
The overall quality of construction is excellent with many users reporting getting a very long life out of theirs which makes the Factor 2's a great value purchase which we can highly recommend.