Spring/Summer outdoor trousers

markyboy.1967

markyboy.1967

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Mark Molloy
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It's that time again where I'm looking for seasonal trousers. Looking for a pair of spring/summer trousers for wildlife photography. I already own a few pairs for colder days and winter days so don't need insulated etc. I have tried various pairs over the years but now have an incline to try Harkila or Paramo just to satisfy myself I have given them a go. So what do you suggest and importantly where to buy from( any current sales etc). These will be used for walking and also sitting for long periods so need to be comfortable.Cheers.
 
Not a big fan of Paramo although I know lots of people swear by it- far too heavy for me and much heavier once wet.

What sort of conditions are you talking about? Are you sitting on the ground or on a stool? Do they need to be wind resistant? There are loads of options to be honest. I tend to favour MountainEquipment/ Rab/ Prana depending on what I need. Haglofs also good though I only have tops from them- imagine trousers will be similar.

Shops I use;
rockandrun
needlesports
theoutdoorshop
themoutainfactor
tiso
 
The trousers will get some abuse trekking through bracken, rubbing against trees, nettles etc etc- not much sitting in hides. Need to be breathable, quiet and hard wearing. Thinking of something along the lines of hunting/stalking trousers etc.water resistant would be good but don't need to be waterproof.got some Rab and Prana stuff bt never thought of any the others you mention.
 
TBH, try looking at ramblers clothing or as said above.
 
I use the Bear Grylls range (Made by Craghopper) - work very well.
 
Sounds like you want something that's not going to get pulled too easily. Could also look at Kuhl- my mate has a pair of their trousers or pants as everyone seems to call them these days. They seem pretty hard wearing and I have been tempted before.
Just had a look at my Rab Alpine trousers- they are quite lightweight although a tight weave. Big thorns are going to take out most things I guess. I did find a pair of Mountain Hardware trousers in the cupboard though as well as my Montane Terra pants which are also good though sadly I am too fat for mine and had forgotten about them- although I'm sure they are a bit on the small side for a large:D

Don't know any stalking types but you would think they would take some abuse so may be a better angle than ones intended for walking/climbing. Having said that I have covered lots of different terrain in search of climbs and never had an issue.
Favorite one just now has to be my Prana Zion's- although the 2nd pair is more lightweight than my first pair. Still good but prob not as hard wearing. Very quick drying though and stretchy so good movement and quiet.
 
Mark, the Harkila stuff really is excellent......but expensive! Some of their gear has a 5yr warranty.
Seeland, also have a good reputation.

I've bought from Ardmoor & had great service. Not sure if they have any sales on yet. http://www.ardmoor.co.uk/
 
For Paramo, have a look at Whalley Warm & Dry or see if Paramo have any seconds on Ebay.
But don't go for the waterproof trousers if you going through brambles as they do pull easy. There are 'normal' Paramo trousers that are very good and very comfortable, I h ave two pairs and love em! But, my everyday trousers of choice for photography, hiking, birdwatching etc are Craghoppers, long lasting and almost indestructible, and can be made showerproof with the addition of NikWax TX10.
 
I've got several pairs of Rohan trousers of assorted models, from their "classic" bags (which were hand-me-downd from Dad) that are 10+ years old and still wearing well to double convertible ones of another model which have been abused through salt water, used as swimming trunks, knelt in on all terrain and I've not been through any of the knees. Depending on the model, they have plenty of zippable pockets, some inside normal pockets for extra security, key loops etc.. I find them extremely comfortable in all weathers/climates, windproof, airy around the "boys", quick drying should they get wet, not too clingy when wet. I also have some of their other clothing, including a lightweight fleece which I practically live in when the weather's cooler.
http://www.rohan.co.uk/mens-clothing
 
I use the standard Craghoppers (Kiwi) almost all the year around. If it get very wet I'll put a pair of overtrousers on top. I find Trekwear do some good prices.

Dave
 
One thing I forgot to say about all the Rohans I've got but which is quite important to me - they all go in the washing machine with all my other clothes at 40°C then into the tumble dryer. Makes life a lot easier for a modern man who wants to do at least a few chores!
 
Nod said:
One thing I forgot to say about all the Rohans I've got but which is quite important to me - they all go in the washing machine with all my other clothes at 40°C then into the tumble dryer. Makes life a lot easier for a modern man who wants to do at least a few chores!
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Not to important for me.lol.. What's this " washing machine" thing you talk of?
 
+1 for craghoppers
Go outdoors stores and website.
Can't beat army surplus for cheap, durable, hide and seek outfits. Coat, shirt, and beenie hat set me back 28 quid.
 
Nod said:
I've got several pairs of Rohan trousers of assorted models, from their "classic" bags (which were hand-me-downd from Dad) that are 10+ years old and still wearing well to double convertible ones of another model which have been abused through salt water, used as swimming trunks, knelt in on all terrain and I've not been through any of the knees. Depending on the model, they have plenty of zippable pockets, some inside normal pockets for extra security, key loops etc.. I find them extremely comfortable in all weathers/climates, windproof, airy around the "boys", quick drying should they get wet, not too clingy when wet. I also have some of their other clothing, including a lightweight fleece which I practically live in when the weather's cooler.
http://www.rohan.co.uk/mens-clothing
Click to expand...

I have several pairs of Rohan trousers of different designs and for different purposes. In fact I wear them virtually all the time, day in day out. I've worn them in the UK hills, the Alps and the Himalayas, can't beat them but can be expensive. However, they have sales several times a year and that's the time to buy. Either then or use "The Souk" on their website.

http://www.rohan.co.uk/travel-and-o...92861&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Emailvision

As for Paramo, Whalley & Dry are great, can't recommend them too highly.
 
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I'm not a big fan of Craghoppers but their Kiwi stretch are pretty good. I rate them far higher than the regular Kiwis.

But my favourite photography trousers right now are a pair of 5.11 tactical TDU pants. Proper cargo pockets that actually work, very tough fabric and built in (removable) knee pads. Their Taclite pro may be a better bet if we actually get a proper summer.
 
Rohan Bags for me as I've still got pairs going back 20+ years and when motorcycle touring around Europe they were just the job. I've also got some Craghoppers which work well especially from TK Max at £20 a pair but for wear, weight, wind proofing, and easy care it's Rohan for me in spite of the cost. Bit of an Apple choice perhaps but once you've made the jump...
 
John Norris have a sale on at the moment Mark, many brands available.
 
Have a look at the Seeland dog training waistcoat, gamekeeper mate of mine has one, look really handy with the deep pockets around the base, currently in the sale. Got one on order, I'll bell you if suitable for photography use.
 
(y). Be interested to hear your own thoughts on them compared to your others once you've used them
 
I just wear a pair of old jeans :)
 
Pookeyhead said:
I just wear a pair of old jeans :)
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Jeans:eek:- the Devils work for hillwalking:p

BTW - potential interesting thread in business section on women and photography for you. Maybe not another Grotch but as you teach photography probably have some relevant views.
 
he he... sweating is good for you! :)
 
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