Jeans were my preferred trousers for long — 1,000-3,000 foot– climbs for many years since they’re so tough. I’ve also been caught in horrendous Sierra thunderstorms in them again and again. The worst, and last time this happened, I was on the NW Face of Half Dome during a thunder and lightning storm. My upper body was ok, since I was dressed in polypro, but my legs got terribly cold and wet. As we retreated from high on the climb (with lightning striking dangerously close the wall), I sunk closer and closer to hypothermia. I swore off jeans for climbing multipitch routes after that.
The reason why jeans work so well for climbing is that they hold up well to abrasion. You can stick your leg in a crack, cam your knee against a block, or, when wearing a jean jacket, wiggle your way up chimneys with ease — all without destroying your clothing.
After the Half Dome epic I went on a quest to find synthetic climbing pants. Finding what I wanted wasn’t a problem. Finding pairs I could afford was impossible, costing between $100-$120.For a period I borrowed my partner’s trousers for big climbs.
Enter the recently redesigned REI Adventures Pants. Made of 100% nylon (read hydrophobic), these pants breath well, stand up to moderate abuse and cost merely $50. I took a pair climbing recently in Glenwood Canyon in Western Colorado. Day one, hour one, a sharp thorn ripped a hole in them (the base of the climb contains large thorn patches).
Then I/we went through a cycle of climbing all day and sleeping in the dirt at the base of the wall for days. I didn’t take them off for this period. I was pleased with how well they moved with my body. I could high step and the pants didn’t hold me back due to the gusseted crotch. Side zips on both legs allowed me to stash a multi tool and other small items without fear of losing them.
Next stop was Wyoming. We battled 90 degree heat, winds, sharp cracks and more sleeping in the dirt. Day one I attempted to wear thick jeans up the gnarly cracks, but gave up since it was too hot for denim. The REI Adventures Pants went back on and I climbed the rest of trip in them. I was pleased how they kept the sun off me, felt light, and stood up to abuse.
I have yet to be bombarded in the storm in the pants, though there is one raging outside as I write this. I’m sure I’ll get my chance soon, and when I do, I’m positive these pants will do the trick, after all they’re not cotton!
www.rei.com
