Montbell Cool Pants Review

As an outdoor journalist and avid hiker, I've traversed diverse terrains—from the sun-scorched trails of the Nevada desert to the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest. In these environments, staying cool and comfortable is paramount. Enter the Montbell Cool Pants: designed for warm-weather hiking and travel, these pants promise breathability, quick-drying capabilities, and lightweight comfort. But do they live up to the hype? I took them on multiple adventures to find out.

✔ The Verdict:

The Montbell Cool Pants excel in hot and humid conditions, offering exceptional breathability and comfort. Their lightweight design and quick-drying fabric make them ideal for both hiking and travel. While they might not be the most rugged option for bushwhacking or abrasive terrains, they shine in scenarios where staying cool is crucial

+ What We Like:

• Lightweight: At just 7.8 oz (222 g) for men's and 7.7 oz (218 g) for women's versions, they won't weigh you down.

• Quick-Drying: After a sudden downpour in the Pacific Northwest, the pants dried within an hour, preventing any discomfort.

• Integrated Belt: The built-in belt ensures a snug fit without the need for an additional accessory.

• Pockets: Two zippered hand pockets and one zippered back pocket provide secure storage for essentials.

– What We Don’t Like:

• Fit: The cut may not accommodate all body types comfortably, especially in the thigh and crotch areas.

• Limited Color Options: Currently available in Brown Olive, Dark Navy, and Gunmetal, which might not appeal to everyone.

• Breathability: Compared to other companies, the material is thicker and doesn’t breathe as well as competing pants. However, this does make these pants much more durable.

Nitty Gritty Specs:

• Material: 100% nylon with water-repellent finish

• Weight: Men's - 7.8 oz (222 g); Women's - 7.7 oz (218 g)

• Fit: Regular

• Silhouette: Straight

• Rise: Regular

• Pockets: 2 zippered hand pockets, 1 zippered back pocket

• Integrated Belt

• Available Colors: Brown Olive, Dark Navy, Gunmetal

Comfort in Hot temps:

Hiking the dusty trails near Sparks, Nevada, temperatures soared to 95°F (35°C). The Montbell Cool Pants kept me surprisingly cool, with sweat evaporating quickly thanks to the breathable fabric. The integrated belt prevented any sagging, and the zippered pockets securely held my map and snacks. Over several hours, the pants remained comfortable without irritating my skin, even as temperatures climbed higher.

During midday breaks, I noted the fabric’s exceptional ability to cool down rapidly once I moved into the shade. The pants' lightweight nature also significantly reduced fatigue on longer treks. By day's end, they still felt fresh, demonstrating impressive odor resistance despite hours of heavy perspiration.

Quick Drying:

In the lush forests of Olympic National Park, the pants' quick-drying feature was put to the test. After navigating through wet foliage and occasional rainfall, they dried rapidly, preventing any chafing or discomfort. However, brushing against dense underbrush and fallen branches did result in minor fabric snags, indicating that while breathable, the material isn't the most durable against abrasions. Despite this, the overall comfort outweighed these minor drawbacks.

I appreciated how effectively the pants handled moisture in this environment, keeping me considerably drier than expected. Their breathability also significantly reduced overheating during more strenuous sections of the hike. Over multiple days of continuous use, they maintained their shape and performance remarkably well.

Style and Design:

Navigating the vibrant streets of San Francisco, the pants blended seamlessly with urban attire. Their minimalist design didn't scream "hiker," making them versatile for city travel. The lightweight nature meant I could pack them easily, and they doubled as evening wear when temperatures dropped slightly. Their discreet zippered pockets kept my essentials secure while exploring crowded markets and attractions.

Even after hours of sightseeing and sitting on public transportation, the pants maintained a presentable appearance without significant wrinkling. The comfortable fit meant I never experienced constriction or discomfort during extended sightseeing excursions. This versatility proved invaluable during transitional periods between outdoor adventures and urban exploration.