I was wondering what people might suggest as a soft shell pant that works pretty decent at blocking out the wind, has some water resistancy and warmth factor and doesn't cost too much for someone wanting to try out soft shell pants. Thanks.

What's your intended use? Winter hiking or snowshoeing? mountaineering? downhill skiing?

Probably more winter hiking than anything else.

You might want to give the Arc'teryx Gamma LT pants a try. $150 is relatively cheap for softshell pants, and they are really versatile.

I bought my brother the Cabelas Soft_Tex softhell pants and the Windshear Fleece pants for Christmas. I got them in the tall size because its hard to find the tall sizes in other brands plus the 2 pair were $99 shipped.

They weight 18oz in the Tall Large. 89% Nylon with 11% stretch elastine. Zippered hand warmer pockets with one zippered back right wallet pocket. Integrated belt with zip fly. Cabelas advertises them as windproof and water resistant. They have a nice stretch to them and feel like a lighter weight Powershield. They have a very light brushed polyester interior that feels soft against the skin. I think they might be a bit warm for the middle of summer but should work well for Fall, Winter, and Spring. The zippered cuffs just might fit over the top of a pair of AT boots.

Cabelas

Edited by FatTexan on 12/09/2007 13:13:01 MST.

This will probably be a big factor in what people will recommend.

Rod

Under $50 would be good if it is possible.

Hey Brett,
These are great soft shell pants and meet your price parameter. I have a pair and love them: http://www.rei.com/product/738371

Trying to push my luck beyond that. Anyway to get a side zip set for less than $100?

Thanks Jason. Made another Heineken can cookset for someone last week.

Wouldn't a pair of DWR trail pants and a Patagonia Expedition Weight Capilene do the same thing also? And be more versatile?

Hey Brett,
I wear a layered system like you mention for my winter "hiking" (not mountaineering/skiing) in my neck of the woods. A pair of midweight thermals and thin pants (92% Nylon, 8% Lycra) usually do me fine when moving. I bring insulated overpants for camp and a spare pair of heavy fleece for emergency/sleeping.
I always meant to get some nice softshells, but just never got around to it.
Steve