Late to the party but my 2 cents...I've used REI Saharas, and a pair of North Face convertibles too. Like other posters just mentioned I wanted to like them but after 3 pairs, I asked myself, why am I going through so many pairs of pants? They just aren't very well built.

Then I bought a pair of Railriders Weatherpants. If you're still looking for pants in a few dozen years when my knees finally give out and you take a size 34, let me know and I'll send em to you free...I'm sure they'll still be in great shape.

+1 for the MH Canyon (non-convertible)
I also like the LLBean Timberledge.

I have been using REI Sahara pants, but I wouldn't consider my size XLx32 at 14.7 ounces lite weight. I wear patagonia boxer briefs underneath

I was thinking of switching to something lighter, but honestly, I don't think I could handle wearing tights.

Too bad the BPL thorofare pants aren't convertible into shorts....

Looks like I need to spend a day and hit all the outdoor stores in my area. I really need to try the pants on before buying. It is going to take some time though, there are lots of them.

REI flagship
TNF
Patagonia
Montbell
and a few good size independents that I am sure will carry other manufactures.

I should probably skip going to Montbell, if I walk in there I am sure to come out with a jacket :-)

Hi,
Just returned from two weeks in the Wind Rivers. My vote for the Montbell U.L. wind pants. Used em and loved em.
Paul

You should add Railriders to your list, if you're going to try different brands. I'm sure you could return them easily.

I prefer the Patagonia Sol to Railriders, but I have used the Railriders--not the Weatherpant but the Versatac light. It's a really terrific pair of pants. There's no question that the Railriders will last FOREVER--which can be a disadvantage if you're ever trying to explain to your wife why you need a new pair of hiking pants. I used a pair on a trip or two and did not baby them, and when I sold them on this site I could not discern any sign of wear--not a bad performance.

I freely admit that I prefer the Patagonia b/c of looks.

Another vote for REI Sahara pants. Mine have held up really well.

Edited by swearingen on 09/04/2009 01:14:39 MDT.

I've been using the same pair of Patagonia GI 2 pants for about a year now and they have been great. I've been surprised how durable they are. They've been through a lot of abuse and show virtually no wear. I got them at the outlet in Salt Lake City, UT for 1/2 off.

They probabably aren't the lightest option though. Mine weigh 11.5oz in size medium. You can probably get some reasonable durable ones for 7-9oz with less pockets etc.

I will second the Pata GI 2's. Comfortable enough to wear in hot or cool weather and normal enough to wear for travel.

A VERY tough nylon pant is the "5.11" brand of nylon canvas Tactical Pants. These are mainly for law enforcement & SWAT teams but are great for backpacking.

They have:

1. double knees W/ inside "pocket" for inserting 5.11's thin neoprene knee pads. Good for scrambling.

2. double seat

3. extra pocket reinforcements and bar tacking.

4. LOWER price ($50.) than Railriders

5. great quality - at least as good as Railriders

Eric

Edited by Danepacker on 09/04/2009 17:22:56 MDT.

I must concur..the MHW fast pack pant was the best hiking pants ever made bar none.I especially liked the first version that had the zipper for gaiters at the bottom..sporty..functional..durable..quick drying..on the trail or having a beer in town these pants ROCK!! I am now forced to replenish my supply via Ebay..bring em back MHW...PLEASE!!

I too like the REI Sahara and Ex Officio offerings. I recently got a pair of Outdoor Research Equinox convertibles that I like a lot and they offer them in non-convertible form as well. The convertibles are one of the few that I have found that do not have cargo pockets. They are quick dry Supplex nylon. Advertised weight is 11.40z/323g.

Anyone tried the waterproof Dickies pants? They look like good heavy duty pants for hiking.

I can't link it, it says I'm using profanity.

thanks for the link, i just purchased the TDU pant in ripstop (35% cotton/65% polyester) and am interested in how they function.

Montane Terras.
~10 oz in a medium; lightweight, highly breathable, fast drying; zippered nylon mesh venting panels on each leg; light duty cordura panels on knees/insteps and seat.

They are very durable and excellent for warm to hot weather hiking. I use them for three season trips, with an Under Armour Cold Geat Base 1 base layer when it gets cold. I have used the same pair for 4 years now, with a lot of off trail abuse, and they are still going strong. Only downside I can think of is that Montane gear is hard to find in the USA.