Mountain Hardwear Minalist Pants

This model mimics the Minalist jacket’s tech and styling.  When paired together, this kit is unbeatable. No bells or whistles, the pants focus on the essentials. Some might complain that a single, vertical entry pocket at mid-thigh is sub-par storage space.  However, when paired with a jacket and pack, this worry vanishes in the wind like a rooster tail of champagne powder. Storm proof and breathable 3-layer fabric is tailored for a comfortable fit as outer leg vents draw air on strenuous ascents. Testers relished the articulated knees while bootpacking out-of-bounds lines and skinning steep faces. Ditto for wide ankles with reinforced edge guards; testers anticipated uncommon abrasion resistance. “They’re everything I look for in a shell pant,” said one tester. “Strong and light with minimal construction and outer vents.” Our verdict; buy Minalist and never look back.