When it comes to trekking pants, they tend to be the last item on the mountain climbing list. But even so, are there really people who think, "As long as they're durable enough, I can just choose them based on appearance?"
I understand that sentiment. I was one of those people at first, too. However, after starting this website, I came across some excellent trekking pants, and my opinion changed. Now that I think about it, it seems obvious, but trekking pants are actually an essential item for a comfortable and safe mountain climb. Patagonia's Terra Via series lets
These trekking pants, which I was enchanted by their comfort from the moment I put them on at the exhibition before their release, the Terra Via Peak Pants . This time, I was able to try out three models, including the latest model, and I would like to compare them in the field and review their appeal, optimal situations, and any concerns I may have.
table of contents
- Key Features of the Patagonia TerraVia Pants Series (TerraVia Trail Pants, TerraVia Peak Pants, TerraVia Alpine Pants)
- Specifications and ratings
- Detailed Review
- Summary: The perfect balance of comfort, ease of movement, durability, and style. What kind of people and occasions are each of the three models recommended for?
Key Features of the Patagonia TerraVia Pants Series (TerraVia Trail Pants, TerraVia Peak Pants, TerraVia Alpine Pants)
The Patagonia Terra Via Pants series are lightweight trekking pants that offer the freedom of movement and comfort required for outdoor activities. They offer clever 3D cuts in the crotch and knees for a wide range of motion and a streamlined silhouette, and the supple fabric offers moderate four-way stretch. The slim silhouette minimizes flapping, providing an exquisite fit that doesn't cause stress even with large movements. The lineup includes three models to suit a variety of seasons and purposes, from warm-season mountaineering to technical alpine trekking and demanding thru-hikes.
The Terra Via Trail Pants (pictured above) are the thinnest and lightest of the three models, offering exceptional breathability and comfort. The cool, dry fabric quickly wicks away sweat, keeping you dry all day, even when hiking in Japan's hot and humid season.
Meanwhile, the Terra Via Peak Pants (pictured above) are made from a mid-weight recycled nylon softshell fabric that is highly durable and windproof, and are tough and comfortable enough to withstand the rigors of long-distance through-hiking, including long-term trekking across rocky terrain, high mountains, and off-trail terrain in a wide range of seasons.
The Terra Via Alpine Pants (pictured above) are a model designed for ease of use while climbing. The bold three-dimensional cut and stretchy design minimize stress even during dynamic climbing movements. Other features include panels on the inside of the legs to protect against friction and abrasion, making them ideal for a fulfilling day on the rocks.
Terra Via Pants offering the performance and functionality to help you spend an active day in the field comfortably and with minimal risk, from hiking and traverses to variation routes . Each pants comes in two lengths: regular and short.
*Some models are also available in women's versions
Favorite points
- Amazing ease of movement thanks to the stunning draping and outstanding stretch
- A slim, streamlined silhouette and a comfortable fit
- High breathability that instantly eliminates stuffiness (trail/alpine)
- Reinforced panels in the right places for unobtrusive comfort (Peak Alpine)
- Ample pockets
Points of concern
- The DWR (durable water repellent) treatment felt a little weak
Specifications and ratings
| Item Name | Men's Terra Via Trail Pants (Regular) | Men's Terra Via Peak Pants (Regular) | Men's TerraVia Alpine Pants (Regular) |
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| Official weight (g) | 315 | 550 | 340 |
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| Waist | Partially elasticated waistband with belt loops | Detachable and adjustable belt with belt loops | Micro-adjustable, low-profile waistband |
| hem |
Gusseted zipper for hiking boots |
Adjustable Velcro fastening and a central front hook for fastening to boot laces | Adjustable with discreet shock cord and cord lock |
| Outdoor Gearzine Review | |||
| Comfort | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| mobility | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Heat retention | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Breathable and quick-drying | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| weight | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Functionality | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| durability | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Detailed Review
There are probably many different opinions on what it is that people love about Patagonia's outdoor clothing, but for me, it all comes down to its "excellent balance on a high level." For example, the appearance. It's not mountain-like, but very natural in a good way. The colors are also tasteful. Next is comfort. Just because it's for mountain use doesn't mean the wearer has to compromise on feel, fit, or ease of movement. It's natural and comfortable to wear. And finally, performance. They never neglect research and development, aren't swayed by trends, and are always striving to make their products stronger, lighter, safer, and more comfortable, so you can use them with confidence in the harsh mountains. There aren't many brands that have all of these qualities
To jump straight to the conclusion, the Terra Via Pants series I'll be covering this time is an item that perfectly embodies what I consider to be Patagonia's appeal: good balance. After testing them out on a low mountain hike in April and a mid- to high mountain trek before the rainy season began, I realized this.
Fit and comfort: With an amazingly soft feel and fit, you'll be enchanted by the comfort from the moment you put them on
All the models have a silhouette that is neither too wide nor too narrow, but also not excessively tapered. It is a slim straight cut that prevents flapping and restricts tightness, and shows off the natural lines of the lower body beautifully. The rise is not too high, and the elegant silhouette is not at all unfashionable, making it very appealing
From the left: Trail, Peak, Alpine. The overall silhouette is slim, but not at all restrictive
Of course, this slimness doesn't restrict movement in the slightest. As I wrote at the beginning, the TerraVia Pants ' greatest appeal is that they don't restrict lower body movement, allowing for smooth mobility as if you're not even wearing anything. I had the opportunity to try on the TerraVia Alpine Pants , and the moment I put them on, I was surprised by how comfortable the smooth and supple lining felt against my skin.
This fabric is not only thin, lightweight, and smooth to the touch, but also highly stretchable
The secret lies in the main fabric, which is a generous blend of 14% recycled polyurethane (peak: 8-9%) and has four-way stretch. Naturally, it has excellent stretch, so the fabric follows the movements of your joints without any discomfort
Furthermore, the three-dimensional cut takes into account the movement of the lower body. Whether you bend your knees or squat down, there is an exceptional lack of resistance or discomfort to the body
The knees feature three-dimensional darts, and the crotch gusset is designed to provide a comfortable fit even when you lift your thighs up, just as you'd the gi pants and M10 . Despite its simple appearance at first glance, the intricate patterning ensures excellent freedom of movement. It combines ease of movement with a natural appearance.
When you're on rocky terrain, there are many situations where you'll need to lift your legs high, but the precise three-dimensional cutting and excellent stretchability make lifting your legs very smooth
All three models share the common feature of being easy to move in, but if we were to make a distinction between them, it would be Alpine > Trail > Peak
From left to right: Trail, Peak, and Alpine. All models are impressively stretchy
The Alpine model was the best in terms of ease of movement due to its draping and stretchy fabric. However, there was almost no difference between it and the Trail model, while the Peak model had a stronger fabric, so there was a noticeable difference compared to the other two models
Additionally, the lining that comes into contact with the skin (especially in the thin, highly breathable fabrics of trail and alpine boots) is smooth, dry, and extremely comfortable. In the summer, when you bend your knees a lot, the sweaty fabric catches on your skin, which can be very uncomfortable and stressful, but even in those situations, there's no unnecessary tightness
All fabrics, including the reinforced areas, are stretchy
It goes without saying that trekking pants that are easy to move in are especially appreciated when you are on dangerous rocky terrain or steep slopes. Even in tense situations, you hardly feel any difficulty lifting your legs or any tightness. Being able to concentrate on your movements no matter what the situation is is a simple but very important thing
The ease of movement in trekking pants is very important as they allow you to concentrate on your movements even on steep slopes where you need to brace yourself, reducing unnecessary risks
Durability: Reinforcement optimized to the required volume depending on the model
Patagonia understands that the toughness and durability required for mountain activities should never be overlooked. Proving this, each Terra Via Pant series features optimized reinforcement at the level appropriate for the activity it's designed for. The perfect balance of lightness, comfort, and durability is another appealing feature of this model
For example, the "Alpine" series is designed for use on rocky terrain or in high mountains, but does not want to sacrifice mobility or breathability. The jacket is made with the bare minimum of thin soft shell fabric for enhanced wind resistance and abrasion resistance on the buttocks, thighs, and inner hem
The Alpine fabric is made with thin soft shell fabric placed from the thigh to the knee and on the inside of the shin
Soft shell fabric is also used around the buttocks, providing abrasion resistance, wind resistance, stretchability, and breathability
On the other hand, the "Peak" is designed for more challenging mountain climbing, both in terms of seasons and distances, but with a thicker overall fabric. The material is also recycled nylon instead of polyester, a more durable choice. The front and buttocks are made of a more stretchy dobby fabric, while the rest of the jacket is made of a durable double-weave soft shell, providing a good balance of protection, ease of movement, wind resistance, and breathability. The stitching is also impeccable
The Peak uses a highly stretchable fabric from the thighs to the front of the shins and around the buttocks, while the rest of the garment is made of a durable double-weave soft shell fabric
Functionality: Plenty of practical pockets, convenient waist and hem!
Following on from style and comfort, we have also pursued a high standard in terms of functionality, with attention to detail being paid to ease of use for each activity
Highly practical pockets in various places
From the left: Trail, Peak, and Alpine. Each model has a sufficient number of pockets for ease of use
All three models have zippered hand pockets on both the front and back, as well as a zippered pocket on the right thigh. For serious outdoor use, zippers are essential to prevent items from falling out while you're out and about. Furthermore, the Peak and Trail models have two zippered pockets on the back, one on each side, and the Alpine has one on the right rear, so you'll have no trouble finding storage space
Hem circumference that fits hiking boots and climbing style
From left to right: Trail, Peak, and Alpine. The hem construction is also tailored to suit each activity
The hem is also meticulously crafted. The "Trail" model, designed for hiking in a variety of hiking boots, from low-cut to high-cut, has a zippered gusset. The "Peak" model, designed for hard work and high-cut boots, has a hook at the front of the hem to attach to shoelaces, and Velcro on the side tightens the gap between the boot and the ankle, functioning like a simple gaiter. The "Alpine" model has a drawcord to increase foot clearance during climbing, improving safety, mobility, and a flattering silhouette
Comfortable and adjustable waistband
From the left, there are Trail, Peak, and Alpine. Each has been carefully designed with a purpose: the simple Trail, the Peak with a firm grip, and the integrated, compact Alpine
The "Trail" model has a simple elastic waistband with belt loops. The other two models, designed with harnesses in mind, come with a belt as standard, while the "Peak" model comes with a sturdy belt that can be removed and used with your own belt. The last model, the "Alpine," is also designed with harnesses in mind, and features a belt that's integrated with the pants to minimize bulk
When viewed from the front and back, it looks like the waist is not stretchy, but there is firm elastic on both sides, providing just the right amount of stretch
Personally, I love the Trail, which at first glance looks like it has nothing attached and requires a belt, but in fact has a small feature that makes it easy to fit around the waist with elastic on both sides (photo above)
Summary: The perfect balance of comfort, ease of movement, durability, and style. What kind of people and occasions are each of the three models recommended for?
Not just comfortable to wear, not just easy to move in, and of course not just good-looking. The Patagonia Terra Via Pants series combines the high performance required in harsh fields with comfort and style as clothing, making these highly refined trekking pants that are the result of careful consideration and thought put into everything from the materials to the cut, stitching, and even the finest details.
"Peak" is for trekking in high mountains with many rocky ridges, such as traversing the Alps, or for spring and autumn mountain climbing, "Trail" is for hiking in the hot and humid season, and "Alpine" is for technical mountain climbing such as day trips on outdoor rocks, scrambling, and river climbing, so as each has its own strengths, it would be ideal to use all types depending on the situation. This way, you'll be able to handle any mountain activity throughout the year, regardless of the season or purpose
Finally, I have summarized the strengths and weaknesses of each model, as well as the recommended situations, based on my impressions after trying them out, so I hope this will be helpful when making your purchase
| Item Name | Men's Terra Via Trail Pants (Regular) | Men's Terra Via Peak Pants (Regular) | Men's TerraVia Alpine Pants (Regular) |
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| In a nutshell | Refreshing summer hiking pants | Tough and easy-to-move trekking pants suitable for rocky ridges, high mountains, and bushwhacking | Lightweight, refreshing, easy-to-move, and abrasion-resistant pants for climbing and hiking |
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| Suitable season | Summer (including before and after) | Spring, summer, autumn, winter (no snow) | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
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