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April 2016 Issue
Home / Gear reviews / Hiking pants

Outdoor Research Voodoo Softshell

The Voodoo are stretchy and super comfy

Price:

$159

Our Rating:

These slim fit pants are another stretchy option with a variety of end uses in mind, chief among which is climbing, but with loads of stretch and articulated knees, they make excellent tramping pants too.

The double weave nylon fabric offers good weather resistance and durability. In use, I found them to block the wind and repel most water with ease.

They are highly breathable, helped in large part by the three mesh-lined front pockets. The two jean-style handwarmer pockets are frustratingly small – barely large enough to accommodate your hands. But the zippered side pocket makes up for this, being large enough for maps and notebooks. Like the fabric, the zips have been treated with a DWR coating, so any items placed here will be relatively safe from rain. Attention to detail with the mesh components being backed by fabric will prevent items stored here from getting sweat-wet.

Another comfort detail is the soft-lined and low-profile waistband which fits beneath a harness.    

A lace loop on the cuff keeps the pants in place and the waist and leg is true-to-size.

A solid pant for all seasons.