As the temperature lowers it is time to keep the legs warm ~ Kiwi Winter Lined Trousers from Craghoppers do just that, writes Mike Gormley.
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The thermometer here in the UK has started drop a bit lower and it is time to reach out for the warmer clothing. This year I have a bonus in the form of a pair of Kiwi Winter Lined Trousers.
These are very similar to the normal Kiwi Pro Expedition Trousers I have previously reviewed but with the added advantage of a layer of very effective insulation. This year, above all, I think these will be a very ‘cost effective’ pair of trousers. Not only to be worn out on a cold day but also for use around home to keep me toasty and enable me to back off on the central heating. For sure it is not all that cold yet where I live, but it is chilly. So these, along with the likes of the Corey Plus Jacket, have some days become my normal wear about the house; especially when sitting at the keyboard and so not generating much in the way of body heat.
These trousers are just plain comfortable to wear, and you get that warm cosy feel in seconds after pulling them on. So much so, I have had to change out of them a few times as the day got warmer. There have also been a few times when I have welcomed these when out and about; as I write this I have been out to a firework event, and it was chill. So, these were a perfect choice. This has also applied when out for autumnal walks.
These are all you would expect for such a pair of trousers, including being water-repellent and anti-insect with Nosi Defence treatment in case there are any of those biting things still out there braving the chill. The fabric is even protective against the sun, with Solar Shield, so if you are getting up high on the hills it will help you there as well.
Pockets are quite well catered for with just the one side leg pocket which is sized to accommodate a folded OS map and also has a small internal pocket for the likes of a pair of glasses or mobile phone. On the inner side of this is a vertically zipped pocket, which I find extremely useful for the likes of a phone. It becomes a horizontal pocket when seated so much easier to access in this position. Each side are conventional open pockets but backed up with additional zipped pockets for higher value items, such as keys and wallet. There are also two zipped back pockets.
As for many Craghopper garments now, these are partly made from recycled plastic bottles. A pair of trousers that can certainly give you that ‘warm fuzzy feeling’ as soon as you put them on. The interior has a soft-feel fleecy lining, which importantly is quick-drying if it gets a wetting. Other features include ‘heel tape’ to protect against boot wear, and double-layered material over the knees and seat area, as well as a part-elasticated waist for size adjustment as well as comfort. All in all these trousers have a really good spec for winter use both outside and around home.
[Images © Jean Gormley]
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