Bushwalk Australia

i stopped off at Ray's Outdoors today as i was driving along to check out some hiking shorts. Theyt had some "zip-off" pants which are basically long pants which, with a flick of the wrist with a zip, become shorts. I cant recall the brand, but it was something adventurous like "Big Mountain" or "Country Mountain" or something like that. I was basically after something rugged with a belt capability and a decent sized map pocket. (I curently wear my old cut down army greens).

does anyone else use these or something akin to them?

scubabob wrote:i stopped off at Ray's Outdoors today as i was driving along to check out some hiking shorts. Theyt had some "zip-off" pants which are basically long pants which, with a flick of the wrist with a zip, become shorts. I cant recall the brand, but it was something adventurous like "Big Mountain" or "Country Mountain" or something like that. I was basically after something rugged with a belt capability and a decent sized map pocket. (I curently wear my old cut down army greens).

does anyone else use these or something akin to them?

Probably "Wild Country" brand. My son has those and swears by 'em. Ray's other brand is "Outdoor Expedition". I also use zip off hiking pants, have collected a few different pairs/brands over recent years, eg "Gondwana" (used on Overland Track in Jan, mostly stripped down as shorts after Kia Ora). All seem to last quite well, quick drying if they get wet (varies), cargo pockets for maps etc. Check out the features you want and try them on before buying. Not all brands/styles have belt loops and I've sometimes found that the pockets aren't deep enough. Also some are horrendously expensive...it's usually worth waiting for a sale if time is on your side.

Kind regards,
John W

I have two pairs and I think one pair are Wild Country. I never walk without them - great invention - like walking in shorts but carrying long pants, except the bits that zip off weight next to nothing.
Often wear them before the walk then take off the legs as things warm up, put them back on as things cool down (i.e. on the summit).

I've got 2 pairs, from Crapmandu about 8 years ago - purchased at the obligatory regular 50%-off sales. I think they currently retail for around $150ish (full price)

Yeah I wear a pair of these, they're pretty good. Not the warmest trouser, but with thermals underneath they should do a good job. The lightweight stuff should dry pretty quickly too, which is always a bonus!

L8r.