Windproof and quick-drying, these pants are ready for adventure in almost any situation. A mid-rise waist allows the pants to fit under a backpack waist strap or climbing harness, and an internal drawcord lets you adjust the fit. The hems of the pants can be adjusted at the cuffs, making them perfect for hot summer days, crossing streams, or high steps on rock walls.
Our testers wore Outdoor Research’s Ferossi Pant ($99) on hikes through the rugged switchbacks of California’s Eastern Sierra and on test rock climbs on granite boulders, and were impressed by its stretch and I was impressed with the ease of movement.
While its lightness is a benefit on warm hiking days, the fabric itself isn’t the most durable in our line of best hiking pants. While we liked the comfort and stretch of the nylon, these aren’t the kind of pants you’d take on your next canyoning adventure or offwise climbing. Basically, anywhere you might rub your body against a rough surface.
However, the fabric is made with UPF 50+ sun protection and a DWR finish, so the Ferrosis will keep you comfortable in hot, sunny weather, while also offering a decent amount of protection in case of sudden rain. . The 90D ripstop nylon is also made with 46% recycled content, which earns us points with every product we review.
Still undecided? Learn more about these popular hiking pants.
In short, Outdoor Research’s Ferrosi pants have everything in this book, including stretchy, easy-to-move materials, a mid-rise waist, and a lightweight feel that’ll keep you comfortable hiking up steep switchbacks or on your next rock-climbing adventure. I’ve earned a lot of points.
Weight 9.5 oz fabric 86% nylon, 14% spandex, DWR finish (46% recycled) 31″ inseam Lightweight and stretchy UPF 50 sun protection Mid-rise waist for harness or backpack compatibility Lightweight material can add bulk to pockets There are not as durable as some thicker pants in our lineup.
Outdoor Research Ferossi Pants Review
material
Ferrosis is made from a lightweight, stretchy nylon and spandex blend. (Photo/Miya Tsurumu)
Made from 46% bluesign-approved recycled nylon and 14% spandex, Ferrosis is not only stretchy, but also environmentally friendly. This sunscreen fabric is rated UPF 50+, which protects your skin from harmful UV rays that can penetrate the fabric, especially at high altitudes.
The nylon is also made of 90 denier stretch woven ripstop for durability. However, testers thought the overall fabric was too thin and light, making it not very durable in the long run.
Another thing that annoyed our testers about the fabric of these pants is that it’s so thin that you can see the outline of the front pockets. While some people may not care about this, we think it’s an odd design choice by Outdoor Research, as it’s very noticeable, especially if you have something too bulky like a phone or keys in your pocket. I am.
But overall, the lightness and stretch of this pant translates very well to comfort and freedom of movement on the trail.
Pants length and versatility
The drawcord-adjustable cuffs allow you to adjust the length of the pants, making them versatile. (Photo/Miya Tsurumu)
The Ferrosis is a standard straight-leg style, available in 29-, 31-, and 34-inch inseams to suit women of various heights. These pants fall below the ankle, but are easily adjustable with drawcord-adjustable cuffs. Our lead tester, Miya Tsuru, appreciates the adjustability of the Ferrosis, as he tends to prefer pants that sit at or above the ankle for style and functionality. However, the tightening mechanism can loosen over time, and if you want to keep the cuffs up, you have to stop and readjust your pants, which can be annoying.
With a mid-rise waist and internal drawcord, these pants fit comfortably under a backpack waist strap or climbing harness belt, making them versatile for a variety of activities.
mobility
Not too tight or too loose, the Ferrosis is a wonderfully mobile pant. (Photo/Miya Tsurumu)
Made from the aforementioned soft, stretchy fabric, the Ferosis are some of the most mobile pants in our line that aren’t leggings. We attribute this to the 14% spandex construction and regular fit that’s neither too tight nor too loose to allow for free movement.
Articulated knees also allow you to bend your legs without pulling your pants too tightly. The mid-rise of these pants also helps with freedom of movement, keeping the waist higher and in place better than a low-rise cut.
Features
Although the overall design of these pants is simple, there are a few features worth mentioning. In addition to the two large front pockets, the Ferrosis also features a large thigh pocket on one pant leg. It’s large enough to fit your phone, and you won’t sweat as much while hiking as you would if you had it in your front pocket.
Our lead tester also likes to carry his phone in this side pocket while climbing, so it stays securely tucked away in the zippered enclosure but stays out of the way of movement. The seat of these hiking pants has two pockets, one zippered and one open.
The adjustable waist and adjustable cuffs are great features that allow you to tailor the fit and look to your preference, and the UPF and DWR protection are also great, making the Ferrosis a great value.
conclusion
Ferrosis is a versatile hiking pant. (Photo/Miya Tsurumu)
These may not be the most durable pants we’ve ever tested, but they’re some of the lightest and most comfortable. If you tend to stick to trails and don’t plan on sliding down canyons or climbing chimneys, durability probably won’t be an issue.
Several useful features allow you to adjust the fit, and the fabric protects you from the sun and light rain. All in all, Outdoor Research’s Ferrosis is a versatile hiking pant that’s perfect for three-season adventures.
