Best ice climbing softshell. Would be great to take it on Denali in five years.

Best ice climbing softshell Leaning on our deep-rooted mountaineering heritage, we’ve engineered a range of gear for ice climbing and winter ascents. Jan 28, 2025 · Five gear nerds tested 31 products, from carbon-fiber ice tools to top-of-the-line apparel. See full list on switchbacktravel. Whether you’re ice-climbing the tallest peaks, skiing the alpine, or doing your most dreaded outdoor chores in the early morning, there are an array of benefits and drawbacks that you’ll want to look for when seeking the best softshell jacket for you. If you’re new to ice climbing, you’re in the right spot. Ice climbing season is upon us! But now you need to dial in your layering system, beginning with a good pair of ice climbing pants. May 5, 2025 · Best All-Around Waterproof Jacket & Pant: Arc’teryx Beta ($300-400) Best for Alpinism: Patagonia M10 ($279-399) Best Lightweight Wind Jacket: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody ($189) Best Lightweight Wind Pants: Rab Phantom Pants ($150) Bonus: Best Softshell: Mountain Equipment Squall Hooded Jacket ($190) Best All-Around Arc’teryx Beta Selecting the best ice climbing pants is an important decision that can have a big impact on your climbing experience. With 21 years of climbing and 11 years guiding, I know the right gear makes climbing fun. Would be great to take it on Denali in five years. For days when a softshell is sufficient, these have become my favorite pants for ice climbing. I’m looking at 1 mid-weight pair and one lightweight pair for late spring/summer alpine. Tester Maury Birdwell uses the Phantom Techs and Hydra Ice Tools to tackle the upper pitch of Joy After Pain (WI5+) during a testing trip to Cody, Wyoming. Jun 2, 2025 · We put top softshell jackets from brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, Outdoor Research, Rab, and others to the test in different types of terrain and through all possible weather conditions. When selecting ice climbing pants, the first major decision is between soft shell and hard shell materials. Built tough to withstand scrapes with ice tools and rugged rock, our ice climbing kit offers unrivalled warmth for deep winter conditions, breathability for going vertical, and the mobility you need to chip your way up cascading icefalls. The field of options is vast, but we here at The Adventure Junkies have compiled a list of the ten best ice climbing pants to ensure you are warm and dry while out playing on the vertical ice Apr 17, 2025 · If ice climbing is in your future, then you will want to seek out a technical softshell, as these provide the best warmth to mobility and breathability ratio. Hi all, I’m looking to replace a couple pairs of softshell pants and wondering what people are using and liking these days. Oct 5, 2023 · Note: the softshell rear is not waterproof, so these pants are best for cold-weather pursuits where liquid precipitation is unlikely. Nov 27, 2024 · During my first ice climbing lesson I wore my ski pants, which were far too baggy so I had to tie them up using my crampon straps. Dec 28, 2024 · Welcome to my adventure in finding the best ice climbing gear. Choose the Right Fabric: Hard Shell vs Soft Shell. The Fjora Flex1 is my choice for summer climbing. Feb 15, 2025 · Your tools are sharpened and your crampons are fitted to your boots. Mar 30, 2020 · The discontinued Procline Comp Hoody is pretty much ideal for ice and alpine climbing in wet conditions (hard shell front and top, soft-shell back and sides). Below are some of the best choices for your ice climbing needs: The North Face Summit L4: A water-resistant, softshell bank that excels in the flexibility department, these take the top spot in our ice climbing category. These six came out on top. It looks like Arcteryx has introduced a new Alpha SL Anorak, which looks like it will be great for ice climbing. I'm not necessarily after a do-it-all jacket, but it seems like a soft shell would be appropriate on most, if not all, objectives. The Best Women’s Pants For Ice Climbing My Favorite Softshell Pant – Mammut Eisfeld Guide SO Pant. The North Face Summit Chamlang Soft Shell Pant review Men's softshell pants for alpine climbing Durable wind-resistant pants for mountaineering Eco-friendly recycled softshell pants for men Comfortable hiking pants with stretch waist Slim fit softshell pants for outdoor adventures Soft brushed interior hiking pants for warmth Articulated knee pants for freedom of movement . Safety is key in ice climbing. They do a little bit of everything: they’re decently affordable, super stretchy, and warm enough to work on even the Jan 28, 2017 · Features to Consider Before Buying a Softshell Jacket. Related Searches. 5 years running, biking, hiking, skiing, and climbing in the top men’s and women’s softshell models from chilly alpine ridges to desert canyons to help you find the best softshell for your needs. Whether you opt for the weather protection of Arc’teryx Alpha SV Bib Pants, the versatility of Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Softshell Pants, or the lightweight comfort of Patagonia Simul Alpine Pants , ensure your choice aligns May 1, 2025 · Not every pair of winter trousers is built for this — ice climbing requires a specific blend of features. Photo: Jesse Huey. Credit: Mary Witlacil Casual softshells are ideal for winter and shoulder-season layering in urban environments. com Pants that work for summer alpinism and winter climbing isn’t necessarily feasible, but if you want a more traditional soft shell the Norrona Fjora and Falketind series offer models that seem to fit many people well. Soft Shell Pants: Soft shells are breathable, stretchy, and comfortable. Heading out the door? Jan 11, 2023 · Of the dead bird variety the Gamma MX are excellent in my opinion too, but I think the Arcteryx Alpha Comp are/were the best ice climbing pants period. It turns a tough climb into an exciting adventure! I plan to use it as part of a layering system in the winter in the Sierra, ice climbing, and on the PNW volcanoes. Having the right gear is essential. Bottom line: The Alpha Hybrid is made for the cold-weather May 9, 2025 · We researched the best softshell jackets, then spent 1. Lightweight, stretchy, good fit; they tick all of your boxes, adjustable cuff etc, and are much more "waterproof" than the MX being a hybrid softshell hardshell Goretex. 2. kcwns eigkgp xoxl yjkojod wqunetw nplft tjfmshq slhu qzei ailunlh