Cargos Go The Distance

Claire Mackay takes her climbing seriously, and therefore, her gear selection: any small adjustment or change is highly considered. She recently climbed in Nepal and adopted hiking pants over her usual leggings. Read her review of the women's Bellarine cargo pants to see how versatile they really are.

Bellarine Cargo Pants

I started using Mountain Designs hiking pants about three years ago after hesitantly changing from leggings. I was committed to hiking in leggings as I assumed hiking pants might have been too restrictive, however after exploring the range of Mountain Designs hiking pants, I was very impressed with the comfort and mobility they offered.

Posing in my pants, while a local dog joins us on our acclimatisation climb on the ridge next to Khare. (Image courtesy of Pemba Sherpa)

Field Test

Recently, I used the women's Bellarine cargo pants during my eight-day hike to Mera Peak base camp in Nepal. These pants are ideal for hiking long distances as the stretch fabric made from recycled nylon and spandex enhances comfort and flexibility, and is durable against tears and scruffs. They are lightweight, breathable, odour-resistant, quick drying and moisture-wicking. There is also ample pocket space for your smaller items and snacks.

While these are typically a lighter-weight style, I can recommend this product to avid hikers if you layer up with them, who are looking for a high-quality and comfortable pair of hiking pants that will last throughout many adventures.

Hiking through a snowstorm towards the town of Khare (left) and climbing a steep incline on the route up to Mera Peak High Camp (right) (Images courtesy of Claire Mackay & Pemba Sherpa)

Photo Credits

Images supplied by:

Claire Mackay

• Instagram @clairelouise.mackay

Pemba Sherpa