Let’s Talk About Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s
The Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s are designed for the high-exertion alpine athlete who demands waterproof, breathable, and stretchy protection. These pants utilize Outdoor Research’s AscentShell technology, aiming to provide complete protection against the elements during activities like ski touring and other alpine sports. I’ve spent years battling unpredictable mountain weather, always searching for that elusive balance of comfort and protection.
My quest for the perfect ski touring pants started with a frustrating experience on a soggy spring tour. I was soaked to the bone, overheating on the uphill, and freezing on the downhill, realizing my old waterproof pants were simply not cutting it. The Skyward II Pants’ reputation for breathability and stretch caught my attention.
My initial impression upon receiving the pants was positive: they felt lightweight yet robust. The material felt supple and stretchy, a welcome change from the crinkly, stiff waterproof shells I’ve used in the past. The build quality seemed excellent, with neat seams and robust zippers.
Compared to the Arcteryx Sentinel AR pants (renowned for their durability) and the Patagonia PowSlayer pants (known for their powder performance), I chose the Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s because they seemed to strike the best balance of features, breathability, and price for my specific ski touring needs. The promise of enhanced stretch also appealed to me, as freedom of movement is paramount during long days in the mountains. I was excited to test their performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was a backcountry ski tour in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was variable, with periods of sunshine, light snow, and gusty winds. I immediately appreciated the range of motion afforded by the stretchy fabric as I kicked and glided uphill.
The AscentShell technology lived up to its claims. I stayed dry during the light snow showers, and I didn’t overheat excessively on the climbs. The thigh vents provided excellent ventilation when I needed to dump heat.
The only minor issue I noticed was that the adjustable waist tabs needed some fine-tuning to achieve a snug fit, even with a belt. I was otherwise impressed with the performance right out of the gate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple ski tours and a snowshoeing trip, the Skyward II Pants have continued to impress. They’ve proven to be durable, with no visible signs of wear and tear. The reinforced scuff guards have protected the lower legs from ski edges and rocks.
Cleaning them has been relatively easy; I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth after each use. I’ve washed them once according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and they retained their waterproofness and breathability. They outperform my previous hardshell pants in terms of both comfort and breathability.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s
Specifications
- Fabric/Material: The pants are made from 88% Nylon and 12% Spandex. This blend aims to provide a combination of durability and stretch.
- Weight: The pants weigh 20.7 oz. This is a reasonable weight for a waterproof/breathable ski pant.
- Waterproof: The pants are designed to be waterproof. The AscentShell technology is intended to keep the wearer dry in wet conditions.
- Breathable: The pants are designed to be breathable. The AscentShell membrane should allow moisture vapor to escape, preventing overheating.
- Waist Size: The pants come in a 30-inch waist size. Other sizes are available to accommodate different body types.
- Inseam Size: The pants come with a 32.5-inch inseam size. This inseam is designed to accommodate average height individuals.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pants’ performance in alpine environments. The nylon content contributes to abrasion resistance, while the spandex allows for freedom of movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s excel at providing a comfortable and protective barrier against the elements. The combination of waterproofness and breathability is a major strength, keeping me dry without feeling clammy. The articulated knees allow for unrestricted movement, whether I’m skinning uphill or carving turns downhill.
The fit is generally good, though the adjustable waist tabs could be improved for a more precise fit. The avalanche beacon pocket is a thoughtful addition, providing a secure and easily accessible place to store my transceiver. Overall, the pants meet my expectations for a high-performance ski touring pant.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials feel high-quality and durable, and the seams are well-constructed. The pants are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly. The pockets are well-placed and easily accessible, and the zippers operate smoothly. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s are built to last. The reinforced scuff guards and durable face fabric should withstand the rigors of alpine use for many seasons. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional washing and proper storage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The pants come with several useful features, including:
- Avalanche Beacon Pocket with Clip: Provides a secure and accessible location for an avalanche transceiver.
- YKK AquaGuard Zippers: Helps ensure waterproofness.
- Zip Hand Pockets and Zip Thigh Pockets: Provide ample storage.
- Zippered Outer Thigh Vents: Enable efficient temperature regulation.
- Stretch Mesh Internal Gaiter with Power Strap Slot: Keeps snow out of boots.
These pants are compatible with standard ski boots and avalanche safety equipment. I haven’t explored any aftermarket modifications, but the fit can be customized to a degree using the adjustable waist tabs.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s
Pros
- Excellent breathability: The AscentShell fabric keeps you dry without overheating during high-exertion activities.
- Exceptional stretch: The 12% Spandex content allows for unrestricted movement.
- Durable construction: The reinforced scuff guards and high-quality materials ensure longevity.
- Thoughtful features: The avalanche beacon pocket and thigh vents are well-designed and functional.
- Waterproof protection: Keeps you dry in wet conditions.
Cons
- Waist adjustment: The adjustable waist tabs could offer a more precise fit.
- Price: The pants are a significant investment, although justified by the performance and features.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s?
The Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s are perfect for:
- Ski tourers who prioritize breathability and freedom of movement.
- Alpine climbers and mountaineers seeking a lightweight and protective shell pant.
- Anyone who engages in high-exertion activities in cold, wet environments.
These pants might not be the best choice for:
- Resort skiers who primarily stay on groomed runs.
- Individuals on a tight budget.
A must-have accessory is a good quality base layer to maximize the breathability of the pants.
Conclusion on Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s
The Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants – Women’s are a high-performance piece of gear that delivers on its promises. The AscentShell technology provides an exceptional balance of waterproofness, breathability, and stretch. While the price is a significant investment, the durability and performance justify the cost for serious alpine athletes.
I would wholeheartedly recommend these pants to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable companion for their backcountry adventures. Invest in the Skyward II Pants and experience the freedom and protection you need to conquer the mountains!