Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s immediately caught my eye as a potential solution for the annual quail hunt. As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating thorny thickets and unforgiving landscapes, I know the importance of durable, comfortable legwear. Badlands, a name synonymous with quality hunting gear, promised exactly that with the Huron Upland Pant, featuring abrasion-resistant nylon overlays.

For years, I’ve battled with pants that either ripped easily or restricted movement. My search criteria included articulated knees and a comfortable fit, crucial for long days in the field.

Upon unboxing, the Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s felt substantial, reassuringly so. The blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex felt different than my usual canvas work pants; a bit more pliable, promising better movement.

I considered several other upland pants from brands like Filson and Orvis, but the Badlands offering seemed to strike a better balance of features and price point. Filson’s waxed cotton is legendary, but heavy and less breathable, while some Orvis options felt too lightweight for serious briar-busting. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping they’d live up to the Badlands reputation and my expectations for comfort and durability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

The first field test for the Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s was a weekend-long pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from crisp mornings with light frost to warm afternoons with a surprisingly strong sun. The terrain consisted of dense CRP fields, riddled with barbed wire and thorny shrubs.

The pants performed admirably in these varied conditions. The articulated knees and gusseted crotch allowed for unrestricted movement while navigating uneven ground and climbing over fences. There were no unexpected snags or tears despite facing some of the nastiest cover I have hunted in.

The pants were comfortable enough, and I appreciate how they weren’t overly noisy when moving. I did find myself wishing for slightly more ventilation during the warmer parts of the day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, spanning multiple hunts and scouting trips, the Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The abrasion-resistant nylon overlays show no signs of significant wear, despite repeated encounters with thorns and branches. The color has held up well, with no noticeable fading.

Cleaning the pants is straightforward. A simple wash cycle removes most dirt and debris, and the fabric dries relatively quickly. The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s outperforms any previous hunting pants in both comfort and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s

Specifications

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s boasts a blend of polyester, nylon, and spandex, providing a balance of durability, flexibility, and comfort. The abrasion-resistant nylon overlays on the lower legs offer crucial protection against thorns and brush. The inclusion of articulated knees enhances mobility, while the gusseted crotch further promotes freedom of movement.

The pants feature a zippered thigh pocket for secure storage of essential items. The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s is available in Earth/Blaze color combination, with various waist and inseam sizes.

These specifications are critical for upland hunting because they directly address the challenges of navigating dense cover and rugged terrain. The materials used ensure the pants can withstand the abuse of thick vegetation.

Performance & Functionality

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a protective and comfortable hunting pant. The abrasion resistance is top-notch, easily deflecting thorns and branches that would tear through lesser fabrics. The mobility afforded by the articulated knees and gusseted crotch allows for natural movement while walking, crouching, and climbing.

The zippered thigh pocket is a convenient addition for storing small items like a cell phone or GPS unit. My only minor critique is that I wish they were offered in more color options. The Earth/Blaze colorway is practical, but lacks versatility for activities beyond hunting. Overall, the pants exceed my expectations for upland hunting performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The material blend is comfortable against the skin.

The fit is a “comfort” fit, which translates to a relaxed cut that allows for layering underneath. The design is also very durable.

The zippered pocket is strategically placed to minimize interference with movement, and the overall design is streamlined and uncluttered.

Durability & Maintenance

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s is built to last. The reinforced nylon overlays and durable fabric blend ensure the pants can withstand years of use in demanding conditions. The high quality construction enhances longevity.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only machine washing and drying. The pants have shown no signs of shrinkage or fading after repeated washings.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s does not come with any specific accessories, but is designed to be compatible with a range of hunting and outdoor gear. The relaxed fit allows for layering with base layers and thermal underwear for cold weather hunts. The zippered thigh pocket can accommodate a variety of small accessories, such as a handheld GPS, a knife, or extra ammunition.

The pant’s design is primarily functional, not overly reliant on accessories. The ability to pair it seamlessly with other hunting essentials is key.

Pros and Cons of Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s

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Who Should Buy Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s?

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s is perfect for upland bird hunters who frequently navigate dense cover and rugged terrain. They are also an excellent choice for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs durable and comfortable pants for demanding activities. This includes habitat restoration volunteers and forestry workers.

Those who primarily hunt in open fields or prefer a more tailored fit might find these pants overkill. Those who prioritize maximum ventilation in hot weather may also want to consider alternative options or wear them only during cooler seasons.

Consider pairing the Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s with a good pair of upland hunting boots and gaiters for optimal protection.

Conclusion on Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s

The Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s is a well-designed and highly functional piece of hunting apparel. The abrasion resistance, comfort, and durability make it an excellent investment for serious upland hunters.

At $139.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. The pants deliver excellent value for those who demand reliable performance in challenging environments.

I would highly recommend the Badlands Huron Upland Pant – Men’s to anyone seeking durable and comfortable protection for their legs while pursuing their passion in the outdoors. If you value quality and performance, don’t hesitate to add these pants to your gear collection!