Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s Review

Let’s Dive into Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s

Rain gear. We all need it, and we all have a story about that time we didn’t have it and paid the price. The Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s promise lightweight, waterproof, and breathable protection, and after a decade of getting soaked to the bone in various tactical scenarios, I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. Badlands has built a reputation for quality hunting gear, and these pants sit at a premium price point, so expectations are high.

I was tired of rain pants that felt like wearing a trash bag. My main requirement was breathability to prevent overheating during strenuous activity, along with reliable waterproofness. I needed something that could handle unexpected downpours on backcountry hikes or extended range days.

Upon unboxing, the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s felt noticeably lighter than my old rain gear. The material felt thin yet robust, and the overall design was sleek and functional, not bulky. The knee-high boot zippers were a welcome sight; I anticipate them making donning and doffing a breeze.

I considered rain pants from Sitka and Kuiu. Ultimately, I opted for the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s due to the positive reviews regarding their breathability and packability, as well as my familiarity with Badlands‘ reputation for durability.

I was cautiously optimistic. Past experiences with “waterproof breathable” gear have left me skeptical, but the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s had the potential to change my mind, or so I hoped.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test involved a weekend backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest. The forecast predicted intermittent showers, providing ample opportunity to evaluate the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s performance. I faced moderate rain, ranging from light drizzle to a steady downpour during a 4-hour hike.

The pants performed admirably in the wet conditions. The waterproof membrane kept me completely dry, and the breathability significantly reduced the build-up of moisture inside. The knee-high boot zippers were a lifesaver, allowing me to easily vent heat when the sun peeked through the clouds, preventing me from overheating. There were no leaks around the seams or zippers, which is critical.

Putting them on and taking them off was surprisingly easy thanks to the boot zippers. Initially, I was concerned about the weight since they are so light, but they held up better than expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple hikes, a muddy range day, and even a fishing trip, the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s have proven to be a reliable piece of kit. I’ve also worn them during a surprise cloud burst on a caribou hunt in the Yukon. The fit over my hunting pants was perfect and, again, the zips were a bonus when I needed to take them off quickly.

The pants have shown minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to brush, rocks, and mud. I did manage to snag them slightly on a thorn bush, resulting in a tiny puncture, but the material seems surprisingly resistant to tearing.

Cleaning is simple; I usually just wipe them down with a damp cloth, but they can also be machine washed on a gentle cycle. It’s important to use a technical fabric wash to maintain the waterproof membrane’s integrity.

Compared to previous rain pants I’ve owned, the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s significantly outperform in terms of breathability and packability. Previous pants felt like wearing a plastic bag, leading to excessive sweating and discomfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s

Specifications

• The Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s are manufactured by Badlands. This is a respected name in the hunting and outdoor gear market.
• They are designed specifically for the male anatomy. The cut and fit are tailored for men.
• They are intended for adults. Sizing is based on adult measurements.
• The application is for outdoor activities. This can range from hiking to hunting.
• The regular fit provides ample room for layering without being overly baggy. This is beneficial for both comfort and range of motion.
• The fabric/material is polyester. Polyester provides a good balance of durability, water resistance, and breathability.
• The weight is 1 lb. This lightweight design makes them easy to pack and carry.

These specifications combine to make rain pants that are portable, lightweight, breathable and effective at keeping you dry.

Performance & Functionality

The Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s excel at keeping you dry in wet conditions. Their waterproof membrane and fully taped seams prevent water from penetrating, ensuring you stay comfortable even in heavy rain.

The pants also offer decent breathability, preventing excessive sweat buildup. The knee-high boot zippers allow for additional ventilation when needed. However, during high-exertion activities in humid conditions, some moisture buildup is still noticeable.

One area for improvement is the lack of adjustable cuffs at the ankles. This could be addressed to better seal the pants around boots and prevent water from splashing up. The thigh pockets are a great addition, but a rear pocket would enhance their utility.

Overall, the performance of the Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s meets expectations for lightweight, waterproof rain gear. They aren’t designed for extreme conditions, but they perform well in typical outdoor scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is generally good. The polyester material feels durable, and the seams are well-constructed.

The lightweight design makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the regular fit allows for layering. The pants are easy to put on and take off, even with boots on, thanks to the knee-high boot zippers. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s appear to be reasonably durable, though the thin material is susceptible to punctures from sharp objects. With proper care, they should last for several seasons of moderate use.

Maintenance is straightforward. Wiping down after each use and machine washing as needed will help to maintain their waterproofness and overall condition. Avoid using harsh detergents or fabric softeners, as these can damage the waterproof membrane.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s do not come with any additional accessories. However, they are designed to be compatible with most standard outdoor and tactical gear.

The thigh pockets provide convenient storage for small items like a phone, GPS, or multi-tool. The reinforced belt loops allow for wearing a belt, if desired.

Pros and Cons of Badlands Exo Rain Pants – Men’s