Browning Upland Pants Review

Let’s Dive into Browning Upland Pants

The Browning Upland Pants are designed for the outdoor enthusiast, built by Browning with a focus on durability and functionality. They’re marketed as work-style pants with briar resistance, appealing to hunters and anyone needing tough legwear in rough terrain.

I needed a reliable pair of pants for quail hunting in Arizona, something that could withstand the harsh desert environment. I was looking for a balance of comfort, durability, and protection from thorns and brush.

My initial impression upon receiving the Browning Upland Pants was positive. The 12 oz. cotton canvas felt substantial, and the briar-resistant overlay seemed robust, though a bit stiff at first.

Compared to Carhartt work pants, which I’ve used extensively, the Browning Upland Pants offered a more tailored fit and the promise of briar resistance that Carhartts lack. I also considered Orvis Upland Field Pants, but the Browning option was significantly more affordable, making it an easier entry point. My hope was for a hunting-specific pant that wasn’t overly bulky or expensive.

I was cautiously optimistic after my initial inspection. While the materials felt durable, the true test would be in the field, facing the realities of thorny brush and challenging terrain.

Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Upland Pants to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Browning Upland Pants on a quail hunt in the Arizona desert. The terrain was a mix of rocky ground, dense mesquite, and cholla cactus – a true proving ground for any upland hunting gear.

The pants performed adequately in dry conditions, providing a decent barrier against the light brush. However, the stiffness of the briar-resistant overlay made movement somewhat restricted, especially when navigating tight spots.

The fit was comfortable enough for walking, and the deep front pockets were useful for carrying shells and other small essentials. However, the lack of articulation in the knees became noticeable after a few hours of hiking.

After the first hunt, I noticed some minor snags on the canvas where the briar-resistant overlay didn’t fully cover. This raised concerns about long-term durability in truly dense cover.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Browning Upland Pants began to show signs of wear. The canvas started to fade and soften, and the briar-resistant overlay remained stiff, but some threads started to loosen around the edges.

Durability-wise, they held up reasonably well, but the Arizona quail country proved to be more demanding than I initially anticipated. While they offered some protection, they were not impervious to thorns, and some poked through the canvas in high-wear areas.

Maintenance was relatively easy; I simply machine-washed them cold and hung them to dry. However, I did experience some shrinkage after the first wash, as noted in some user feedback, so consider sizing up when ordering.

Compared to my previous experiences with traditional work pants, the Browning Upland Pants offered better briar resistance but less overall comfort and freedom of movement. They are a decent option for moderate upland hunting, but not ideal for truly rugged environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Browning Upland Pants

Specifications

The Browning Upland Pants are made of * 12 oz., 100% cotton canvas *. This provides a good balance of durability and comfort for mild to moderate weather conditions.

They feature a briar-resistant overlay, which is intended to protect the legs from thorns and brush. This overlay is primarily located on the front of the legs, extending from the knee down to the ankle.

The pants have a * comfortable, work pant-style fit *, designed for ease of movement while working or hunting. They also include * deep front pockets *, * tool pockets on legs *, and * flap rear pockets * for ample storage.

The Browning Upland Pants feature a * zipper fly * for ease of use. The * Regular * apparel fit and * All Seasons * seasonal/temperature use designation make these pants suitable for a wide variety of users and applications.

These specifications matter because they dictate the pants’ intended use and performance. The canvas provides durability, the briar-resistant overlay offers protection, and the pocket layout enhances functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The Browning Upland Pants perform adequately for light to moderate upland hunting. They offer decent protection from briars and thorns, but their stiffness can limit mobility.

The strengths of these pants lie in their affordability and basic durability. However, their weaknesses include limited articulation, potential shrinkage, and only moderate briar resistance in dense cover.

They meet expectations for a budget-friendly upland hunting pant but don’t exceed them in terms of comfort or protection. I’d say they perform in the middle of the pack.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The materials feel reasonably durable, but the stitching could be reinforced in high-stress areas.

The pants are comfortable enough for moderate activity levels, but the lack of articulated knees hinders movement during more strenuous activities. There’s minimal learning curve, as the design is straightforward and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Browning Upland Pants should last for several seasons of moderate use. However, they are not designed for heavy-duty work or extreme conditions.

Maintenance is simple: machine wash cold, hang dry. Some shrinkage can be expected, so follow care instructions carefully.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Browning Upland Pants do not come with any specific accessories. Customization options are limited, but you could potentially add suspender buttons or reinforce high-wear areas with additional fabric.

The pants are compatible with most standard belts. Aftermarket knee pads could be worn underneath for added protection and comfort.

Pros and Cons of Browning Upland Pants

Who Should Buy Browning Upland Pants?

The Browning Upland Pants are perfect for budget-conscious upland hunters, casual outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing durable work pants for light to moderate conditions. They are an excellent entry-level option for those new to upland hunting or needing a reliable pair of pants without breaking the bank.

Those who need superior durability or require maximum mobility in extremely rugged terrain should skip this product. Professionals in demanding outdoor occupations might find these pants lacking in features and longevity.

Consider adding suspenders for a more secure fit, especially if carrying heavy items in the pockets. Aftermarket knee pads can provide added comfort and protection for extended periods of kneeling or crawling.

Conclusion on Browning Upland Pants

The Browning Upland Pants offer a decent value proposition for those seeking affordable briar protection in the field. While they have limitations in terms of articulation and durability, their price point makes them an attractive option for casual users.

The price is generally justified based on the materials and construction, but don’t expect them to perform like higher-end, more specialized upland hunting pants. For what they are, they are a solid buy.

I would recommend the Browning Upland Pants to anyone needing a budget-friendly solution for light to moderate upland hunting or outdoor work. Just be sure to manage your expectations and consider sizing up to account for potential shrinkage. If you’re seeking a rugged, highly durable option for professional use, invest in something more robust. But if you need affordable and dependable leg protection, then these pants are worth considering!