Gear Shots #16

Race Face Downhill pants, Sombrio Roam pants, Turner RF6

... a first look at what we're riding and testing these days

Race Face Downhill pants
Words by Stuart Kernaghan

Race Face's Below the Belt line of softgoods is largely made up of shorts, but there's also a pair of pants if you're looking for more warmth or coverage.

The Downhill (DH) pants were introduced this fall, and are built from the same materials as the DH shorts. The 330D Cordura fabric has a light polyurethane coating for increased durability, and incorporates stretch fabric across the back of the pants for increased comfort, manoeuvrability, and breathability.

Other features include an elasticized waistband with a ratcheting buckle, two side and two rear pockets, articulated knees for better pedalling mobility, outer leg zips so you can put on leg armour, adjustable snap closures on the cuffs, and ventilation courtesy of 18" zipper vents on the thighs.

Pricing for the DH pants is CDN$179 and US$139. They're available in the charcoal / black colour shown here, or black / charcoal, in sizes small to extra large.

Chilling in the snow, but still nice and warm... || Photo: Kim Beck

Sombrio Roam pants
Words by Cam McRae

To build the Roam pant, Sombrio took the cut of their denim jean and then added a waterproof 'faux denim' fabric. The result is a technical garment that doesn't make you look like you jumped out of an early '90s snowboard video.

The details are all there: nice deep pockets, zipper pulls that you can use with your gloves on, camo lining to just above the knee, a soft and moisture-wicking waistband and zippered stow pockets in back.

Sombrio provided belt loops so you can cinch as necessary. A nice generous pair of longs for days when it's chilly or wet - but the inner thigh vents mean you can stay cool when you need to. Price on the Roams is £80, €120, CDN$190CDN, and USD$160.