The Montane Terra XT are hard-wearing, well-made mountain hiking pants designed for winter mountaineering and alpinism. The fabric feels tough and thick, with only a little stretch; the backing is not as soft as the other softshell trousers tested. The seat, knees and ankle are heavily reinforced. These would stand up to long-term abuse in scenarios such as rock climbing or winter climbing. However, this also contributes to the high weight.
Alex Roddie’s Verdict
If they fit you, these are good trousers for winter mountaineering. But I recommend trying before you buy. And no women’s version is currently available.- Excellent pockets
- Durable materials and construction
- Baggy fit
- Heavy
- No women’s version
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £175 Weight: 702g Materials: 97% Nylon, 3% Elastane with PFC-free DWR; polyester backing Features: ventilation zips, knee, seat and ankle reinforcement, boot hooks, webbing belt Pockets: 1x rear pocket (zipped), 2x thigh pockets (zipped, flaps, press studs), 2x hand pockets (zipped) Hem: boot hook, popper adjustment Sizes: waist 28–40”, leg 30–34” Womens/Mens version: men only montane.com |
The Terra XT fit is rather baggy. For the same size, the waist is around half an inch wider than the other trousers tested, and the thighs are much wider too. This makes it difficult to get a perfect fit. The waist is relatively high. You get a detachable webbing belt thrown in, which is a nice touch.
The hems are basic but functional, with boot-lace hooks and simple popper adjustment. They fit over my winter boots but might not fit over ski boots. There are side adjustment zips backed with mesh fabric; ventilation is not quite as good as other softshell trousers tested, and they can feel stuffy in less cool conditions. The pocket situation is great – the large thigh pockets even have storm flaps!
If they fit you, these are good trousers for winter mountaineering. But I recommend trying before you buy. And no women’s version is currently available.
