What are the Gradient Pants?
The Gradient Pants are slim, technical, incredibly tough and weather-resistant trousers designed primarily for ski touring and mountaineering, however, in reality, they'll suit virtually any winter mountain activity.
What are they made of?
The bulk of the Granite Pants are made using Montane's own Granite Stretch Thermal fabric. This nylon-based material is, as the name implies, super stretchy, yet as tough as granite (figuratively!) and highly breathable, making it a brilliant alternative to a fully waterproof fabric when you require higher levels of breathability and comfort. A durable water repellent coating has been applied to the outer of the fabric to repel wind, water and snow. The 'thermal' part of the name refers to a backer that's applied to increase the overall warmth of the trousers. Ultra durable Schoeller Keprotec Kevlar is used for the insteps to resist abrasion from boots and crampons.
What are the features?
Keeping the trousers secure and in place are removable, adjustable braces with grippy silicone patches. The rear waistband has been placed relatively high to create extra coverage and features a microfibre waistband for comfort and superior moisture-wicking. The waist features built-in elastic and velcro to allow you to fine-tune the fit even further.
Moving down, there are two mesh-lined hand pockets with YKK zips, a zipped thigh pocket and an extra zipped security pocket inside the right-hand pocket. Two mesh-lined thigh vents allow you to dump heat quickly and effectively. Other useful features include removable internal snow gaiters, zipped and gusseted lower legs which accommodate a wide range of footwear and eyelets so you're able to attach eyelets for bootstraps.
How do they fit?
They feature a fairly slim, technical fit designed to maximise warmth and performance. There's plenty of articulation and stretch in the fabric and construction, so they never feel restrictive.
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Granite Stretch Thermal fabric
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Shoeller reinforcements
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Removable braces
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Microfibre-lined waistband
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Velcro waist adjustment
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Two mesh hand pockets
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Zipped thigh pocket
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Zipped thigh vents
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Security pocket inside right-hand pocket
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Removable snow gaiters
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Gusseted and adjustable lower legs
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Eyelets for bootstrap attachment