lightweight, durable shell pants.....at a low price! (Too much to ask?)

So I'm looking for some new weather proof pants. I don't want some big hulking expedition biohazard suit, just some light shell pants that will last a while. Here are my queries: 1) is GTX paclite any better than say Marmot's precip or MH's grade 6 stuff? (or are any of these fabrics good at all?) 2) Are these ultra light pieces going to last at all? 3) Full side zip or not? 4) How much are those reinforcements on the seat and knees really going to extend the pants life?

oh yeah, most importantly: I'm poor, so if anyone knows somewhere I can get a good deal on some nice w/b pants (size M) i woulc greatly appreciate such imformation (I'd like to keep it under $150 or so).

thanks a bunch.

DC

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So I'm looking for some new weather proof pants. I don't want some big hulking expedition biohazard suit, just some light shell pants that will last a while. Here are my queries: 1) is GTX paclite any better than say Marmot's precip or MH's grade 6 stuff? (or are any of these fabrics good at all?)

I have a few pair of GTX pants but have converted over to Schoeller fabric pants. LL Bean and MEC make a good pair for a decent price. I also own the Marmot Precip jacket and pants for when a waterproof shell is called for. These are fine with me but are not meant for rock scrambling. Always a trade off.

2) Are these ultra light pieces going to last at all?

As mentioned, not for scrambling on rock but will be just fine for most trail hiking.

3) Full side zip or not?

I think the 2002 Marmot Precip will employ full zips as does the Mountain Hardwear Grade 6. A nice feature but not required.

4) How much are those reinforcements on the seat and knees really going to extend the pants life?

I really don't know.

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oh yeah, most importantly: I'm poor, so if anyone knows somewhere I can get a good deal on some nice w/b pants (size M) i woulc greatly appreciate such imformation (I'd like to keep it under $150 or so).

You can find the 2001 Marmot pants on sale at a few locations like Campmor; REI Outlet, etc.. I forget the price but something less than $75. comes to mind.

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thanks a bunch.

You're welcome. - John

Quote:

So I'm looking for some new weather proof pants. I don't want some big hulking expedition biohazard suit, just some light shell pants that will last a while. Here are my queries: 1) is GTX paclite any better than say Marmot's precip or MH's grade 6 stuff? (or are any of these fabrics good at all?) 2) Are these ultra light pieces going to last at all? 3) Full side zip or not? 4) How much are those reinforcements on the seat and knees really going to extend the pants life?

oh yeah, most importantly: I'm poor, so if anyone knows somewhere I can get a good deal on some nice w/b pants (size M) i woulc greatly appreciate such imformation (I'd like to keep it under $150 or so).

thanks a bunch.

DC

The best deal on W/B shells I know of for us po'folk is the Red Ledge Thunderlight parka and pants.(available through Campmor) I just bought one of their parkas and will soon buy a pair of their full side zip pants. The parka is a marvel - it has good pit zips and chest vents and weighs only 13 ounces! (only one more than the Marmot Precip which weighs 12) Best of all it costs $49.99 - half the price of the Marmot. The full side zip pants are also W/B, have reinforced knees, full side zips, weigh only 10 ounces, and cost only $39.99. Can't beat it with a stick!

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