The North Face Paramount Convertible Pant

Summary

Have had two pairs of these pants, they have worn well over time.

I've owned two pairs of these pants. Overall, I would buy another pair, IF I found them on sale relatively cheap. Both pairs have worn well. The materials have held up though several day and multi-day hikes. The first pair I've had since '09, the second since '10.

They have plenty of pockets, too many in some cases, are nice enough to wear on the trail or into town for casual activities. They stay cool and dry quickly when wet. The pair I purchased in 2010 have colored tabs on the leg zippers making it idiot proof zipping back on the legs and a different buckle on the built in belt. Must have been a change in the product line.

I couple of minor things I've had issues with are the fly zipper on the first pair I bought didn't last long. I had the zipper replaced and it's been fine since. The zipper on the second pair is still fine. The pants are a little snug in the crotch and thigh area, but seem to loosen up a little once they are worn for an hour or so. The only time I really notice the thigh tightness is when I have keys and such in my front pockets and sit down.

Overall I'd rate them above average.

I bought these pants for a day hike. No problem, nice fit, fast dry, lightweight. After the second hiking trip, one of the Velcro from the back pocket started to fall off. It took the third trip to have the Velcro fall off completely and have some braids coming out. Also, don't think you'll fit a belt in there, it's awkward but instead of 5-6 loops for the belt, there's like 3 in weird positions...

They look nice for outdoors and indoors, they are comfortable and versatile, but for the price I paid (80$ in Vancouver BC) I think next time I'll buy something else. But for now, besides the quality defects (normal defects for all North Face products), those pants are still very good.

I've worn these pants on one backpack trip and about 3 day hikes, and the seat and one of the knees are already showing wear. (the seat has almost worn through). I'm not particularly rough on my clothes, my last pair of pants (another brand) lasted two years, but I do a lot of backpacking and sitting on the ground, breaking through brush occasionally, and exploring rock formations.

Save your money or wear them around town.

I would have easily given these pants a 5 star rating except for one important factor. Fit. There is no room in the crotch or seat area.

I'm 6'2" 215 lbs. and bought the large size. The XL were too big in the waist. Walking around in these gave me a constant wedgie. Since comfort is everything, I had no choice but to return them.

A shame, since I really liked the style and features of these pants.

I purchased these pants from REI some time in Summer of 2007. I used them on two trips and loved them, but noticed the stitching coming out of the rear. No problem -- took them back to REI and exchanged for a new pair. Used the new pair on a single 5-day excursion and noticing the stitching coming out again. A definite defect, which is unfortunate because the pants are great otherwise. I've found REI's equivalent to these pants holds up much better and for a lower price. When it comes to playing in the bush, durability makes or breaks it for me.

Theses are some comfortable pants I could wear on trail or in town. They are DWR and when I was on the trail and it started raining hard with my parka I stayed comfortable and dry, what was wet dried easily. Talk about one too many pockets, you could fit the world in these pockets. All the features and quality I would expect from TNF.

These are very versatile pants-climbing, hiking, and kayaking. Pretty tough. Dry quick, maybe not as quick as some other pants, but quick enough. I was surprised at the durability for as lightweight a material.