Super Guide Pant

I've been using my Super Guides on almost every trip for the past three years, both summer and winter. So far they have proven to be almost everything Patagonia claims.

They do not restrict my motion in any way. They are breathable and yet reasonably resistant to wind and water. They are quite comfortable with or without a base layer underneath.

I have mixed feelings about the suspenders. I find that suspenders in general are a hassle, because they always seem to be in the way of layering/unlayering and heeding the call of nature. But for me pants tend to ride down below my pack belt, and the suspenders keep that from happening. Without a pack to push them down they stay in place just fine.

The front snap has been surprisingly reliable and easy to use. The two-way zip fly comes in handy when wearing a harness. Now, if they would just make these with a full through-the-crotch zip and a slightly higher waist I'd be one happy camper.

The zippered ankle cuffs are useful when putting on big boots, and the built-in gaiters work surprisingly well. On my last trip we wallowed through some pretty deep snow, and I relied the whole time on the built-in gaiters. Not a flake of snow found its way past them and into my boots. Impressive!

The biggest drawback? They are pricey. I got mine half price from an on-line clearance sale. Despite my enthusiasm for these pants, I can't help but think that there must be something out there that beats these in overall value.

Use the plain guide pant for the colder parts of the three seasons of the year. Great for snow and even light rain. Good in full on winter conditions down to about 0 F with underwear. Cuffs work well.
Use a simple guide pant for summer glacier travel and snow climbs.

Well crafted and designed. Stands up to almost anything.