Storm Your Next Adventure in the Raid Pant
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For my trip to China last fall, I needed comfortable, durable, and versatile pants. I got that - and more - with the KÜHL Raid Pant.
I typically wear the KÜHL Rydr Pant. I enjoy the full fit for increased range of motion when hiking, scrambling and jumping. I was a little skeptical when I first pulled on the Raid because they aren’t cut as full as the Rydr.
Raid Pant Product Review
An added bonus was how water repellent they were when storms soaked the streets of Beijing. The water-resistant pant kept me dry and comfortable.
What I Love
Uber Abrasion-Resistant Fabric
Made from a tear-resistant technical softshell fabric with DWR finish for water resistance, the Raid Pant was thin enough to make the cut for my 'carry-on-only' packing list and versatile enough to withstand the rigor of BASE jumping.
Plentiful Zippered Pockets
The Raid Pant features six zippered pockets: 2 back, 2 hand, 1 side 3-D, and 1 side drop in.
Since losing a passport or phone in another country can lead to nightmares and a serious buzzkill on an otherwise amazing trip, I trusted my valuables to these zippered pockets. The pockets delivered while perusing the street vendors in Beijing and jumping off the 1200+ foot Balinge River Bridge.
Draw Cord Leg Cuff
The fact that KÜHL released another men's outdoor pant with a draw cord leg cuff makes me giddy. I like that I can pull up the pants and cinch the cord tight in warmer weather or when I'm wading in ankle- to knee-deep water. No rolling and re-rolling required. LOVE THIS!
My Peeves
My single peeve is related to the genius-yet-frustrating hideaway (reverse coil) zippers. When you zip the zippers all the way up, the small zipper handle gets hidden by the zipper cover. The zipper stays closed and your valuables remain secure. However, it's difficult to dig the zipper out of its cover to use the pocket or retrieve an item. A simple, small zipper pull cord would be really helpful; I intend to add pulls to my pants.
Making the Grade
Great for jumping off bridges and battling the crowds of Beijing, the Raid Pant earns a solid A. The hideaway zipper was the only thing that kept me from awarding top marks.
Retailing for $110, these versatile soft-shell men's pants can be worn as a base layer or single layer. The Raid Pant should top your “Must Pack” list for your next adventure.
I received KÜHL apparel for this review at no cost. I received no other compensation for this post, and all opinions are my own.
Zach Carbo is an avid outdoor enthusiast, family man and eager people meeter. The only thing he enjoys more than an outdoor adventure is an outdoor adventure with friends. He is proud to call the great state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest his base camp.
