Rock climbing pants have undergone many evolutionary changes over the decades. From durable cotton pants in the ’60s and ’70s, to the god-awful neon spandex of the ’80s and ’90s, to pretty much “anything goes” these days including shorts, jeans, khakis, capris and pants built specifically for rock climbing, like the Outdoor Research Index Pants.
Like most outdoor clothing, the Outdoor Research Index Pants are made from a breathable, wicking material that keeps sweat and moisture away from the skin to keep legs cool, dry and comfortable. It’s a double-weave of nylon, polyester and spandex fabric that is stretchy, which is great for making those big moves on the cliff. A DWR finish keeps things dry on the inside by keeping moisture on the outside.
Outdoor Research sent out a pair of the Index Pants, and they got worked on climbing routes in the Wasatch Mountains, plus saw double duty as hiking pants on a few backpacking excursions. Here’s how they performed:
First, the good. The Index Pants are thick, durable and have a lot of stretch. This was great while climbing in Ferguson Canyon where I made moves on a variety of rock; from scraping through a chimney, to stemming between walls, to pulling over roofs with a heel hook. Abrasive rock didn’t leave even a single mark or tear on the fabric, and the stretchy material didn’t get in the way of high leg moves. In addition, the pants were very comfortable under the harness and didn’t bunch up around the leg loops (a problem I have with other pants.)
I also appreciated the amount of pockets featured on these pants. There are two pockets on the front, two zippered pockets on the back, and a zippered cargo pocket on the right leg that held items such as carabiners, climbing tape and a cell phone.
Another plus is how easily the fabric gets clean after a dirty day in the mountains. I got stains all over the pants, including mud, bat guano, and even grease from my mountain bike chain. After the pants came out of the laundry, they looked like new.
So what’s not so good about the Outdoor Research Index Pants? A couple of things. When I first tried them on, I thought they looked too warm to wear on a hot, summer day of climbing. I was right. Despite being breathable, the sun baked my legs. These pants seem best for working routes in the spring or fall.
The Index Pants also have a somewhat strange cut. If you are a person with really thick legs, move along because these are some skinny pants. I’m cursed with chicken legs and the thighs in the Index Pants felt tight, even on my stick figure appendages.
Overall, the Outdoor Research Index Pants are a comfortable pair of technical outdoor pants that are built for rock climbing, but have the versatility for any outdoor activity in cooler weather. Here are the company specs:
Stretch double-weave 61% nylon/ 28% polyester/ 11% spandex fabric wicks moisture; DWR finish
Button and zipper fly
Two front slash pockets
Two zippered back pockets
Zippered utility pocket
Low profile waist band for smooth fit under harness; brushed tricot lining for comfort
Articulated knees
Drawcord ankle hem adjustments
Relaxed ft for easy movement
32 / 82 cm inseam (size 34)
To purchase the Outdoor Research Index Pants, visit Altrec.com
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