PRODUCT SUMMARY
By Swiss Miss

THE GOOD
Full side zips: The zippers are not waterproof which I like because they don't get stuck easily. Instead they have a generous weather flap. Accessing buckles, kneepads (for teleskiing), and easy on and off is simple with these pants. I wish they had a third intermediate zipper for more ventilation options.

Fit: Mountain Hardwear's sizing is right on for these pants. They come up a little higher in the back to keep the snow out and are good for my longer legs.

Fabric: Gore-Tex Performance Shell keeps you dry no matter what. The face fabric has a smooth finish that is soft to the touch and glides easily over rocks and ice.

THE BAD
Powdercuffs: good design but they're a little too tight around my AT boots which makes them tough to snap, especially with mittens on.

Durability: I'm noticing a few very small patches of delamination of the Gore-Tex laminate near the cuffs. I'm not too worried about it now, but I'll be watching it closely.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Xenon pants are a great choice for backcountry skiers in wet environments. They are as lightweight and breathable as many softshell pants with all the weather protection and durability you need in the backcountry. Full side zips are great for easy on and off and ventilation on warmer days.

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