#8 on this list
Basin Pull-On Pants
Mountain Hardwear
The Mountain Hardwear Basin Pull-On Pants are an ultralight, minimalist option built for warm-weather cragging, long approaches, and multi-pitch climbing where breathability is critical. Constructed from a lightweight 94% nylon and 6% elastane weave, they weigh in at an impressive 8.64 ounces in a men’s medium. The featherweight fabric allows hot air to escape quickly, preventing that swampy, trapped feeling during midsummer outings. The pull-on design strips away heavy hardware, zips, and thick belt loops. Instead, a broad, flat elastic waistband with an internal drawstring sits flush against your hips, creating zero friction or pressure hot-spots under a loaded harness. The fabric stretches easily in all directions, pairing with a full inseam gusset to ensure you never fight the pant when extending into awkward heel hooks or high stems. Because the fabric is so thin and light, the Basin Pull-On prioritizes breathability over raw durability. Repeated scrapes inside abrasive chimneys, knee-scumming on coarse stone, or heavy off-width climbing will wear through the lightweight nylon much faster than a standard cragging pant. It is an exceptional warm-weather and alpine approach piece, provided you keep it away from grinding friction cracks. **Highlights** - Extremely light 8.64-ounce total weight - Breathable 94% nylon and 6% elastane fabric blend - Broad, flat pull-on waistband that creates zero harness hotspots - Full inseam gusset for uninhibited movement - Deep front hand pockets and secure rear pocket **Watch-outs** - Ultralight fabric is vulnerable to tearing in rough off-widths - Lacks cuff cinches to secure the pant legs above your ankles
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#9 on this list
Notion
Black Diamond
The Black Diamond Notion is a staple in the climbing world, cherished for its comfortable feel and laid-back utility across gym sessions, boulder problems, and casual outdoor days. Made from a soft 98% organic cotton twill woven with 2% elastane, the Notion feels like a favorite pair of sweatpants while retaining the structural cut needed for active climbing. It provides plenty of warmth during crisp morning warm-ups at the boulders. The pant features an elastic waistband with an exterior drawstring, reinforced knees for extra longevity during pad drops and kneebars, and elastic cuffs that grip the lower shins. The cinched cuffs are a major asset, keeping the bottom hems out of the way of your shoes and ensuring you never lose track of a delicate foothold. The articulated fit accommodates full splits and deep drop-knees effortlessly. Weighing 11.4 ounces, the Notion is firmly rooted in the casual-to-moderate climbing spectrum. The organic cotton construction holds moisture when wet and lacks the wind-blocking capabilities of synthetic technical fabrics, ruling it out for alpine use. The 2% elastane also tends to bag out slightly after days of continuous wear before snapping back in the wash. For gym-to-crag crossover, however, its comfort remains legendary. **Highlights** - Soft 98% organic cotton twill with 2% elastane stretch - Reinforced knee patches add life during kneebars and scuffs - Elasticized waistband with soft drawstring for easy fit adjustment - Gathered elastic cuffs prevent fabric from covering climbing shoes - Rear slip pockets and deep front hand pockets **Watch-outs** - Cotton holds moisture and provides zero weather resistance - Fabric can bag out slightly between wash cycles
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Basin Pull-On Pants | Notion |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Blend | 94% nylon, 6% elastane | 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane |
| Total Weight | 8.64 oz / 245 g (Men's M) | — |
| Waist Closure | Elastic pull-on with internal drawcord | — |
| Inseam Design | Full-length gusseted crotch | — |
| Pocket Layout | Two front slash pockets, one rear pocket | — |
| Fit Profile | Standard straight leg | — |
| Stated Weight | — | 11.4 oz |
| Waist Style | — | Elastic with external drawstring |
| Leg Opening | — | Gathered elastic cuffs |
| Knee Design | — | Reinforced knee overlays |
| Best Environment | — | Bouldering, climbing gyms, dry crags |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Basin Pull-On Pants
- Featherweight 8.64-ounce construction maximizes packability and warm-weather airflow
- Flat pull-on waistband eliminates hot spots and pressure under climbing harnesses
- Full inseam gusset and four-way stretch deliver uninhibited leg mobility
- Lightweight nylon blend dries quickly and sheds heat during steep approaches
- Thin fabric will wear through quickly during abrasive off-width or chimney climbing
- Lacks integrated ankle cinch cords to secure the cuffs above climbing shoes
- Hand pockets are partially blocked when wearing a climbing harness
Notion
- Soft organic cotton twill provides exceptional next-to-skin comfort
- Elastic ankle cuffs keep lower hems clear of footwork and shoes
- Reinforced knee overlays improve durability during kneebars and scuffs
- Flat, elastic drawstring waist integrates smoothly under a harness
- Cotton fabric absorbs moisture and lacks weather resistance
- Fabric tends to stretch and bag out between wash cycles
- Pockets lack zippers to secure small valuables during movement
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