#8 on this list
Aspire Pant - Women's
Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Aspire Pant is purpose-built for backpackers, climbers, and hikers who battle variable weather and generate substantial heat. Wet weather in the mountains rarely stays consistent; a cold deluge often transitions into humid, misting climbs. The Aspire addresses this dilemma by pairing Gore-Tex Paclite fabric with exceptional side ventilation. Reviewers consistently praise the pants for their venting system. The side zips extend all the way up to the thigh, allowing hikers to dump heat instantly without removing the pants or exposing their lower legs to wet brush. The Gore-Tex Paclite construction offers a noticeable step up in water resistance and wind blocking compared to standard coated nylon shells, keeping water out through sustained, heavy downpours. The main drawback lies in the next-to-skin feel of Paclite, which can feel slick or slightly clammy if worn directly over bare legs without a base layer. Additionally, while Paclite is significantly more packable than 3-layer Gore-Tex, it is less abrasion-resistant than heavy mountaineering shells. For rugged trail travel in temperamental conditions, however, its ventilation options make it a top performer. **Highlights** - Gore-Tex Paclite technology provides dependable waterproof windproofing - Expansive thigh-high side zippers deliver outstanding temperature regulation - Articulated knees ensure unrestricted stride length - Elastic waistband with integrated drawcord for secure layering - Lightweight, compressible profile fits easily in a daypack **Watch-outs** - Paclite interior feels slick against bare skin in warm weather - Mid-to-high price tier compared to basic entry-level rain shells
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#9 on this list
Regular Fit
33,000ft
The 33,000ft Regular Fit rain pant caters to budget-conscious users, occasional walkers, and casual outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to spend three figures on a piece of gear they rarely deploy. It is built for everyday foul-weather chores, dog walking, fishing trips, and modest day hikes where you simply need a functional shield against downpours without technical frills. Despite its ultra-low price point, independent reviewers note that the pants provide surprisingly capable basic waterproofing. The fabric blocks wind effectively, and the elastic waistband with an adjustable drawcord allows it to pull on smoothly over jeans or hiking trousers. Zippered ankle cuffs help accommodate work boots or sneakers without excessive tugging. Where the 33,000ft pant falls short is high-exertion breathability and overall tailoring. On steep backpacking grades, the interior quickly turns into a sauna, trapping body heat and sweat. The fit is also noticeably boxy and baggier than technical hiking pants, leading to excess fabric swishing around the ankles. For casual, lower-intensity outdoor tasks in the rain, it remains a standout budget solution. **Highlights** - Highly accessible price point for budget-minded buyers - Reliable waterproof and windproof basic fabric shell - Elastic waist with drawcord for straightforward fit adjustments - Zippered leg openings for easier boot transitions - Functional hand pockets for casual convenience **Watch-outs** - Poor breathability during strenuous uphill physical activity - Boxy, baggy cut lacks athletic articulation for technical hiking
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Aspire Pant - Women's | Regular Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Membrane | Gore-Tex Paclite (2.5-layer) | — |
| Weight | 9.5 oz (269 g) | — |
| Venting Zippers | Thigh-length side zips | — |
| Waist Construction | Elastic with internal drawcord | — |
| Knee Articulation | Pre-curved ergonomic knees | — |
| MSRP | Approximately $210 | — |
| Claimed Weight | — | 11 oz |
| Approximate Price | — | $39 |
| Closure Style | — | Elastic waistband with drawcord |
| Leg Openings | — | Side ankle zippers |
| Pockets | — | Zippered hand pockets |
| Best Activity Level | — | Low-intensity and casual use |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Aspire Pant - Women's
- Thigh-high side zippers allow rapid, flexible heat dumping on climbs
- Reliable Gore-Tex Paclite membrane seals out sustained downpours
- Articulated patterning moves smoothly over trail obstacles
- Compresses down small and weighs just 9.5 ounces
- Paclite interior can feel slick or clammy against bare legs
- Priced significantly higher than basic polyurethane-coated shells
- 2.5-layer build is less abrasion-resistant than 3-layer shells
Regular Fit
- Sub-$40 price makes reliable rain protection accessible on a tight budget
- Effective water and wind blocking for stationary and low-exertion use
- Ankle zippers allow quick pull-on transitions over boots and shoes
- Generous cut layers easily over thick work pants or jeans
- Traps sweat and moisture quickly during strenuous physical activity
- Boxy, baggy silhouette produces excess fabric bulk and walking noise
- Lacks technical features like full-length side zips or articulated knees
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.