#7 on this list
Pass Transit - Women's
Showers
The Showers Pass Transit Pant is designed with wet-weather bicycle commuters and utility riders in mind, though it crosses over effectively into casual walking and urban use. Cyclists face unique challenges: flapping pant legs can catch in bike chains, water sprays aggressively off road surfaces, and bent-over riding postures pull standard pants down at the waist. The Transit solves these bike-specific issues directly. Testers appreciate the thoughtful cycling design details, such as cinch straps at the ankles to keep fabric clear of greasy drivetrains and reflective trim for nighttime visibility. The waterproof fabric provides substantial durability against the abrasion of bike saddles and pedal strokes. Generous side zips allow riders to pull them on quickly over work clothes or athletic shoes at the first drop of rain. At 11 ounces, the Transit is noticeably heavier and stiffer than minimalist backcountry hiking pants. The cut is cycling-specific, meaning it has a higher back rise and articulation tailored to sitting on a saddle rather than high-stepping over deadfall on steep trails. If you need a pant primarily for foul-weather commuting with occasional walking utility, it is exceptionally durable and functional. **Highlights** - Rugged waterproof construction built to endure saddle friction - Ankle cinch straps to keep fabric clear of bicycle chains - Reflective accents for improved low-light visibility - Extended ankle zips for rapid changes over everyday shoes - Tailored articulated cut optimized for cycling biomechanics **Watch-outs** - Heavy and stiff for dedicated wilderness backpacking - Specialized bike cut feels awkward during technical trail hiking
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#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
Specs side by side
| Spec | Pass Transit - Women's | Aspire Pant - Women's |
|---|---|---|
| Target Use | Bicycle commuting and urban riding | — |
| Weight | 11 oz | 9.5 oz (269 g) |
| Approximate Price | $149 | — |
| Cuff Design | Adjustable cinch straps and side zips | — |
| Fit Profile | Articulated cycling-specific cut | — |
| Visibility | Integrated reflective accents | — |
| Membrane | — | Gore-Tex Paclite (2.5-layer) |
| Venting Zippers | — | Thigh-length side zips |
| Waist Construction | — | Elastic with internal drawcord |
| Knee Articulation | — | Pre-curved ergonomic knees |
| MSRP | — | Approximately $210 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Pass Transit - Women's
- Lower leg cinch straps keep pant cuffs clear of bicycle chains
- Reinforced construction stands up to continuous saddle friction
- Elevated rear waistband prevents lower-back exposure while riding
- Long ankle zippers allow easy transitions over commuter shoes
- Noticeably heavier and bulkier than dedicated ultralight trail pants
- Cycling-specific cut feels stiff and awkward on technical hiking trails
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
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.