Buying Guides: Trousers

1. Fit

You should be able to move freely, enough to climb stiles and gates. The waist should be snug, but not too tight. The most versatile trousers have elasticated waists and loops for a belt.

2. Pockets

As well as the usual hip pockets, it's useful to have at least one secure zipped pocket for valuables such as keys. Cargo pockets are useful for maps, but they can affect styling.

3. Fabric

Comfort and performance hinges on this. Check the fabric feels good against your skin and that it offers wind and waterproofing, while allowing your legs to breathe easily if the going gets hot. A reinforced seat and knees increases durability without harming breathability too much.

4. Versatility

Trousers are more versatile if they can be zipped off to make shorts, but remember that zips add bulk, weight and cost. If the bottoms do zip off, they will be easier to use if they have side zips, which will allow you to pull them on or off over your boots.

5. Styling

As well as coping with a variety of conditions on the hill, it's also useful if you feel comfortable in your trousers in a pub or café. Style is a matter of taste, but bear in mind that pockets which are useful in the outdoors may not look so good in a social environment, and that zip-off styles are not always as smart as plain trousers.

6. Shorts

As an alternative to trousers in summer, try wearing shorts or a skirt. Choose lightweight synthetic or poly/cotton fabrics that dry quickly, and wick and breathe well. Pockets are useful for storing items you may need on a walk and, ideally, at least one pocket should be zipped.

Some adjustment at the waist is useful - a part-elasticated waist with webbing belt or belt loops works best. For women, zip-off skirts give you the choice of going short or long, while splits aid movement. Or you can buy skorts - shorts, with a wrapover that makes them look like a skirt.

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