Columbia Powers Vertical Pant : Ready-Set-Go!

Once again it's that time of year to start thinking about shedding the long underwear and winter jacket for my forays into the woods.  Looking forward to warmer days, I recently picked up a pair of Columbia's Powers Vertical Pant (also available as shorts).   

I love the way this pant fits: snug at the waist, roomy around the crotch and thighs, then just the right taper so they fit perfectly over boots or rest cleanly on my runners. I noticed that Columbia has taken a slightly different approach to the crotch gusset.   Instead of using a small diamond shaped piece of fabric they've come up with a three-panel configuration that makes up the inside of both legs down to the ankle. It definitely makes for an improved fit.       

I don't carry much stuff in my pockets (either while hiking or around town), so I don't like excessive cargo pockets. The pocket configuration on my Powers Vertical Pant is very practical.   My keys stay in the front pockets when I sit down.   The flat zippered leg pocket is the perfect size/proportion for a small snack or a map and compass. Also, someone at Columbia must be a gardener because the pocket on left thigh is perfect for hand pruners while working in the yard.  

In addition to having a whole slew of outdoor clothing and accessories for all seasons, the Columbia web site has some cool mini-documentaries. My favorite is about a trio of friends who surf the wakes of large ships.  

Bottom Line :  A few well though design considerations make these a great pant for a hike in the woods, a day in the garden, or an afternoon at the park. --A.S. (May 09)

Price : MSRP $60 ($52 at REI)

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Manufacturer's Site: www.columbia.com

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