When the Mountain Khakis’ Cottonwood Cords arrived, I was worried. They look too ‘nice’ to wear hiking! I wasn’t sure how I was going to review them. I decided I’d try them out and see how well they worked indoors first. My first time wearing them, I wore them to work. It was a cold, fall day, and they seemed like the perfect pants for a Friday in October. I wanted to see how comfortable they would be by wearing them all day.
The Cottonwoods that I received were a medium green color – Avocado on the manufacturer’s site. The have a relaxed fit, with a soft feel to the corduroy fabric.
Details:
- Custom 10oz Corduroy, 11 Wale, 97% Cotton/ 3% Lycra
- 2 Antique brass MK shank buttons with hook & eye waistband closures
- MK Twill-lined 2″ waistband with 2 1/2″ Belt Loops
- Regular (31″ – 32″) and Long (34″) inseam options
- 3/4″ hem
- Yoke back panel
Women's Avocado Cottonwood Cords
- Pockets: 2 lay-flat angled hand pockets in front (7 1/2″ deep), 2 patch rear pockets(6″ deep)
- Grosgrain-lined 4″ (graded) YKK zipper
- Tonal MK embroidered feature above right hand pocket
- Garment-washed for minimal shrinkage
- Back shaping darts
After wearing them to work, I decided to try them on a day hike. Normally, I might overlook wearing something so ‘nice’ while hiking, but after the hike I was meeting friends for lunch. The morning was cool, about 35 F, and fairly windy. I wore the Cottonwood Cords, with a long sleeve t-shirt, fleece pullover and light down jacket. By the time I had covered a few miles, the sun had warmed things up so I pulled off the jacket and continued on. The pants worked out well, they were comfortable, warm enough without being to warm. They were resilient to branches rubbing against them. Most of the places I hike are very wooded and rocky. Its not unusual for me to have to slide down an embankment or climb over some rocks. At first, I thought I was hesitant in the Cottonwoods, but finally decided I had to see how they would handle it. Happily, they did fine. A little dirt stuck to them, but other than that, not a problem. I finished up my hike, went and replaced all the calories I worked off, and then some. Before going in the restaurant, I brushed the pants off with my hands, and they looked fine. I had lunch and went home. Inspecting the pants, I was amazed to see how good they still looked.
I’ve worn them on a few more hikes, and am very pleased with how well they handling hiking and casual situations. I really appreciate anything that does double duty. Saves space and money. These pants will continue to to get lots of outdoor time over the next few months. I’ll update the review as I use them in different situations. I have a trip to Ohio coming up, and hope to get some hiking in then.
[...] Mountain Khakis Cottonwood Cords [...]