These soft shell pants are made for freeriding and sidecountry riding. They also work perfectly for general ski/snowboard activities as well as general outdoor activities like trekking and mountaineering.
The Lofoten flex1 Pants are a highly recommended choice for skiing, particularly for those who engage in a mix of resort skiing, ski touring, and backcountry adventures.
Standout Features: Exceptional Comfort and Flexibility: Reviewers consistently praise the pants for being "the most comfortable ski pants" they've owned, highlighting their "great warmth and flexibility," "breathability and stretch." Effective Ventilation: Side vents with dual zippers are a key feature, allowing users to regulate temperature effectively during strenuous activities like ski touring. Strategic Waterproofing (Seat and Knees): A membrane in the seat and knee areas provides crucial dryness when sitting on wet chairlifts or kneeling in the snow, a significant advantage over fully non-waterproof options. High Quality and Durability: The pants are described as "first class," "very high quality," and "super durable," with one reviewer noting they still "look new" after 16 days of use.
Common Use-Cases: The primary use-case for these pants is skiing, encompassing: Ski Touring/Backcountry Skiing: Frequently mentioned as ideal for "ski touring," "backcountry ski trip," and "topptur." Lift-Serviced/Resort Skiing: Also suitable for "lift-serviced days," "a day on the slopes," and "utför & bräda" (downhill & snowboarding). General Winter Outdoor Activities: One reviewer notes they are "great for all kind of alpine skiing (and outdoor during the winter)."
Fit and Comfort Level: True to Size (Generally): Many reviewers found the size to be "perfect" and "fits true to size." Adjustable Waist: Velcro pull tabs on the waist allow for fine-tuning the fit. Potential for Large Fit: One reviewer noted they "fällt sehr groß aus" (runs very large), suggesting a potential need to size down, especially for those with longer inseams. Comfortable and Flexible: The "flex1" material contributes to excellent freedom of movement.
Criticisms or Areas for Improvement: Weight: Some users found the pants "heavier than I would like them to be" compared to competitors, suggesting a preference for lighter options for highly technical, fast-paced touring. Waterproofness (Limited): While the seat and knees offer protection, the pants are explicitly *not* recommended for "storm or wet days" or "raining conditions," requiring a Gore-Tex alternative for such weather. Sizing Inconsistency: While generally true to size, the "runs very large" comment indicates a potential for variability or a need to try them on.
Conclusion: The Lofoten flex1 Pants are highly recommended for avid skiers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and effective ventilation across a range of activities, from resort skiing to ski touring and backcountry adventures. They are particularly well-suited for cold and dry conditions, offering superior breathability compared to some Gore-Tex alternatives. This product is ideal for someone seeking a durable, high-quality ski pant that excels in most winter conditions, as long as heavy rain or extreme wetness is not anticipated. While not the lightest option on the market, their comfort, durability, and strategic waterproofing make them a standout choice for the majority of ski days.
