These soft shell pants are designed for ski touring and are suitable for general skiing activities, all-year mountaineering, and hiking.
The Norrøna Lyngen flex1 light Pants are a highly versatile and durable option, primarily recommended for ski touring, but also well-suited for mountaineering and backpacking.
Standout Features: Exceptional Versatility: These pants excel at adapting to various layering needs, fitting comfortably over base layers, under Gore-Tex bibs or puffy pants, and worn independently. Boot Compatibility: Designed to accommodate both ice boots and ski boots, with adjustability for a regular fit. Durable Construction: Proven to withstand demanding conditions, as evidenced by their use on a 50-day mountaineering trip.
Common Use-Cases: While capable across a range of outdoor activities, the most frequently mentioned and emphasized use is ski touring, particularly on warmer days. They are also highly effective for mountaineering and backpacking.
Fit and Comfort Level: The pants generally offer a good fit, with one reviewer noting they were "a bit oversized" in a medium. They are designed to be comfortable for extended wear, even directly against the skin in warmer conditions.
Criticisms and Areas for Improvement: Internal Tag/Zipper Discomfort: A recurring issue is the internal tag by the thigh zipper, which can be annoying and, for one user, the zipper itself caused discomfort against bare skin on hotter days. This required either cutting out the tag or getting used to the zipper. Pocket Zipper Irritation: One reviewer experienced the pocket zipper chafing against their thigh, necessitating a plaster or base layer to prevent soreness. Bib Sizing Discrepancy (Note: This refers to a separate bib component, not the pants themselves): While the pants themselves seem well-regarded, there's a significant criticism regarding the sizing of the accompanying bib, described as "completely off" and "as tight as a corset" even when the corresponding pant was oversized. This suggests a potential issue with the integrated bib system rather than the pants' fit.
Conclusion: The Norrøna Lyngen flex1 light Pants are highly recommended for avid ski tourers seeking a durable, versatile, and adaptable pant for varying conditions, especially on warmer days. They are also a strong contender for mountaineers and backpackers who prioritize a single, reliable pant for diverse layering needs. This product is ideal for individuals who value adaptability and robust performance in their outdoor gear, and who are willing to potentially address minor comfort issues related to internal tags or zippers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the reported issues with the bib sizing if they are considering purchasing the integrated bib component.