Backpacker Magazine – Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2012

Gear Review: First Ascent Nail Driver Pants

Durability and insulation in a mobile and comfortable pant.

by: Dennis Lewon

Tags:
• Gear
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• Pants
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[warm and tough]

The Nail Driver is built for cold-weather abuse, but it doesn’t perform like an overbuilt work pant. The four-way stretch nylon affords good mobility for such heavy fabric, and the dense weave (with DWR) repels more than moderate moisture: “They never wetted through on the reinforced knees or seat, even when I was snowboarding in slushy afternoon spring conditions,” says our tester. “And the ankle cuff’s foot-long zipper accommodates fat boots.” A brushed-fleece lining adds warmth (they’re too hot in temps above freezing). Smart: The cargo pockets hold bulky items like gloves, and an elasticized inner pocket secures a camera or phone without flopping. $149; 1 lb. 12 oz.; S-XXL; firstascent.com 

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