Classics are classics for a reason, as Alex Roddie finds out testing the Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers.
These Craghoppers Kiwi Classic Trousers are made from a durable polycotton blend, and thanks to their relaxed fit, generous array of pockets, and great weather resistance they’re fantastic for British mountain use.
Alex Roddie’s Best Value
Overall, these trousers are near perfect and easy to recommend. They’re now my personal choice for most conditions and I’ve bought several spare pairs.- comfort
- value
- relaxed fit
- pockets
- weather and insect resistance
- range of sizes
- women’s version discontinued
| Quick specs |
|---|
| Price: no US shipping | £70 (available at Craghoppers) Weight: 468g (34” waist 29” leg) Materials: SolarShield main fabric: 65% recycled polyester, 35% cotton; trim: 65% polyester, 35% cotton; PFC-free DWR Features: stretch waist with belt loops & webbing belt, UPF50+ sun protection, knee reinforcement, anti-insect construction Pockets: 4x hand pockets (2x zipped), 2x rear pockets (zipped), 2x thigh pockets (1x velcro flap, 1x zipped) Hem: basic hem Sizes: waist 26–42”, leg 29–35” Women’s version? no craghoppers.com |
The fabric is 65% recycled polyester and 35% cotton, and feels comfy but is also quick drying. Although it can feel stuffy in the very hottest weather, it’s fine for most conditions and is reasonably windproof. When new, the DWR coating repels light rain. The UPF50+ UV resistance is reassuring in hot sun, and thanks to the fabric’s weave it is resistant to insect bites. They’re impervious even under heavy midge pressure.
Fit is a real highlight. The straight legs allow for tons of freedom of movement, and I’ve found them great for scrambling (the fabric resists abrasion). They sit high, out of the way of a rucksack belt and have simple cuffs that are easy to adjust yourself. I really like the stretch waistband, equipped with plenty of belt loops. And the included webbing belt is excellent – no slippage!
The pockets are another strong point: loads of zipped options, including two hidden zipped hand pockets, but there are also non-zipped hand pockets and a large thigh pocket with a velcro flap. It’s the best pocket selection of any trouser I’ve reviewed in years.
The RRP is very reasonable, but these are so often on sale that you likely won’t pay RRP, making value unbeatable for what you get. And the range of sizes is similarly unbeatable, both in terms of waist and leg. The only downside? Craghoppers confirmed that they’ve discontinued the women’s version.
Overall, these trousers are near perfect and easy to recommend. They’re now my personal choice for most conditions and I’ve bought several spare pairs.
Testing conditions
Alex tested these trousers during winter mountaineering in Scotland and the Austrian Alps, shoulder-season Scottish scrambling, hillwalking and backpacking, and hot-weather lowland hikes in summer. He has a 34” waist and short legs.
This review was first published in the February 2026 issue of The Great Outdoors. You can compare it to other legwear in our gear guide to the best hiking trousers.
