Chris Townsend thinks the Abisko walking trousers are comfortable and very roomy, and good in cold conditions


These are unusual in being made from two very different fabrics. The seat and the bottom half of the front are made from Fjällräven’s non-stretch polyester/cotton G1000 while the rest of the trousers are very stretchy synthetic material. This works well. The trousers don’t restrict movement, helped by shaped knees and an extra crotch panel, and are more wind-resistant than most. G1000 is a heavy fabric and the weight is quite high – these aren’t trousers for carrying in the pack as backups. There’s only one leg length but the hem is left unfinished so they can be easily shortened.

The pockets are very roomy. The one on the right thigh is made from stretch fabric and can expand when filled. It almost takes a complete map – only a small bit pokes out. There’s a stretch pocket inside for smaller items. On the left thigh there’s a G1000 pocket designed for a phone or GPS.

I’ve found the Abisko trousers very comfortable and better in colder conditions than most of those tested. I like them a great deal. They are expensive though.