- -50° C
- There is no warmest sock than these.
Vertical Explorer 1583 men's softshell trousers, lined with micro-fleece. 4-way stretch fabric, windproof and water-repellent, 3,000 mm water column: protection down to −10 °C / 14 °F*. Stretch fleece back waistband panel, pre-shaped knees, two zipped handwarmer pockets, adjustable hem. The active model in the range — made for walking rather than waiting. Straight cut, sizes S to XXL.
Developed in Quebec by and for those who face winter daily, the Explorer allows you to brave the cold while maintaining total freedom of movement. Devoid of heavy padding that could weigh you down, they draw their warmth from a thin layer of microfleece directly fused (laminated) to the back of the outer fabric. This ingenious process makes them thin, ultra-flexible, and highly breathable, which is ideal for a body generating its own heat while walking. 4-way stretch, windproof, and water-repellent (3,000 mm membrane), they repel the elements down to −10 °C*. Their ergonomics are entirely designed for action: a thermal fleece lumbar panel to protect the lower back, articulated knees, secure pockets, and adjustable hems to act as a barrier against the snow. Straight fit.
These trousers are a true suit of armour against damp cold and biting wind, conditions in which classic jeans become a dangerous trap (cotton absorbs water, freezes, and cools you down instantly). Here is the golden rule for active gear: ventilate before you sweat, not after. Taking three seconds to slightly open your jacket during an ascent will save the day, because a soaked base layer will ruin your warmth at the very first stop. The Explorer is technical clothing that works with you, not clothing you have to endure.
Here, the warmth comes from the very structure of the fabric, tailored to the demands of Canadian winters. The integrated microfleece captures a thin layer of insulating air directly against your leg, without any bulky "Michelin Man" effect. This is the whole secret of good active gear: a walker produces enough energy to only need a solid shield against the wind. The Explorer excels in this area by eliminating wind chill. As for waterproofing, its 3,000 mm water column easily stops a heavy shower or dry snow (however, it is not designed for sitting in slush for long periods). This compromise offers you exceptional breathability, which is vital when you are working hard to stay dry.
The choice does not only depend on the temperature, but mainly on your level of physical activity. A body in motion generates energy and only needs a barrier against the wind and rain.
Active winter trousers should not be judged by their thickness, but by their ability to keep you dry: during physical effort, it is trapped moisture that will make you cold, never the outside temperature.
* Indicative thermal rating. The perceived temperature varies depending on the intensity of the activity, duration of exposure, humidity, wind, and the layers worn underneath.
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