This is a review of the Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Pant by Mark Barber
I must admit, when I first unboxed the Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Pant I was unsure of their suitability.
The fabric seemed thin and light, and more like a shell construction. I felt a little underwhelmed, but how wrong could I have been!
The Backbowl Cargo Pant has been designed for big mountain Freeride so have a looser fit. This is ideal for me as a snowboarder and found the large size to be just right.
The 2-ply, 2-way dynamic stretch fabric has a FLOW membrane that acts as a body heat control system. It is very breathable and if you are feeling slightly hot, there are also thigh vent zips as well. There is also a thin liner to keep you warm. Although, those that suffer from cold legs when skiing, may still want to wear a base layer underneath.
It may not be the most technical of features, but I do like that Helly Hansen have constructed a mesh inside for the thigh vents. It is surprising the amount of ski trousers that don’t and it is very necessary if riding powder to stop the snow getting inside the trousers!
I also like the articulated knees that give freedom of movement. This is ideal for snowboarders to give full flexibility without any tightness on the knees.
The Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Pant also have large rubber boot gators. This are ideal for skiers, but also good for snowboarders to protect the bottom of the legs from fraying.
As seems to be standard with all Helly Hansen gear, these ski trousers come equipped with the RECO system. For those who do not know, this is an advanced rescue system to help rescuers find victims buried in avalanches. This is an extra feature that should never replace avalanche safety kits if skiing/snowboarding off-piste.
Another basic but useful feature is the adjustable waist straps. I usually wear a belt but found these to work just fine so didn’t need one. My trousers didn’t sag down once, which was a relief to everyone involved on the mountain!
It goes without saying that ski trousers need to be waterproof, and the Backbowl Cargo pants certainly didn’t let me down. My first trip was in Tignes early season. We had blazing hot days and the snow was slushy and wet, and the Backbowl Cargo Pant passed with flying colours.
I have now been on a few trips wearing the Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Pant and considering they are such a light construction, they seem very durable.
They also have plenty of pockets with a well thought out design if being slightly lower, so more accessible while wearing a backpack.
Another neat feature is that these ski trousers have clips that connect it to a Helly Hansen jacket.
I have reviewed the Helly Hansen Sogn Pant in the past and gave that full marks. Although different from each other, I cannot fault the Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Pant, so will have to do the same!
FEATURES
- Helly Tech® Professional
- 2 ply fabric construction with FLOW membrane
- 2 way dynamic stretch fabric
- Fully seam sealed
- Brushed lining for extra warmth
- Waterproof, windproof and breathable
- Durable Water Repellency treatment (DWR)
- RECCO® Advanced Rescue system
- Inner thigh venting zippers
- Articulated knees for optimised movement
- Fusion modular system jacket to pant
- Boot gaitors with silicone gripper
- Reinforced bottom hem
- Dual hand pockets and cargo pocket
- Waistband adjustment
- Belt loops
- YKK® Aquaguard® water resistant zippers
- Inseam 84cm
Review Summary
Gender: Mens
Good for: Skiing and Snowboarding
Price: £200.00
Rating: 10 out of 10
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7 years ago[…] If you are looking for ski trousers, check out our review of the Helly Hansen Backbowl Cargo Ski Pants […]
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