My colleague Tim sang the praises of his flannel lined Mountain Khakis a few weeks ago. I had the chance to try out some Mountain Khakis pants for warmer weather when I was in Hawaii recently, specifically the best-selling Women’s Cargo Capri. Like the pair Tim tested, these are no flimsy pants; they are made with stout, durable cotton twill. In fact, I likely wouldn’t bring them on too many tropical vacations in humid climes — but for the cool-ish, pine-tree-covered interior of Lānaʻi, where I was a couple weeks ago, they were perfect for an afternoon of browsing and eating in the tiny six-block downtown.

The pants are medium rise — sitting just below the waist — which is ideal for this 40-something mother of two who has no interest in sharing my muffin top or anything else with the world (too low-rise, and I’m flat-out uncomfortable, and constantly hitching up my pants).

I like the squared-off, angled pockets in the front, as well as the cargo pocket on one pant leg — convenient for slipping a small point-and-shoot camera, hotel key, lip balm and the like. The two button-flap back pockets are totally flattering to the backside. The legs are wide, which is great for my thighs, but if you have thin legs, you may find the pants too roomy in the thigh.

According to washing directions, the capris are pre-washed to “stabilize sizing,” but I’ve only line-dried mine. The fit is perfect on me right now (and the sizing is true to size), and I don’t want to risk them shrinking at all. The Women’s Cargo Capri comes in two colors — a warm Retro Khaki (shown right) or a cooler Willow (more white-ish grey).

I’m sure I’ll wear these capris all spring long at my Colorado home, as well as weekend jaunts nearby. I’m debating whether or not to pack them for an upcoming vacation to Mexico; as I mentioned, the fabric may be a tad too heavy to wear the pants comfortably in hot, humid weather. On the other hand, the Mountain Khakis Women’s Cargo Capri would make great plane pants, because they are soft and comfortable — and planes are notoriously chilly. I guess I’d just need to bring cozy socks to keep my ankles warm!

The Women’s Cargo Capri retail for $54.95 on the Mountain Khakis website; you may also find them on sale at Amazon.com.