ExOfficio Women’s Vent’r Pants

I wore the ExOfficio Women’s Vent’r Pants during my shore excursions on an Alaska cruise last month, and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the performance. Granted, I had a pair of leggings on under the pants in both instances — ziplining through the Alaska rainforest and trekking on a glacier — so I didn’t authentically experience the awesome venting for climate control. That said, they’re going in my bag for my trip to humid Florida next week, so I’m guessing I’ll enjoy the “built-in air-conditioning” then (weather forecast is 90 degrees with thunderstorms).

What I particularly love about these pants is the “soft-washed, tricot-lined waistband.” This is a strip of thin fleece-like material that sits on your waist (plenty below your belly button; these are no granny pants), that just makes them comfy and cozy for travel. The other big plus: the lightweight material that packs down to nearly nothing in a suitcase.

This feature will be great for my trip to the Sunshine State: the material is rated UPF 30+ for sun protection to keep away harmful UV rays. It’s also treated with Repeloff to resist stains and water (though the Sage color I have is neutral enough to hide minor dirt and mud marks). For security, the pants have a hidden zippered pocket on each leg, plus two hip pockets and a pocket slit for quick access to a cell phone, small camera or cell phone.

But these pants are dubbed “Vent’r” for the cool strip of mesh material — very subtle — that runs down the inseam from the pant, from about the middle of the thigh to the ankle. Not only does the inch-wide piece let in air, but it’s also stretchy for comfort as you’re hiking, trekking, kayaking or otherwise adventuring while wearing these pants.

Overall, the Women’s Vent’r Pants are snazzy, comfortable and practical: all traits I consider essential in a top pair of travel pants. They’re on sale now on the ExOfficio website, as the travel-clothing company is introducing new colors this fall. For now, find them for $54.91 in all women’s sizes from 4 to 16, though color choice (Sage or Bone) may be limited, depending on the size you need. See the details here: Vent’r Pants.

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