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The climbing-specific Kragg range from Canadian icons Arc’teryx continues apace. This review focuses on the new Arc’teryx Kragg Cotton Pants, a versatile option for both the crag and everyday life.
Pros:
- Lightweight feel for unrestricted movement.
- Excellent cut designed specifically for climbing.
- Super stretchy fabric enhances mobility.
Cons:
- Fit tends to run large in the waist.
- Thigh pocket may be unnecessary for some users.
We’ve been looking at the new climbing-specific Kragg range from Arc’teryx with interest. There is plenty to choose from with shoes, tee shirts (both long and short sleeved), and now pants. The tees and pants are made using cotton, making them suitable for everyday use as well as climbing.
The Arc’teryx Kragg Cotton Pants are specifically designed for climbing but are also well-suited for everyday wear and travel. Imagine going from the train station to the crag to the pub without needing to change. They are also perfect for your daily commute and wouldn’t look out of place in the office. Their versatility is a key selling point.
Let’s start with climbing – I found them excellent for climbing in, even though they felt a little baggy (more on that shortly). However, this is the current style for climbing pants, so if that is how you prefer your pants, you won’t be disappointed. There is plenty of room to offer full freedom of movement for high steps and wide stemming moves. The inclusion of a full diamond gusset is expected in a high-quality climbing pant and provides crucial articulation. They felt super light on, weighing in at 350g for my W34S pair, which was great for those steep approaches. The hems are not elasticated, making them easy to roll up for intricate footwork.
The cotton, nylon, and elastane mix is beneficial, with a high elastane content of 14%. This provides a stretchy feel without hindering normal wear. The blend of cotton and nylon is common and helps extend the durability of the material, which is essential in climbing where pants can face significant wear and tear, especially when trad climbing. The tight weave also improves durability and helps to block wind and light showers (thanks to a DWR treatment). You can tell Arc’teryx has carefully considered the material composition for optimal performance in both climbing and lifestyle use. If you prefer a heavier weight pant, you might consider the Cronin pants.
In terms of fit, there’s good news and some considerations. The good news is the range comes in three leg lengths (short, regular, and tall!), making it easier to find a suitable fit without alterations, which is important for lifestyle wear. The not-so-good news is the waist sizing; they tend to run large. I typically wear a 33-34” waist and often round up, but I could have easily fit into a 32” waist. When measured, the waist came in at 17.5”, closer to a 35” waist. Therefore, I recommend sizing down if you are between sizes. The style is excellent, featuring a five-pocket denim-style cut, western front pockets (mesh-lined), patch back pockets with reinforced bottoms, and a zipped thigh pocket. While I don’t often use zipped pockets, I can see their utility for securely stashing a phone or car keys.
They are styled well enough that you won’t feel out of place when not climbing. I read a review on Arc’teryx products about the fly not sitting flush, but I experienced no such issue with these pants; the fly sits flush, and the rise is comfortable. I own other Arc’teryx pants where a high rise and small zipper can be problematic when wearing a harness. The Kragg pants have been fine with a harness, with no issues on that front. Again, you might need a belt if you are between sizes, which can affect harness fit. There is sufficient articulation at the knee to aid climbing without affecting the pant’s shape when worn casually. It’s a nice cut, as expected from a premium product.
The premium Arc’teryx refinements are evident: double-stitched seams, bar tacking on all stress points (including belt loops), premium fastenings like YKK zips, an embossed Prym snap fastenings, and an embroidered Arc’teryx bird logo on the thigh. They are Fair Wear manufactured and Bluesign accredited for the material use so all your responsiblity concerns are coverd. Overall, the Arc’teryx Kragg Cotton Pants are a great addition to the expanding range. They are well-cut for climbing, look stylish off the crag, and boast numerous premium features. Just ensure you get the waist sizing right, and the availability of different leg lengths should make finding the perfect fit easier.
The Arc’teryx Kragg Cotton Pants are available in sizes 28-38 with three leg lengths and three colour options. There is also a female-specific version available in sizes 00-16, three leg lengths, and three colour options.
The SRP is £160 and they can be purchased from Arc’teryx EU, the London shop, and specialist retailers.
Disclosure – CGR reviewers and writers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers who accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.
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