Choosing technical pants means balancing three key needs: mobility, abrasion resistance, and protection against wind, snow, and rain. On the trail, the lower body endures friction, bending, and pace changes; a poor pant choice quickly leads to discomfort, cold, or overheating. At AYAQ, field feedback from Vincent Defrasne and Mike Horn has shaped the design of our models.
The starting point is the layering system. For the upper body, there are three layers (a merino wool base layer like SHIRWALI, BIAFO, or MEFONNA, a midlayer such as KOKANEE, and a hardshell like LONAK or an insulated jacket like VIEDMA). For the lower body, most athletes use two layers: a fine merino wool base for thermoregulation and odor control, followed by technical pants suited to the activity.
Mobility depends on cut and stretch. The softshell pants RIMO are designed for continuous effort: ski touring, snowshoeing, demanding hikes. Their European technical fabric offers freedom of movement uphill while maintaining structure for a good fit. For four-season hiking or more versatile use, models like CLIFTON, VERNAGO, LUGANO, and TERLAGO vary in weight and volume to adapt comfort to season and terrain.
Abrasion resistance is measured by tests such as Martindale. AYAQ pants use premium recycled polyamides sourced from Italy, France, Germany, or Portugal, achieving durability levels comparable to non-recycled fabrics. This means better long-term resistance against rocks, hard snow, ski edges, and crampon straps.
Protection remains crucial. In very wet conditions or heavy, sticky snow, a full hardshell like NUNATAK is essential: it features a recyclable hydrophilic Sympatex membrane with high waterproof ratings that won’t clog over time. For alpine skiing, where long static periods on lifts alternate with fast descents, the key is staying warm between runs: the insulated pants INGIA incorporate premium insulation and a design that retains heat without overheating the lower body.
Behind these choices is AYAQ’s philosophy: 100% European manufacturing (technical fabrics from Italy, France, Germany, Portugal; assembly in Europe), RWS-certified merino wool for base layers, recycled materials selected for technical performance, and products tested in the field by athletes and explorers who spend much of their lives outdoors. Well-chosen technical pants support movement, protect without restricting, and last multiple seasons.