Choosing a technical pant 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 changing pace; 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, we use three layers (a base layer in RWS-certified merino wool like the SHIRWALI (men’s / women’s), BIAFO (men’s / women’s) or MEFONNA (men’s / women’s), a midlayer like KOKANEE (men’s / women’s), then a hardshell such as LONAK (men’s / women’s) or an insulated jacket like VIEDMA). For the lower body, most users rely on two layers: a fine merino wool base for thermoregulation and odor control, followed by a technical pant suited to the activity.
Mobility depends largely on cut and stretch. The softshell pant RIMO (men’s / women’s) is designed for sustained effort: ski touring, snowshoeing, and demanding hikes. Its European technical fabric offers freedom of movement uphill while maintaining structure for a good fit. For year-round hiking or more versatile use, models like CLIFTON, VERNAGO (men’s / women’s), LUGANO, or TERLAGO (men’s / women’s) vary in weight and volume to adapt comfort to season and terrain.
Abrasion resistance is measured by tests like Martindale. AYAQ pants use premium recycled polyamides sourced from Italy, France, Germany, or Portugal, achieving durability comparable to non-recycled fabrics. This means better long-term performance against rocks, hard snow, ski edges, and crampon straps.
Protection remains essential. In very wet conditions or heavy, sticky snow, a full hardshell like the NUNATAK (men’s / women’s) is indispensable: it features a recyclable hydrophilic Sympatex membrane with high waterproof ratings that won’t clog over time. For alpine skiing, where long static periods alternate with fast descents, the key is staying warm between runs: the insulated pant INGIA integrates premium insulation and a design that retains heat without overheating the lower body.
Behind these choices is AYAQ’s consistent 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. A well-chosen technical pant supports movement, protects without restricting, and lasts multiple seasons.
