Zip Off Pants

[Trainee 1949]

I have seen so many recommendations for Zip Off convertible pants
My question is how many folks actually zipped off pants to shorts or started out in shorts and put their "legs" back on
Walking April 20 - May 31 I have not found the "shorts" with zipper to be nearly as comfortable as just nylon "fishing shorts"
I have the pack weight to take two shorts and one regular long quick dry pants
The nylon pants are not that warm in the warm weather but I do prefer walking in shorts

 

[HeidiL]

My husband does - he's zipped on and off according to the weather on seven spring-time caminos.

I brought zip-offs once and hated them - the zippers were incredibly uncomfortable.

My reply would be - it depends on the trousers!

 

[AZgirl]

Another thing that zip off pants do, if you are lazy often times you can get away with just washing the bottom parts that get muddy, dusty etc.

 

[wayfarer]

I use these and do use the zip off function.
https://www.thenorthface.com/shop/m...unt-peak-ii-convertible-pants?variationId=254

 

[Waka]

I've always used zip off's, I know that some pilgrims say they are not comfortable and the zip sometimes rub, but I've not experienced this. I guess it could be down to the make of pants you buy, I would rather hike in shorts than long pants.
Again it's all down to personal preference, hope you make the right choice.

 

[Arminius]

Another thing that zip off pants do, if you are lazy often times you can get away with just washing the bottom parts that get muddy, dusty etc.

I think it would be a good idea!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Convertibles are very handy. I have never had any discomfort from the zippers. I leave one set of legs at home to reduce weight.

 

[Former member 42123]

Another thing that zip off pants do, if you are lazy often times you can get away with just washing the bottom parts that get muddy, dusty etc.

I did just that ,then forgot to collect them from the washing line.Always use without bottoms since.

 

[dougfitz]

I used zip-offs for just one trip and did not find them comfortable or particularly functional. I wear long pants, and carry a light pair of shorts should I need them. I rarely walk in shorts during the day in any case, preferring long pants and long sleeved shirts. If you prefer to get the sun exposure during the high UV times of the day, walking in shorts and short sleeved shirts is clearly an option.

 

[EL Guapo]

I always travel in April and May on the Camino and the only time I wear long pants is on the airplane to and from Spain. Except this year , I donated the long pants in Pamplona. I prefer a good hiking cargo short. My preference is Kuhl , which has a 10 1/2 in. Inseam and is very comfortable and durable,which drys quickly. Some folks like the zip off feature , but I do not care for it personally. Like some of the other comments, I find the zip off function uncomfortable . You may consider a light weight pair of trousers along with a pair of hiking shorts. If you need additional clothing along the way, there are plenty of places to purchase what you need. What to wear is a personal choice and I am sure you will make the right one that works for you. Good luck,and Buen camino

 

[Tia Valeria]

Ours zip off below the knee. We walk with them long but if they get muddy can just wash the bottom part. Also useful if walking by the sea and wanting to paddle.

 

[TonyC]

I did just that ,then forgot to collect them from the washing line.Always use without bottoms since.

We ought to get together. I have a spare pair of legs as I had been wearing the trousers without the lower legs and washed them one evening but then left them on the wash line. Only realised at the next albergue. Dumb or not?