I've been testing these jeans since October last year as part of the CoLAB testing program at Alpkit, I have to say i was incredibly impressed with them (I'm wearing them now while at work). The CoLAB crew have given them a through testing over the months and liots of feedback, here's my original feedback from the testing forum:
Delivery – Incredibly fast and efficient, much impressed.
Sizing – Found the 34 a little generous round the waist for which my ego was very grateful, the articulated knees seemed a little low for my leg length (32) but practical use (thrashing up a rock face) found that the knee placement seemed fine, diamond crotch allowed welcome movement – or as much as my gnarled and broken body will allow. Like the relaxed fit, big thighs and calves mean I’m grateful for the extra room. Size of pockets seems fine, generous front pockets useful for holding all my daily detritus, rear pocket’s big enough for my wallet (not that there’s anything in it).
Detailing – Have no real problem with the frequently mentioned pocket detailing, it’s on my backside so I can’t see it, so frankly I don’t care. Echo agreement about the lack of rivets – good idea, though I have to agree that removing rivets from the design entirely may be a good idea? Colour fine, stitching seems well done and the seams all feel durable despite my best effort to break them on their first trip outdoors.
Performance – Must confess to being very impressed, went away for five days camping in (at times) truly appalling weather and the performance of the material was incredibly good. Found the only weakness to be the front pockets (when my Gore-tex jacket wasn’t covering them), water did eventually make its way through but it was horrendous conditions and the soaking I suffered was (all things considered) remarkably light. They seem to dry reasonably quickly in a warm environment and didn’t seem to lose too much water repellence for being wet/dried a few times. Wind resistance is good, though I did find the cold got through but that was easily solved by a set of thermal legs (I had to remind myself that these are not extreme technical wear).
Problems and Suggestions – The boot fit is perhaps a little generous and could be taken in a touch, the front pockets can let water in but since these are likely to be only worn in wet conditions with appropriate wear then they should be covered (run off can be a problem). The knee articulation may need a look at, I can’t quite square away where the adjustment is needed – as previously stated when wearing the jeans and just trogging around it seems a little low, but when climbing it seemed about right.
They are now in the wash, so I’ll see what they’re like after a proper clean.
Worth getting a pair if you can!
