Kit review: Acai Thermal Skinny Outdoor Trousers

Reviewed by Steph

Finding good walking trousers is tricky, and I'm already a fan of ACAI Outdoorwear trousers - I live in their Aventurite trousers that I've had for years, but in the winter I really struggle with my legs getting cold when I'm on the hills. I've tried wearing thermals underneath but it doesn't really work, so I thought it was time to try Acai's thermal walking trousers

FEATURES:
Acai are known for the stretchy fit of their trousers, and these have a four way stretch, but with a warm fleece lining on the inside. They're a skinny fit which isn't for everyone, but I love being able to wear these on and off the hills without feeling like I'm wearing walking trousers! They're also water resistant, which means they keep you dry in a light shower and are easy to wipe mud etc off. 

SIZE AND FIT:
These trousers are stretchy, but I find them a slightly smaller fit than their Aventurite and regular max stretch skinny trousers, and with a little less stretch (especially the waist band). They're very high waisted which works for me, and they fit over my belly well. The size chart for the size 40 (a size 22 equivalent and the largest size) says 39-40 inch waist and 49-50 inch hip, and I'd say that's fairly accurate - I'm a 41 inch waist and 51 inch hip and while they fit me, I don't think they'd fit any larger measurements. I'm between the regular (29 inch) and long leg length (33 inch) and opted for the regular length to avoid having to turn them up, and they fit well with my boots on.

PERFORMANCE:
These are incredibly comfortable trousers - they're stretchy enough that I can clamber over stiles and scramble up rocks with no issues, and I love the skinny fit (as I find I get less mud plastered up my calves in the winter months). I've tested them both on cold days but also unexpectedly mild ones, and was surprised how warm I was (on the cold one) and how I didn't overheat (on the milder one). The cut won't be for everyone, but I can imagine wearing these in the city as well as the countryside this winter. 

RRP £99
Link to trousers