Isabelle Wellman Testing the Women’s 686 Smarty Cargo Pants in Lake Tahoe | Photo Mountain Weekly News
3-in-1 layering systems in winter gear have been around since the 90’s, yet 686 has found a way to make theirs simultaneously stylish, comfortable, and functional. In particular, the 686 Smarty Cargo Pant has deliberate features that make it a catch 22 for resort gear. Imagine the benefits of six, deep pockets to hold goodies for a full day out, a removable, high quality fleece layer for your post-ride apres, and durable infiDRY 20k recycled fabric to keep you dry all day.
Who Are They For?
These pants are catered for the resort rider looking to have options when it comes to choosing how warm they need to stay given the weather. The internal fleece lining is exceptionally comfortable, and gives the Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo pant a baggy look while feeling snug. Unzipping the fleece liner takes a little finesse, yet getting it back on requires little effort. If airflow is needed, convenient Air-Flo mesh lining vents are found on the inner-thighs.
The bottom of the pants are designed to last with fully tapered Bemis seams, buttons to snap the bottom together, and a BOA compatible space for easy adjustment without having to lift up your gaiters.
Look more intricately at the fleece lining, and you’ll notice the cuff at the bottom of the fleece liners are better suited for snowboard boots. In ski boots, the cuff is too thick, and pulling it above the top of the boot is nearly impossible without cutting off circulation. Without the internal fleece layer, these are equally great for a day on skis, and the fleece liners can still be your go-to post slope joggers. These fleece liners make this one of 686’s warmest garments.
Features
When you have a 3-in-1 pant, other features to take note of would be the six functional pockets, overall fit, and the 20k infiDRY recycled material. There are two regular front pockets on the hips that zip shut, 2 butt pockets that stay closed with velcro, and two cargo pockets on the side of the leg that also zip shut.
Another tactful feature is the external waist Velcro, giving you the ability to loosen or tighten the pants, especially for when you wear them without the liners. Lastly, you’ll find yourself impressed with the quality of the infiDRY 20k waterproof, 15K breathable fabric when your resort experiences a powder day and you work up a little extra sweat.
686 Womens Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo Pant Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Stylish, comfortable, and functional design
- Removable high quality fleece layer
- Durable infiDRY 20k recycled fabric
Cons:
- Thick cuff may not fit ski boots
- Fleece liner can be challenging to zip
- Internal fleece layer may be too warm
Overall Impression
For the quality of material, 3-in-1 layering system, and overall attention to detail, these 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo Pants ($229.99) give you the bang for your buck. They’re a comfortable option for resort riders looking to have an edge over the elements at a reasonable price. Sizes range from Extra Small to Extra Large.
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