Mammut Base Jump SO Touring Pant – Versatile and Comfortable
Eliza Lockhart
In the soft shell vs. hardshell debate, softshells win in the breathability, pliable material and stretchiness categories. However, they tend to lose in the waterproof category and come to a tie in wind resistance. So, with that being said, I went hunting for a pair of softshell ski touring pants that could keep me comfy throughout a long day in the backcountry.
I needed something stretchy and breathable as well as something to block out the winter elements. I found my answer in the Mammut Base Jump SO Touring pants. The snug fit made me feel aerodynamic (I like to think I go faster when I wear these pants) and the soft material kept the noise to a minimum.
I have worn these pants on windy days, sunny days, hot days, chilly days, but no extremely cold days. They are very versatile in the climates they can deal with and I am very pleased with their thermoregulation ability. I was really impressed with how the pants performed on windy ridges. They completely blocked the movement of the cold air without making me overheat.
On the 35º+ days, the vents on the outside of the thigh help keep you cool and the schoeller® softshell material allows you to breathe nicely. The material also has been treated to resist water and dirt. I have not tested the pants in a wet environment due to the dry Colorado snow I ski in. However, based on their feel and specs, I expect them to be water-resistant but not waterproof.
As for the fit, you’ll need to go up a couple of sizes. I’m typically a 2, occasionally a 4, and the 6 is a perfect fit. They are still an inch or two shorter than I would like (I have a 32 in inseam) but the rest of the pant fits very well. They are form-fitting with a double snap and fly closure. I have enough room to fit a pair of thin base layers underneath but the soft shells also feel great on their own.
These pants also come with suspenders in case you need extra help holding them up. I have not used these since I prefer pants only; its easier for removing and adding layers, easier to use the bathroom, etc. If the suspenders aren’t doing it for you, the pants have two velcro tabs on the waistband to tighten the pants and keep them secure.
The pants have two harnesses compatible, zippered pockets on either hip although I wish these pockets were a little deeper to make it more comfortable to carry a phone or wallet. They also have a mid-size zippered pocket on the right thigh with a flap covering the top. I use this pocket for my beacon, it is the perfect size for it and has a small clip on the inside to attach the beacon leash to.
They also feature a zipper at the bottom of the pant leg to accommodate a ski boot or can stay zipped for a smaller boot. Underneath this zipper is an adjustable cuff gaiter with a hook to keep it attached to laces.
Mammut Base Jump SO Touring Pant Review
The $250 price tag is mid-range and very reasonable for the high-quality item you’re getting. Totally worth it if you ask me. They are the least restrictive pants I’ve had the pleasure of skiing in, they can keep up with the long strides you take while skinning and the dynamic movements of the downhill. They help you maintain a comfortable temperature despite wind or heat. These would be great spring mission pants. They check all the boxes: breathable- check, wind-resistant- check, comfortable fit- check, reasonable price- check. A super item to have in the backcountry wardrobe.
Base Jump SO Touring Pant - Women's regularly $249.00 on sale $160.07
Eliza Lockhart
Growing up snowboarding and hiking in the bitter cold winters and humid summers of northern Vermont, Eliza learned how to beat up gear and quickly became infatuated with new technologies. After moving to Colorado in 2015 to pursue a degree in recreation and outdoor education at Western Colorado University, her passion for the outdoors grew exponentially. Soon after, she picked up rock climbing, telemark skiing, backpacking, canyoneering, and is slowly learning to love rafting. Through these learning processes, Eliza began to understand the importance of the right gear and hopes to share her experiences and knowledge with others through Engearment.
Now working for Beacon Guidebooks as the ‘Wearer of Many Hats’ (yes, that is her official title), Eliza has learned the ins and outs of the outdoor industry. She has also worked on marketing teams, as a photographer, media coordinator, outdoor instructor and as a wrangler. She is especially excited to encourage other women in the outdoors and is an advocate for diversity and inclusion.
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