Advnture Verdict
Stay cosy in subzero temperatures in these hardwearing unisex salopettes, which are highly insulated without being too bulky.
Pros
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Super warm
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Easy to zip on and off
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Great comfort and freedom of movement
Cons
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Heavy and bulky
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Not female-specific
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Braces aren’t fully adjustable
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Montane Extreme Salopettes: first impressions
Designed with polar weather in mind Montane Extreme Salopettes should be able to deal with genuinely extreme conditions. Which is presumably why some members of the British Antarctic Survey team wear them.
The Extreme bib is on the heavy side at 1.1kg, and so is better used for mountain adventures, touring and working rather than for fast-paced skiing. It is ideal for long days outdoors, or for seasonnaires and workers who in need of high-performing winter gear (along with their winter boots, jackets and gloves) they can wear day-in, day-out.
But how did Montane Extreme Salopettes cope while on test for our best women’s ski pants buying guide? Read on…
• RRP: $213 (US) / £160 (UK)
• Waterproofing: Pertex Quantum Outer
• Insulation: Dryactive deep pile lining
• Sizes: XS / S / M / L / XL / XXL
• Colors: Black
• Compatibility: For various activities in the coldest conditions
Montane Extreme Salopettes: on the slopes
Fairly obviously, these zip-off pants would be too warm for balmy snow days but come into their own in bitterly cold conditions thanks to a thick insulated lining and a reliably water and snow-proof outer material.
But if you’re wearing outdoor pants in the toughest conditions, or for long days of working in icy weather, you are going to need something comfortable, and these bibs really are like a big hug to wear, lined with thick soft fleece and designed with flexible articulated knees for great ease of movement.
While they may be heavy and well-insulated, though, the Extreme pants still aren’t prohibitively bulky, so they won’t annoy you when you’re outdoors for long hours at a time. When you’re back from extreme conditions, these bibs will still be a favorite for snowy dog walks or even a spot of sledding.
Our only quibble is that the braces don’t fully allow you to adjust the chest bib for a snugger fit, and as this is a unisex design, petite or tall women may need to try a few sizes to work out which suits them best.
