Alpinestars Express Drystar Overpants - 2012

The pants are sold in ordinary US Alpha sizes and Alpinestars offers a chart to estimate the waist size for each alpha size. We found the actual pants are a bit smaller than what Alpinestars estimates, about one or two inches smaller than estimated.

To help you get the right size, we’ve developed a chart showing what Alpinestars advises and what we observed during our test. Please note that we are listing a waist size range for each pant. That is because the pants have adjustment tabs on the waist that allow you to snug them down if needed.

These pants have long side zippers and are intended to be worn over street clothes. In developing our recommendations we are assuming you’ll wear the pants over street clothes so there is no need to buy larger for that purpose. Example: I wear 36 jeans. If I went by Alpinestar’s estimate, I’d be choosing a size Larger, but since the pants run a bit small, I’d refer to the chart below and go with an XL .

We realize that getting a fit with a product that is made to go over other clothing is not an exact science and when a manufacturer’s sizing estimates are inaccurate it throws even more uncertainty into the mix. But don’t be put off by all this… we offer a super easy and cheap return policy, so if you don’t get it right, there is an easy fix available to you.

Need help measuring? Get it here.

Of all the 2012 products I’ve reviewed, I think I like these Express Drystar pants the best. The pants have a lot of practical features that you’ll enjoy and I bet you’ll find these to be the ones you use over and over. This is a solid textile style with a waterproof shell AND a removable liner. And since they are made with long side zippers, they are intended to be worn over street clothes. So you quickly get the picture that these pants are for those in climates that have a lot of cooler and/or wet weather. They are built with substantial materials and I bet they’ll last a long time. The overall cut is reasonably trim, but not too trim as to be binding or uncomfortable for the average build. The touch and feel of the nylon textile material they use is ideal. It has a smooth surface so they won’t be lint magnets, but they aren’t too stiff or cheap feeling. I also like the looks of the silver piping which adds a bit of style, and the piping is also nighttime reflective. We are now taking “night” photos along with our usual feature photos, so be sure and click the “View Larger Images” link above to see what these pants look like at night. Overall, I really like these pants! :: Paul, 04-22-12