The Switchback Cargo Pants from Klim are a combination of the functionality of a cargo pant fused with the protection of a riding pant, the end result, a multipurpose riding pant that can pass as a regular pair of work style or outdoors style cargos. These pants offer CE Level AA abrasion resistance while still remaining light weight and breathable enough that they can also work for hiking, trails and just chilling around a camp fire.
Overall construction is based on a breathable stretch woven chassis that is complimented with durable, breathable, stretch CORDURA® CANVAS overlays at the knee, seat and cuff. Also featured is 3M™ SCOTCHLITE™ REFLECTIVE MATERIAL that is hidden inside the bottom of the cuffs (pulling the adjustment tab will reveal the reflective material). The Switchback Cargo pants are then DWR treated to shed water drops for additional functionality when out in the elements.
Armor included in the Switchback Cargo Pants from Klim is D3O® IP GHOST CE LEVEL 1 VENTED ADJUSTABLE KNEE ARMOR and D3O® IP GHOST CE LEVEL 1 VENTED HIP ARMOR both of which can be removed while wearing the pants. A nice feature for when you are off the bike and decide to walk for an extended period of time on for example a trail at your destination.
Looking at functionality, ventilation is present throughout the pant, there are 2 double headed zippers at the calves that function as vents, 2 zippered thigh vents as well as the overall breathability of the stretch woven chassis. Storage is a key to all cargo pants, and the Switchbacks stay true by offering 2 hand pockets, 1 zippered thigh cargo pocket with an internal organizer, 1 double snap thigh cargo pocket, 1 thig knife pocket, and 2 seat pockets with one of them having a zipper closure.
Looking at overall fit the Switchback Cargo Pants are quite comfortable with a regular fit that is aided by the excellent mobility provided by the stretch material, a streamlined interior that features no liner, a snap adjustable bottom hem, and low profile armor. If you are looking for a riding pant that will offer good protection while being highly functional off of the bike, the Switchback Cargo Pants are definitely worth the look. Personally i think they are a really good looking pair of pants, especially in the Teak color as they look like a pair of work cargos that can easily be mistaken as non motorcycle pants while still providing AA rated protection. :: Damir 5/11/24
