The Condor D3O® LAMINATED pants from Merlin are a part of their Explorer collection and are design to handle tougher environments that are brought on by touring and adventure riding. Overall construction is a combination of an AquaSeal+ Waterproof and Breathable Laminated Tape Seamed Outer Shell, AquaSeal+ Waterproof and Breathable Reinforcement Panels, a Leather Inside Calf Panel, Antibacterial Inner Mesh Lining, YKK® Waterproof Thigh Zippers, a Zip Out 125gsm Thermal Lining and an Elasticated Boot Seal To The Ankle. This combination of materials has created a waterproof rated pant that has earned a CE Level AA abrasion resistance rating. Overall these pants offer a very traditional “adventure pant” look and feel, and come in what I would call somewhere between a regular and relaxed fit.
Looking at protection and comfort/convenience features, these pants come with included D3O® LP1 Knee And Hip Protectors that are Pre-Fitted, as well as multiple adjustment points such as Double Waist Snaps With YKK® Fly Zippers, Two Velcro Waist Size Adjustment Points, Calf and Ankle Velcro Size Adjustment Points as well as a Pre-Curved Knee For Better Riding Fit. Additional features also include a long thigh ventilation zipper opening on each leg, as well as both short and Long YKK Jacket-to-Jean Connecting Zippers.
Overall I think that the Merlin Condor pants offer quite a few features and materials for the money and are a solid pant/value. Adjustability and comfort are really solid for a pair of adventure pants, and the removable liner definitely increases versatility. My main complaints would be the overall lack of storage as there are only two pockets on the front with no back or font slit pockets. As well as the price point. Coming in at $399.99 these pants are in full competition with offerings from major players in the adventure gear segment like Klim and REV’IT!, and when looking at them go toe to toe with a few of those brand’s offerings, the Merlin Condor’s don’t typically come out on top. :: Damir 7/3/24
