By Mary Webb
REI’s Endeavor pant made climbing the Cinque Terre a venture towards adventure! With hot sun and elevation spikes, I was thankful to wear the Endeavor pant for comfort, flexibility, wicking and UV protection. The Endeavor was very stylish also, as we headed toward the village of Vernazza and stopped for some Italian style shrimp, this pant adjusted satisfactorily to the classic Italian landscape with no complaints.
Rugged Double-Weave Polyester:
I thought the pant would be a bit heavy to wear for the steep terrain, but I was mistaken. You’ll feel like dancing through Italy in the light-weight Endeavor; weaved with spandex to a four-way stretch for the home stretch of your hike. The pant did not feel restrictive on my legs and the tricot-line waistband moved with me along the curved cliffs of the Mediterranean. Belt loops come with the Endeavor pant and offer additional support or an opportunity to dress up the pant with your new Italian belt from Florence.
While in Italy, there are trains to catch and Euros to spend in the villages of the Cinque Terre. The thigh pockets were perfect to stash my cash and train ticket, and the breathable mesh in the front pocket kept my small pocket camera safe and dry.
I liked the draw cords to discourage unwanted dirt and gravel from entering the pant along the rugged route and reinforced knees came in handy when I had to retie my shoe a time or two.
Wind and Wick Proof:
Coastal breeze along the Mediterranean can chill you while hiking, but the Endeavor contains a Double Water Repellant coating which wards off wetness. The pant can withstand up to 30 MPH winds; making for an enjoyable hike along along the sea-sprayed trails. The Double Water Repellant was to my advantage when my travel partners decided to behave like mischievous ravens along the shoreline and splash me from head to toe!
UV Protection:
Ever increasing in popularity is UV protected clothing and the Endeavor comes with a UPF rating of 50 plus; ideal for those who are fair skinned, traveling with fair-weathered friends.
Shopping for a proper hiking pant can be quite an endeavor, but for $79.50 MSRP you will be pleased at the ease of wear. Complimentary pant colors of black or coal will complete the look with a variety of sleeveless or long sleeve action wear tops.
Specifications:
Best use: Hiking
Fabric: 89% polyester/11% spandex
Sun-protective fabric: Yes
Waterproof: No
Moisture wicking: Yes
Quick drying: Yes
Pant rise: High
Inseam (in.): 31.5 inches
Insulated: No
Convertible: No
Side cargo pockets: No
Gender: Women’s