From hiking in the Lake District to chasing a Finnish power walker through Koli National Park backpacking, I’ve pushed these trousers through just about everything. And after months of real-world use, I can safely say: Rab’s Torque Pants are hands-down the best walking trousers I’ve ever worn.
What Rab Say: Official Description of the Torque Pants
Built for high-energy mountain activities in warmer conditions, the Rab Torque Pants combine lightweight breathability, four-way stretch, and abrasion resistance in a softshell design. They’re crafted using durable Matrix™ double-weave fabric, reinforced in high-wear areas, and shaped for total mobility. This is Rab’s go-to pant for dynamic movement across all terrain.
Key Features of the Rab Torque Pants 2025
- Matrix™ Softshell Fabric – Lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, with four-way stretch.
- Reinforced Knees, Thighs and Hem – Added durability for rugged terrain.
- Zipped Gusset at Ankle – Expand to fit over boots or allow airflow in warmer weather.
- Elasticated Pull-On Waistband – Super comfortable and secure, even when between sizes.
- Three Zipped Pockets – Two hand pockets, one rear, all easy to open/close on the move.
- Articulated Knees and Gusseted Crotch – Total freedom of movement.
Real-World Testing in Finland, the Malverns & the Lake District
These trousers came with me on some brilliant trips – 65km of mixed terrain in Koli, a warm walk in the Malvern Hills, and a very soggy and sunny week in the Lake District. They handled it all.
Koli was one of the most demanding and beautiful places I’ve hiked. We covered 65k in three days, and while the views were something else, the terrain was tough, the pace relentless, and the company… unexpectedly elite. What I didn’t realise was that one of our group was a Finnish National Champion Power Walker. I spent most of the trail being metaphorically broken and reborn, doing everything I could to keep up. When I said I thought I’d done well, I found out they’d slowed down for me. Still, the effort was worth it.
We camped under the forest canopy where bears roam freely. People warned us: you won’t see the bears, but the bears will see you. We hoisted our food bags high into the trees at night to avoid any unwanted visitors. Along the way, we noticed fresh bear claw marks scratched into trunks beside the trail. It definitely made things feel a bit more real.
The views, though… just incredible. We trekked around Lake Pielinen, Finland’s fourth-largest lake, and the names of the islands had us in stitches. If you know, you know. Miraculously, mosquitoes were few and far between, which felt like winning the Nordic outdoor lottery.
Comfort, Breathability & Fit in All Conditions
- Fit & Comfort: The waistband was perfect during my drop from size L to M. Flexible enough to stay comfy through every phase, but snug once I’d settled into the smaller size. With fairly chunky calves and thighs, these fit me very well.
- Breathability: Finland’s mix of heat, movement, and humidity put them to the test. I was sweating, but the Torque Pants breathed so well I never felt soggy. And if they did get damp, they dried fast.
- Versatility: Sightseeing in Buttermere? Tick. Running in drizzle? Tick. Malvern Hills, Helvellyn, Hadrian’s Wall, Finnish forest trails? Tick, tick, tick. I wear them to work. I hike in them. I know these weren’t designed for this, but I run in them too (yes, I’m unconventional and proud of it). I’ve not slept in them… yet. One pair truly does it all.
- Durability: These have seen mud, rock, forest, rain, sweat, and repeat use. They still look fresh and feel better now than they did new.
- Storage: The pockets are a joy to use. Big enough for a smartphone, smooth zip action, easy to access. The rear pocket’s genuinely useful too for my keys or earbuds.
Why Kit Matters – From Denim to Dynamic Softshell
Not long ago, I used to hike in jeans. Yes, really. Since joining Taunton Leisure I’ve had a bit of a kit awakening – and the Torque Pants were a turning point. The difference they make in movement, comfort and just general enjoyment of a walk can’t be overstated.
When I saw a couple of other hikers wearing the same trousers around the Malverns, it felt like confirmation. These are the bread-and-butter kit that should be in every hillwalker’s wardrobe.
How Do Rab Torque Pants Handle Wind, Rain & Mixed Weather?
They’re not waterproof, and they don’t pretend to be. But for summer conditions and light showers, they held up well. On full downpour days in the Lakes, I got wet. But the fabric dries fast, so it wasn’t long before I was walking in comfort again. Ideal for typical British unpredictability.
If you’re expecting heavy rain, pair them with a lightweight waterproof overtrouser to stay dry in all conditions.
Torque Tech Specs – Fabric, Fit & Sustainability
- Matrix™ double-weave fabric = stretch + strength + breathability
- Zipped ankle gusset = accommodates boots, adds ventilation
- No vents, but surprisingly cool
- Reinforced areas protect against abrasion
- 7% recycled content, fluorocarbon-free DWR, made in Indonesia
- Weight: 362g (Men’s Medium)
Shop the full Rab range for more trusted mountain-ready kit.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Superb fit for active movement
- Great in warm conditions
- Packs down small and dries quickly
- Comfortable waistband and stretch
- Boot-compatible gussets
- Excellent durability and breathability
Cons:
- Not waterproof (but not designed to be)
- No vents for high-output summer activities (though breathability compensates well)
- The fly-zip – I think it would be better, weight-wise, to remove it completely
Final Verdict – Are Rab Torque Pants Worth It?
The Rab Torque Pants are now my number one pick for just about anything. They’ve earned a place in my weekly kit rotation and then some. Whether it’s a hike, a run, or a spontaneous adventure somewhere with bear warnings and dodgy weather, these trousers are what I reach for.
Got questions about fit or sizing? Drop us a line or visit us in-store to try them on.
Shop the Rab Torque Pants (includes Men’s and Women’s options)
See the featured product here: Rab Men’s Torque Trousers – Anthracite
