Our top pick for insulated pants isn’t even down, it’s actually a pair of synthetic puffy pants that outperforms most of the down options. Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pants are the lightest model in our arsenal, the most versatile, and the most affordable. And nothing else in their price range comes close. Shop now.

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• Price: $140
• Weight: 6.2 oz
• Fabric: 10D Nylon
• Insulation: ClimaShield Apex
• Pros: Ultralight. Top tier synthetic insulation. High warmth-to-weight. Great value. Dries quickly. Warm when wet.
• Cons: Mid-tier total warmth. Less compressible than down.

Features

Much like the corresponding jackets, Enlightened Equipment Torrid Pants put Climashield Apex insulation to great effect as an ultralight synthetic insulator for an incredible price and with a very high warmth-to-weight ratio. It is lofty, quick-drying, water-resistant, and warm when wet. In our experience, it performs at least as well many of the top tier name brand offerings like PrimaLoft Gold.

Unlike jackets where down is usually preferred, we’re much more tolerant of synthetic insulated pants. This is because pants are more likely to get wet or dirty as you interact with nature, and synthetic insulation holds up to both of those better than down.

And while not the warmest insulating pants, we feel that they’re an excellent shoulder season option. As far as features go, these are utterly minimalist. There is a cinch to keep them tight around your waste, and that’s basically it.

Verdict

The Torrid Pants weigh just over six ounces, which make them an incredible value for only $140. Pick up a pair and your legs will thank you next time the temps drop to freezing or a bit below.

Compare these to more great options in our guide to puffy pants for backpacking.