Pants?

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Feb 28, 2008
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Ok...I have just found out that I will be posted outside of my normal location on NYE for work (contract security, not that it matters). That's great for hours. However, it's gonna be cold and damp the whole time. Not raining, just humid cold. I have a jacket and gloves and all that, so I am moderately comfortable. The problem is with the pants. I wear cotton BDU's that are issued and it's been pretty miserable walking around in this kind of weather.

So what are my alternatives? The BDU's are it, no other style of pant. So...would I be better served to get UnderArmour Cold Gear or just plain old thermals or is there something better out there?

I am in Texas, so the cold isn't something I'm necessarily prepared for. Because it is Texas, I would like to stick to options under about $50.

Thanks y'all
 
I used to use polypropylene long johns for damp, bitter cold New York City winter weather. I also had the waffle knit thermals, which worked about as well for cold, but were uncomfortably bulky.

I haven't tried UnderArmour. I wouldn't be surprised if they were an improvement.
 
I would try some Wal-mart long johns first. They are about $8 or so last time I looked.

Poly fleece works well but, it needs to be washed everyday if you only have a single pair.

Icebreaker brand merino wool is very good but, spendy. This wool doesn't get too hot but, keeps you warm and doesn't stink like fleece if you get hot.
 
I used to use polypropylene long johns for damp, bitter cold New York City winter weather. .

That was my first thought of what to use as well. If the polypro is outdated look for anything that claims to wick moisture away and still maintain some insulating properties.
 
You can get merino wool bottoms (longjohns) for under $50. Probably the most comfortable and they don't get all smelly.
 
Polypro (look for medium or military weight) - can be found for less than under armor cold gear base layer at Cabela's, Bass Pro, Sports Authority, Sportsman's Guide, Dick's, etc...
Wally World sells a thin base layer for about $15 as well.
 
I can GaURNTEE from experience that the Under Armor is LIGHT years ahead of the old classic waffle long johns and other similar materials!! Poly pro is the next step!!!
I about puked at the thought of spending:eek: 50$ for the UA BUT after doing it and wearing on hunts in cold wet weather I will NEVER go back to anything less!!!!!!:D;)

Comfort is pricless if you HAVE to be in the nasty weather for hours at a time and in reality 50$ ain't nothin compared to being sick and COLD!!!!
 
Nylon long johns work for me when I'm out in the cold for a while, and I primarliy wear the ploy/cotton blend bdus when I'm doing outdoorsey things or just work. If you get those merino wool long johns you'll be golden, but they are spendy. But your not going to have a pair for every occasion so why not splurge a little? Just my thoughts. You don't need a whole new pair of pants. UA stuff is too tight imo.
 
Bass pro has fleece lined jeans. (green lining) I have had these for 3-4 years and they are great. The flannel ones make me sweat. I hunt, ski, fish, and lounge in them. They are great. 20-40 bucks depending on sales. You won't regret buying them. I actually got another pair today, 34.95
 
For wet or damp weather long johns: cotton is the worst (retains water); polypropylene wicks away water but becomes stinky, even after washing; polyester wicks well and is fairly inexpensive, about 15-20 bucks; merino wool is best, except for totally wet conditions, but costs more. Polyester may be the best choice all around.
 
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