ProView – Outdoor Research Women’s Iceline Versa Pants
Outdoor Research, you’ve done it again! I had the pleasure of reviewing the Outdoor Research Women’s Iceline Versa Pants. While these are often used for ice climbing, I had a blast testing out this crowd-favorite while skiing and snowshoeing my way through Idaho. I’ve had a difficult time finding a pair of winter pants that I can wear snowshoeing but can also rock on the ski hill or take on a multi-night snow camping adventure. The Iceline Versa is lightweight, windproof, comfortable, and more. After putting it to the test I am confident the Iceline Versa will be at the top of its class for decades to come.
Outdoor Research Women's Iceline Versa Pants
Product Description: The longtime-heralded, best-selling ice climbing pant just got more versatile. Introducing the Iceline Versa Pants; the purpose-built pant for tackling steep ice, warding off abrasions, and providing warmth for the cold climates you can climb in. The Iceline Versa use an ultra-breathable, three-layer stretch fabric that moves and manages moisture as you work hard throughout the day, while an abrasion-resistant face fabric protects against ice, rope, gear, and whatever obstacles stand in your way of the send.
Offer price: $250 MSRP
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Quality
(5)
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Fit
(5)
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Versatility
(5)
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Style
(5)
Summary
I have completely fallen in love with the Iceline Versa. These pants are at the top of their game and, if you ask me, they belong in the gear closet of all skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers alike. The Iceline Versa delivered in every category – comfortable, movement-mirroring, breathable, lightweight, durable, flattering, weatherproof, and warm (particularly when up against windy conditions). The versatility of these pants is unprecedented. I racked my brain for cons about these pants and I just can’t think of any – my only complaint is that I spent the first 29 years of my life without them! If I could give the Iceline Versa 6 out of 5 stars I would…but I’ll settle for 5/5. If they continue to deliver products like the Iceline Versa I will be a walking billboard for OR for years to come.
Overall
5Pros
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Flattering fit
- Plenty of pockets
Cons
- No cons!
I grew up snow skiing, starting out as a wee little grom at the tender age of three. Now things have come full circle and I’ve been teaching little ones how to ski at Stevens Pass for the past four years. Being in an active family I also regularly find myself at various ski resorts around the country. This year I was lucky enough to wrap up the 2018 year with a trip to world-renowned Sun Valley, Idaho complete with a bluebird ski day on Bald Mountain and snowshoeing at Galena Lodge. This was the perfect place to test the Iceline Versa as the conditions were icy cold, including sub-freezing temps, wind, and snow.
Fit/Comfort
I found the Iceline Versa to be incredibly comfortable and true-to-size. The material has the perfect amount of stretch, allowing you to move freely without the pants constricting you or limiting your mobility.
Look/Style
The Iceline Versa is a slim fit that worked well for my petite-athletic build. The zipper along the base of the legs allows you to pull the pants over most ski boots, changing the cut from boot-cut to more of a flare. So not only are they functional for skiing but you also look fashionable in the process – it’s a win-win!
Features
The zippered outer thigh vents on the Iceline Versa are the perfect way to cool down quickly requiring minimal effort. I typically run hot when I am exercising so the large vents are an absolute necessity. But my favorite feature is the foldup waistband – the high waisted coverage it offers is a game-changer. Whether you take a tumble on the hill or you have to bend down to adjust your boots, not having to worry about your lower back being exposed to the elements is such a treat, and something I think we will start to see more of once competing brands see how ahead-of-the-curve OR is with these pants.
Function/Performance
The Iceline Versa was able to mirror my movement as I skied expert runs in Sun Valley while also keeping me dry and warm on a three hour snowshoe adventure. We also encountered some high winds on the ski hill and the Iceline Versa kept the 5 degree wind-chill from chilling my legs to the bone.
Durability/Construction
After wearing the Iceline Versa multiple times, including three days in a row, they have shown no wear whatsoever. I also appreciate that they do not pickup dirt or grime stains like other pants/jackets I’ve had in the past. After over 40 hours of consecutive wear they still look like I just cut the tags off. The reinforced scuff guards are clutch, that is the first spot all my prior ski pants began to wear out.
The Final Word
I have completely fallen in love with the Iceline Versa. These pants are at the top of their game and, if you ask me, they belong in the gear closet of all skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers alike. The Iceline Versa delivered in every category – comfortable, movement-mirroring, breathable, lightweight, durable, flattering, weatherproof, and warm (particularly when up against windy conditions). The versatility of these pants is unprecedented. I racked my brain for cons about these pants and I just can’t think of any – my only complaint is that I spent the first 29 years of my life without them! If I could give the Iceline Versa 6 out of 5 stars I would…but I’ll settle for 5/5. If they continue to deliver products like the Iceline Versa I will be a walking billboard for OR for years to come.
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About the Gear Tester
Kelly Dona
Kelly is a PSIA-certified alpine ski instructor from Seattle, WA who has a passion for the outdoors. When she is not teaching skiing you will most likely find her hiking, backpacking, or snowshoeing throughout the Pacific North West with her labradoodle, Daisy. Find her on Instagram, @kellll_bell89!
