Craghoppers is a well-known outdoor brand offering practical, no-nonsense gear at an affordable price point. The Women's Ascent Overtrousers are a perfect example of their ethos, combining solid waterproofing and comfort in a classic, nae-frills design.
At their current reduced price of £35, they’re good entry-level option for walkers, cyclists, and anyone looking to stay dry without spending a fortune. While they don’t include all the bells, pulls and whistles of premium alternatives, they do deliver surprisingly decent performance for the price.
LFTOwww.craghoppers.com
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great fit on the waist
- Very waterproof
- Well priced
Cons
- Size down in length!
- Zips don't come up to the knees fully
| RRP: | £70 but reduced to £35 |
| Materials: | AQUADRY: Guaranteed waterproof and breathable fabric. Designed for moderate to heavy downpours. |
| Full zip: | No |
| Sizes: | XS-2XL |
| Leg lengths: | Short, regular, long |
| Weight: | 275g / 10 oz |
Features
The Ascent Overtrousers are made with a stretchy, lightweight fabric that feels comfortable and avoids the stiff, crinkly texture (and sound!) often associated with waterproof trousers. Netted pockets double as ventilation points, although the pocket zips don’t extend fully above the knee, which can make pulling them on over big boots or crampons tricky. For £35, though, this is a forgivable compromise.
One downside for cyclists or walkers is the lack of adjustable features at the ankle. Unlike pricier models, these trousers don’t include calf-tightening velcro or poppers to stop fabric from flapping, so you may need to tuck them into socks or use cycle clips. However, at this price point, they still deliver in terms of overall usability and performance.
Performance
The waterproofing is superb, keeping me completely dry on my rainy commutes. A hydrostatic head of 5000mm ensures this; cheaper trousers only go up to 3000mm. Ventilation is decent thanks to the netted pockets, but as the zips don’t extend fully, it’s hard to release extra heat during high-output activities like cycling. Sweaty thighs were an issue after huffing and puffing away, but for more casual walking or lighter use, this may be less of a concern.
Fit
The high-waisted design is a highlight, offering excellent coverage and comfort, especially for those needing extra room, such as during pregnancy. The fit is roomy without feeling baggy, and the stretchy material provides good freedom of movement. However, the leg length runs super long for a 'long' fit— at 5'9", I found the trousers a little excessive whereas usually the 'long' option suits me just fine.
Value
At their current discounted price of £35, the Craghoppers Ascent Overtrousers represent excellent value. While there are some compromises in features compared to premium options, they’re still a solid choice for staying dry without breaking the bank.
Verdict
On sale £35, the Craghoppers Ascent Overtrousers offer impressive waterproofing, a comfortable fit, and a lightweight design that’s easy to wear for a variety of activities. While they lack some higher-end features, the value for money makes them a great option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.
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About the Author
Aviemore-based Laura Nicoll joins our Scottish testing team to help contribute to the quality gear-thrashing we perform here at LFTO. Laura works in community outreach at the visitor centre in Glenmore, and is always getting out and about whenever she can.