Black Diamond Notion Pants Review
Are these Climbing Pants Five Stars?
Pros: durability, mobility
Cons: lack of breathability, small pockets
Price: $79 USD (according to REI and Black Diamond)
Rating: 7/10
The world of climbing gear can be intimidating; there seems to be a special (and more expensive) “climbing” version of every normal product. This specialization also extends to apparel, especially pants. I normally climb in regular athletic leggings that I also use for weightlifting and running. I’ve been researching distinct “climbing pants” and decided to test out a pair to see if the hype (and price) were justified. Since Black Diamond is one the of the biggest, oldest, and best climbing outfitters around, I gave their Notion Pants a shot. The pants come in sizes XS-XL, and I tested out the medium. Check out the full review below.
Fit, Fabric, & Features
The pants come in eight different colors, including light blue, plum, grey, navy, and army green. There is elastic on the cuffs of the pants and drawstrings on the waist, so these areas are fitted and secure. Between these two points, the fit as a whole is loose. If you prefer tight fitting pants, similar to leggings, these pants may not be the best choice for you. These pants are the right fit for people who prefer to climb in looser fitting, jogger type pants. I actually enjoyed the less constricting fit; on tough bouldering problems that require tight movement, I feel like I had extra mobility. At no point did the slight amount of extra fabric stemming from the looser fit interfere with my movement.
Everyone has different preferences when it comes to where they want their pants to hit on their waist. When top roping or lead climbing, aka wearing a harness, I prefer to have higher waisted pants, so the harness doesn’t rub against my bare skin. Even if I tie the waist band tightly, the Notion pants don’t stay up above my belly button. I have come to prefer these pants for bouldering, as the harness plus these pants create a pretty strong wedgie effect.
Aesthetically, I have asked myself if these pants could be considered “flattering” or not. Of course, that is not my main priority when it comes to climbing gear, but it is a factor. Let’s be honest: these baggier pants will not make your butt look as good as a tight pair of leggings would.
Regarding technical specs, these pants are made from Stretch Cotton Twill (98% Organic Cotton, 2 % Elastane). They weigh 11 oz/324 grams. This brings us to the main disadvantage of these pants: the lack of breathability. I have worn them in a variety of temperatures, from freezing cold to blazing summer. In any weather/gym temperature above 55 degrees, I find my legs getting overheated and sweaty. While they are soft and comfortable, I definitely prefer them for climbing on cooler days. These pants are not a good choice if you consistently climb outdoors in warmer weather.
The other major disadvantage is the size of the pockets; these pants have two in the front and two in the back. In both cases, they are not deep or wide enough to carry anything of much substance, without it falling out. I would not feel secure putting my phone, wallet, or keys in them. The most I would put in them is a Chapstick, tissue, or small bottle of liquid chalk.
I have been wearing these pants for two, two-hour climbing sessions a week for four months. They have held up wonderfully, without any tears, loose seams, or pilling. Black Diamond has placed reinforced seams around the knee area, one of the areas most prone to damage. I’ve spilled chalk, protein powder, and soap on them, and they come out of the washing machine like new. I have no doubt that these pants will last for ages.
Overall, these pants are a solid choice for bouldering; they are high-quality and durable, with a loose fit and excellent mobility. However, if you do harness-based climbing or climb in warmer temperatures, these pants are not the right choice for you. As someone with a low budget, I find it hard to justifying buying multiple pairs of these pants, which come at a relatively high price point. Ultimately, Black Diamond’s Notion Pants are a solid, reliable climbing pant that only certain people- those who like a loose fit and low rise waist- will enjoy consistently.
