The Karakorum Mountain Pants are commonly seen in serious environments all over the world. This is because they are stupidly rugged & versatile. Made from a Drilite fabric, which has a hydrostatic head of 20, 000mm and a breathability rating of 20, 000g/sqm/24h; Waterproof & breathable. Need I say more? The face fabric is a 70D fabric with a 160D reinforced weave, so it can take quite a few scrapes, likewise with the reinforced kick-strips. They have a full length 2 way YKK zips with an internal storm flap, & a drop rear seat (crap flap) for when nature calls. The fixed internal gaiter keeps out unwater snow & water. M.E. have made these over-trousers around their Active Fit block which their Swiss pattern cutting experts friends have helped design, for a close yet manoeuvrable fit that eradicates unwanted bulk & removes excess weight. 3-layer DRILITE® 70D fabric with 160D reinforced weave Active fit with articulated knees Full length 2-way YKK® moulded side zips with inner storm flaps 2-way YKK® moulded front zip with storm flap Fully adjustable braces with drop rear seat Reinforced kick-strips for ski & crampon durability Fixed internal gaiters For all you kit geeks out there, the links below will take you to Mountain Equipments Information pages where they will explain this items different fabrics & constructions techniques in greater detail. Drilite Most people are too scared or do not really understand the importance of washing their equipment in the correct manner, all equipment needs to be maintained properly for it to perform. It is actually really easy! Feel free to give the shop a call from 09:00 until 17:30 Monday to Saturday (19:30 on a Wednesday), as we are always happy to help & give friendly advice. Or if you are reading this outside our normal opening hours here is a useful link to Trekitts recommended product for washing & caring for kit. Nikwax Tech Wash Nikwax TX-Direct I hope this helps.