Q. I can’t seem to find a good pair of convertible synthetic pants for hiking/backpacking. Could you point me to where I should look? I’m looking for something that doesn’t cost more than $45 to $50.
– Pantless Paul, Olney, Md.
A. We have just the pants you are looking for, Paul. The official BSA Centennial Switchbacks have it all: moisture-wicking and quick-drying nylon construction, UPF sun protection, lots of cargo pockets and other extras. The legs zip off to make perfect hiking shorts, and the price is right in your wheelhouse: $49.99. Find them at your local Scout shop or at scoutstuff.org.
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Scout pants are nice, but if you want compact conversion pants our guys buy “Zip offs” at Dunham sports. They cost about $12.00 and compact down to 1/3 the scout pants size (They are light weight material). They also come in many colors: scout green, black, cream, blue and tan. As an ultra lite camper, these are all I use in the summer months in the BWCA. They also have a draw rope so no belt.