Reviewed in March, 2024

If you prefer a simplified clothing system, the Montbell Versalite (men’s / women’s) pants are one of our favorite minimalist options. They weigh about the same as a protein bar, and pack down into a small stuff sack, making them the ideal quick shell for hiking and backpacking in summer.

The Versalites are breathable and comfortable due to their ultralight material and wide legs. Although they don’t have zippers for ventilation, we find they’re incredibly breathable compared to options that weigh three to four times as much. Despite their more slimming fit, these pants still feel roomy enough to move freely without feeling weighed down.

from CleverHiker

Reviewed in March, 2020

I was surprised how much I liked these minimalist rain pants. They weigh just over three ounces and pack up ridiculously small. Sometimes rain protection is in the back of your mind and the weather isn’t too cold, you want to pack a just-in-case shell. The Versalite provide all the rain protection you need and fit easily over street clothes. They practically disappear when you wear them, but provide an awesome rain barrier.

from benedicto:

Reviewed: October, 2018

Montbell's Versalite Pants are 2-layer ultralight waterproof/breathable pants that weigh just 3.7 oz (in a men's XL.) They can be used as rain pants or wind pants or when you want light layer to keep your legs warmer in camp. Montbell's Versalite Pants have been available for many years, but the company recently switched from an in-house waterproof/breathable membrane to Gore Windstopper, resulting in a big improvement in their water resistance and breathability (more below). That, coupled with their extremely light weight and minimal features, make the Versalite Pants an attractive option for anyone wanting to reduce their gear weight.

from SectionHiker