I tried out the pants on very hot and humid day in Disneyland and couldn't be happier. The legs zip out readily, and each have a sewn-in woven label marked 'L' & 'R' for quick, frustration-free removal and re-attachment. These came in handy as the weather was better suited for shorts. The shorts come up to about 10" on the outseam - which is just right for me since I'm not a tall person at all.
With the legs re-attached, I was expecting the leg fit to be similar to bog-standard military cargo pants which are roomy (maybe too roomy for me) midway below the thighs. I was pleasantly surprised that the legs fit a little narrower than plain 'straight' cut - and presented a nice silhouette.
The fabric is very light, and dries off quickly inspite of the fact I was drenched. The built-in belt was also a plus for me, since an external belt would only be another cinch point where perspiration will pool which is uncomfortable and unpleasant to say the least. The fact that it's made of some sort of nylon webbing also meant that it wasn't going to absorb as much water/sweat.
The cargo pockets were where my hands would naturally rest when standing, and it was a convenient to put my wallet there for easy access. The bonus of having it there instead of the back or front slide pocket was that it would swing away from the body and not sponge up the perspiration. The cargo pockets are secured shut by either a zipper (left) or a velcro-lined flap (right) -- perfect for my peace of mind especially when surging with throngs of people.
After a full-day at the park, I had to air out both my 'Dri-Fit' top and my pants overnight before packing them away for washing. The next day, I did a uhm sniff test (eeew!) just to check if the fabric retained any odors. Am happy to report that the pants had a very faint remnant - enough for one to know it was used - but not at all objectionable. The Dri Fit top was another thing altogether and if your snacking as you read this, please read this part later.
It was NASTY. To be fair though, the shirt's at least 4 years old so I guess it's also a function of age as I've noticed with some gym clothes.
So far it's been a five star experience. My only concern for now is how the pants' fabric will wear in the near future. Some of the Columbia shirts I own have a tendency to snag and pill which I guess is the nature of man-made fibers. But you can't put a price on the comfort you gain when you're not bothered by a drenched waist and lower back. Plus, you won't smell as nasty, too.
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