Kuhl’s Klash is a comfortable softshell pant for adventures on the trail and off.
Just as I was looking into getting a pair of softshell pants for winter, Kuhl contacted us again to review some clothing. Perfect timing.
Tom had recently bought their Transcendr (formerly called Travrse) softshell pant and I was feeling a tad jealous to be honest.
For the review I selected the women’s Klash (there is also a men’s Klash) and Tom chose the Renegade.
Appearance & Fit
The material is rugged with sturdy feeling seems and zippers. It feels like it could brush off thorns with ease and basically handle anything a trail could throw at you.
These pants say bring it.
Kind of like getting a pair of Toughskin jeans as a kid. Those things were nearly indestructible and a license to play outside.
But unlike jeans these pants are stretchy with a good range of movement. And they don’t look like technical pants so they work for casual use too.
There are two colors available, a grey Carbon and a nearly black Gotham (in the photos). The fit is relaxed and there are two inseam choices.
Related: Kuhl’s Konfidant Air Pant; Kuhl’s Interceptr Jacket; Kuhl’s Renegade Pant; Kuhl’s Vara Hoody
I ordered my normal size and had to figure my inseam in inches as that’s not often an option in women’s pants (usually stuck with petite, regular, or tall).
Now, I don’t have a lot of luck finding pants that fit and seldom order them so I was frankly shocked when these fit right.
(It drives me slightly nuts that Tom can order his size and inseam and get a great fit on pretty much any pant while I need to try on at least 3 million pairs in two sizes each and settle on one that is meh. But such is life.)
Related: Gifts for Hikers
The Specs
- Flexwurx abrasion resistant stretchy softshell fabric
- Durable Water Repellent finish; wind/ water resistance
- Internal drawstring waistband
- Cuff guards on the lower inside leg
- Boot hook
- Zippered pockets
- Gusseted crotch, articulated knees
Zippered pant bottom and boot hooks to secure the pant are nice touches.
I somehow always manage to kick the lower inner calf of my pants, especially with muddy boots, so I love the cuff guards.
There are front, back, and thigh pockets – all with sturdy zippers.
Performance
These are great for cold and/on wet weather. For chillier temps I add a thin layer underneath.
Overall
Kuhl’s Klash Pant is rugged enough to handle adventures but nice enough to wear around town.
Update 11/2023: Still like brand new, showing no wear. I don’t where these all year round but still it’s like I just got them.
Disclaimer: Kühl provided a complimentary pair of pants for review, but did not provide compensation or exercise control over the content of this post.
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Updated: 11/2024. Original review: 1/20/21.