It can be hard to find genuine reviews online. Even harder to find a long term test of waterproof trousers. What about after 10 years?
Mountain Warehouse Downpour Trousers
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| Mountain Warehouse Mens Downpour waterproof trousers 2022 |
Back in December 2012 I purchased a pair of Mountain Warehouse mens Downpour waterproof trousers for £29.99. Fast forward ten years to 2022 and I purchased another new pair for almost the same price at £28.98.
I wanted a pair of waterproof trousers which could easily slip over my normal trousers and withstand being static outside in heavy downpours for up to 2 hours.
I've been using these over the last 10 years and only now decided to purchase a new pair. The only reason being the elastic waist cord was fraying and looked as if it could snap at any time. Otherwise there was only minor wear on the trouser bottoms where they've no doubt dragged on the ground a little, being quite long. I was pleased to find Mountain Warehouse still selling the same 'model'. If it's a good product which sells well, why change it?
Over the last 10 years these trousers have performed remarkably well. I can honestly say that water has not penetrated these throughout the time I've used them, albeit for 'everyday use' rather than any form of extreme outdoor adventures.
I have used a waterproof wash once or twice in that time but they've maintained their waterproof qualities very well.
Being a budget conscious person I didn't want to spend too much money. For the money these are extremely good value.
Features
- Full length trouser zip. I wasn't sure I needed the full length trouser zip, but in practice I've found it useful when I wanted to quickly remove them or put them on outside without having to remove my boots. The zip is covered by a flap held in place with snap fasteners.
- Mesh Lining. These trousers have a mesh lining, which is actually quite good as it can feel surprisingly chilly when being subjected to continuous rainfall in the Autumn/Winter period.
- Elasticated drawstring. These have an elasticated drawstring and waist. This works well since it's comfortable over other trousers so don't need their own belt.
- Rip-stop fabric. The rip-stop fabric is tough enough to prevent tears with normal use. I've never felt I needed to be 'careful' with them so I like the strong fabric.
Waterproof/Breathable
My old pair have never let water in. I've never noticed any condensation from sweat on the inside so seem to have a good degree of breathability. Although this is mostly static use and not much hiking. I would only use these as a waterproof overtrouser. If it was dry and I got too hot I would simply remove them. Another option could be to open up the zip but keep the snap fasteners closed - Instant breathability!
The new pair I just bought give a waterproof rating of 5000 mm. I've recently worn them outside for a few hours in heavy downpours without any penetration.
Sizes
Some reviews I read said that these trousers were too 'baggy'. I agree, they do have a wide fit which suites me. It means you can easily wear them on top of other trousers and they will fit over the top of rubber boots. They are also described as 'overtrousers' which I interpret as intended to be worn over other trousers rather than on their own. They can of course be worn on their own, but they don't have pockets which can be an issue if, like me, you like to carry your mobile phone in your trouser pocket.
Being a looser fit, they've not ideal for cycling. They would need trouser leg clips/ties but fine for occasional use.
I bought a size Large on both occasions. What I have found is that you should buy one size lower than you normally would. I would say the size Large feels more like an extra large. I followed the size chart and it suggested a Large. I have to use the elastic drawstring and the regular length is more like a Long. If the store where I bought mine did have a medium regular in stock then I probably would have bought those. However, for the price I paid I can live with baggy trousers on rainy days.
Alternatives
As at 2022 Mountain Warehouse offer several other waterproof trousers named Downpour Extreme, Spray and Pakka.
I was struggling to see the difference between the Downpour and Downpour Extreme. The Extreme is more expensive and the name suggests it's more waterproof. However, it looks like it doesn't offer the same level of waterproof protection and the only difference seems to be a button waist instead of drawcord. Curiously, other than that I couldn't see any difference. Perhaps they have a slimer fit? I can't imagine why I would want to pay more for a pair of trousers which aren't so waterproof.
Spot the difference?
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| Mountain Warehouse Extreme Downpour waterproof trousers - Key Feature without Waterproof |
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| Mountain Warehouse Downpour waterproof trousers |
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| 'Isodry' breathable fabric |
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| Rip-stop fabric and snap fasteners over the zip |
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| Rear view |
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| Toggle for adjustable elasticated waist band (the white string was for the paper labels) |
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| Mountain Warehouse Inside label and essential hook hanger |
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| Inside washing label - Made in China of course |
Conclusion
The new pair I purchased in 2022 for £28.98 (reduced from £59.99) seem
to be identical to those I bought back in 2012 with no obvious
deterioration in quality. I actually paid the same price as I did 10
years ago. These are often discounted so you may not need to pay the
full recommended retail price.
If the features of these trousers suite your needs, then I can strongly recommend them. I don't think you will find better value for money. When you consider that there are plenty of branded Goretex waterproof trousers around the £200 mark.
I read another review which claimed they were waterproof but after six hours in a heavy downpour the water started to penetrate. Well, firstly I could never see myself being outside in a heavy downpour lasting that long. Secondly, there might not be many waterproof trousers on the market which would keep you dry in such circumstances, unless you paid £200 for them.
Buying online can be a lottery if you've not had the chance to visit a store and check the item. Most websites offer superficial information and photographs. Hopefully this 'review' can help you decide. Just remember, that these are oversized so whilst I would normally buy large, the medium would have been a better fit for me in this case. Unfortunately they didn't have medium in stock at the time of my purchase.
