I found some zip off pants but they are 100 percent cotton, non-denim, should i go with them,?

Question

This is all for backpacking
they are100 percent cotton but they more breathables than denem. Should i go with them. If not what is an inexpensive brand or alternative? Are military ripstop BDUs ok?
Thank you

Answer 1

I would say no for camping. Banging around town not so bad, but in the woods if you get wet, you'de better get dry fast and cotton does not dry fast or insulate at all when wet. In fact, if you get wet with cotton in cold weather you'de be better served stripping down and finding natural insulation because the wet cotton will act like a wick and suck the heat right out of you. The wet nylon woun't feel so good, but it will dry quikly.

look at www.rei.com for ideas of brands for zip offs. Then look around for sale and discontinued items if you want to save a few bucks.
I have used numerous nylon type zip offs over the years. I always make sure to have a polypropalyne long under wear bottom with me if I camp with these in weather that can get cold.

Answer 2

I would never bring any cotton backpacking because it is useless when wet and takes forever to dry. I have supplex zip-offs I bought from Cabela's and they work great and are quick drying.

Answer 3

It depends - where are you backpacking? If in the desert, they should be fine.

I still go by the old stand by "Cotton Kills". If it gets wet, it will not hold any insulation value and will actually suck heat out of your body.