For trousers in the packable class, the Ultras have some neat touches. The knees are shaped with seams that don’t scratch, and the seat is reinforced with heavier fabric to resist abrasion.
The fit is notably good too, with enough room to fit over generous layers, but not too much flapping excess. The elasticated waistband is also supplemented by a simple drawcord.
Long leg zips deliver ample shoe clearance when putting the trousers on, although the full-length Velcro storm flaps mean more things to undo before you can don them.
The storm flaps include a useful extra tab at mid-calf height, so you can tuck away excess fabric on the whole lower leg too. However, reflective trim is limited to the leg zips.
The rear zipped stow pocket enhances the Ultra’s packable credentials, with the whole lot able to be stuffed inside its own pocket. Finally, Gore-Tex Paclite is one of the most breathable fabrics out there, but even so moisture started to build up inside after about 20 minutes of energetic pedalling.