Mountain Khakis is based is one of my favourite ski towns, Jackson Hole, Wyoming. An ideal location for an apparel brand that has an obvious rough and tumble mountain aesthetic to its designs and fabrics. The company has been around since 2003 just a few years after the original idea was sketched on a napkin at the Shady Lady Saloon in Jackson. Their slogan is “Rugged. Authentic. Reliable. Timeless” and is one which captures the essence of their brand well. They say they make apparel for “everyone from ranch hands to golf pros, those who travel by jet, as well as those who travel by thumb”. Their product line has recently grown to include more than just clothing however as they now produce belts, bags and hats. For this inaugural review of Mountain Khakis we’ll be looking at the Mountain Khakis Alpine Utility Pants, Mountain Khakis Yak Herringbone Shirt, Mountain Khakis Commuter Shorts and the Mountain Khakis Rodeo Short Sleeve Shirt.
Price: $94.95US
Colours: Granite, Ranch, Pine, Yellowstone
Sizes: 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 /
Inseam: 30, 32, 34, 36
I’ve yet to find a pant that’s a durable and rugged as the Mountain Khakis Alpine Utility Pants. Their double-weave 10.4oz cotton is reinforced in the knees and seat panels where you need durability most. The utility pocket on right thigh can double as a phone pocket and the 5 additional hand pockets offer up plenty of storage including their signature hidden side seam pocket. A diamond-shaped gusset helps with mobility and triple-stitched seams keep these pants tough. While they can take on any adventure and the job site, they can also chill around town and at the coffee shop.
10.4oz, 2-ply, 100% cotton canvas.
Price: $65.95US
Colours: Olive Drab, Midnight Blue
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Hemp, cotton and a little bit of Yak yarn make up the unique herringbone weave that is the Mountain Khakis Yak Herringbone Shirt. The fabric is soft, yet durable so it’s not only sustainable but functional and fashionable all in one. While the fabric can keep you warm on cooler days, there’s no need to put it away when the weather warms as it’s light enough for all-year-wear. The Yak Herringbone Shirt is a great alternative to flannel and plaid, with a style that’s comfortable to wear anywhere.
49% Hemp, 45% Organic Cotton, 6% Yak Yarn.
Price: $84.95US
Colour: Slate, Firma, Navy
Sizes: 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44 / inseam: 10, 12
The Mountain Khakis Commuter Shorts are designed for biking, but are also ideal for lounging around as well. They use a stretch twill fabric made up of cotton, nylon and spandex so they provide an ideal amount of stretch for biking. Combined with a slimmer, tapered leg for cycling and back pocket flaps with reflective trim, you get comfort and safety all rolled into one. The low-profile cell phone pocket on the right thigh has a zipper closure which keeps your phone handy, yet safe.
Mountain Khakis clothing has a distinctive western/adventure design that’s appealing to anyone who loves the mountains but doesn’t want to wear technical climbing or skiing gear when not at play or work. Their clothes are durable, functional and also stylish so they can work well in the field but also go out to dinner our lounge with friends. My favourite feature besides the fabric choices and design style has to be the subtle branding. On most garments, the MK logo is small and subtle, something more brands could take heed of.
While I wouldn’t mind some articulation on the Alpine Utility Pants since they are so thick and durable, I still found these pants to be ultra-comfortable and able to really take on any abuse, I know they’ll age like fine wine and only get better as they age.
The Rodeo Short Sleeve Shirt is a staple in my summer wardrobe for its easy wear and smooth cotton feel, as is the Yak Herringbone Shirt for those colder spring and fall days. Both pieces provide great comfort, style and all round wearability.
The Commuter Shorts blur the boundary between biking and lifestyle shorts. With great stretch, they are easy to bike in but I do find the reflective pocket flaps a little too utilitarian (for me).
I can’t help but compare the Mountain Khakis brand with that of Kulh, which we’ve reviewed each of the last five years. While I am a big fan of Kuhl’s products I do find that Mountain Khakis style is much more rugged and versatile, while Kuhl’s has more of an emphasis on lifestyle/adventure. The brands have some commonalities, so if you are a fan of Kulh’s apparel then give Mountain Khakis a consideration, I know you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
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See above in review.
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