Revolution Race GP Pro pants review: exceptional at the price

Revolution Race GP Pro pants: first impressions

Revolution Race GP Pro pants continue a winning streak. We’ve been pretty impressed with the two other bits of kit we’ve tested from relative newcomer brand in recent months, namely their chunky Fusion Fleece and good value Cyclone Rescue 2.0 rain shell. But it’s the Swedish brand’s best hiking pants that really seems to be creating a stir – and for good reason. 

The Revolution Race GP Pro pants are rugged outdoor garments with a hybrid construction that incorporates softshell panels alongside a burly polycotton main fabric. The former features four-way stretch, while the latter adds abrasion-resistance at key areas like the knees and seat. Together, they offer good breathability and durability, while being reasonably quick drying too. The polycotton reinforcements can also be waxed for added weather-resistance – just like fellow Swedish gearmaker Fjällräven’s much-loved G-1000 fabric.

Build quality is solid, with all main seams double or triple-stitched for strength. All zips are high-quality YKK branded. These trousers aren’t lacking in features either, with mesh-lined ventilation zips at the thigh, two roomy zipped thigh pockets for all those hiking essentials, a zipped back pocket and two hand pockets. 

The waist is semi-elasticated, with a button closure, a zip fly and belt loops. Double-layer panels at the knees are designed to accommodate knee pads. There’s also a scuff patch at the instep and press studs at the hems for a closer fit, as well as integrated lace hooks to attach them to boots. In fact, Revolution Race GP Pro pants are very similar to premium outdoor trousers from other Scandi brands such as Haglofs, Sasta and Fjallraven, while being far more reasonably priced. 

Although our test pair were no-nonsense black, it’s also worth noting that they come in a kaleidoscope of colorways and a wide range of both men’s and women’s sizes. As of summer 2021, they are also now available in two different leg lengths, short and regular. There’s no long leg yet, but as is common with many Scandi brands, even the regular leg is a generous 33” inseam in the men’s version.

Revolution Race GP Pro pants: on the trails

We’ve been roaming the mountains and valleys of Snowdonia in GP pros from spring through to summer, and they’ve held up superbly. They’re extremely comfortable, and we love the contemporary slim fit, although it might not suit everyone. 

The cut does taper markedly at the lower legs. So, if you’ve got chunky thighs or calves, they might feel a bit tight. On the other hand, the stretch nylon softshell panels have plenty of give for excellent freedom of movement. The thicker fabrics also feel extremely tough and we’d expect them to withstand plenty of punishment. 

Admittedly, the burly construction and profusion of features do add weight. They’re not the lightest trousers around. They also get a bit too warm in high summer, although generous mesh-lined vents that extend from the knee to the upper thigh help you dump heat. This shortcoming is likely to be a bonus as the weather turns cooler though. This actually makes the GP Pros a fairly versatile performer, particularly since the polycotton fabrics can be waxed (blocks of which are available through the Revolution Race website) to boost their weather-resistance. Consisting largely of beeswax, this is also a far more eco-friendly form of water repellent treatment compared to the PFC-based finishes used in many other trousers.