Rock climbing serves up some of the coolest gear in all outdoor sports, from sticky shoes to lightweight gear, ropes and the haul bags to carry it in. But when it comes to clothing, the offerings have not always been so cool. So when the ambitious Polo RLX Sport sews up some new outdoor softgoods for the sport, it's definitely worth checking out.

And so it was that we tested out several items of their clothing for Summer 2002, including their 3/4 length Crag Pant.

The Crag Pant was designed for rock climbing, and that's exactly what we used it for on recent trips to Bishop, Mammoth and California's High Desert. And with its light weight & color, breathable stretch panel down the middle and bomber fabric, we felt as cool as we looked.

Inspired by a RLX snowboard pant, the Crag Pant is constructed of abrasion resistant Boulder fabric with sling shot stretch fabric on sides, seat and inseam for maximum freedom of motion. It has two side seam hand pockets, two zippered thigh pockets, a brush tube on leg for easy tool cleaning and a rear chalk bag loop. The "Crag" has a center fly front with a snap center-front closure with adjustable webbing belt.

The pant's 21" inseam allowed us to see our feet while climbing, yet kept us just as cool as a pair of shorts on hot days. We found them to be super comfortable on the rocks, and didn't feel them bunch or bind at any time even with while wearing a harness.

We've worn the Crag Pant off the rocks as well this summer and, frankly, were surprised by the compliments they drew. But guys have to be confident to pull these things off in street use - as our basic sand-colored pants resemble capris for men; a controversial pant length to say the least. Speaking of colors, the pant also comes in a nautical orange, but we'd like to see additional colors such as a blue or dark green in the future.

All in all, the Crag Pant exceeded our expectations, and have been a joy to wear during climbs. They couldn't be more comfortable or well-crafted, and their timeless design will never go out of style. Score one for Ralph Lauren's designers.

Msrp: $89.50
www.polo.com

— Reviewed & Written by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor