Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Review - Not Great

[@teunishoefnagel3654]

Thanks for the honest review. I have them for 2 years now and extensively used them. I agree on most issues. For me I found this: - Weatherproofness (rain) even after double/triple waxing is really bad. - Too low on the waist to be comfortable kneeling down. - Thin backside + Durability of the G-1000 (and no problems with the elastic part yet) + Better near campfires than full synthetics + Nice look and colors + Good pockets, especially for saw/knife

[@jimmyzulu85]

This is a spot on review! The g1000 is a fancy label for the 65-35 polycotton fabric that many other companies are using at least in Europe. I personally prefer to buy 3 or 4 pants for 40 Euros each that have the same features, than spending 100 plus Euros in just one pants. You can find very durable pants out there that doesn't cost a fortune.

[@birds_and_beards]

Thanks! I need to look into those other options you speak of!

[@shepleonard8695]

G-1000 is much more than a blend. It's Hand. Sure other brands use similar blends, but Fjallraven weaving is just denser and more durable. It's why G-1000 garments last decades. So yes you can cheap out and spend the same amount ($175) on other trousers and end up with nothing in the end.... or you can buy quality that will last you 10+ years. Buy once, Cry once

[@jimmyzulu85]

@@shepleonard8695 Yes the G-1000 is more durable than other similar blends and obviously fjallraven's clothing is much better than the cheap brands. My argument however is firstly that if you spend much time in the woods doing work, every piece of clothing is going to get damaged so wearing a 200 euro pants is not a good idea. Secondly the prices are ridiculously high. Yes I could justify the prices if the clothing were made in Sweden by Swedish workers. But they are manufactured overseas by cheap labour hands.

[@shepleonard8695]

@@jimmyzulu85 Just not what others say or my experience. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5W3ZnanfJ1jf80

[@kevinbrowning1578]

Thanks for the review. I just ordered some of these. I hadn't seen such a critical review before - lots of people rave about them. You made a good point about the psychology of people wanting to feel good about an expensive purchase. I got them for $140 (U.S.), by far the most I've ever paid for pants. And there does seem to be an image/cult factor for some people. I'm way too practical for that. Mine arrive this Friday. I've been wearing tactical pants for years, mainly because I like the loose fit, side pockets, loops and reinforcements. But they are not so good for hiking, knees are not well-designed for that. They limit mobility too much. Same with Carhartts. Is that a problem with the Viddas? My loose-fitting tactical pants, though comfortable, are also a bit snaggy/baggy in brush. The poly-cotton fabric 65/35 on my CQR tactical pants has mostly held up well. But is it true the G-1000 is just a gimmick? They make it sound like it's a special weave. Deceptive marketing is a turn-off for me. I got the impression G-1000 was better at water repellency (when waxed) than other poly-cotton weaves. That appealed to me, because I'd like to use Nikwax Cotton Proof instead of the toxic DWRs, when I want them to repel water. I don't know if it would work on a typical poly-cotton fabric weave. If the fabric is no different than others, the marketing BS would be enough make me look elsewhere. Like you said in a reply, different pants for different uses. I'll try them out, and see if they work. I do like the vents, and the different size pockets seem to provide good options. I wonder though about having pockets on the front of the pant - does that restrict movement? Or make it irritating to have something rub on the front as you walk? What do you think? I also like that there are no back pockets, because I never use them. And I find the side pockets on my tactical pants are too big. Stuff gets sideways or bounces around. Looking for the right balance. I do have a sewing machine. Maybe I'll just get some cheaper tactical pants and modify them. Thanks again for your review.

[@Robert-yp9zs]

An excellent job in pointing out where the Vidda Pro's can fall short. You remind us that there are certain applications where the Vidda Pro is not the pants of choice; with others being better suited, i.e., your reference to Carhartt or Wrangler. A definite weakness with the seam along the elastic gusset failing. (I don't need crotch ventilation.) Thank you.

[@birds_and_beards]

Thanks Robert, I try to call it how I see it!

[@assas5472]

Thank you for honest review. Fjallraven should see this video. You made mistake - G1000 is composed 65% poliester and 35% cotton (65+35=100) the rest is composition of elastic material. Another mistake - it's swedish not finnish flag on tab

[@birds_and_beards]

Thank you

[@zackcrafted]

Good review! I did one on my channel too. I became obsessed with Fjallraven when I travelled there as they seemed to be pretty popular with the Swedish crowd. First I bought a coat, I love it, Greenland Down Jacket. Then I bought a hiking bag (kajka) loved it, then I bought the Keb pants, hated it, then I bought the vida pro ventilated, … mostly love it. I think there is a weakness where the stretch material connects to the G-1000. I’m unimpressed with the cargo pockets, can’t fit much in them for the lack of a fabric fold (gusset) and I don’t even bother with the hand pockets. A big selling feature for me was the ankle cuff being adjustable and be able to sinch it tight and hook it onto my lasses, and the G-1000… though for whatever reason it hasn’t been as good as my jacket G-1000, and certainly not as good as the Heavy Duty G1000 in my backpack. The vents have made a difference for me too but idk if it’s a make or break. I don’t know, I’d say it’s not worth the price too. Id also add that I think it’s more geared towards hikers, not even bushcraft. Interestingly enough Fjallraven does have a product line that’s geared towards hunters, but it’s only available in Sweden and the UK I believe. Glad to hear about the customer service, sorry to hear about the product, doesn’t surprise me though, it seems to have gone more the weekend warrior rout then the expedition gear it started off as

[@zackcrafted]

*disclaimer, as of late I’m very much a weekend warrior lol, you’ve gotten far more use out of your pants then I have in my last 1.5 of owning them

[@birds_and_beards]

Thanks for the added perspective!! I'd agree with all your points, I'll be checking out your review!

[@jschwartzlow]

Thanks for a real review. I was looking at these thinking a pant that expensive must be good, but was already questioning the features. I think the pockets should be zippered. There should be mesh in the vents. I have done amazingly well with Prana Zions hiking and hunting in Arizona. They show some pilling from our beloved catclaw, but nothing concerning. They work great down to 10F with base layers.

[@birds_and_beards]

Thanks john! I agree the prana stretch zion pants are a classic tried and true favorite of mine as well!

[@xxgg]

Doesn't mean other reviews are all* fake. You have also said it yourself this pants is not for you as you want it certain features like zippered/mesh... regardless of the price. There are plenty of others who have done well with this pants as well from fit, requirement, durability, etc... That is why most people should have multiple pants for different situations/conditions to fullfill their needs and not look for do it all single pants.

[@Jonr.mp4]

I’ve had the 5.11 apex and the 5.11 strykers for about a year. The apex blew out after 9 months of not as much use. The 5.11 strykers I wear at work on a daily basis and they work and they are very not forgiving around the crotch. The beauty of 5.11 is you can sometimes get them thrifted.

[@thomasbruno2007]

Hi I have owned these pair of pants for over 2 years and walked with them over 800km with no issues. Still loking like new. Mine are made in Spain, so maybe there are some quality differences? or maybe as you said in video, you just got unlucky with this piece?

[@274206]

It’s the Swedish flag lad. :) Good review, I’m sorry for the bad experience with the pants. I’m inclined to buy them but it’s really important to hear these negative reviews to counter balance our expectations about Fjalraven.

[@theuplander9127]

Great review. I use carharrts and love em, can’t beat the price and quality. No way I’d pay $225 for a single pair of pants that I could get 5 carharrts for.

[@ronblackburn3683]

Thanks for the review. I looked at the Fjallraven pant, but now will not consider them. I agree that nylon pants are really tough and the slick material reduces fatigue at the end of the day for us older guys.

[@jessek437]

I've wore these hiking and scrambling for years 3 years and they haven't failed in any areas. Love them dearly. I wonder if maybe you got a bad pair?

[@birds_and_beards]

Maybe! But it's been two pairs sadly!

[@JimmyMeatwhistle]

Awesome review buddy, we'll done! 👍 People use them to go hiking 3 days a year, or a weekend Bushcraft 🤣. I've been using Flex fit Dickies and their bloody awesome!

[@birds_and_beards]

I'll have to check out a pair of those buddy! Thanks for the recommendation

[@MaxxSeemov]

I use my Fjallraven trousers for pretty much for all general outdoor stuff: camping, daily walking, outdoor photography, etc and for urban travel. Never had any issue. I think they are pretty good and 10 out of 10 in the looks dept. That said, I've never used them for serious stuff. For serious long distance walk and high altitude walk (e.g., when I did Kilimanjaro, EBC, Camino, West Highland) I used my Montane Terra trousers. I swear by them. Have both my Fjallraven and Montane trousers for about 4 years now and they still look like they were bought last week. Not sure what you're doing with your trousers, mate. Really sorry for the money you spent on Fjall. Go for nylon if you really need it super tough.

[@davidryan4454]

I have a fair amount of Fjallraven stuff but i'd never use any of it in wet weather. The whole wax idea is a sham. Jackets leak like sieves. I know, i've tried it ! The G-1000 is a con. It's not even windproof ! It's a cheap cloth. The trouser pockets are too many & don't work if you want to move. Definitely overpriced. But for all that, i like the styling & the fit & i only buy pre-owned & it's good for 3 season use in dry conditions. Yours was an excellent review. They do have a cult following but much is Emperor's New Clothes syndrome

[@markswishereatsstuff2500]

My day to day pant is Kuhl convertibles. They wear great.

[@GetOutBeHappy]

Great honest review. Thank you

[@musmustafa7900]

Now that's an eye opener, just purchased the vidda pro's and the barent pro's hunter version along with the skoco jacket or something like that, just two days ago, and now i see this video 😟

[@JohnDoe-mp1yn]

How are the 5.11 Apex pants? they got something called flextac and i'm wondering if those can beat these in comfort in rather warm weather

[@birds_and_beards]

The 5.11 pants are definitely cooler to wear, I haven't tested them fully to comment on their durability however!

[@ericduan19]

5.11 Apex is just all-rounded pants. I've worn them on many hikes. They just work.

[@oreocarlton3343]

They are almost as pricey as these ones and fit is a bit weird

[@shepleonard8695]

Do you machine dry or air dry your trousers?

[@birds_and_beards]

Air dry

[@xxgg]

SO~ what is your favorite outdoors pants?

[@birds_and_beards]

Hi Mike. Pants are alot like tools to me, they have to fit a specific need. Whether that be an outdoor activity or climate/ landscape condition. Early season, prana stretch Zions have been wonderful, not as durable but cool and good range of movement. Mid season hunting, first lite sawbuck have been exceptional. Still looking for a great late season cold weather pant!

[@birds_and_beards]

Great call on the arctetyx!

[@xxgg]

@@birds_and_beards totally try out one of the Carhartt work pants with stretch. I think they call it flex or something.

[@birds_and_beards]

Oh thanks Mike! I'll look into those as well!

[@fadedQ]

What are you using the pants for hiking? Or dog training those dogs must be chewing out those pants. I would use carharrts for work and the fjalraven for hiking. Its all about using the right tool for the job. I would not bring carhart for a backpacking trip

[@birds_and_beards]

Hiking

[@Spukke-uh8dq]

I have vidda pro pants. Was in sale close to 100 euro.. They feel very nice when I try them so i get them. 200 euros hell no. Short heavy rain walking from car to house first time in my live my pants pocket was like water bottle what have water in there.. Wallet in that pocket.. In that point it was still very new so factory wax what ever was like none zero. Some spots water penetrated pants very fast.. Not sure how water go in the pocket so fast. I get wax and waxed the pants.. Now they are clearly warmer what is fine now when winter is coming closer. But warmer days it really made them not so nice to use. I will wash wax off before summer is my plan.. If someone pays over 200 it feels crazy.. 100 hell yeah 125 is pushing 150 is all ready too much.. You get so much choices whit 100 and there is nice stuff even lower than 100.. Full price I say no.. But If you are rich better get something like this than much more expensive luxury design brand shit. Won't really matter how tough pants are and how much they cost if you use them hard way and it will brake sooner or later anyway. Light use yeah this pants will last longer than some cheaper brands models but in those is pants too what will last the same or whit luck even longer. First in mind is varusteleka own pants.. When you look what fabric they use you start to think even more getting them specially whit that price.. In the end they are just pants if you like the model color brand and have money get what you like.. If in budget and zero fucks given what brand really better get something else..

[@AalesundTrooper]

Im sorry. You try to give your best real review on this pants, ands that is fine. But as i can see in your video, you look into other types of pants that might be a better choice in other situasion, like hiking or hunting. This pant is NOT for that, it is a bushcraft pant. All of your rips here and there, are they from the bush itself or is it selfinflicted? The groint is ripped allright, but that is very likely because to small pants. I have used G-1000 fabric or 35-65%, and it is very durable. I also ripped one pants in the groint, because it got to tight, and a flexed down in a sitting position. Had my last pants for 12 years. Only got a new one because it did not fit me anymore. For ultimate protection on the fabric, use lightly the wax to lay down and close the fiber. Just very very little:) And people, its a pant, not a tank (almost though) Gave the video a thumb up anyway;) thank you

[@korvenburns1135]

😂 That's not the Finnish Flag bro that's Sweden

[@birds_and_beards]

🤣😜

[@sipapito]

230 big ones? you got ripped off! and yes you got a pair of lemons, or you abused them?

[@birds_and_beards]

230$ Canadian. Lemons perhaps, but I doubt it as it is happening to two different pairs. Abused, maybe! I just wear them like any other pants I own! Other brands have not had those issues.

[@sipapito]

@@birds_and_beards I must admit they are expensive.

[@Paco1994k]

@@sipapitowell, if you see this comment in time, you can get them for $62 dollars at Rei until the 27th. 65% off

[@shepleonard8695]

$175 now...

[@birds_and_beards]

Maybe for you! Still 225$ for us here in most stores. I'm sure as a hiking pant they are great, just didn't suit my purpose well enough as a hunting pant sadly.

[@reeverweg]

5:51 Finnish flag? hahahahaha

[@MrRicheme]

Finnish flag!!! You totally lost all creadabillity for me there. Otherwise yo started well.

[@birds_and_beards]

No worries! I understand credibility is linked to people that don't make mistakes!

[@mariumrajah]

Hey brother enjoyed listening to your thoughts I may have to agree with you 🫡

[@birds_and_beards]

I appreciate that!

[@mariumrajah]

@@birds_and_beards i bought a anorak number 8 not cheap on Christmas £400 🇬🇧 I paid for it. I burnt a hole through it on the rear bottom side, fjallraven sent me a patch to repair myself, I was definitely upset & felt I didn’t need a £400 anorak for bushcrafting,