Workhorse and surprisingly durable for a lighter weight pant
After roughly three seasons and 30–40 wears, the Obsidian Foundry has become my specific choice when conditions are warm enough that I don’t want a heavy hunting pant but the terrain or cover still demands more durability than an ultralight option. It earned that role on a warm Idaho elk hunt around 8,500 feet and has continued to hold up through whips and thick Maine underbrush. I would still reach for the Trace Pant in true 80°F-plus heat when rough cover isn’t a concern, and below roughly 50°F with extended stationary time I’d want more warmth. My main missing feature is thigh ventilation for dumping heat.
Warm-weather plus rough-cover sweet spot.
Strong durability-to-weight balance over three seasons.
The Trace remains the hotter-weather choice when abrasion protection is not needed.
Limited warmth for colder stationary use without additional layering.
Thigh vents would materially improve heat management.
