Make Ultralight Waterproof Chaps (85g / £5)

Background

Although the Mk1 Waterproof Kilt and Mk2 Waterproof Kilt work incredibly well there is an issue about what happens when you wade through long grass - your legs get very wet.

This is only an issue in some terrains and on some walks. For most terrains and most walks it is not an issue.

I own a nice pair of Montane Featherweight Pants which whilst waterproof-ish are not suitable for bushwhacking and are not suitable for strong rain.

I was interested in something that I could use quickly with the kilts and would be fine for even the worst weather. I also wanted them to be 100% waterproof and tough. They did of course have to do two functions and act as gaitors as well...

In order to save weight I modified a pair of walking trousers and fitted two 5mm ferrules at the same position on each trouser leg. This means the chaps attach directly to the trousers (above the kilt-line) and saves the weight of a belt or any sort of belt attachment. I like simple ;-)

Fabric

There was only one real choice for fabric - SilNylon (Silicone Elastomer coated nylon). A cheaper (and more easily available) alternative would be 2oz PU-coated nylon. There is no need to worry about breathability.

Measurements

The easiest way to do this is to find a pair of waterproof pair of trousers / pants that fit you and use them as a guide.

The three measurements that you want are:

1. Ankle / Boot

These chaps are designed to drop over your boot and rest on it - like loose trousers. Measure around your boot (if you wear them) and add 5cm on for movement. If you have a favourite pair of walking trousers that come down this low then measure them and add on 5cm.

2. Thigh

My regular walking trousers are a pair of Zip-offs. I used the zip-off line as the position where the chaps would be fixed to. (See pictures).

Measure around your thigh at this point when crouched down (so the muscles are fully contracted) add 5+cm onto this measurement.

3. Height

These