January 23, 2001


Where can I get wool climbing knickers?

Okay, even good wool knickers wear out after a while, Woolrich doesn't seem to make them any more. My prize ones, Craghoppers from England, have holes, and I haven't been able to find a contact number. Where can I get wool climbing knickers? Thanks and good luck!

— Jon Sprecher Bend, Oregon

Knickers! I used to wear knickers -— I have photos of myself, on many a trail, looking quite dashing in my trusty pair of gray wool knickers (probably Woolrich's). Knickers were a useful piece of gear, with their chief attribute being a loose fit so they didn't bind when hiking up hill or making a climbing move. Alas, knickers have largely gone the way of the dodo. Modern synthetic fabrics have proven lighter, more versatile and equally warm, and the popularity of light long underwear worn under shorts (still my favorite) or stretch pants made of fabrics such as Schoeller Dryskin have supplanted them. As you note, Woolrich no longer makes knickers. And I'm pretty sure I tossed mine long ago—which now that I think about it is kind of a shame.

So what to do? I'm a bit stumped. I've searched around and can't find any current makers of climbing knickers (light stretch knickers remain popular with cyclists as "in-between" garb, a purpose for which I still own a pair). But don't give up. Here's what I would do: Find yourself a pair of military surplus woolen trousers. Sierra Trading Post often stocks some; you might also do some Web searches, or check with surplus outfits either in Bend or over in Portland. Then, have them tailored into knickers. That should be a straightforward job for anyone competent with a sewing machine, and you could specify either a hook-and-loop closure or a small strap and buckle.

That's the best solution I can come up with. Hope that helps, and that you soon are knickered once again.