Moleskin
Traditional Clothing and Materials

UK:
Men's Moleskin Trousers
Women's Moleskin Trousers and Skirts

USA:
Men's Moleskin Pants
Women's Moleskin Pants

Pretty much the whole time I was in Antarctica I wore moleskin trousers - pants. They are versatile enough to be worn indoors and out. Contrary to the impression the name may give, they are made neither of the skin of moles nor the kin of moles.

Moleskin is a wonderfully comfortable, tough and hard-wearing cotton fabric that is as tough as leather but as soft as velvet to the touch. Substantial on their own, extra warm with long underwear and warm and weather proof with wind or water-proofs on top.

100% cotton moleskin fabric embodies the endurance and tradition of the rugged lifestyle for which it was created. First developed in medieval Europe, this cloth was worn by farmers and the sporting gentry alike, offering warmth, protection, and comfort in varied conditions.

Like corduroy, moleskin has a softer brushed nap that is very wind resistant. Though the pleasant feel of the fabric seems like a luxury, this sheared pile actually protects the surface from abrasion and wear. This texture resembles suede or the downy coat of the mole, its namesake.

Casual wear, if I could I'd wear them all the time, forget jeans or combats or slacks or anything else, these are the nicest practical leg-wear you can have for cooler climates. Lightweight moleskin pants have a surprisingly wide temperature comfort range, I wear mine perfectly well on their own up to about 70°F and down to around 20°F.

Moleskin jeans and trousers from the UK

Men's - (Women's down the page)