Vancouverscape, a Vancouver based blog covering travel, tech, and lifestyle

Looking for a lightweight pair of three-season capris that travel well and have built-in 50+ UPF sun protection?

We recently came across these comfy Ferrosi capris by Outdoor Research (OR). They’ve got a standard fit with zippered, two-snap closure and tie combination, plus belt loops if you want to accessorize them with a belt.

Zippered compartments on the front left leg and right rear can stow cash, credit cards or keys. The colour-contrasting waist is lined with soft, brushed tricot for comfort.

Seattle-based OR designed the Ferrosi with getting outdoors in mind: the pants are water- and wind-resistant, breathable, durable, quick-drying and provide motion-mirroring strength to take you from city to mountain.

They’ll make the perfect hiking companion as they’re easy to move around in, made with 86% nylon/14% spandex 90D stretch woven ripstop fabric.

About UPF Ratings

A clothing’s UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is a numeric rating given to indicate how effectively the fabric blocks ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A UPF rating of 25 means that only 1/25th (or 4%) of the UV radiation can penetrate the fabric.

Unlike SPF, which only conveys a sunscreen’s protective value in terms of limited light wavelengths, UPF applies to a range of broad spectrum UVA and UVB radiation.

50+ is the highest UPF rating a garment can be assigned. A piece in this range is designed to provide “excellent” protection from UV radiation. 

Rock climbers will appreciate the articulated knees and harness-compatible waist too.

These capris are part of the Ferrosi Collection that includes shorts, skorts, hoodies, jackets and caps. There’s a men’s range of Ferrosi gear as well.

They’re priced at CAD $95/USD $75 and come in black, pewter, night (deep blue), mushroom, sand (off-white) and shade (a pale grey-blue).

Find them online and in the Vancouver area at Eco Outdoors Sports, Atmosphere, MEC and Ecomarine Paddlesport Centres. In the US, look for them at REI stores and at Outdoor Research.