The Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers have been my go-to waterproof trousers for over two years — not just for the big adventures and weekends up in the mountains, but for the relentless, unglamorous stuff too. The daily dog walks through muddy woodland in the South East on days when the rain just won’t let up.
In this review, I’ll cover the key features, how they hold up over time, how the GORE-TEX membrane performs under real sustained use, and whether they’re worth the price over cheaper alternatives.
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The Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers was purchased at full price by me. All opinions are my own.
At a Glance
- Waterproofing
- Breathability
- Fit & Packability
- Durability
My Take
The Maitland delivers what a GORE-TEX membrane should — reliable, fully waterproof protection that holds up under sustained use. At £140 the full-length side zips and long-term durability make them a better buy than a cheaper alternative that needs replacing after a season.
Best For: Day hikers and weekend adventurers who need reliable waterproof protection
Price Range: RRP £140 (Typically found between £105-135)
Available Sizes: S-XXL (Regular and Short leg lengths)
The Berghaus Maitland Gore-Tex Overtrousers are packable waterproof trousers designed for British weather. With full-length side zips and Gore-Tex protection, they’re built for hikers who need quick-deploying wet weather protection without the bulk.
- 100% waterproof and breathable with GORE-TEX membrane
- Articulated fit for enhanced movement and comfort
- Zipped ankles for an easy fit over boots
- Regular fit with an elasticated waist
Tested almost daily over 2 winters on very muddy woodland walks in the South East, in heavy downpours, and windy conditions across the UK, plus hiking in Wales, the Lake District, and a coast-to-coast canoe trip across Scotland – they’ve been everywhere with me.
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Who Are They For?
These suit anyone who spends regular time outdoors in the UK and needs waterproof legwear they can get on fast. Day hikers, dog walkers, and weekend adventurers in particular will find the full-length side zips earn their place every session. If you’re prioritising ultralight pack weight above everything else, or working to a tight budget, there are lighter and cheaper options — but they won’t hold up to sustained daily use the way these do.
Top Features of the Maitland Overtrousers
Gore-Tex Waterproof Protection
The Gore-Tex membrane provides complete waterproof protection whilst maintaining breathability. The Gore-Tex technology uses a microporous membrane that blocks water while allowing sweat vapor to escape. In my testing, even during torrential downpours on the South Coast, water simply rolled off the fabric surface. The breathable nature means you don’t get that clammy feeling you’d experience with cheaper waterproof materials.
Full-Length Side Zips
Running from ankle to hip on both legs, these zips are the feature I use most. Muddy boots already on, rain coming in — I can have these on and be moving in seconds, no sitting down, no wrestling with tight ankle openings.
Articulated Fit Design
The articulated fit ensures freedom of movement isn’t compromised by the waterproof layer. The pre-shaped knees and seat mean you can scramble over stiles or navigate rocky terrain without feeling restricted.
Packable and Lightweight
When not needed, these pack down surprisingly small. They lived in my day pack without taking up much space at all, making them perfect for “just in case” protection during variable weather conditions.
Berghaus Maitland Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Rating | Gore-Tex (fully waterproof) |
| Breathability | Gore-Tex membrane |
| Weight | Approx. 350g |
| Fit | Regular fit with articulated design |
| Waist Closure | Elasticated with drawcord |
| Ankle Closure | Full-length side zips |
| Leg Lengths | Short (76cm), Regular (81cm), Long (86cm) |
| Colours | Black |
| Care | Machine washable |
| Price | £140 |
My Experience with Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX Overtrousers
Over the past few years, the Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers have been thoroughly tested against the classic British weather: relentless rain and gusty winds, not to mention the unavoidable mud that comes with trekking through the woods on my daily dog walks.
This wasn’t just a one-off trial but a continuous series of wet-weather adventures designed to really see if they live up to their promises.
From the outset, these overtrousers impressed with their GORE-TEX® fabric’s ability to repel water. Even in the heaviest downpour, they kept me completely dry, with water rolling off like it would on a well-waxed jacket and their windproof qualities added another layer of protection, shielding me from biting gusts.
Equally impressive is the fabric’s breathability, which prevented any internal moisture buildup, keeping me comfortable throughout my hikes. Additionally, the 2-way zip design allows for easy temperature regulation.
The full-length side zips of the Berghaus Maitland Overtrousers are the standout feature for me. The ease and speed of slipping them on over my walking trousers without having to remove my boots—or even pause significantly—is a game changer.
Adjusting the fit is straightforward, thanks to the elastic draw cord at the waist. This ensured the overtrousers stayed put without squeezing too tight or hanging too loose. And when it’s time to peel off the mud-caked layers at the end of a hike, those same zips make it a non-issue, even when dealing with boots caked in mud.
Having put the Berghaus Maitland Overtrousers through their paces in a variety of harsh conditions, I can confidently say they’ve exceeded expectations. They’ve now become an essential piece of my wet weather get-up this winter, having proved their worth with every wear.
It just goes to show that when a top-tier brand like Berghaus combines its expertise with the proven performance of GORE-TEX, you know you’re in for something special.
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Berghaus Maitland Gore-Tex Pros and Cons
Pros
- 100% Waterproof and windproof
- Full-length side zips for easy on/off
- Lightweight and packable
- Machine washable, easy care
Cons
- Premium price point
- Bulkier than ultralight alternatives
- No quick access to pockets
Top Alternatives
While the Maitland overtrousers are excellent, they’re not the only option for waterproof leg protection. Here are the main alternatives worth considering:
Berghaus Deluge 2.0 Overtrousers
A more budget-friendly option from the same brand, using Berghaus’s own AQ2 waterproof fabric instead of Gore-Tex. Good for occasional use but lacks the premium feel and long-term durability of the Maitland.
Rab Downpour Eco Pants
Similar price point but made with recycled materials. Offers comparable waterproof protection but without the full-length side zips that make the Maitland so convenient.
Montane Minimus Pants
Lighter weight option for ultralight hikers, but less durable for regular use. Best for those prioritising pack weight over longevity.
Final Thoughts
After two years of daily use, minimal care, and regular mud. The waterproofing hasn’t dropped off, the zips still run clean, and nothing has worn through. At £140, they’re not the cheapest, but the GORE-TEX membrane and full-length side zips set them apart from most overtrousers at this price — and the longevity justifies the outlay if you use them regularly.
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Berghaus Maitland FAQs
Are the Berghaus Maitland overtrousers fully waterproof?
Yes, they use Gore-Tex membrane technology which provides complete waterproof protection whilst remaining breathable. In testing, they kept me completely dry during heavy downpours.
Can you put these on over walking boots?
Absolutely – this is one of their best features. The full-length side zips mean you can slip them on over boots without needing to sit down or remove footwear.
How packable are the Maitland overtrousers?
They pack down small enough to keep in a day pack permanently. At around 350g, they’re light enough for “just in case” protection without significant weight penalty.
What’s the difference between Regular and Short leg lengths?
Regular length suits most people 5’8″ and above, whilst Short length is better for those under 5’8″ or if you prefer a less baggy fit around the ankles.
How do you care for Gore-Tex overtrousers?
Machine wash on a gentle cycle with technical detergent. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Periodic reproofing with appropriate treatments will maintain water repellency.
Are they worth the premium price over cheaper alternatives?
The Gore-Tex membrane, full-length zips, and overall build quality justify the price for regular outdoor users. For occasional use, cheaper alternatives may suffice.
Related Guides & Reviews
The resources below cover the basics, common questions, and related kit to help you get more out of your time outdoors.
- Best Gore-Tex Jackets for Hiking in the UK
- Best Waterproof Jackets for Hiking in the UK
- Rohan Aira Jacket Review (Is It Worth £300?)
- Mac in a Sac Ultralite Waterproof Trousers Review
- Seashell Changing Robe Review
Steve Cleverdon
Adventure-driven outdoor gear reviewer and paddleboarder, Steve has spent 20 years exploring rivers, coastlines, and trails across Britain and abroad, sharing what he’s learned along the way. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
