This week I’m diving into the world of wet-weather hiking essentials with the Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers. With the UK’s reputation for sudden showers, having reliable waterproof gear is a must, and these trousers promise not just to keep you dry but to do so without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
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At a Glance
Best For: Day hikers and weekend adventurers who need reliable waterproof protection
Price Range: £105-140 (often on sale)
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.
Tested almost daily over 2 winters on very muddy woodland walks, in heavy downpours, and windy conditions across the UK.
- 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
- Ideal for hiking, paddleboarding, and varied outdoor activities
Top Features
The Maitland overtrousers have some clever design features that make them particularly useful for UK hiking conditions.
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
This is the game-changer feature. The full-length zips run from ankle to waistband, making it possible to slip these on over walking boots and full hiking kit in seconds. No need to sit down, remove boots, or struggle with tight leg openings – particularly useful when weather changes quickly.
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 waist with drawcord |
| Ankle Closure | Full-length side zips |
| Side Access | Pre-connected 7000 aluminium poles |
| Leg Lengths | Regular and Short options |
| Colours | Black, Red |
| Care | Machine washable |
| Price Range | £105-140 |
How it compares: At £105-140, these sit in the mid-to-premium range for Gore-Tex overtrousers. They’re more expensive than basic waterproof trousers but offer better durability and packability than budget alternatives.
My Experience with Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX Overtrousers
Over the past few months, 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.
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
- No quick access to pockets
Top Alternatives to the Berghaus Maitland Gore-Tex Overtrousers
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.
Comparison Summary:
- Most convenient: Berghaus Maitland (full-length zips)
- Best value: Berghaus Deluge 2.0
- Most sustainable: Rab Downpour Eco
- Lightest: Montane Minimus
Final Thoughts
The Berghaus Maitland Gore-Tex Overtrousers earn their place as dependable wet weather protection for UK hikers. The combination of Gore-Tex reliability, practical full-length zips, and packable design makes them a solid choice for anyone who spends regular time outdoors.
Bottom line: These overtrousers excel at their primary job – keeping you dry whilst maintaining comfort and mobility. The premium price is justified by the Gore-Tex membrane and thoughtful design features, particularly those full-length zips.
Best for: Day hikers, weekend adventurers, and anyone who needs quick-deploying waterproof protection that packs small.
Consider alternatives if: You’re on a tight budget (look at the Deluge 2.0) or prioritising ultralight pack weight over durability.
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More Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers Photos
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.
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- The Ultimate Hiking Equipment List: Hiking Gear Checklist
- Best Head Torches
- Best Thermos Flasks
- Best Waterproof Jackets for Hiking in the UK
- Mac in a Sac Ultralite Waterproof Trousers Review
I bought the Berghaus Maitland GORE-TEX® Overtrousers with my own money to test and review. My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own unbiased opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you. You can read my affiliate disclosure in the privacy policy.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
