British MVP rain trousers, Desert DPM, surplus

MVP is the British Army equivalent to Gore-Tex. It has exactly the same qualities: waterproof but still breathable to a degree, unlike rubber. These are the trousers of the MVP uniform and are Desert DPM camouflaged.

The trousers are simple overtrousers meant only to protect from rain and wind, not offer insulation or carrying capacity. Packs small and weights almost nothing. If you are after a pair of low-cost, durable, no-nonsense GTX pants, these are the ticket. No big loss if they get damaged; this is a BIG plus in surplus. Of course, being army issue stuff, they are pretty durable, to begin with.

A note about the membrane. While it's true the MVP (Moisture Vapour Permeable) membrane lets some moisture out just like Gore-Tex, it's not a magic do-it-all fabric. It's best used as rainwear or as a windproof layer in stationary use. In the heavy activity, you will likely get wet from the inside.

We occasionally get trousers with side zippers. These are listed separately on the drop-down box when available. These don't have an elastic waist but do have drawcord tightening.

Care

Please note that clothes with a membrane require care to retain their waterproof properties. Washing should be done in lukewarm water, by hand with a special detergent. Periodic waterproofing treatment is recommended by washing in, spraying on, or both.

Size

First leg inseam, then waist circumference. The sizes run large, as the trousers are supposed to be used over everything else. So if your waist is about 88 cm / 34.5", pick that size of the trousers, and you get a good fit. The suitable leg inseam is easy to find out - just measure the distance from the crotch to the leg cuff of a pair that you already have.

Used surplus

Used, but in good serviceable condition.