Looking for recommendations on good quality, affordable, technical (lightweight, low cotton, high stretch) pants (no zip off legs, please) that will travel well, largely wrinkle free, and can dress up and down depending on pairings. Trying to avoid the cargo pant look. Does such a thing exist, or is it like the old saying: good cheap or fast, pick two?
Ok, will keep in mind. Any suggestions for an alternative?
A few… What about these chinos from bronson (in brown or khaki)? They’re creased and pleated chinos, so they can be dressed up, but they’re based on milsurp styles, so they can also be dressed down. Chino cloth does wrinkle a little, but it’s supposed to, and it doesn’t really look bad like that.
As a more expensive option that hits a lot of your other requirements, Suitsupply’s Duca is a good cut. Wool trousers should not wrinkle normally, and if you fold them right and hang them for a minute when you land, they should look good when traveling as well. Some wools travel better than others—you either want a heavy weight wool or a “high twist” wool (usually more expensive).
Is your budget lower than that?
You could also try thrifting vintage Ralph Lauren corduroys. The “Andrew” cut is very popular and available for pretty cheap—it’s a double forward pleat with a straight leg, and it’s shockingly versatile.
Thank you for your detailed replies. Most helpful.