Cimalp Piton Review

The Cimalp Piton are softshell pants designed for winter activities in the mountains. Robust, highly breathable and with good wind protection, they are an attractive choice for long ski mountaineering and winter hiking trips, where the weather conditions can become challenging.

Their high breathability does not compromise the wind protection, which remains excellent. The waterproofness, on the other hand, is adequate for use on the move, but can be put to the test when standing still in direct contact with wet surfaces, e.g. in a cable car.

As proof of the construction quality and technicality of the product, Cimalp Pitons are among the garments recommended by the Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS Italy). In fact, Cimalp collaborates with the CNSAS by supplying equipment for professional mountain rescue activities.

Technical features of the Cimalp Piton

• Fabric: Expedition Softshell 340g/m2
• Breathability: 10’000g/m2/24h
• Waterproofness: 10’000 mm water column (10’000 Schmerber)
• Wind protection: +100 km/h
• Weight: 700g Size M
• Adjustable Velcro shoulder straps
• Large double-slider side openings
• Kevlar reinforcements
• TEFLON EcoElite water-repellent treatment (PFC FREE DWR)
• Eco labels: Bluesign
• Elasticised inner gaiters
• Preformed knees
• Ergonomic cut
• RECCO antivalanche system
• Manufacturer country: China
• Link to the manufacturer

Test mode

I tested the Cimalp Piton pants during the winter of 2024-2025, mainly on ski mountaineering outings. Due to the poor snow conditions at the beginning of the season, the focus was more on ascents than descents.

The conditions encountered included mostly sunny days with cold temperatures, but also an evening hike with strong winds and gusts of up to 80 km/h. On one occasion, I pelted under a light snowfall. In addition, I also used them on a few days on the ski slopes.

During all the tests, I always combined the trousers with technical underwear.

Cimalp Piton on-site test

How they look

The first thing that strikes you about the Cimalp Piton is the quality of the materials, in particular the robustness of the fabric and the elasticated braces. Another detail that immediately stands out is the long side ventilation zips, which immediately convey a feeling of high breathability.

Adjustment and comfort

The Cimalp Piton trousers do not have an elasticated waist adjustment system, but are equipped with elasticated braces, which join in a loop at the back. In addition to being completely removable, these can be easily adjusted thanks to strapsin Velcro, thus adapting to the skier’s physique. Once set, the adjustments remain stable throughout the activity, both uphill and downhill, without loosening.

Although I am not a big fan of the braces system, I found it comfortable and well designed for a custom fit. However, one rather important limitation must be considered: if you decide to remove the braces, the Cimalp Piton lacks belt loops. So it’s braces or nothing!

The front closure is by means of a zip and two press studs, while on the leg there is a zip to make it easier to put on ski mountaineering boots. On the inside are elasticated gaiters, which, thanks to a practical Velcro strap, wrap around the boot leg, preventing snow from entering.

Although the bottom of the boot may seem narrow, it fits without difficulty over ski mountaineering boots, guaranteeing a comfortable fit.

From the very first use, the Cimalp Piton transmit a high level of comfort. The softness of the fabric and the ergonomic cut offer great freedom of movement, even during warm-up exercises.

Pockets and functionality

The Cimalp Pitons are equipped with two front-lateral pockets with precise and well-finished zips. The dimensions are quite small, enough to store a few handkerchiefs or small objects. A smartphone can fit, but in more dynamic movements it tends to be annoying due to the limited space.

The trousers have Kevlar reinforcements on the buttocks and knees, which are particularly useful when kneeling to adjust skis. In addition, the lower leg is equipped with anti-cut reinforcements, ideal for resisting abrasions and chafing.

Finally, the Cimalp Piton incorporates the Recco system, an avalanche research technology that increases safety in the alpine environment.

The Cimalp Piton on uphill

The Cimalp Piton are at their best when climbing with skins, thanks to theirhigh level of breathability and the possibility of effective adjustment.

The two large full-length zips, with double sliders, allow a large area of the trousers to be opened up, promoting ventilation by means of an internal mesh. This system proves particularly useful on longer and more demanding climbs, guaranteeing excellent heat exchange.

As I tend to overheat easily and sweat a lot, I appreciated the possibility of managing the ventilation progressively: as the intensity of the ascent increased, I could open the side zips more and more, maintaining a well-regulated temperature and perspiration.

In the sections most exposed to the wind, on the other hand, the double slider proved practical for quickly closing the opening and sheltering me from the cold. The zips are easy to manage even with gloves on, a detail that confirms their functionality in a winter environment.

Water and wind resistance

I was pleasantly surprised by the Cimalp Piton’s ability to withstand wind. During an evening ski mountaineering trip, I faced gusts of up to 80 km/h on the summit. Even in these conditions, the trousers offered excellent protection, especially during the dynamic phase of the ascent. On the summit, during the breaks to change ski settings, the wind was more noticeable, but without causing excessive discomfort.

As far as water resistance is concerned, Cimalp claims a water column of 10,000 mm. During my outings, I encountered some light snowfalls, but the trousers remained perfectly dry, without allowing moisture to seep in. Even in a more extreme test, under running water, the fabric behaved as expected: the water slides off without penetrating, even after several seconds.

The situation changes, however, in static and prolonged wet conditions. Being made of softshell fabric, these trousers are water-repellent but not waterproof. If, for example, you sit on a chairlift that is dirty with snow, the water will run off and you will get your bottom wet. However, you have to consider that these are trousers designed for ski mountaineering and hiking, where it is OK to give up some waterproofing in favour of more breathability.

As far as protection from the cold is concerned, even in cold temperatures I never felt any discomfort, thanks to the combination of robust materials and intense activity. On track outings, on the other hand, where the breaks are more frequent, the thermal insulation is lower, but never insufficient.

The Cimalp Piton in other snow activities

High breathability and weather resistance, combined with comfort and freedom of movement, make the Cimalp Piton ideal foruse without skis.

In particular, during winter hiking and long-duration snowshoeing, they offer optimal protection from the weather, without compromising comfort and convenience in any way.

Fit

I am 1.83 cm tall and 75 kg and I tested the Cimalp Piton in size L, which corresponds to my usual size. I did not find an excessive fit, so I do not consider it necessary to opt for an extra size, as suggested by the manufacturer. The cut is quite snug and ergonomic, guaranteeing a good fit without being constricting.

Recommended for

The Cimalp Piton trousers are ideal for those seeking versatility in off-piste winter activities, from ski mountaineering to mountaineering.

Thanks to the large double-slider side openings, they offer excellent breathability, making them great for dynamic activities without overheating. Their weather resistance ensures protection from strong winds and good thermal insulation, even in harsh conditions.

While not the most stylish option, they prioritize functionality over design. For those wanting a reliable winter trouser with braces that can handle various activities, they are a solid choice.