What trousers are best for enjoying the Caribbean?

December 15, 2008 10:03 AM

I'm traveling to the Caribbean for two weeks next summer (July). I do not wear shorts. What brands of khakis make comfortable and practical alternatives? Are there any particular fabrics or other things to consider? My closet is full of nothing but suits and weekend jeans, so I'm starting from scratch when I build my wardrobe for paradise. Thanks!
posted by jackypaper to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (7 answers total)

I have a pair of these North Face Paramounts. They're very light and airy, yet hold up well in colder weather too. They zip off into shorts if the mood struck you, but you can't tell this feature exists if you choose not to. They dry very quickly.
posted by nitsuj at 10:11 AM on December 15, 2008

Here is a similar though not quite the same thread on the topic of going someplace warm and not wanting to wear shorts. You might wan tto try a pair of silk or linen travel pants. Linen is airy and looks nice even when rumpled and Magellan swears these don't wrinkle.
posted by jessamyn at 10:14 AM on December 15, 2008

Best answer: I have these pants from REI - they're nice enough to wear for work or for an evening out at a niceish restaurant, but aren't "formal", and they're cool enough (and have SPF protection) for hot-weather wear. They dry quickly.
posted by rtha at 10:14 AM on December 15, 2008 [1 favorite]

For the record, only tourists and children wear shorts in Latin America anyway, so don't worry about your pantedness.

Walking around in shorts is right up there with a flowery shirt, chewing gum, zinc on your nose and a big camera around your neck. :)
posted by rokusan at 11:11 AM on December 15, 2008

Can't help you with brands but some light weight linen khaki trousers will fit the bill.
posted by Dr.Pill at 11:28 AM on December 15, 2008

Buy a summer suit! You'll be like mathowie. Khaki suits are awesome and I've always wished for an excuse to buy one.
posted by zpousman at 2:44 PM on December 15, 2008

Linen pants. I bought my husband about 4 pair from Old Navy before our 2 week wedding-moon in the Caribbean, and he wore them every single day. I do believe it is the only time he has ever gushed about an article of clothing.
posted by tryniti at 6:02 PM on December 15, 2008 [1 favorite]