The Prana Mojave Pant is a lightweight, stretch-woven trouser designed for movement, breathability, and casual style. Positioned as a go-anywhere pant for climbers, hikers, and urban explorers, the Mojave blends technical performance with a laid-back aesthetic. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its materials, fit, durability, and real-world usability—especially for those who value minimalist gear that doesn’t compromise on function.
Materials & Construction
The Mojave Pant is built from a recycled nylon blend with added elastane, giving it a soft hand feel and excellent stretch. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, ideal for warm climates or high-output activities. It’s also bluesign® approved, meaning it meets rigorous environmental and safety standards—a win for sustainability-minded users.
The weave is tight enough to resist abrasion from rock faces or rough surfaces, yet airy enough to stay comfortable during long travel days or sweaty ascents. The DWR (durable water repellent) finish offers light moisture resistance, though it’s not intended for heavy rain or wet bushwhacking.
Seams are double-stitched in high-stress areas, and the waistband is partially elasticized with a built-in webbing belt—a thoughtful touch that eliminates the need for a separate belt and keeps the silhouette clean.
Fit & Mobility
Prana describes the Mojave as a standard fit, but in practice it leans toward a slim athletic cut. The articulated knees and gusseted crotch allow for full range of motion, whether you’re scrambling up granite or crouching to adjust a bikepacking rig.
The tapered leg design keeps the profile sleek, avoiding the bagginess of traditional hiking pants. It’s trim enough to wear in urban settings without looking out of place, yet roomy enough in the thighs and seat for active movement.
Sizing runs true, though users with muscular legs may prefer to size up for comfort. The integrated belt helps fine-tune the fit, and the elastic waistband accommodates layering or post-lunch expansion without digging in.
Pockets & Storage
The Mojave Pant features five pockets:
- Two front hand pockets: Deep enough for phones, snacks, or multitools.
- Two rear patch pockets: Low-profile and unobtrusive.
- One zippered thigh pocket: Ideal for securing valuables like keys, cards, or a small GPS unit.
The thigh pocket is especially useful for climbers or cyclists who need access while seated or harnessed. It’s positioned high enough to avoid interference with movement, and the zipper is smooth and low-profile.
Performance in the Field
Climbing & Scrambling
The Mojave excels on rock. Its stretch and articulation allow for high steps and heel hooks without restriction. The fabric resists abrasion surprisingly well for its weight, and the tapered leg avoids snagging on holds or gear.
Travel & Urban Use
For minimalist travelers, the Mojave is a dream. It packs down small, dries quickly, and looks sharp enough to wear in cafes or airports. The muted color options (like charcoal, olive, and sand) pair easily with other travel staples.
Hiking & Bikepacking
While not designed as a hardcore hiking pant, the Mojave performs well on trails and gravel. It breathes better than heavier synthetics and sheds light moisture. The thigh pocket is a bonus for bikepackers who want quick access to essentials without digging into panniers.
Durability & Maintenance
Despite its lightweight build, the Mojave holds up well over time. Users report months of regular use with minimal pilling or seam wear. The fabric resists odor better than expected, and it washes easily—no special care required.
The DWR coating will eventually wear off, but it can be refreshed with aftermarket sprays. The integrated belt and elastic waistband show no signs of sagging or deformation, even after repeated laundering.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable for warm climates
- Excellent mobility with stretch and articulation
- Integrated belt and elastic waistband for comfort
- Stylish enough for urban wear
- Sustainably made with bluesign® materials
- Packs small and dries fast—great for travel
Cons:
- Not ideal for cold or wet conditions
- Slim fit may not suit all body types
- Limited insulation for shoulder-season use
- DWR finish wears off over time
- No cargo-style storage for heavy gear loads
Comparison: Prana Mojave vs Prana Stretch Zion II
| Feature | Mojave Pant | Stretch Zion II |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric Weight | Lightweight | Midweight |
| Stretch & Mobility | High | High |
| Fit | Slim athletic | Standard relaxed |
| Integrated Belt | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | Light DWR | Enhanced DWR |
| Best Use Case | Warm weather, travel, climbing | All-season hiking, climbing |
| Price | ~$89 | ~$95 |
The Mojave is better suited for warm-weather minimalists, while the Stretch Zion II offers more durability and weather protection for year-round use.
Final Verdict
The Prana Mojave Pant is a standout for those who value lightweight versatility and clean design. It’s not a do-everything pant—but it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it nails the sweet spot for climbers, travelers, and urban minimalists who want gear that moves with them, looks good, and doesn’t weigh them down.
If you’re building a capsule wardrobe for adventure or refining your bikepacking kit, the Mojave deserves a place. It’s especially compelling for those who prioritize breathability, packability, and freedom of movement.
