Immersion Research has completely redesigned its Splash Pants into a robust waterproof breathable pant for kayaking, right down to the neoprene booties.

IR took its already popular Splash Pants and stepped them up a few notches to make them the complete package: a 4-layer Entrant HR fully waterproof pant.

First off, we're impressed with the heft and apparent durability of this thick, breathable fabric. Feeling like a waterproof pair of Carhartts, these pants promise to stand up well to the rigors of serious touring, in the kayak and around camp.

We especially like that these pants have practical neoprene socks similar to fishing waders instead of coated nylon or waterproof breathable fabric socks. IR fused 2-mil neoprene booties to the ankles to keep the pants 100 percent dry from waist to toes. The booties are themselves glued and seam-taped for durable dryness. The 2-mil neoprene is thin enough to fit comfortably into any booties or shoes but is sure to outperform and outlast the fragile fabric socks we're used to seeing in paddling suits and drysuits. Neoprene also has the advantage of stretch to fit a range of foot sizes, although they are cut to accommodate large feet so people with smaller feet will have some excess material.

The pants are egonomically cut for comfortable all-day sitting.The waistband, made of 2 mm neoprene, sits high and snug enough to keep water off your bum and lower back when seated in a kayak and climbing in and out. It's nonadjustible, however, which is nicely fuss-free, simple and dry, but not so great if you're horizontally gifted or happened to eat too much for lunch. Our size L fit perfectly on a tall skinny dude with a 34-inch waist and 34-inch inseam.

The neoprene is cut high enough up the back to keep you dry if you're sitting on a wet kayak seat, but leaves your midsection exposed, and doesn't offer the midsection protection of bib pants. IR suggests pairing them with its Ragnorak semi-dry top.

Speaking of semi-dry, the pants feature a semi-dry zip pocket with a drain hole on the right front thigh to keep valuables clean and secure (but not dry).

These pants will work great for sea kayaking, kayak fishing, whitewater kayaking or even, come to think of it, cycling or motorcycling in the pouring rain.

Sizes: Small to XXL

Price: $250 US