I have become something of a convert to the leggings and waterproof over-trousers combination. Until recently, I preferred to wear proper walking trousers and then when the rain came on I’d pull on my waterproof over-trousers on top. However, this procedure can often be a hassle and most often I would find the trousers and over-trousers combo a bit too hot, sweaty and irritating.

Leggings, however, are much lighter and when combined with a pair of good-quality waterproof over-trousers I feel comfortable and dry for most of the day.  This is where the Quechua Forclaz Rain over-trousers have really scored.

These over-trousers are of very good quality, almost like a pair of trousers on their own. They boast a 5000mm waterproof NOVADRY membrane and 100% taped seams. This fabric is also breathable.

Inside the trousers is a fleecy upper area (around the bum) and a meshed lower leg. The high-ish waist keeps them up and in place and stops rain and snow from penetrating your waist area.

When coupled with leggings underneath I felt securely watertight and warm while walking.

Test walks: Quechua Forclaz Rain overtrousers

If you are heading out for a full-on walking day that will be hot and sweaty, I probably wouldn’t wear these robust and high quality trousers but for days that are very cold and windy they do a great job.

I actually found the Quechua Forclaz Rain overtrousers to be perfect for snowy days. I have been walking my dog, Wispa the Wonder Whippet, on cold and sometimes wet or snowy winter mornings and these have been the perfect walking trousers for a brisk hour’s hike round park trails.

On a day that was snowy enough for sledging fun I found the waterproof trousers to be the best I have come across for keeping me warm and dry.

When I find myself getting a bit hot I can open the useful side ventilation zips.

Getting the trousers on and off, over boots if needs be, is facilitated by a three-quarter length leg zip, which is extremely handy. Over trousers that skimp on the side zip length are a total pain.

The over-trousers also come with an extra durable and wide hem so you do not need to worry about them wearing out after years of rubbing against your boots. In fact, Decathlon offer a two-year guarantee with this item, which is reassuring.

The trousers seem to be in unisex European sizes and because I have fairly slim hips they fitted me quite well. I’m not sure they are perfect for more curvy women although if you have a Decathlon store near you they are well worth a try.

The trousers are priced at £44.99, which is a good price for a product that is of good quality and has a two-year guarantee. See Decathlon.