For climbers who crave both performance and style, the quest for the perfect pair of climbing pants often leads to a compromise between durability and flexibility. Enter Rock Jeans, a niche yet increasingly popular category designed to bridge this gap. In this review, we delve into two standout contenders in the rock jeans arena: the 3RD ROCK Fitz and Mercury climbing jeans. Both utilize 3RD ROCK’s renowned EcoMORPH Denim, promising exceptional stretch and eco-conscious construction. However, beneath the surface, these jeans diverge significantly in fit and aesthetics. After rigorous testing, one model emerged as a personal favorite, becoming my go-to choice for crag days, while the other, despite its merits, didn’t quite resonate. Join us as we break down the nuances of the Fitz and Mercury, helping you decide which pair of rock jeans might be your ideal climbing companion.
Fitz vs. Mercury: A Head-to-Head Look at these Rock Jeans
Before we dive into the detailed review, let’s paint a quick visual picture and summary of the key differences between the Fitz and Mercury rock jeans. The Fitz, presented in classic blue denim, sports a distinctive ‘carrot shape’ design. Imagine ample room where you need it most – the crotch and thighs – gracefully tapering down to a slimmer fit around the lower legs. This design caters to climbers seeking unrestricted movement in crucial areas. Conversely, the Mercury rock jeans, rendered in sleek black denim, adopt a more conventional ‘slim jean’ silhouette. Think of your everyday high-street slim jeans, but engineered for the demands of climbing.
It’s worth noting that we previously assessed an earlier version of the Mercury jeans in 2018. That iteration employed traditional cotton, setting it apart from the current models boasting the updated EcoMORPH Denim, a testament to 3RD ROCK’s commitment to innovation in rock jeans technology.
Unrestricted Movement: The Core of Rock Jeans Performance
The defining characteristic of any quality rock jeans, especially those designed for climbing, is freedom of movement. In this aspect, both the 3RD ROCK Fitz and Mercury truly excel. The EcoMORPH Denim is incredibly stretchy, working in harmony with an exceptionally generous diamond-shaped gusset in the crotch. This combination results in a remarkable range of motion, making them an absolute pleasure to climb in. While they might not offer the same level of unrestricted airflow as loose-fitting cotton trousers, for denim, their flexibility is truly exceptional.
Initially, the slim fit of the Mercury might seem deceiving. Each time I pull them on, a fleeting thought crosses my mind: “Can these really be flexible enough?”. Yet, time and again, they prove their climbing prowess.
Fit and Feel: Tailoring Your Rock Jeans Experience
Despite both being size 30 waist and 32 leg, the Fitz and Mercury rock jeans present noticeably different fits.
The Fitz, with its signature carrot shape, provides a relaxed feel around the waist and upper thighs, then dramatically tapers down to a more fitted lower leg – almost drainpipe-like. For someone hovering between a 30 and 31 waist (like myself, and 3RD ROCK doesn’t offer a 31), the Fitz accommodates comfortably at the waist. However, the significant taper means they become quite snug from the mid-thigh down.
The Mercury, maintaining a consistent slim fit throughout, doesn’t feel as restrictive in the lower leg as the Fitz. However, their uniform slimness translates to a tighter fit around the crotch. The size 30 waist is just manageable for me, and if I were to purchase them again, I would likely opt for a 32 for enhanced comfort, especially for all-day wear both on and off the rock.
EcoMORPH Denim: The Fabric of Innovative Rock Jeans
Both rock jeans are crafted from 3RD ROCK’s proprietary EcoMORPH Denim. This material is not only incredibly stretchy but also boasts a rich, authentic denim aesthetic. The Fitz utilizes (86% Organic Cotton, 11% Polyester, 3% Elastane 4-way stretch EcoMORPH denim), while the Mercury features (80% Organic Cotton, 16.5% Recycled PET, 3.5% Recycled Elastane 4 Way Stretch EcoMORPH 2.0 Denim).
The denim feels premium to the touch and visually appealing, suggesting long-lasting wear. The construction is impeccable, with flawless stitching on both models, reinforcing their status as high-quality rock jeans.
Remarkably, the denim feels virtually indistinguishable from conventional high-street denim, save for the enhanced stretch. Both the Fitz and Mercury serve as excellent choices for winter climbing legwear, offering both warmth and abrasion resistance – crucial attributes for durable rock jeans.
Eco-Conscious Credentials: Rock Jeans with a Planet-Friendly Approach
True to 3RD ROCK’s ethos, environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in their rock jeans. The EcoMORPH Denim is crafted from organic cotton and undergoes a specialized processing method for washing and finishing. This innovative approach significantly minimizes the environmental impact typically associated with denim production. For a deeper dive into their sustainability practices, you can explore more details here.
Features and Fastenings: Rock Jeans Essentials
In terms of functional features, both pairs of rock jeans are equipped with all the essentials. They fasten securely with a single button, feature belt loops for customized fit, and incorporate a zipped fly. Practicality is further enhanced by two front pockets and two generously sized back pockets. These are the standard features you’d expect from any well-designed jeans, and given their snug fit, I anticipate minimal bagging out over time, maintaining their shape and style as dependable rock jeans.
Appearance and Style: Defining Your Rock Jeans Look
Here’s where the Fitz and Mercury diverge again, catering to different aesthetic preferences in rock jeans. Personally, the Fitz silhouette doesn’t quite align with my style. They simply don’t flatter my leg shape. However, positive reviews on the 3RD ROCK website suggest this might be a matter of personal fit and that the carrot shape works well for many.
The Mercury, on the other hand, are a different story. They seamlessly blend the appearance of regular black slim jeans with the functionality of climbing apparel. I find them incredibly appealing and they’ve become my preferred rock jeans for climbing. Their versatility even extends beyond the crag – I confidently wear them when aiming for a smarter casual look, even when climbing isn’t on the agenda.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal Rock Jeans
The 3RD ROCK rock jeans, and the EcoMORPH denim they utilize, are genuinely impressive. Their exceptional stretch, coupled with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices, sets them apart in the market. Between the Fitz and Mercury models, my personal preference leans heavily towards the Mercury. Their conventional fit and appearance resonate more with my style, while the Fitz, despite its unique design, didn’t quite suit me. Ultimately, the “best” pair for you hinges on personal preference, with fit being a crucial consideration before purchasing rock jeans. Regardless of your choice, both represent some of the most impressive climbing jeans I’ve had the pleasure of wearing, offering a compelling blend of performance, style, and sustainability for the discerning climber.
