What are the essential differences and which do members prefer?

Thanks

Wow, no answers!

Well, here's my take on it as a non- (but potential) user of either or both:

Icelanders will be more roomy, like Uplanders, have a tougher outside fabric and probably be fractionaklly warmer. The downside may be that because they use fleece inside they might sometimes feel clammy (I don't know, but I'm guessing).

Winter Bags will be narrower in fit and perhaps a bit more cozy and snuggly-feeling, due to the cotton used in the liner.

But I'd like to hear from real users.

Thanks!

Winter Bags for me. I prefer the Airlight fabric to the canvas weave of the Icelanders. I prefer the style of the Winter Bags, although I agree Icelanders are are looser fit. Winter Bags dry quicker and are lighter. I can't work out why the dry quicker because with the cotton in the lining I would of expected them to take longer. I have long legs so the 36inch is great for me. I have had Winter Bags for years and they dont wear out.

I think that if you are looking for a pair of trousers that will take the wear and tear of winter walking, I would recommend the Icelanders. They have a much tougher outer fabric (polyamide canvas - even harder wearing than cordura!) than the winter bags and as you have already said, a more roomy fit, also more ideal for walking. But saying this, we have made the winter bags for many many years and will probably continue doing so as they are a firm favourite for many Rohan regulars. Personally I would choose the Icelanders, easier to fit...they will fit even if i've had too much pudding! Hope this helps. Christeen (Manager at Rohan Keswick)

Thank you to George and Christeen for your helpful comments

I'd agree that the Icelanders would be better for winter walking, while the W. Bags are more slumming around in the cold.

But for winter walking I'd sooner be in something stretchy, like Superstriders, as they give much better freedom of movement. A closer cut, which the stretch allows, is more thermally efficient too so you don't need so much insulation.

Pete.