I've waited a long time for a one of Dovetails' slim fit pants to come back in stock in my specific size, and it was definitely worth the wait.

On my body, it was more of a skinny fit than a slim fit, which was actually perfect because I live in skinny jeans. This also means I can wear all of my boots over top of the jeans without having to roll the legs up or wear the boots underneath. The denim used is nice and heavy, but without impeding movement. The sheer number of pockets Maven X offers is so useful, and the main pockets are large enough to put my hands in.

They're definitely good work pants, but my wife noticed the additional rivets along the knee pads and called them "goth ninja pants," and I can confirm they work just as well in the mosh pit as on the job site. I expected these to just be work and hiking pants, but they're much more versatile in both form and function than I was expecting, and they've become everyday jeans for me.

Since Dovetail has its separate HOTSWAP line, I wasn't expecting a cozy inner lining, but I got one and I love it during this chilly autumn here in the Midwestern United States. To be honest, Maven X will probably be a gateway into HOTSWAP pants since I imagine those would work even better in cold weather applications.

I appreciate the transparency with the care instructions. They did not shrink on first wash when hanging to dry, and I'm hoping they'll stay in good shape and won't fade too quickly as long as I take good care of…