Roark Layover Traveler Pants Review: TSA-Friendly Performance Pants
I've been testing the Roark Layover Traveler Pants, and they've become my go-to travel pants for their comfort, versatility and thoughtful design.
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Table of contents
- Why I chose the Roark Layover Traveler Pants
- First impressions and design details
- Do I recommend them?
- Quick takeaways
FYI, the version that I have is the Layover Traveler. I updated the links to be the Layover Pro Traveler because that is the current model. The difference between the two is slightly different. The newer version has less cotton, more nylon and elastane. They’re stretchier, and likely more comfortable because of the stretch factor.
Let’s dive into the Roark Layover Traveler Pants. They actually surprised me and are one of the more unique pair of pants that I have. I like that they’re relaxed and cool, with a smattering of special features that my other more traditional pants don’t have.
I’ve interestingly become a fan of these, despite that they’re different, and that I’m newer to the Roark brand. But here we are, so let’s see why I feel this way.
4.2 / 5
The Roark Layover Pro Traveler Pants are TSA-friendly performance pants with thoughtful pocket design, 4-way stretch fabric and a laser perforated cooling panel. They fit true to size and offer excellent comfort for flights and casual travel, though they're too relaxed for business casual settings and the straight style works best when cuffed.
Why I chose the Roark Layover Traveler Pants
Here’s the thing: I’m a big fan of the best travel pants for men out there, and wanted to give the Roark Traveler Pants a shot to see how they’d compare to some of my other favorite styles.
The Layover Traveler Pants caught my attention because of their travel features and overall versatility.
First impressions and design details
When Becca saw these on me, she kind of made a face and got confused, because these pants are different from what I wear on a day-to-day basis. When I put them on, they felt like a perfect fit.
I mostly wear tapered jeans from Mott & Bow or my DUER jeans, and if we’re traveling, I will add in some performance pants like any of the best joggers for men I tend to suggest.
There’s good news here. These pants fit on the first try, so I didn’t have to do any exchanges or returns.
What I did have to do was cuff them, but both Becca and I agree that we like the look. The inseam comes at 31” on the Layover Traveler Pants by default. I’m typically a 32 W x 30 L, so it makes sense that they ran too lengthy.
The cropped cuff is a cool look for them, though, because they’re a straight style, not slim. I’m getting used to this, and I like having the variation in my wardrobe, especially for trips, where I can pair what I bring with the type of destination we’re going to.
Do I recommend them?
The Layover Traveler Pants are a solid choice for travel pants. They’re built for the modern traveler who values both comfort and convenience, and they deliver on both fronts.
I will say that if you’re doing some sort of business casual travel, the Traveler Pants won’t measure up for the job. They’re too relaxed and outdoorsy, in my opinion. I’d opt for a chino, a tailored denim or some other type of elevated bottoms if you were going to a conference, event or business luncheon.
I would totally wear these on the flight, though.
4.2 / 5
The Roark Layover Pro Traveler Pants are TSA-friendly performance pants with thoughtful pocket design, 4-way stretch fabric and a laser perforated cooling panel. They fit true to size and offer excellent comfort for flights and casual travel, though they're too relaxed for business casual settings and the straight style works best when cuffed.
Comfort against skin
88%
The lightweight stretch performance material feels comfortable against my skin, and the relaxed fit means I can wear these all day without wanting to take them off. The laser perforated cooling panel provides some ventilation, which helps during warm weather. They're comfortable for long travel days, whether I'm sitting in cramped airplane seats or walking through airports.
Fit, mobility & sizing accuracy
84%
These pants fit true to size on the first try, which is always a win. I'm typically a 32 W x 30 L, and the waist was spot on. The inseam runs at 31" by default, so I had to cuff them, but both Becca and I like the cuffed look. The straight style works well with the cropped cuff, and they're not slim, which gives me room to move. The fit accommodates different builds well.
Materials, durability & easy care
86%
The newer Layover Pro Traveler version has less cotton, more nylon and elastane, which makes them stretchier and more comfortable. The performance blend moves with you and maintains its shape through long travel days. The fabric feels substantial without being heavy, and the certified organic cotton in the blend gives it a comfortable feel. Care is straightforward for travel pants.
Durability & abrasion resistance
82%
The construction feels solid, and the performance fabric should hold up well to travel wear. The reinforced stitching and thoughtful design suggest these will last through multiple trips. I haven't had them long enough to test long-term durability, but the build quality feels good for the price point.
Breathability & moisture management
84%
The laser perforated cooling panel provides some ventilation, which is helpful during warm weather. The performance fabric allows for good airflow, and I never felt too hot or sticky while wearing them. The breathability works well for travel in varying climates.
Temperature regulation
80%
The pants handle temperature swings reasonably well. The cooling panel helps in warm weather, and the fabric provides enough coverage for cooler conditions. They work well across varying temperatures throughout travel days, though they're not designed for extreme cold.
Stretch, mobility & shape retention
86%
The 4-way stretch fabric moves naturally with your body, and the newer Pro version is even stretchier. The fabric maintains its shape well through long days of wear, and they don't bag out or lose their fit. The stretch recovery is good, and they return to form after wearing and packing.
Pocket function & travel security
90%
The pocket design is thoughtful for travelers. The back flap pockets are good for keeping stuff inside, and the zipper pockets provide security for essentials. The back stash pocket is perfect for a passport or phone, and the pockets are positioned well so they don't interfere with sitting or walking. This is one of the stronger features of these pants.
Wrinkle resistance & packability
82%
The performance fabric handles packing well and doesn't wrinkle easily. They emerge from luggage looking good, and the fabric maintains its shape even after being stuffed into a backpack. The wrinkle resistance is solid for travel pants.
Styling versatility
76%
These pants work well for everyday wear at home and most types of travel. They're perfect for flights and casual exploring. However, they're too relaxed and outdoorsy for business casual travel. I'd opt for chinos or tailored denim for conferences or business events. They're versatile within their intended use case, but not across all travel scenarios.
Overall value for price
84%
The Layover Traveler Pants offer good value for the price. The thoughtful features like the TSA-friendly waistband, zipper pockets and cooling panel make them worth the cost. The build quality and performance fabric justify the price tag, especially for travelers who value convenience and comfort.
Quick takeaways
Here’s a quick summary you can check back on if you’re seriously considering the Roark Layover Traveler Pants:
- Back flap pockets: good for keeping stuff inside
- Zipper pockets!
- Lightweight and comfortable stretch performance material
- Straight style, not slim - works well with cuffed look
- True to size fit - no exchanges or returns were needed for me
- Back stash pocket for a passport or phone
- Perfect for everyday wear at home, as well as most types of travel
Comparison with similar products
Here's how this product compares to similar options. Use this table to find the best of the bunch!
| Product | comfort↕ | fit↕ | materials care↕ | durability abrasion↕ | breathability↕ | temperature regulation↕ | stretch recovery↕ | pocket function↕ | wrinkle resistance↕ | versatility↕ | value↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.4 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | |
| 4.8 / 5 | 4.9 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 4.7 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 | |
| 4.4 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 | 4.4 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | |
| 4.6 / 5 | 3.8 / 5 | 4.3 / 5 | 4.0 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 | 4.4 / 5 | 3.5 / 5 | 4.4 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
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