I actually disagree here. The reason I bought these pants is strictly because they don't have that mesh. It allows you to access zip of base layers without dropping your pants to your knees. Plus it breathes better.If that corrugate foundry had a mesh between where it zips down to prevent ticks, spiders, whatever....and more size options I think it would be perfect. I removed the kneepads but maybe I'll need them someday and I can easily pack them. I'm used to wearing crap so to me these are super light pants. I haven't tried the others. I wish Prana would do a zip vent on their stretch Zion pants though! That would be awesome.
I just bought the Stone Glacier Lite pants. I used their in- house option to have them hemmed to my inseam length. After I receive them I will report back. I love the idea of having to not wear a belt. Belts are terrible with long hikes with a pack.
Take a look at the Outdoor Vitals pant. Seems like a discounted Kutana, to me.
What about FORLOH allclima pants. Waterproof knee pads, hip zip vents wirh mesh lining. Great stretch and seem very well built