I'm hiking ultralight in the high Sierras this spring, and considered only taking shorts. After a test hike in similar temperatures, I reconsidered and selected these. They're 1/3 the weight of a pair of jeans, water resistant, stretchy, and comfortable. They only add a little warmth, but they'll be a lifesaver in windy or rainy conditions. I could see using them for spring skiing 50-60F too. They're wide enough to go over ski boots.
This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.