You need a (new) ski or snowboard pants but don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry because we got you covered and selected the 5 best ski pants for men and women on the market!
In this article we’ll discuss some of the main differences between ski pants models as well as some important key features so you can decide what ski pants is most suitable for you.
ALSO READ: “10 best ski resorts in Europe”
Author bio
“Hi! I’m Manou and I am a former competitive and sponsored freestyle & freeride skier. I’m a ski instructor as well and I practice my passion for skiing for more than 30 years now.“
Content
What is a ski or snow pants?
Ski and snowboard pants are pants specifically made to keep your legs warm and protected on the slopes.
It blocks cold and keeps wetness out. Since ski/sb pants are thicker (insulated) than normal pants, they even protect your legs a bit in case you fall or from sharp objects such as your ski pole or a branch (at least more than a regular trousers).
Even for beginners, it’s highly advised to wear ski/sb pants because your regular trousers won’t protect you from cold, wetness and impact on the slopes.
In addition, a ski/sb pants is a lot more comfy to wear on the slopes compared to your regular trousers.
Of course, there are a lot of different ski pants models on the market. Each pants vary in features, looks, price, etc. We will start by discussing some main differences in terms of fabrics, model and construction.
How do I choose ski or snow pants?
When you buy a pair of ski or snow pants there are a lot of options to consider. We’ll discuss the most important types and features now:
Soft-shel vs. hardshell
This is the fabric type of the pants. Most ski/sb pants are made from hardshell fabrics because hardshells provide a reliable barrier against wet snow and harsh winds.
On the other hand, soft-shells are not waterproof. Usually, they are well stretchable and quite thight which makes them comfy and very breathable.
Perfect for ski touring in the backcountry or spending time on the slopes in a resort during spring conditions.
Insulated vs. non-insulated
Hardshell pants can be insulated or not. Both types have their pros and cons and it depends what kind of skier you are as we will see below.
Insulated pants have a synthetic fill which is warmer. Most soft-shell ski pants are not insulated.
Pants vs. bib
You can go for a classic pants model just like the regular pants in your closet or you can go for a bib which covers a part of your upper body and has suspenders. Most ski pants on the market are regular. Further in the article we will discuss when you should go for a bib and when not.
Waterproofness
This is probably the most important technical feature of a ski/sb pants. If the fabric absorbs water it will eventually come through your pants which will result in wet legs, feet and bum.
Combined with chilly temperatures on the slopes you’ll eventually end up feeling very cold. Be aware that you will be out in a snowy environment during most of the day so it’s crucial that you don’t get wet.
Look for the number on a pants that is usually between 5K mm and +20K mm. The higher the number, the more waterproof (but also more expensive).
For beginners you’ll have a good price quality ratio when you aim for 10k mm usually. If you want a decent ski pants it’s not advisable to go below 10K mm.
| Waterproof Rating (mm) | Water Resistance Provided | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5,000 mm | No resistance to some resistance to moisture. | Light rain, dry snow, no pressure. |
| 6,000-10,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof under light pressure. | Light rain, average snow, light pressure. |
| 11,000-15,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof except under high pressure. | Moderate rain, average snow, light pressure. |
| 16,000-20,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof under high pressure. | Heavy rain, wet snow, some pressure. Think PNW. |
| 20,000 mm+ | Rainproof and waterproof under very high pressure. | Heavy rain, wet snow, high pressure. |
Warmth
Ski/Sb pants can be insulated or not. Both types have their pros and cons. Insulated pants have a synthetic fill which is warmer. As a beginner you will stay on the slopes in a resort.
You’ll fall more often and move slower which makes your level of exercise less intense compared to an advanced skier which means that your body will generate less heat.
Combined with cold weather, this means that beginners are more likely to feel cold. That’s why beginners best go for an insulated pants.
If you are an advanced skier or you get warm easily, you could go for a non insulated pants .
These pants are often more waterproof (some have GoreTex and are completely waterproof), can be combined with a base layer on cold days and are also more expensive.
Breathability
The more breathable the better. You want to avoid sweating extensively because you’ll get wet and eventually cold. Pants with GoreTex for instance have very good breathability but are quite expensive.
On the other hand, if you are planning to keep on skiing or snowboarding for many years to come it’s never a waste of money to invest in a GoreTex pants.
Some pants also have zippers on the thighs that you can open to ventilate when feeling hot.
Adjustable waist tabs
For optimal fit and comfort, ideally the ski/sb pants has adjustable waist tabs. In case of a bib model you’ll additionally have suspenders to keep the pants up.
Snow gaiters
Make sure the pants have snow gaiters at the pants legs.
This is usually an extra piece of synthetic fabric provided in the trouser legs that you pull over the upper part of the ski or snowboard boot and keep in place by means of a stretch.
This prevents snow from getting into your ski boot.
Pocket space
It’s always handy if your ski pants is equipped with enough pockets to store your stuff away safely on the slopes.
Preferably the pockets have zippers so that you don’t loose your stuff in case you fall or on the chairlift for instance. The more expensive models will have waterproof zippers as well which keep your stuff dry.
What ski or snowboard pants are good for me?
The best ski/sb pants for you is the one that best matches your needs as a skier or snowboarder. So when buying a new ski/sb pant you should ask yourself the following questions:
What’s my ski level?
As a beginner you will stay in the resort on the slopes.
You’ll fall more often and move slower which makes your level of exercise less intense compared to an advanced skier which means that your body will generate less heat.
Combined with cold weather this means that beginners are more likely to feel cold. That’s why beginners best go for an insulated pants with waterproofness of 10k mm or higher.
If you are an advanced skier you could go for a non insulated pants if you get warm easily.
These pants are often more waterproof (some have GoreTex and are completely waterproof), can be combined with a base layer on cold days and are also more expensive.
When do I ski?
Do you ski one week a year during the coldest period or do you ski all season long? If you ski all season long, it’s probably better to go for a non-insulated hardshell.
You have more flexibility to adjust to the temperature outside. On warm days late season you just wear the non-insulated pants and on the cold days you can wear a base layer under it.
On or off piste?
Do you ride off piste as well? Then a bib model is probably a good choice for you. A bib is better in keeping the powder snow out which is a must when moving through the backcountry for freeriding.
It can also be a good choice for people who feel cold easily because the high waist keeps your upper body warm as well.
You can buy insulated or non-insulated bibs.
Skiër or snowboarder?
This is mostly important for beginners. Especially beginner snowboarders will have a lot of snow contact while sitting or resting on the slopes. An insulated pants with good waterproofness is an absolute must!
If you are a snowboarder of freeride/freestyle skiër you probably want to go for a more baggy model.
Most resort skiërs go for a regular or tight model.
Fit
Pants come in different styles such as baggy or thight. It’s a matter of personal preference.In terms of sizing you do not necessarily need to order a size up. Unless if you like to wear them baggy.
Should I wear something underneath ski or snow pants?
You can certainly wear a base layer underneath a hard-shell ski or snow pants. You can even do so when wearing an insulated model as well for extra warmth.
It’s not advisable to wear jeans, leggings, jogging, etc… under your ski or snow pants. These types of trousers will trap sweat and moister inside which will lead to feeling more cold eventually.
Go for an outdoor sports base layer instead from brands like Icebreaker for instance.
5 best Men’s ski and snowboard pants for 2023
- Best basic pants: The North Face Freedom Insulated Men
- Best price quality: Helly Hansen Legendary Men
- Best resort pants: Spyder Dare GTX Men
- Best technical pants: Ortovox Deep 3L shell Men
- Best bib: Ortovox Deep 3L shell bib Men
The North Face Freedom Insulated (Best basic pants)
For occasional ski or snowboard fun times on the slopes, without having to pay big bucks, The North Face Freedom insulated pants is probably the best choice for you.
The thick 2-layer construction blocks out wind and snow and is super durable. It has a good venting system that is quite good for a pants in this price range.
You can find them in many available colors and sizes so there is a Freedom insulated pants for everyone.
Don’t expect too much from this pants either. It’s does the trick but is not made of high quality fabrics and doesn’t have the technical features compared to other pants in the higher segments (ie. no stretch).
But if you are looking for a decent basic ski or snowboard pants that keeps you warm both on the chairlift and on the slopes, then The North Face Freedom Insulated is a perfect match!
Features:
- Waterproof: 2 layer construction
- Windproof
- Warmth: good
- Breathability: fair
Helly Hansen Legendary pants (Best price quality)
Pants with the name Legendary must be quite epic right? Although it is not a technical high end pants, it’s a better choice than the TNF Freedom pants above if you are willing to spend some extra bucks.
It has a more qualitative look and feel and has a great fit with the perfect amount of warmth.
60 grams of synthetic fill in addition with PrimaLoft in the butt and knees keeps you warm even during cold rides on the chairlift.
It’s a no nonsense designed resort pants which is lightweight and comes in a variety of colors. The fit is a good compromise between not too bulky or too slim and the mechanical stretch fabric is suitable for occasional sidecountry hikes and descents.
If you are looking for a good price/quality resort ski or snowboard pants, then the Legendary model from Helly Hansen is your next buddy on the slopes!
Features:
- Waterproof: 2 layer construction
- Windproof
- Warmth: Good with additional PrimaLoft
- Breathability: Good
Spyder Dare GTX (Best resort pants)
The Spyder Dare GTX is the top choice if you are looking for an insulated pants for the coldest resort days.
With quality materials, warmth, comfort and a nice fit, the Dare GTX checks all the boxes to be a reliable companion on the mountain.
However, the (ski) racer look may not be for everyone. Since Spyder has a ski racer background, this is probably not the first choice for a snowboarder.
The Dare GTX is made for the coldest days and not so much those sunny days at the end of the season. That’s of course the downside of an insulated pants compared to a non-insulated hardshell.
On the other hand, if you are someone who easily feels cold then there won’t be a better pants than these. Feeling hot after a large descent?
No problem… the vents along the inseam provide you with necessary airflow.
Features:
- Waterproof: Excellent with GoreTex membrane
- Breathable: Good with GoreTex membrane but vents are along the inseam (externally placed vents are better)
- Warmth: Very warm
- Suspenders for good fit
Ortovox Deep 3L shell Men (best technical pants)
Are you a free ride skier or snowboarder or performance rider who spend his days both in the resort and in the backcountry?
The Ortovox Deep Shell Pants is made to keep you warm and dry on those deep pow days. Because it is sustainably (PFC-free and climate neutrally) manufactured, it is perfect for free riders who care for the environment
Ortovox stands for premium quality and performance. No matter the kind of weather, these pants will do what they are supposed to do both in the resort and backcountry.
The 3-layer DERMIZAX EV membrane provides a reliable barrier from the elements, while smooth-operating side vents let you dump heat quickly on warm spring days.
Merino wool liner provides extra warmth in areas that tend to get cold faster (butt and knees for example).
Be aware that these pants are not totally insulated, so on cold days you should probably wear a base layer underneath them.
On the other hand, during spring skiing they won’t get too hot compared with the Spyder Dare GTX for instance. This gives you more options to ski or snowboard in various weather types all season long.
The price may be a lot higher but it’s still cheaper to buy one good non-insulated hardshell then buying two pair of ski or snowboard pants for colder and warmer days.
Features:
- Great fit
- Waterproof pockets with zippers
- Breathability: Excellent
- Waterproofness: Excellent
- Top-notch build quality
Ortovox Deep 3L shell bib Men (Best bib)
Looking for comfortable pants that get you going for all weather conditions? Then check out the 3L Deep bib pants by Orthovox.
Thanks to the DERMIZAX membrane, these bib pants are the perfect choice in rough weather conditions. The membrane makes them breathable, windproof and waterproof.
Combined with Merino wool where needed, they will be perfectly equipped for all climates. On top of that, the stretch in the pants makes easy movement a big plus.
There are many reasons you might want to opt for a bib, including additional protection, extended coverage, and more storage options. And don’t forget you’ll want to hit the slopes in a fashionable way ;).
If you’re going skiing or snowboarding in the back country or in a nice ski resort, you’ll notice that bibs have gained popularity the last couple of years.
Another great choice is the Ortovox 3L Deep bib with ergonomic thigh pocket extensions, so you have quick access to the avalanche transceiver pocket.
One of the best features of these pants are the long two-way zipper: perfect ventilation guaranteed and easily adjustable to put it on or take it off.
On top of that, these pants have built-in gaiters, articulated knees and heavy-duty scratch protection for good durability.
The sustainable, PFC-free and climate-neutral Deep Shell 3L Bib are a must for environmentally conscious free riders!
Features:
- Sustainable: PFC free and climate neutral production
- Breathable: Excellent (20,000 g/m²/24h MVTR)
- Waterproof: Excellent (20k mm)
- Warmth: Merino wool inserts
5 best Women’s ski and snowboard pants for 2023
- Best basic pants: The North Face Freedom Insulated Women
- Best price/quality pants: Helly Hanson Switch Cargo pants Women
- Best resort pants: Spyder Winner Insulated GTX pants Women
- Best technical pants: Ortovox 3L Deep Shell pants Women
- Best bib: Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib pants Women
The North Face Freedom Insulated (Best basic pants)
If you are looking for a good quality ski/sb pants on a budget then the North Face Freedom Insulated is probably the best value for money pants out there at the moment.
It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more technical ski/sb models but it does what it needs to do: keep you warm and dry! The fit is a bit baggy so some might not like this fit.
For those who like slim fit, the “Roxy Rising High” could be a good option too.
Features:
- Waterproof, breathable, seam-sealed DryVent™ 2L fabric helps keep you dry
- Heatseeker™ Eco insulation for warmth even in wet weather
- Adjustable waist tabs
- Inner-thigh vents
Helly Hanson Switch Cargo (Best price/quality pants)
A little step up from the TNF Freedom insulated pants in terms of quality, features but also price. The Helly Hanson Switch Cargo pants is lightweight and built for performance.
They also have articulated construction at the seat and knees for comfort during higher levels of activity.
And they have an embedded RECCO rescue reflector (a reflector integrated in the pants so rescue teams can track you in case of an emergency on the mountain).
They have extra cargo pockets on the thighs and stylish boot-cut flare to protect your pants from rips.
These are great insulated ski pants with a great fit, suitable for different conditions on the mountain.
Features:
- Insulation: excellent warmth with PrimaLoft
- Pockets: 4
- Seams: Fully taped
- Zippers: 2 YKK AquaGuard zippers on the front pockets
- RECCO: Yes
Spyder Winner Insulated GTX (Best resort pants)
The Spyder Winner GTX is the best insulated ski/sb pants for women at the moment. It’s primarily made for resort skiing and particularly in cold climates.
It’s insulated with a thin but warm dose of synthetic fill (unlike down, synthetic continues to keep you warm when wet).
Have no fear for chilly lift rides regardless of the conditions because these pants will keep you warm.
You get 40-gram PrimaLoft Black Eco fill, sleek and clean styling that minimizes bulk, a curvy fit for an improved fit and stylish look for any outdoor winter activity and stretch material for added movement and comfort.
Tack on a quality 2-layer Gore-Tex membrane, and the result is a pair of resort-specific ski pants that can handle brutal mountain weather season after season.
Features:
- Insulated: Yes (PrimaLoft Black ECO Insulation)
- Fit: Slim fit and finish offers insulation without the bulk.
- Waterproofness: Completely waterproof with GoreTex (2 layer)
- Breathability: Excellent breathability with GoreTex (2 layer)
Ortovox 3L Deep Shell (Best technical pants)
These pants are for the performance seekers and for those who spend time in the backcountry. The Ortovox Deep Shell Pants will keep you warm and dry in deep snow.
Perfect for freeriders who care for the environment (sustainable, PFC-free and climate-neutral).
Ortovox knocks it out of the park in terms of premium quality and performance. It checks all the boxes for both resort and backcountry skiing, no matter the weather.
In wet and blustery conditions the 3-layer DERMIZAX EV membrane provides a reliable barrier from the elements, while smooth-operating side vents let you dump heat quickly on warm spring days.
On top of that, it’s lined with fine merino wool at the areas that tend to get cold faster. Be aware that these pants are not totally insulated, so on cold days you should probably wear a base layer underneath them.
On the other hand, during spring skiing they won’t get too hot compared when wearing insulated pants. This gives you more option to ski or snowboard in various weather types all season long.
Features:
- Great fit
- Waterproof pockets with zippers
- Breathability: Excellent
- Waterproofness: Excellent
- Top-notch built quality
Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Bib (Best bib)
If you are in for some comfortable trousers that will protect you from the elements, you have to check the 3L deep bib pants by Orthovox.
With a DERMIZAX membrane they are perfectly for the roughest weather elements. The membrane makes them breathable, windproof and waterproof.
They are perfectly equipped for all climates thanks to Merino wool in areas that tend to get cool. The bidirectional elastic guarantees unlimited freedom of movement.
There are many reasons you might want to opt for a bib, including additional protection, extended coverage, and more storage options.
And to be honest… they look kind of rad as well ;). Regardless of the reason, bibs have gained tremendous popularity in recent years both in the resort and in the backcountry.
The Ortovox 3L deep pants bib feature ergonomic thigh pocket extensions so you have quick access to the avalanche transceiver pocket.
One of the best features of these pants are the long two-way zipper which offers excellent ventilation when hiking for instance and allows you to put it on and take it off easily.
Plus, they have built-in gaiters, articulated knees, and heavy-duty scratch protection for maximum durability.
The sustainable, PFC-free and climate-neutral Deep Shell 3L Bib Pants are a must for environmentally conscious freeriders.
Features:
- Sustainable: PFC free and climate neutral production
- Breathable: Excellent (20,000 g/m²/24h MVTR)
- Waterproof: Excellent (20k mm)
- Warmth: Merino wool inserts
Featured photo by Karsten Winegeart
