Top 10 Ski Pants

Are you looking for a good pair of ski pants? If so, you are in the right place! Today’s models feature advanced technologies that guarantee water resistance, breathability, and thermal protection. In addition, they are made from stretchy, comfortable materials that allow for a great range of movement while you’re descending the ski slope.

Everything will depend on the weather conditions of the place where you are skiing. You won’t need the same pants for resort skiing in the dead of winter as you will for cross-country skiing in spring. Don’t worry! In this article, I explain the most important things to consider when choosing your pants. Also, I’ll review the best models of the year so that you find the one that best suits your needs.

Check out other guides and find the best intermediate skis, jackets, goggles, helmets, poles, and ski boots.

THE 10 BEST SKI PANTS

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SALOMON QST

FEATURES: Excellent water resistance of 20,000 mm / 20,000 g. Great ventilation.

The Salomon QST is designed for active skiers looking for the best performance. This model includes elastic gaiters and a detachable powder skirt to prevent snow from seeping down to your legs and waist. Built with abrasion-resistant 2-layer fabric for greater durability. The ventilation system is really effective on warmer days. Also, it has a loose design that allows for a great range of motion. It’s not cheap, but it has one of the best prices in the high-end range.

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SPYDER DARE GTX

FEATURES: Detachable suspenders. Adjustable waist. Zipper vents. Powder gaiters.

Probably the best option for freezing weather, the Spyder Dare GTX features great thermal insulation that protects you on even the harshest days of winter. The Gore-Tex membrane guarantees excellent water resistance. It includes comfortable suspenders that improve overall fit. The ventilation isn’t as good as in other models, but considering that it’s designed for cold days, I don’t think you’re going to miss much extra ventilation.

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OUTDOOR RESEARCH TRAILBREAKER II

FEATURES: Stretchy softshell fabric on the upper part, and hardshell reinforcements on exposed parts.

Inspired by the design of alpine pants, the Outdoor Research Trailbreaker is made from really stretchy, breathable materials. While softshells aren’t typically very water-resistant, this model provides great water protection as long as you don’t get into very deep snow. Best of all, they are incredibly comfortable to wear. For many, these are the best backcountry ski pants of the year.

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ARC’TERYX BETA AR

FEATURES: Powder gaiters. Adjustable waist. Watertight zipper vents. Inside reinforcements on knees and rear.

The Arct’teryx Beta AR is specially designed for the most adverse weather conditions. These pants stand out for the water resistance and abrasion resistance of their fabrics, which makes them very popular for mountaineering, winter hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. If you are going to be exposed to heavy rain, snow, and wind for long periods of time, this could be your model. Keep in mind that they are not insulated, so you will need to wear a base layer underneath them in very cold weather.

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OUTDOOR RESEARCH HEMISPHERES

FEATURES: Stretch Technology for greater comfort. Gore-Tex C-Knit Technology for increased water resistance.

Named “best ski apparel” by Powder magazine, the Outdoor Research Hemispheres is perfect for those seeking great weather protection without compromising on stretch and overall comfort. Highly breathable, this model includes heat-sealed seams, zippered vents, elastic gaiters, zippered pockets, and abrasion reinforcements. If you’re looking for a high-quality bib for both resort skiing and backcountry skiing, look no further.

MID-RANGE AND BUDGET RANGE

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SALOMON ICEMANIA

FEATURES: DWR treatment for improved water resistance. Heat-sealed seams. Elastic gaiters. Adjustable waist.

The Salomon Icemania uses 4 Way Stretch technology to ensure that the fabric can be stretched in all directions. This great stretch, along with the excellent thermal protection of the AdvancedSkin Warm system, make these among the most comfortable pants for skiing in cold, windy weather. It’s also popular among climbers, mountaineers, and cross-country skiers. The pants aren’t as waterproof as other models, but they hold up pretty well as long as you don’t get into very deep snow.

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HELLY HANSEN LEGENDARY

FEATURES: Built with 2-ply fabrics. Primaloft insulation. Heat-sealed seams.

The Helly Hansen Legendary offers a great balance between water resistance, breathability, thermal protection, comfort, and price. That’s probably why it has become a classic pant among all kinds of skiers. While it’s not as stretchy as the previous Salomon Icemania, it provides better protection against water and wind. Also, it’s available in several colors, so you can match it to your ski jacket.

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COLUMBIA RIDE ON

FEATURES: Powder gaiters. Zippered pockets. 60g Microtemp XF thermal insulation.

The Columbia Ride On has become another winter classic due to its great performance and fantastic price. It’s built with waterproof, breathable materials, which are quite abrasion-resistant, too (although it is not as durable as high-end models). This model is highly recommended for beginners and intermediate skiers looking for good thermal protection, without spending a fortune.

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COLUMBIA BUGABOO IV

CHARACTERISTICS: Microtemp XF insulation. Adjustable waist. Hand pockets and rear pockets. Internal gaiters.

The Columbia Bugaboo IV looks like the previous model, but it has some extra features, like rear pockets, lower leg snap gussets, a longer leg design, and a better price. Also, it’s available in a women’s version. Besides these extras, it’s built with practically the same materials and the same weather protection systems. Overall, it’s a fantastic option for resort skiing.

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ARCTIX

FEATURES: Lower leg 600 Denier reinforcements. 85-gram ThermaTech insulation. Cargo pockets. Adjustable waist.

The Arctix Cargo is another great budget option. As compared to the Columbia Bugaboo, the Arctix features an 85-gram insulation layer, which provides greater thermal protection. It has lower leg openings and powder gaiters, too. It provides great weather protection and is very comfortable to wear. Overall, the Columbia looks a bit more durable, but both are great options for those just starting out in the world of skiing.

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THE NORTH FACE SNOWQUEST

FEATURES: Elastic suspenders. Adjustable waist. HeatSeeker thermal insulation.

The last model on the list is a unisex pant for kids. The North Face Snowquest includes adjustable legs that extend up to two inches so that it will last longer as your child grows. The elastic suspenders provide a great fit while ensuring that the pants don’t slide down while your child is skiing. Water-resistant and well-insulated, this is one of the best models for girls and boys.

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THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

HARDSHELL, SOFTSHELL, OR HYBRID?

Ski pants are made from a wide variety of materials, membranes, and reinforcements, but generally there are two types of pants.

Hardshell

Hardshell models provide the best water resistance. They include waterproof membranes, like Gore-Tex, which guarantee significant protection against snow and rain. They perform as windbreakers, too. This type is not as breathable as the softshell type, but it allows enough breathability for most winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering.

Softshell

Softshell garments provide greater breathability and are more pleasant to the touch (hardshells have a more plastic feel). The main drawback is that they don’t protect you from the water as well as hardshells do.

Most softshells are water-resistant, and they can resist light snowfalls pretty well. However, they are not designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Some skiers use them for skiing in moderate weather, though in general, softshells are not very popular.

Most skiers use hardshell pants because they offer the best weather protection. Also, softshell models fail to block the wind as effectively as hardshell models do, leaving you feeling colder while skiing.

Today, many manufacturers produce hybrid models, which offer the best of both types. They are stretchy and breathable while featuring waterproof reinforcements in the most exposed areas.

2-LAYER OR 3-LAYER CONSTRUCTION?

Most winter pants are built with 2 layers or 3 layers of material. The 3-layer construction performs better in the snow, as it has a more pleasant touch, is more breathable, and allows for a greater range of movement.

This type of construction consists of a breathable outer layer, a waterproof intermediate layer (like Gore-Tex, although there are other brands), and a soft inner layer. Generally, 3-layer models are much more expensive, and they are popular among experienced skiers looking for the best quality. Three-layer pants perform very well for both resort skiing and off-piste skiing.

The 2-layer construction doesn’t offer as much breathability, but it also performs pretty well. In fact, 2-layer models are popular because they offer good water protection and durability, and are generally much cheaper.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO SKI?

When choosing your pants, you must think about where you are going to ski. For instance, if you are a resort skier, you’ll need a sturdy model that can provide protection against wind and snow. If you are going to ski at very low temperatures, consider an isolated model or one with a loose design that will allow you to wear a base layer underneath.

If you are a fan of backcountry skiing, you’ll need a stretchier model that gives you great freedom of movement. In addition, make sure your pants wick moisture efficiently because you’ll be more likely to sweat while you make your way across the mountains. Backcountry models include several zipper vents, so you won’t get too hot during high-intensity moments.

TRADITIONAL PANT OR BIB?

If you can’t choose between bibs or pants, take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of these two styles.

Today, pants are the favorite choice of most skiers. They are comfortable to wear and much more practical, especially when you have to go to the bathroom (although modern bibs include extra zippers for easy opening). Generally, they provide good weather protection.

The main drawback is that sometimes cold air sneaks in between the pants and the jacket. Also, some snow could sneak in if you fall. Some pants, like the Salomon QST, include a useful powder skirt that works like a little bib but is more comfortable to wear.

Bibs, on the other hand, offer greater protection against cold and snow. They also provide a better fit, preventing your pants from sliding down, especially if you’re wearing a larger size. However, they have several drawbacks: They are larger and heavier. They are not as comfortable to wear for some skiers, as they can restrict movement. Also, they can be too hot for certain climates. Bibs aren’t practical at all when you need to go to the bathroom.

WATER RESISTANCE

Even if you ski on sunny days, your ski clothes will always be exposed to the snow, so make sure your pants are water-resistant. Waterproof garments are equipped with special membranes that prevent water from passing through the material, but they let sweat vapor molecules escape to the outside. Top-end models use high-quality membranes, such as Gore-Tex, which are highly water-resistant as well as breathable.

In addition to using waterproof membranes, many garments include a water-repellent treatment known as DWR (durable water repellent), which improves water protection. Also, they feature heat-sealed seams that prevent moisture from seeping into the clothes.

BREATHABILITY

Your body will inevitably sweat when you’re skiing, especially if you like to venture off-piste. Make sure your pants are highly breathable so that the moisture doesn’t stay inside the garment.

As I mentioned before, softshell models are more efficient regarding this issue, but most hardshells include breathable membranes that do a pretty good job, too. Generally, expensive models use the latest technology in terms of materials and tend to offer better breathability than inexpensive ones.

COLD PROTECTION

For skiing in spring and autumn, when temperatures are usually pleasant, you could wear a pair of lightweight pants, equipped with several zippered vents. For skiing in the harsher winter months, you will need to wear another layer underneath or opt for insulated pants.

DO I NEED TO WEAR A BASE LAYER?

Some skiers love the versatility of the layer system, as you can peel off layers when it gets hot and put on layers when the temperatures drop. If you are an experienced skier, you know exactly how many layers you need to wear to feel comfortable.

However, if you are a first-timer, I recommend that you wear a thin base layer under your pants (unless it’s a very warm day). This layer will add protection against the cold, absorb moisture from your skin, and protect your skin from the friction of the zippers.

RECCO SYSTEM

Recco is an electronic location system that uses radar waves to detect Recco devices. Models equipped with these devices make it easier for the skier to be found if he or she is trapped under an avalanche. Although it’s not an essential feature, this safety element is highly appreciated by backcountry skiers.

FIT AND STYLE

Winter sports pants have different designs that suit the personality and style of each skier. For instance, some skiers prefer baggy designs because they provide for a greater range of movement. Many models include an adjustable Velcro waist that improves fit.

Regardless of the style that you like best (tight fit or loose), make sure you find the right size. Today, it’s easy to buy online because all manufacturers provide sizing charts that reference body measurements. Simply measure your waist and leg length to find the perfect size.

In addition to checking the size, you’ll want a pair of pants with a cool design. A wide range of designs are available on the market, and most come in different colors, from phosphorescent yellow to more subtle dark tones. I recommend that you choose a color that matches your ski jacket. Also, keep in mind that white pants get dirty pretty quickly, and can end up looking beige after just a few weeks.

EXTRA FEATURES

Zippered vents

Most models include zipper vents that improve airflow and cool down your legs, which is a great relief on warm days. Most zipper vents are placed on the upper leg, either inside or outside, or on both sides. Zipper vents can sometimes decrease comfort, but they are really helpful when temperatures rise. All models designed for backcountry skiing include side vents.

Powder gaiters

Most pants include interior elastic cuffs (also known as powder gaiters) that prevent snow from sneaking inside your legs and boots. If you hate it when cold snow seeps inside your boots, I recommend that you look for a model with powder gaiters.

Zippered pockets

Zippered pockets come in handy for storing your wallet, your ski pass, or other valuables. If you don’t want extra pockets, you can choose a minimalist model and keep your belongings in your jacket’s pockets.