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Ski pants are an underrated essential in the world of winter gear. We tested more than 140 pairs to find out which ones offer the best protection for your lower half when venturing out into the cold. Our team wore these pants to the resort to test warmth and style, out in the backcountry to check for adequate mobility and breathability, and even in the shower to stress test the waterproofing of each pair.
The Arc'teryx Sabre Pant is the best option for men. The bulletproof weather resistance and comfortable fit make it worth the price, especially if you ski or board regularly. The top women's pant is the Arc'teryx Sentinel. These feel great whether slow cruising at the resort or working up a sweat in the backcountry, and the Gore-Tex shell kept us bone dry even in soggy weather.
I acknowledge there is a bit of a price barrier for these top picks, but I would argue that if you are a serious skier looking to invest in a long-lasting piece of gear, it is worth it. For the occasional skier/rider, there are more affordable options that will serve you just as well. For men, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is a highly functional pant that holds up well in all but the most intense weather. The best budget ski pant for women is the Arctix Insulated, which can be found for under $100, and will keep you plenty warm without sacrificing mobility.
To complete your setup, take a look at the best ski jackets. And just as important as your outer layers are the base layers that build the foundation of your warmth on a day out. If you're setting up from scratch, we compiled a list of all the ski gear essentials that you'll need to get started.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Sabre Pant is ideal for dedicated skiers who hit the slopes as much as possible, and are willing to make a top-tier investment in their setup. If you're after industry-leading weather protection and a hardshell design that can adapt to various mountain conditions, this pant delivers. Its premium construction makes it a strong choice for those who ski in everything from sub-zero blizzards to warm spring days.
Why we love it: This uninsulated hardshell pant features taped seams, waterproof zippers, and Gore-Tex Pro fabric that holds up in the worst conditions. The ventilation system works well, and the fit strikes a great balance between freedom of movement and clean, modern style. Lead tester Jeff Dobronyi said, “These are really versatile. I wore the Sabre in sub-zero temps as well as warmer spring skiing. And I love that the integrated belt kept the pants right where I want them.”
Should you buy it? That depends on your priorities. If price is not a barrier, I would recommend the Sabre Pant without hesitation. But, it is expensive, and since it's just a shell with only a thin fleece lining, you'll have to wear additional layers in order to stay warm. But if you want the best shell pant we tested and don't mind spending for long-term durability and top-shelf performance, this one's tough to beat.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Sentinel is a great pick for women who want one pant to do it all, from sunny days cruising groomers to stormy backcountry missions. If you're looking for a premium shell pant that balances style, waterproofing, and backcountry-ready ventilation, the Sentinel checks those boxes. It's especially well-suited for folks who value aesthetics in addition to functionality; the Sentilen offers a clean, tailored look without skimping on performance.
Why we love it: There's a lot to love here: excellent weather protection, technical details, and practical pocket placement. The 3-layer ePE Gore-Tex shell kept us bone dry, and the outer thigh vents made it easy to cool off on uphill efforts. One tester said, “I can layer underneath for cold resort laps, and the large leg vents make it easy to regulate heat while ski touring.” The sleek fit pairs well with the matching Sentinel ski jacket, and both pieces held up well to varied testing, making them one of our most trusted layers this season.
Should you buy it? The Arc'teryx Sentinel is pricey, and while I feel the pants are made with a level of quality to match, these only make sense if you spend more time on the mountain than anywhere else during the winter, and you are willing to pay for premium quality. As our lead reviewer put it, “The price point is high for a pair of pants without many technical features, but I appreciate the minimal, streamlined approach to ski pants.” And if long-lasting quality and versatile performance are your priorities, the Sentinel stands out as the most well-rounded women's ski pant we've tested.
Who this is best for: The Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is an affordable ski pant perfect for resort skiers who want something reliable, warm, and protective. They don't offer extraordinary weather proofing or warmth, but they are comfortable, and I would feel fine wearing them in anything but the most extreme conditions. If you're looking for something that performs well in most conditions, has a solid fit, and doesn't come with the premium price tag of high-end gear, this is your best bet.
Why we love it: These pants hold their own impressively well considering the cost. I was especially impressed by their comfort and cut, and other testers agree. “These pants have the refined tailoring of much more expensive options,” one reviewer noted. They're warm enough for most resort days, built with Helly Tech for solid waterproofing, and the overall design delivers on durability and function. The price-to-performance ratio is one of the best we've seen, making them a go-to for all but the gnarliest conditions.
Should you buy it? If you're a casual skier or someone who spends most days at the resort rather than the backcountry, the Legendary Insulated is absolutely worth it. Just be aware that they have relatively small vents and don't offer quite the same level of storm protection as higher-end models. That said, unless you're braving brutal backcountry weather, these pants deliver all the essentials at an unbeatable value, and for most people, the Legendary strikes the ideal balance of cost, comfort, and capability.
Who this is best for: If you need to keep your gear budget in check, look no further than the Arctix Insulated Pant. I would recommend these to occasional skiers or anyone looking to keep warm at the resort without breaking the bank. “They kept me super warm, and the fit still allowed for dynamic movement,” one tester noted. The rugged, workwear-inspired fabric is surprisingly tough and stands up well to tree branches and rough use during my testing. When all was said and done, this affordable pant does more than I expected for the price.
Why we love it: I was surprised at the level of performance these pants deliver for such a low cost. The classic design hits all the basics: warmth, a good fit, and just enough pockets to stash your gear. Though not the most waterproof, the Arctix Insulated Pant kept me comfortable and dry enough on typical resort days. It's a good compromise if you're building your ski kit on a tight budget or don't hit the slopes often enough to warrant a high-end shell.
Should you buy it? If you're prone to overheating or planning aerobic activities in your ski pants, you may want to look elsewhere. “The synthetic insulation was amazing at keeping me toasty warm, but the pants don't shed excess heat and moisture well when you're working hard. There are no vents to unzip, so I ended up getting far too hot,” a tester reported. The DWR coating also wore off fairly quickly, so prolonged exposure to wet conditions could lead to dampness. Still, if cost is your main concern, the Arctix is a fantastic entry-level option.
Who this is best for: If you're on the hunt for a top-tier bib that delivers comfort, weather protection, and clean style, the Mammut Haldigrat HS should be at the top of your list. Designed for skiers who value range of motion and lightweight versatility, this pant is especially great for backcountry touring and side-country skiing. Whether you're a dedicated resort skier or an alpine adventurer, you'll appreciate how these bibs move with you, not against you.
Why we love it: The Haldigrat HS combines breathable, stretchy material with legit waterproofing — a rare combo that I love to see. Unlike traditional stiff shell pants, the Haldigrat feels flexible and easy to wear. “When I travel for ski guiding, I grab these pants above all others, whether I'll be touring for turns or skiing the side-country,” says lead tester and IFMGA Mountain Guide Jeff Dobronyi. Plus, they've got killer style, the athletic fit is just as ready for deep powder days as for skintrack climbs.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a bib with all-day comfort and plenty of mountain-ready performance, this is one of the best you can buy. Just know that it doesn't offer the same burliness as Gore-Tex options, so it may not be the best choice if you are on the… ahem… adventurous side (constant abrasion or heavy-duty tree skiing). That said, I found the tradeoff for improved comfort and mobility worth it, and I think most users won't have a problem with durability.
Who this is best for: The Flylow Foxy Bib is an ideal pick for skiers who want function, comfort, and style wrapped into one bib. It's best suited for all-mountain skiers and riders who want the freedom of a shell combined with practical features for daily use. If you value ventilation and versatility across varied conditions, this bib checks the boxes. It even works well for those who ski both inbounds and in the backcountry.
Why we love it: The Foxy Bib has it all: standout style, practical design, and performance-driven details. I love the range of fun color options and the many thoughtfully placed pockets. Personally, the kangaroo pocket was my favorite. “These flattering pants are versatile, with a bunch of amazing features,” said one reviewer. One such feature is the double-leg vents, which make this bib the most breathable model I tested, and I highly recommend taking advantage of this for backcountry laps. The drop-seat also made bathroom breaks painless since I didn't have to remove as many layers.
Should you buy it? While not perfect, the Foxy Bib is one of the most well-rounded bibs we tested. Its biggest downside is that the DWR waterproofing wears off over time, though it can be restored with periodic treatment. “I would also note that for curvier ladies, these bibs are on the small side. I would size up if you're typically in between sizes,” added our tester. If you want a flattering, high-performing bib and don't mind a little maintenance, this one's hard to beat.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib is a great pick for casual resort skiers or snowboarders who want warmth and protection without spending a fortune. It's especially ideal for colder days, long lift rides, or even snowmobile outings. It works well for anyone who is ok with trading techy extras for value and simplicity.
Why we love it: Although it's not super flashy, the Powderbound delivers where it counts. “This bib kept me dry during shower testing and warm on cold, long chair rides – and it was great for snowmobiling, too,” said one reviewer. The 2-layer Peak shell and DWR finish hold up in standard resort conditions. I also love how much mobility I had thanks to the articulated hips and knees, plus the adjustable straps give it an even more customizable fit. At this price, it's tough to find better resort-ready performance.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a high-output or storm-ready bib, this isn't it. The 2L shell isn't built for prolonged wet weather, and breathability is limited. “I'd also say that this bib is too hot for higher-output skiing in late-winter conditions,” a fellow tester noted. A final small complaint, but the chest pocket is small, and I miss some advanced features like dual ventilation zips, or a drop seat for bathroom breaks. But if you want an insulated bib that covers the basics well and saves you some cash, the Powderbound is one of the best-value options around.
Who this is best for:The North Face Freedom Bib is a solid option for budget-conscious resort skiers who prioritize overall comfort and snow protection for deep powder days. The full coverage style protects more of the torso than other models, keeping snow away from base layers and making it one of my reliable go-tos. It's also a good match for newer skiers who don't want to splurge on high-end gear just yet, but still want decent snow protection.
Why we love it: With a full-coverage DryVent 2L shell and adjustable waist tabs, the Freedom Bib keeps moisture and wind at bay on most resort days. “I love these on deep powder days — they prevent snow from reaching my base layers,” one tester said. The fit is roomy enough for easy movement while skiing or riding, and at this price point, you get a lot of protection without draining your wallet.
Should you buy it? You won't get premium style or features here — the pockets rely on hook-and-loop closures that aren't waterproof or super secure, and the vents are underwhelmingly small. There's also not a ton of insulation, which can be good or bad depending on how active you are, but you'll definitely need to wear good base layers. With this in mind, I was still happy skiing in these bibs. If you just want a functional, affordable bib that gets the job done without a fuss, the Freedom Bib delivers more than expected for the price.
Who this is best for: The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour pant is a go-to for serious backcountry skiers and riders who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and ventilation on the skin track, and aren't as concerned with waterproofing. The softshell style moves with you, breathes exceptionally well, and is my top choice for long touring days. That said, it's best for folks who are okay with layering for warmth and don't need full-on storm protection every day.
Why we love it: This pant delivers an impressive combination of stretch, ventilation, and practical features like multiple pockets and a smart fit. “I spend a high percentage of winter days in these pants, and they generally keep cold snow and occasional moisture at bay,” said our lead tester, IFMGA mountain guide Jeff Dobronyi. They've been refined over the years and strike a solid balance between performance and style, making them a staple for me and many others on the testing team throughout the season.
Should you buy it? If your ski days often involve heavy precipitation or bitter cold, this probably isn't your best match — the Trailbreaker Tour is not waterproof or insulated. They're really designed for high-output touring in drier conditions, and in this, they excel. They are unbelievably breathable and hard to beat for bluebird days when you work up a sweat. When a storm rolls in, I swap them out for something a little more hardy. That said, this pant earns my top recommendation for anyone chasing lines deep in the backcountry.
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker stands out as the only softshell pant in our review that earned such high marks for performance. It is one of our favorite options to pull on when we head into the backcountry.
Credit: GearLab Team
Women's Bargain Hardshell Pants
REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib Snow Pants - Women's
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib Snow Pants are a solid choice for anyone who wants GTX functionality without the hefty price tag. It's a reliable ski bib ideal for both resort skiers and casual backcountry users, with one tester noting, “Even in the wettest conditions, this bib kept me plenty dry.” With a drop tail for easy bathroom breaks and wide leg vents, it's surprisingly well-featured for the price. The bib's fit and feel make it an especially attractive option for skiers looking for comfort and performance that won't wreck their budget.
Why we love it: This bib brings a lot to the table for the price, including a 2-layer Gore-Tex shell that delivers dependable waterproofing. I loved the overall versatility, and the large vents and thoughtful design made me feel like I was wearing a premium piece of gear. Other bibs with similar features usually cost quit a bit more, making the First Chair stand out for how much you get; REI didn't skimp on smart design. The well-placed vents are great for dumping heat, and the drop tail opening is a godsend for backcountry bathroom breaks.
Should you buy it? If you're okay with a few compromises, like non-waterproof zippers and less secure hook-and-loop pockets, the First Chair GTX Bib is one of the best lower-cost bibs we tested. It lacks some of the durability and high-end features of more expensive models, and if secure storage is a must, you may want to explore options with more water-resistant zippers. But it performs surprisingly well overall, and for those who prioritize staying dry and comfortable without investing in high-dollar gear, this bib is a worthy pick.
Jeff Dobronyi: As a professional mountain guide and avalanche forecaster in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, I spend most of my days outside, even (or especially) in the winter, which puts me in a great spot to lead testing for OutdoorGearLab's ski pants review. I love being outside, and I have dedicated a large part of my life to helping others enjoy the outdoors as well. I know how much it matters to have the right gear, no matter what your experience level, and my lifelong love affair with skiing for both professional and recreational purposes allows me to cut through frills and fluff and get down to the nitty gritty of what works.
Kaylee Walden: My parents put me on skis as soon as I could walk, and I have been hooked ever since. I grew up with a ski patrol dad who taught me the importance of dressing for the weather, and I never underestimate the value of a good piece of gear. As an adult, I have skied all over the world and have lived in Montana, Alaska, and Colorado. Today, I live and work as a guide in the San Juan range of Colorado. I am an Apprentice Alpine Guide (ASC), an American Mountain Guides Association Aspirant Ski Guide, and I have completed a Pro Level 2 in avalanche education in the U.S. With a lifetime of winters spent outdoors, I use my experience to lead our women's review of the best ski pants.
Jacqueline Kearney: Similar to Kaylee, I also was lucky enough to grow up skiing, finding my groove on the slopes of Vermont. As an adult, I have oriented my life around it, choosing to live between the San Juan range of southwestern Colorado and the Sierra Nevada in California for the access to pursue my passion. I have worked in avalanche mitigation as a ski patroller in both places and skied recreationally all over North America. I support testing in our women's ski pants review.
Our testing team includes people who live and breathe skiing, and spend as many days on the mountain in all conditions.
How We Tested
We have been wearing ski gear our whole lives, but we started official testing in 2013. Since then, we have worn more than 140 pairs of men's and women's ski pants, testing each one for its overall performance. We take them to work guiding, ski patrolling, and mountaineering, and on the weekends, we wear them in the backcountry and at the resort for our own pleasure. For more controlled testing, we bring them inside and perform a 5-minute “rain” test in the shower to emulate wet conditions and check for waterproofing.
We look 6 main metrics, which include: Weather Resistance, Fit and Comfort, Ventilation, Warmth, Features, and Style. All of these characteristics are equally important for both men's and women's pants, and the only real difference between gendered ski pants is the fit (and sometimes we find fewer/smaller pockets in women's pants… argh).
Part of our testing involves wearing these pants during our typical ski days, but we also take the time to examine features that are sometimes overlooked when making a purchase decision. We also have a little fun in them.
How to Choose the Right Ski Pants
All the pants we include here are great; that's why they made the list, but not every model is great for every skier/rider. Knowing that each pair will live up to expectations in quality and performance, what's left for you to consider is where, how often, and how hard you ski, and select the pants that match.
Taking the Patagonia Powder Town pants for a spin.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Men's Ski Pants
Our men's testing team has worn over 60 pairs of pants and bibs since 2016. Every season, new products come out and we are stoked to try them out. Below are the overall performance scores of the men's ski pants that we compared during this season's update.
Women's Ski Pants
With over 40 models tested in the past decade, our lineup has included some of the most popular models, but not all of them have stood the test of time, with newer and better versions coming out every season. Below are the overall performance scores of the women's ski pants that made the cut for this round of testing.
Types of Ski Pants
One of the most important differentiating factors you'll find is insulation level, and it really comes down to the materials. It is important to check the waterproofing and insulating properties of the pants you are considering, and then match that to your style of skiing. There are two main types: insulated vs shell styles. Secondary to this is the coverage style. After deciding on your insulation level, you then have to make the choice to go with either a true pant or a bib.
The Arc'teryx Sentinel is a shell pant and one of our overall favorite styles for women. It keeps us feeling fresh on the uphill and warm and dry on the downhill.
Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
Shell Pants: If you do a lot of ski touring, breathability is key, as sweating in your baselayers can mean getting a chill later and possibly having to end your day early. You can go for a waterproof shell pant that is light on insulation and has good breathability and ventilation options while protecting you from external moisture. With this style, you will need to add your own insulating base layers according to the weather forecast for that day.
Insulated: If you ski in extreme cold of northern latitudes, do resort laps where half your time is spent chilling on a chair lift, or just are a cold human being, you'll want to consider a pair of ski pants with insulation. The lofty material used to trap warmth varies depending on the brand, but all of them can help you keep warm to some degree until you can get moving again.
Bibs can reach up to chest height, providing your torso with an extra level of protection from cold, wind, and snow.
Bibs: These are overall-style garments with straps that reach up and over your shoulders, and fabric that covers much of your torso. They offer more coverage, warmth, and protection, and some bonus storage space. They are great if you love to ski deep powder and don't want any snow creeping in. Some people also love the comfortable freedom of bibs, since the shoulder straps keep them up without the need for a tight waistband. However, this can make bathroom breaks a little more of a hassle.
Pants: Everyone has worn jeans, right? Ski pants bring a familiar fit, bathroom breaks are straightforward, and layering can be more streamlined and feel less bulky without the additional fabric around your torso. The main disadvantage of pants is the lack of coverage. If you have a big wipeout or are lucky enough to find some deep powder, there's a higher chance that some snow will find its way up your jacket and get your baselayers wet.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing can either come from the use of Gore-Tex in the construction of the pants or via a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. Gortex is the preferred material; however, it can be much more expensive, and DWR is an effective alternative. Any pant with this finish will need annual upkeep, though, as the coating wears off with use. This is a pretty easy DIY task, and I've made it part of my fall routine each time I break out my ski gear for the first time of the season.
A well-placed, roomy pocket with a zippered closure is perfect for carrying essentials like car keys, lift snacks, or an extra beanie.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Features and Style
Features and style are ultimately a personal preference, but they can truly make a difference in how much you like wearing your ski pants. Unless you're planning to carry a backpack, your pockets are your only means of storage, so it's worth looking at the placement, size, and total number of pockets in your pants. This is where bibs come in handy, as they usually have an extra chest pocket or a kangaroo pocket on the torso. Pay attention to closure type as well; we prefer zippers over velcro for the added security.
Large ventilation zips like the ones on the SkyTour AscentShell Bib allow a ton of airflow when you need it.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Many pants have built-in ventilation zips, usually on the inner or outer thigh, and sometimes both. Pay attention to the placement and the length of the zips, as this can be a fantastic way to dump heat and keep things from getting too sweaty, but if the openings are too small, they don't do a lot of good. Some also come with a mesh backing to prevent snow from entering your pant leg in case of a fall. It sounds nice, but we typically avoid this because it inhibits airflow. Plus, the time we need the vents the most is usually on the uphill, when there's a very slim chance of falling.
Adjustable waistband straps are handy for finding a good fit; however, we prefer integrated belts as they are usually more secure and don't wear out as fast as velcro fasteners.
Lastly, small perks like an integrated belt, key clip, or gaiters with a lace hook are all nice-to-haves, but are not necessarily deal breakers if the pants you are eyeing don't have one of these features. And ladies, if you decide to go with a pair of bibs, you'll definitely want to look for a pair with a drop seat so you can make those backcountry pit stops without having to remove all your upper layers first. Built in RECCO technology is another added safety measure that we appreciate; however, you should never consider it as a replacement for an avalanche beacon if you are headed into the backcountry.
The Spyder Dare is a great pant for days when the temperature drops well-below freezing.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Conclusion
Whether you're a lifelong skier who's passionate about the sport or a newcomer looking to find your ski legs, you need to know how to dress for the weather. Luckily, there's a pair of pants that will fit your needs no matter where you find yourself on the scale, and every model on this list has its merits. Warmth, comfort, and safety are key to a good day on the slopes, and beyond that, you're free to enjoy as you like.
