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If you're hitting the slopes, ski pants are essential to keep you warm and dry. Whether you like a shell pant, a bib, or an insulated pair, having a water-resistant layer keeps you comfortable on the slopes.
The best ski pant for men is the Arc'teryx Sabre Pant. The Sabre's amazing weather resistance and comfortable fit make it worth the price, especially if you ski or board regularly. Similarly, our female test team chose the women's version of this pant, the Arc'teryx Sentinel as the favorite. They 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.
If you can't afford to splurge on Arc'teryx, we get it. It's not always necessary to spend top dollar to get gear ski clothes. We love the men's insulated REI Co-op Powderbound as a much more affordable (yet still highly functional) ski pant that will hold up well in all but the most intense weather. Our female testers found the Columbia Bugaboo II to be a totally adequate pair of ski pants, offering great warmth and weather resistance for a fraction of the price of the high-dollar pants.
We've tested a wide selection of the best ski pants on the market to find out which ones offer the best performance and protection. 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.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Sabre Pant is for skiers who call out of work on powder days (we don't judge) and are willing to make an investment in their ski clothes. If you're after industry-leading weather protection and a hardshell design that can adapt to various mountain conditions, these pants deliver. The premium construction makes the Sabre Pant a strong choice for those who ski in all conditions, from sub-zero blizzards to warm spring days.
Why we love it: This uninsulated pant features fully-taped seams, waterproof zippers, and Gore-Tex ePE 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. These pants are versatile enough to wear in super cold temps with appropriate layers, as well as during warmer spring ski days.
Should you buy it? That depends on your priorities. If price is not a barrier, we recommend the Sabre Pant without hesitation. But, it is expensive, and since it's just a shell with only a thin flannel lining, you'll have to wear additional layers in order to stay warm. If you're looking for the warmth of built-in insulation, this isn't the pant for you. But if you want the best shell pants we've tested and don't mind spending for long-term durability and top-shelf performance, these are tough to beat.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Sentinel is for lady shredders 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 with style, waterproofing, and ventilation options, the Sentinel checks all of the boxes. If you're looking for a blend of fashion and function, these pants deliver. The Sentinel offers a clean, tailored look without skimping on performance, especially when paired with the matching Arc'teryx Sentinel Jacket.
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 dry no matter the storm, and the outer thigh vents made it easy to cool off on uphill efforts. During the deepest powder days of the season when everyone else's outerwear was failing them, our lead tester stayed cozy and ready for more in the Sentinel Pants.
Should you buy it? The Arc'teryx Sentinel Pants are spendy. It might only make sense to buy these if you spend more time on the mountain than anywhere else during the winter. However, these pants will last for many seasons, versus a more bargain pair. If you run cold and like an insulated ski pant, check out a pair with built-in warmth like the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town. But if long-lasting quality and versatile performance are your priorities, and you're willing to pay for their premium materials, the Sentinel stands out as the most well-rounded women's shell pant we've tested.
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated is the best budget-friendly insulated ski pant for resort skiing and snowboarding. It's warm, includes a waterproof/breathable membrane, and the cut is comfortable and adjustable. We think it's particularly good for anyone trying to outfit multiple family members, including new and intermediate skiers, on a budget. With short, regular, and long options, finding the right size should be doable for most body types.
Why we love it: These affordable snow pants include all the key ski-ready features we expect: grippy snow gaiters that keep snow out of our boots, rugged hems and scuff guards to fend off sharp ski edges, and zippered inner thigh vents that let us dump excess heat after hard runs on warmer days. We also appreciate the widely adjustable waist tabs (and belt loops if you need them) to dial in your fit. Our more agile and active skiers appreciate the articulated knees and gusseted crotch construction, making these extra comfortable on more difficult runs.
Should you buy it? If you're a weekend skier or boarder who needs an affordable but versatile pant for most conditions, it's hard to go wrong with the Powderbound Insulated. They cover all the basics at an unbeatable value, and the many length options can help you achieve your own perfect fit. The only drawback is that they're not as waterproof as more premium options that cost twice as much, so they're not as good for constantly wet ski days. Still, if you usually ski in freezing conditions when snow is falling, these pants are more than capable of keeping you dry and warm during most weekend trips.
Who this is best for: For budget-conscious riders, occasional skiers who only hit the resort a handful of times a season, and anyone who runs cold and is seeking reliable protection from the elements, the Columbia Bugaboo II is a great choice. If you can't afford a pant that costs as much as a season pass at your local resort, the Bugaboo II is a reliable option at a good price. They kept our test team comfortable and dry on typical resort days.
Why we love it: The Bugaboo II offers unbeatable value and punch well above their weight class when it comes to weather protection. In fact, they shed water in our shower test better than some of the pricier pants we tested! They cover all the essential bases to keep you warm and dry, with enough insulation for cold days and features like zippered pockets, scuff guards, and gusseted knees to assist with range of motion.
Should you buy it? Yes, if you want an affordable, capable pant that will reliably get the job done on casual ski days. Just be sure to size up if you prefer a relaxed fit, as the tailoring runs slim through the hips and thighs, and the material lacks stretch. If you run hot, these might not be your pants, since they don't come with leg vents. If leg vents are a crucial feature for you, you can pay about $100 more for the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Pants, which have huge pockets, a baggier fit, and are still quite warm.
We were impressed with the warmth and waterproofing offered by the affordable Bugaboo II. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Who this is best for: If you're after an excellent bib that delivers comfort, weather protection, and clean style, the Mammut Haldigrat HS should be number one on your list. Designed for skiers who value range of motion and lightweight versatility, these bibs are especially great for backcountry touring and sidecountry skiing. Even if you plan to stay within the resort boundary, you'll appreciate how these stretchy bibs move with you.
Why we love it: Unlike traditional stiff shell pants, the Haldigrat feels supple and easy to wear. “The breathable, stretchy material with legit waterproofing — a rare combo that I love to see,” says lead tester and IFMGA Mountain Guide Jeff Dobronyi, who wears the Haldigrat often when he's guiding. We also just think these bibs have killer style, and their 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, we found the tradeoff for improved comfort and mobility worth it, and we don't think most users will have a problem with durability.
Who this is best for: The Flylow Foxy Bib is an ideal pick if you're looking for function, comfort, and style wrapped into one bib. It's best suited for female skiers and riders who want the freedom of a shell combined with practical features for daily use on the resort and in the backcountry. If you value ventilation and versatility across varied conditions, this bib delivers.
Why we love it: The Foxy Bib has it all: standout style, practical design, and performance-driven details (including the drop-seat, which makes bathroom breaks much easier!) We've tested this bib numerous times over the years, and it's consistently been a favorite among our team. We love the range of fun color options and the many thoughtfully placed pockets, including the large zippered kangaroo pocket. There are inner and outer leg vents for breathability, which is great for those doing backcountry laps or who need to cool off on warm spring ski days.
Should you buy it? The Foxy Bib is one of the most well-rounded bibs we tested. Our tester notes that they run small, especially for curvier ladies, and recommends sizing up. The biggest downside is that the DWR treatment wears off over time, though it can be restored with periodic waterproofing wash. If you want a flattering, high-performing bib and don't mind a little maintenance, this one's hard to beat. Just remember that it's a shell, so you'll need to provide your own insulation underneath.
The Flylow Foxy is our favorite pair of bibs for women, taking us from the resort to the backcountry with a comfortably stylish silhouette. Credit: GearLab Team
Who this is best for: The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib is a great pick for casual resort skiers or snowboarders who want a full-coverage bib without spending a fortune. It's insulated and warm, especially ideal for colder days, long lift rides, or even snowmobile outings. It works well for anyone who is okay with trading techy extras for value and simplicity.
Why we love it: Although it's not super flashy, the affordable Powderbound delivers where it counts. The 2-layer Peak shell and DWR finish hold up in standard resort conditions, and the insulation provides the warmth needed for cold, windy days on the slopes. Articulated hips and knees provide a great range of motion, and the adjustable straps offer an even more customizable fit. At this price, it's tough to find better resort-ready performance.
Should you buy it? If you want a warm, insulated bib that covers the basics well and saves you some cash, the Powderbound is one of the best value options around. However, the 2-layer shell isn't built for prolonged wet weather, and breathability is limited. For most skiers, this bib is too warm for spring conditions. It also doesn't feature a drop seat for bathroom breaks, a feature our female test team loved in the Flylow Foxy Bib and the REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib.
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 our 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. We love wearing these on deep powder days, since they prevent snow from sneaking between our jacket and pants. There are vents at the thighs for releasing heat when things warm up. 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? There's not tons of insulation, which can be good or bad depending on how active you are, but we still recommend wearing good base layers. You won't get premium style or features here, but if you're just seeking 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 Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is our favorite insulated ski pant for resort skiers who want something reliable, warm, and protective. They're not the most weatherproof or warm, but the midrange level of insulation and articulated cut make these ski pants reasonably agile and comfortable. They're great for beginners and anyone who wants insulation to keep their legs warm during fast groomer-ripping runs and cold chairlift rides. The Legendary pants are also widely available in many sizes and color options.
Why we love it: These pants hold their own in all kinds of conditions. We were impressed by their comfort and cut, and testers found them warm enough for most resort days. They're 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 stormiest, wettest conditions.
Should you buy it? If you're a casual weekend skier or rider looking for a pant for crushing chairlift laps, 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. If you're putting your season pass to good use or venturing into the backcountry, they may not deliver enough durability and weather protection. That said, unless you're braving brutal weather, these pants deliver all the essentials, and for most people, the Legendary strikes the ideal balance of cost, comfort, and capability.
Who this is best for: If you find yourself always freezing cold when skiing, the Outdoor Research Snowcrew might solve your chairlift woes. These relaxed-fit, synthetically-insulated ski pants do the trick on even the coldest days. Thanks to the lofty Vertical X Eco insulation, our testers stayed warm when the temperatures dropped. These pants have a great warmth-to-weight ratio and come at a reasonable price.
Why we love it: They have the best pockets of any pants we tested: Large and fleece-lined for extra coziness, they cover almost the entire length and width of your thigh. You can also store an avalanche transceiver in the mesh–lined interior pocket with a carabiner clip. We love how these pants can appeal to a wide range of skiers, all for a good value.
Should you buy it? We loved the super relaxed and comfortable fit of these pants, but they run quite large. If you prefer a more athletic fit, you'll want to size down. While these pants are warm, they may be too warm for some conditions. For the wettest climates that often see high levels of precipitation, they may not have adequate weather protection. In general, though, we highly recommend these warm and comfy insulated pants.
For sunny carving to powder laps, the Snowcrew pants will keep you cozy. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Why Trust GearLab
Our ski pants testing team lives and breathes skiing. As a professional IFMGA mountain guide, Jeff Dobronyi spends most of his days outdoors, especially in the winter, which puts him in a great spot to lead testing for OutdoorGearLab's ski pants review. Jeff understands the importance of having the right gear, regardless of experience level.
Kaylee Walden's parents put her on skis as soon as she could walk. She's been hooked ever since. She grew up with a ski patrol dad who taught her the importance of dressing for the weather, and she never underestimates the value of a good piece of gear. These days, Kaylee works as an AMGA-Certified Ski Guide who works in Alaska and Colorado. She also guides and patrols at Silverton Mountain.
Similar to Kaylee, GearLab tester Jackie Kearney was also lucky enough to grow up skiing, finding her groove on the slopes of Vermont. As an adult, she has oriented her life around skiing, choosing to live between the San Juan range of Colorado and the Sierra Nevada in California for the access to pursue her passion. Jackie has worked in avalanche mitigation as a ski patroller in both places and skied recreationally all over North America.
GearLab Review Editor Chris Maxcer is a resort skiing enthusiast in Idaho, where he tests and reviews dozens of new ski jackets, pants, goggles, gloves, mittens, and base layers each season. In addition to evaluating gear for himself and readers, he's constantly helping friends and family choose appropriate gear for new skiers and boarders, which he considers both a duty and a passion.
Our testing team spends as many days on the mountain as possible, in all conditions.
How We Tested
Since 2013, we have rigorously tested more than 200 pairs of ski pants for overall performance. We skied in all of them – a lot. For more controlled testing, we brought them inside and performed a 'rain test' in the shower to simulate continuous wet conditions and assess waterproofing on an even playing field.
We assess our ski pant lineups using six key metrics, which include Weather Resistance, Fit and Comfort, Breathability, 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 or 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.
Men's Ski Pants
Our men's testing team has worn over 50 pairs of ski pants and bibs since 2013. Every season, new products are released, and we revamp our testing lineup. Below are the overall performance scores of the men's ski pants that we compared during our most recent update.
Women's Ski Pants
Likewise, over the past decade+, our women's ski pant lineup has also included some of the best and most popular options on the market. The women's ski pants that made the cut for this round of testing, and their overall performance scores, are shown below.
Types of Ski Pants
Before anything else, it's worth taking a close look at both the waterproofing and insulating properties of the pants you're considering, and then matching those features to the conditions of where you typically ski.
Ski pants fall into two main categories: shell pants and insulated pants. Shell pants prioritize weather protection and breathability, relying on your layering system for warmth, which makes them a favorite for skiers who run hot, ski hard, or spend time backcountry touring. Insulated pants have built-in warmth and are often ideal for resort skiing, colder climates, or anyone who wants a simpler, grab-and-go setup.
The Arc'teryx Sentinel is a shell pant that kept us comfortable in all kinds of conditions, and terrain. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Shell Pants: If you're somebody who typically runs warm or if you do a lot of ski touring in the backcountry, breathability is key, as sweating in your baselayers can mean getting a chill later and possibly having to end your day early. A waterproof shell pant with good ventilation will protect you from external moisture. This type of pant is less warm by default, but it is more versatile since you can wear it in warmer or colder temps by layering appropriately.
Insulated Pants: If you ski in extreme cold of northern latitudes, do resort laps where half your time is spent chilling (literally) 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.
Once you've settled on the right level of insulation, the next decision is coverage style. Here, you're choosing between pants and bibs. Standard pants are lighter, simpler, and easier to layer, while bibs offer extended coverage, better snow protection, and often extra storage.
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 can be insulated or shell style, and they're 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, although many women's bib designs are starting to include a drop seat to remedy this.
Bibs can reach up to chest height, providing your torso with an extra level of protection from cold, wind, and snow. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Waterproofing
Waterproofing can either come from the use of a Gore-Tex membrane in the construction of the pants or via a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, or in some cases, both. Gore-Tex has long been considered the industry standard, but many companies are now developing their own similar proprietary membranes. Any pant with a DWR finish will need annual upkeep, as the coating wears off with use. This is a pretty easy DIY task, and our ski-obsessed testers have made it part of their fall routines when they break out their ski gear for the first time each season.
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.
We prefer pockets with zippers over velcro.
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 modulate temperature, 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 pants in case of a fall. Some testers appreciate this feature, while others find that it inhibits airflow, making it a matter of personal preference.
Large zipper vents help you to release heat if you warm up. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Lastly, perks like an integrated belt, key clip, or gaiters with a lace hook are all nice to have, but are not necessarily deal breakers if the pants you are eyeing don't have one of these features. Ladies, if you decide to go with a pair of bibs, we definitely recommend looking for a pair with a drop seat so you can make quick pit stops without having to remove 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.
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.
To complete your outerwear, take a look at our ski jacket review. 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.
The right ski pants leave you free to focus on the task at hand: The skiing. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Conclusion
There's a pair of ski pants for every style, ability level, and climate. Each option on this list brings something worthwhile to the table. When it comes down to it, warmth, comfort, and weather protection are the non-negotiables. Nail those, and you've handled the hard part. From there, it's all about preference: how you ski, and what makes you feel most confident on snow. With the right pants, you're free to focus on the fun part. We'll see you on the slopes.
—Kaylee Walden, Jacqueline Kearney, Jeff Dobronyi, & Chris Maxcer
