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If you're hitting the slopes, ski pants are essential. We've all heard that insult about skiing in jeans! Whether you like a shell pant, a bib, or an insulated pair, having a water resistant layer keeps you warm and dry on the slopes.
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 our favorite men's ski pant. The bulletproof weather resistance and comfortable fit make it worth the price, especially if you ski or board regularly. Our female testers chose the Arc'teryx Sentinel as the best pant. 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 Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated as a more affordable yet still highly functional ski pant that will hold 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.
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 ski clothes. 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. 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 fleece lining, you'll have to wear additional layers in order to stay warm. If you want built-in insulation, this isn't the pant for you. But if you want the best shell pant we've 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 with style, waterproofing, and ventilation options, the Sentinel checks those boxes. It's especially well-suited for folks who value aesthetics in addition to functionality; the Sentinel 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. The sleek fit pairs well with the matching Sentinel ski jacket, and both pieces held up well to varied testing, making them some of our most trusted ski layers.
Should you buy it? The Arc'teryx Sentinel is pricey, and it may only make sense to buy these if you spend more time on the mountain than anywhere else during the winter. 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 Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is an affordable ski pant perfect for resort skiers who want something reliable, warm, and protective. They're not the most weatherproof and warm, but if you're looking for a comfortable, insulated ski pant 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. 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 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. We recommend these to occasional skiers or anyone looking to keep warm at the resort without breaking the bank. These insulated pants are quite warm, but don't encumber movement. The rugged, workwear-inspired fabric is surprisingly tough and stands up well to tree branches and rough use. This is also a great snow pant for anyone who wants some cheap and warm waterproof bottoms for going sledding with the kids (or adults — no judgement!) When all is said and done, this affordable pant does more than we expected for the price.
Why we love it: We were 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 zippered hand pockets for stashing chapstick or an energy bar. Though not the most waterproof, the Arctix Insulated Pant kept our test team 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 insulation is great for staying warm on blustery, slow chairlift rides, but there are no ventilation options to dump heat should you get too warm. 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 that will keep some extra money in your wallet for another lift ticket.
The Arctix Insulated is a great pant for staying warm on easy days at the resort. We love that it has adjustable features like a velcro waist tab and zippers at the ankles.
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: Unlike traditional stiff shell pants, the Haldigrat feels flexible and easy to wear. “They 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 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 great 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 (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. Its biggest downside is that the DWR waterproofing wears off over time, though it can be restored with periodic treatment. 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.
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 warm and protective 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. This bib is probably too warm for spring conditions. It also doesn't feature a drop-seat for bathroom breaks, a feature our female test team loved about the Flylow Foxy 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 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 our 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. We should also point out that this is not a pant designed for regular resort skiing.
Why we love it: The Trailbreaker Tour delivers an impressive combination of stretch, ventilation, and practical features like multiple pockets and a smart fit. Tester and mountain guide Jeff Dobronyi spends a lot of his winter days wearing these pants while ski touring. They've been refined over the years and strike a solid balance between performance and style, making them a staple for many backcountry enthusiasts.
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 also not meant for resort skiing. This pant is designed for high-output ski 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. If we're expecting a storm, we'd swap them out for something a little more hardy, but for those chasing lines deep in the backcountry, this is our top recommendation.
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
Great Deal for a Women's Shell Bib
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 Gore-Tex functionality without the hefty price tag. It's a reliable ski bib ideal for both resort skiers and casual backcountry users. 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. We loved the overall versatility, and the large vents and thoughtful design made us feel like we were wearing a premium piece of gear. Other bibs with similar features usually cost quite a bit more, but REI managed to keep the price down while not skimping on smart design. The well-placed vents are great for dumping heat, and the drop tail opening is a godsend for 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.
We like the fit and comfort of the First Chair GTX Bib, and its flannel backer lining provides a touch of added warmth.
Why Trust GearLab
As a professional mountain guide and avalanche forecaster in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Jeff Dobronyi spends most of his days outdoors, even (or especially) in the winter, which puts him in a great spot to lead testing for OutdoorGearLab's ski pants review. He loves being outside and has dedicated a large part of his life to helping others enjoy the outdoors as well. Jeff understands the importance of having the right gear, regardless of experience level, and his lifelong love affair with skiing for both professional and recreational purposes allows him to cut through frills and fluff and get down to the nitty-gritty of what works.
Kaylee Walden's parents put her on skis as soon as she could walk, and 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. As an adult, Kaylee has skied all over the world and has lived in Montana, Alaska, and Colorado. Today, she lives and works as a guide in the San Juan range of Colorado. She's an Apprentice Alpine Guide (ASC), an American Mountain Guides Association Aspirant Ski Guide, and has completed a Pro Level 2 in avalanche education in the U.S. With a lifetime of winters spent outdoors, Kaylee uses her experience to lead our women's review of the best ski pants.
Similar to Kaylee, GearLab tester Jacqueline 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 southwestern 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.
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 officially testing ski pants in 2013. Since then, we have worn more than 140 pairs of men's and women's ski pants, rigorously testing each pair 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 assess our ski pant lineups using six key 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.
The Patagonia Powder Town on a groomer lap.
Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Men's Ski Pants
Our men's testing team has worn over 50 pairs of pants and bibs since 2013. Every season, new products are released and we are stoked to try them out. Below are the overall performance scores of the men's ski pants that we compared during our most recent update.
Women's Ski Pants
With over 40 models tested in the past decade, our lineup has included some of the most popular models. 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
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: shell pants vs. insulated. 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'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.
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: Jeff Dobronyi
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. Gore-Tex 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 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 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. 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, 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, 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 setup, 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 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.
