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A great pair of ski pants insulates you from the cold and keeps moisture out so you can spend longer on the slopes, but there's more to it than that. You'll want to choose a pair that is comfortable and durable, with great mobility (bonus points for useful and secure pockets!)
The best pants we tested are the Arc'teryx Sabre Pant. These uninsulated shell pants have incredible weather resistance, comfort, and ventilation, and they look good, too.
For the best value, take a look at the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated, which is warm, comfortable, and hundreds of dollars less than the priciest pairs.
If you're in the market for a bib, the Mammut Haldigrat HS is the best one we tested, thanks to a perfect fit and plenty of weather resistance. The North Face Freedom Bib also offers plenty of weather protection and is more affordable.
We bought 17 of the best ski pants available and tested them in wintery ski climates from Jackson Hole to Lake Tahoe to the Colorado Rockies. We search for pairs that fit comfortably, keep weather out, vent excess heat, keep us warm on the lifts, and offer style points.
Editor's Note: We updated our men's ski pants review on March 5, 2026, to include newly tested options from REI, FlyLow, and Arc'teryx.
If you spend more time on the mountain crushing runs than hanging out at home, the premium-priced Arc'teryx Sabre Pant might be worth the investment. They are our top recommendation for skiers who explore runs all day long and avoid the lodge while the lifts are still open. These stylish, uninsulated hardshell pants are so light that it was easy for us to forget we had them on, yet they're still surprisingly well-built and versatile. Made from fully seam-sealed Gore-Tex Pro fabric, snow falls away and water rolls right off. At the same time, water vapor created by hard-working legs can escape through their breathable membrane. “When I tested these in Idaho, I never overheated, and I was amazed at how well they kept me protected when freezing winds dropped the windchill factor below zero,” noted tester Chris Maxcer. “They feel more like a lightweight pant than bulky insulated ski pants.” As long as an Arc'teryx size option fits your body type, you'll likely love the Sabre. However, if the fit isn't quite right, the Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex has a similar, high-performance design that may be more comfortable.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main fabric
80D plain weave recycled nylon
Insulation
Flannel backer adds light insulation
Waterproofing
3L GORE-TEX ePE
Waistline construction
Snap/zipper fly with integrated belt
Weight (in pounds)
1.44 lbs (size XL)
Keep in mind that these pants are an uninsulated shell. Unlike some shells, Arc'teryx includes a fleece lining in the Sabre, but it adds little warmth. In warmer weather, you can wear a thin underlayer and feel comfortable, but for frigid days or sitting on cold chairlift seats, you'll need to wear a thicker layer to stay warm. If the price makes you pause, the Patagonia Stormstride Pants cost less and are lighter, making them great for high-output backcountry skiing trips. Overall, though, the Sabre remains our favorite general-purpose uninsulated ski pant for its durability, versatility, and minimalist, modern style.
The uninsulated Arc'teryx Sabre ski pants are masters at fending off snow and sleet. On warmer days, they breathe well and let us ski without overheating. Credit: Chris Maxcer
If an amazing bib pant is what you seek, the Mammut Haldigrat HS is one of the most comfortable pairs we've ever worn, with terrific weather resistance and killer style. The material is more breathable and stretchier than a normal shell pant, yet waterproof. The stretch factor lends to their comfort, and their athletic fit offers excellent range of motion. Plus, they look great. Our lead tester, IFMGA Mountain Guide Jeff Dobronyi, says, “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.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Main fabric
Polyamide
Insulation
None
Waterproofing
Drytech Pro
Waistline construction
Bibs
Weight (in pounds)
1.34 lbs
These shell pants aren't as heavy-duty and stiff as most Gore-Tex pants and may not hold up to as much abuse from sharp objects and tree branches. For a bib, these are somewhat minimalist, but the lack of a continuous shell bib from the hips up through the torso adds considerable comfort and range of motion, and we think most skiers seeking a bib will be as impressed by the Haldigrat as we are. It offers as much weather resistance as most other bibs, with better comfort and versatility. If you're looking for a more affordable bib, we also like the Outdoor Research Carbide Bib, which also excels in weather resistance.
A thin, low-coverage bib covers the lower torso on the Mammut Haldigrat, which offers less coverage than most other bibs, but we find this one to work just as well at keeping snow out. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The suspenders are stretchy and comfortable to wear, crossing in the back where you can't feel it. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Large zipper vents help you to release heat if you warm up. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated is the best entry-level ski pant for beginners on a budget. They're warm and highly weather-resistant to snow and occasional sleet, making them great for typical resort ski days. They include key features like scuff guards with reinforced hems to protect from sharp ski edges, zippered inner thigh vents for heat management, and boot gaiters for keeping snow out. A breathable/waterproof Peak 2-layer laminate provides inner waterproofing, while the exterior nylon shell fabric has a DWR coating that protects the fabric from wetting out. “If you're trying to outfit multiple family members for ski season, the value and functionality of these pants are hard to beat,” Chris noted. “I have long legs, so I like that I can get them in a tall size option with longer inseams, but REI also offers short and regular versions, too.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Main fabric
Nylon
Insulation
Recycled polyester
Waterproofing
2-layer Peak PFAS-Free DWR
Waistline construction
Double snap fly with waist adjustment tabs
Weight (in pounds)
1.88 lbs (size XL)
The Powderbound Insulated aren't built with the same top-tier waterproofing found in more premium options, like waterproof zippers and fabrics that can withstand sitting on wet chairlifts for hours without seeping. Still, when the snow remains mostly frozen, we could ski and ride lifts all day long without getting wet. If the REI color options aren't quite your jam, for a slight increase in cost the Helly Hansen Legendary is usually available in a dozen or more colors. The North Face Freedom Insulated performs nearly the same, but it includes a much better thigh cargo pocket that's great for snacks or an extra pair of hand warmers. While the decent Columbia Bugaboo V can be found at an even lower price, we believe the increased performance of the Powderbound makes it the best overall buy.
Comfortable and capable, the budget-friendly REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated ski pants kept us warm and smiling while we tested them skiing in Idaho. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is our favorite insulated pant. They are highly weather-resistant, fairly warm, durable, and look pretty good — all for a fraction of the price of top-of-the-line options. If you're looking for a great pair of pants for almost any day of the ski season, these can get the job done and then some. One tester remarked, “These pants have the refined tailoring of much more expensive options.” Across the board, they perform adequately for most needs at the resort while looking and feeling great.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main fabric
Polyester
Insulation
Polyester
Waterproofing
Helly Tech
Waistline construction
Snap/zipper fly with adjustable tabs
Weight (in pounds)
1.30 lbs
These bottoms don't provide the same top-tier weatherproofing of the premium options, like the uninsulated Arc'teryx Sabre. That said, they are absolutely adequate at keeping moisture out and are a terrific choice for skiers who don't need all the bells and whistles and still want to remain warm, dry, and comfortable on the slopes. Often available in more than a dozen color options, Helly Hansen Legendary also lets skiers dial up the style. While the overall value is excellent, you can find even more affordable options like the Columbia Bugaboo V or the bargain basement priced Arctix Essential Insulated Bib. Still, if your budget can stretch just a little, our more experienced skiers think the improved styling and fit of the Legendary makes it worth considering.
The North Face Freedom Bib is an affordable, protective pant with plenty of performance for most resort skiers. It has a waterproof fabric that covers the torso completely. “I love these on deep powder days — they prevent snow from reaching my base layers,” our tester said. The bib is comfortable enough for active skiing and riding and comes at a great price. If you want good protection from snow, water, and wind, these will do the job.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main fabric
160D X 140D recycled nylon
Insulation
50D recycled polyester
Waterproofing
DryVent 2L
Waistline construction
Bibs with adjustable waist tabs
Weight (in pounds)
1.52 lbs
That said, don't expect these pants to perform as well as more expensive alternatives. The pockets are finicky, mostly using hook-and-loop closure mechanisms, which means they aren't waterproof and won't keep your valuables super secure. The vents are small and not super effective. And these pants don't have the best style. Still, these get the job done for users who want an inexpensive bib and won't break the bank. If you're more concerned with performance than price, the Mammut Haldigrat HS Bib is the way to go.
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour is a versatile and comfortable softshell pant that has gone through many iterations and is a perennial favorite of our backcountry ski testers. The current version has a great fit, a comfortable and stretchy main fabric, tons of useful pockets and other features, and ventilates easily. Most days in the backcountry, we reach for these pants before all others. Our lead tester, international ski guide Jeff Dobronyi, says, “I spend a high percentage of winter days in these pants, and they generally keep cold snow and occasional moisture at bay.”
It's important we emphasize that these aren't pants we recommend for resort skiing. Hard shell fabric is absent from these pants, so they are not waterproof, and you'll want to avoid them when snow or rain is in the forecast. When inclement weather does arise in our backcountry forecast, we opt for the Mammut Haldigrat HS Bib or the Patagonia Stormstride Pants. If it's a bluebird day, we appreciate the breathability and comfort offered by softshell touring pants like the Trailbreaker Tour. They aren't insulated and won't keep you warm without a baselayer underneath, but we're okay with that when we're gearing up for a day in the backcountry. These bottoms are our top recommendation for backcountry skiers and riders, representing a good value to boot.
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour is a great companion on the skin track, as long as the weather isn't too foul. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Product Comparison Table
Testing ski pants in the Wyoming backcountry. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
How We Tested
We have been buying and comparing ski pants since 2013, and we've tested over 50 men's pairs along the way. Our search for the best ski pants began with considerable research into the market, which eventually yielded the top models discussed here. Testing was largely done in the field at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Arapahoe Basin, Kicking Horse, and backcountry trips in the Tetons and Colorado Rockies. We tested each pair of pants in different climates, from windy Sierra storms to frigid, clear days in Jackson Hole. We often took one run per day in each pair, changing pants in the gondola between runs to get side-by-side product comparisons in similar conditions. Since we can't always count on rain during the testing period, we observed each pair's water resistance by wearing them in the shower for 5 minutes and checking for water penetration.
Our ski pants testing is divided across six different metrics:
Weather Resistance (25% of overall score weighting)
Fit and Comfort (25% weighting)
Warmth (15% weighting)
Breathability (15% weighting)
Features (10% weighting)
Style (10% weighting)
For more on our testing, check out our article on How We Test.
Why Trust GearLab
Mountain guide, avalanche forecaster, and OutdoorGearLab contributor Jeff Dobronyi leads the charge in our ski pant testing. Jeff lives, skis, and guides in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, one of the coldest and snowiest places in the country. He skis almost every day of the winter, only taking days off when his legs are begging for a break. Jeff's gear has to work day in and day out because he puts it through the wringer, both recreationally and professionally. These demands and years of experience make him an informed and discerning judge of ski apparel.
He's joined by ski enthusiast and GearLab Review Editor Chris Maxcer. Chris is a frequent resort skier in Idaho who has side-by-side tested and reviewed ski jackets, goggles, helmets, gloves, ski pants, and base layers over the last decade. While he appreciates high-end premium gear, he gets most excited by gear that provides the best value for most skiers.
We put these pants to the test for weeks of skiing, then continue to use them after our review is published. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Testing ski pants on a cold, sunny day. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Some ski pants have more stretch than others. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
While hitting runs in Idaho, REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated were both comfortable and warm. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
The FlyLow Gear Baker Bib seemed right at home on a ski run in Montana. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Analysis and Test Results
We ask a lot from our ski and snowboarding pants. They need to resist wind, snow, and maybe even rain. They should be comfortable, fashionable, and durable. On top of all that, they need to provide versatility for all the conditions winter might throw at us. To help you find the best pair, we assess each pair on these key performance areas and discuss the best performances below.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Our selection of pants covers a considerable price range, from budget options to pants that command a serious premium. The good news is that there is great value to be found in many of the less-expensive options. Except in the gnarliest of weather, the least expensive products we tested performed adequately at the resort. Weather resistance is what really sets the more expensive products apart. To fully guard against every drop of water, every snowflake, and every whisper of wind, well-sealed pants almost always cost more. The more expensive products also feature durability improvements, increased ventilation, fashion upgrades, and general refinement. The extra features and style found in the more expensive options are nice additions, but not necessary for most skiers.
We found the greatest value per dollar in the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated, which are a warm, well-fitting, and comfortable pair of pants with an affordable price tag. The North Face Freedom Insulated is another long-time favorite of ours, offering solid performance across the board with a comfortable fit. For an extra touch of style with a friendly price point, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated are a bit trimmer and come in many color options. The Patagonia Powder Town is a bit more refined, but still remains affordable.
Taking the Patagonia Powder Town pants for a spin. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour offers good value for anyone seeking a pair of backcountry-specific pants. It has plenty of features, great comfort, awesome breathability, and a tailored fit at a price tag that is hard to gripe about. If you're looking for affordable bibs, the Outdoor Research Carbide performs almost as well as the top models but at a much lower cost. The North Face Freedom Bib is downright inexpensive and offers the best value in bibs for those who don't want to spend a ton of cash.
If you're skiing on a budget, it's hard to beat the solid performance delivered by the REI Powderbound Insulated pants. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Early season testing in The North Face Freedom Bib. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Arctix Essential Insulated Bib kept us warm on the coldest winter days, for a minuscule price tag. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
We like the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated for everyday riding at the resort. They're a bit less bulky than most affordable insulated options and come in many colors. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo pants offer value in a unique way since they include both a shell pant and a fleece liner pant that zips into the shell. This modular design allows users three different pant configurations. The fit and comfort of this package isn't our favorite, and it has a baggy look, but it represents a good value nonetheless. The Arctix Essential Insulated Bib comes with a rock-bottom price tag and is warm enough for the occasional winter user. The downright inexpensive Gash Hao Fleece Lined pants are an example of an affordable, popular winter pant that seem to be confused with pants designed for downhill skiing. They are warm and comfortable but the weatherproofing is minimal and the narrow lower legs can't be worn over downhill ski boots. While they could work for cross-country skiing or as a general-purpose winter pant, we don't recommend them as a weatherproof pant for downhill skiing.
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is our top priority when evaluating ski pants. This attribute is a function of both the shell fabric and garment design. Most of the pants we tested have adequate, weather-resistant outer fabrics for bluebird day usage, and many feature completely waterproof materials. However, the fabric is meaningless without thoughtful design.
Pants must have separate and tight inner powder cuffs, protected zippers and flaps, and a durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. This DWR coating is what makes water “bead” on the surface of the fabric. It blocks light weather and keeps the face fabric dry. This is important for weather protection, but it also ensures that the fabric laminate remains breathable by letting water vapor escape.
This closeup of the Arc'teryx cuffs reveal a stretch elastic bottom with a grippy interior edge. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Elastic powder cuffs are standard features for ski pants, but the Mammut Haldigrat's cuffs are very stretchy and easily fit over boot buckles. Credit: Sam Willits
The basic yet effective cuffs on the budget Columbia Bugaboo V pants help seal out snow. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
If you spend a lot of time skiing in stormy weather, the Arc'teryx Sabre is the most protective pant money can buy. In addition to the impenetrable Gore-Tex Pro membranes, waterproof zippers, sealed seams, and powder skirts of other protective pants, these pants also have clips that can attach to Arc'teryx jackets, creating a weatherproof suit.
The Arc'teryx Sabre pants were unfazed by a simulated downpour in our shower test. Out in the wild, we've sat in puddles on chair lifts and experienced zero seepage under pressure. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Bibs are hands down the most protective ski pants. They eliminate the gap between pants and jacket, which is a major weak point in ski clothing. The Flylow Baker Bibs and Outdoor Research Carbide Bibs also supply excellent protection. Our favorite bib, the Mammut Haldigrat HS Bib, successfully keeps all wetness outside the pants with a torso covering that isn't as restrictive as most other ski bibs.
The FlyLow Baker Bib uses rugged waterproof zippers with zipper garages that help prevent moisture from seeping inside. Credit: Chris Maxcer
With a thick hardshell fabric and waterproof zippers, the Norrona Lofoten is a weatherproof machine. Credit: Sam Willits
Some pants forgo waterproof technology in favor of more breathable and flexible softshell fabric. These pants aren't designed to withstand stormy weather, but they still provide resistance against light weather and snow. The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour is a softshell pant with panels of waterproof fabric in the lower legs to bolster weather resistance without impeding breathability, but in our experience, this addition doesn't make a huge difference. The Gash Hao Fleece Lined is another soft-shell pant, but our shower test revealed gaps in its DWR coverage that allowed water to quickly seep through.
The Trailbreaker Tour's upper material is softshell, which is stretchy and offers great mobility for the backcountry. However, we recommend a burlier material for resort days or stormy weather. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
As prices continue to rise for high-end products, we'll point out that plenty of more affordable options can provide 90% of the protection of the most expensive pants. For instance, the Mammut Haldigrat HS is our favorite bib we tested, keeps the weather outside in all circumstances, and costs much less than Gore-Tex pants. Even downright affordable pants like the Columbia Bugaboo V, The North Face Freedom Bib, Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated, and REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated keep out enough snow and rain to be useful on 95% of ski days.
The North Face Freedom Bib is an affordable, uninsulated ski bib that will keep you dry at the resort. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Fit and Comfort
Good ski technique is vital to both our enjoyment of the sport and to reduce the risk of injury. If a garment limits our range of motion, ski technique could be limited or altered, leading to less fun on the slopes and a potentially dangerous experience. Well-fitting and comfortable ski pants won't hinder motion, while poorly fitting pants can feel restrictive and limiting.
Of course, fit and comfort depend on body type. Some pants feature a slim fit through the thighs and knees, while others are baggy and loose. In our experience, the perfect-fitting ski pant sits somewhere right in the middle — not too tight and not too loose. A well-cut pair of pants conforms to the body's contours and will be more comfortable to wear. The Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex has a slightly loose and completely unrestricted fit without feeling baggy, similar to the Patagonia Powder Town. Both of these pants also have wide hook-and-loop flaps around the waist that help customize the fit.
The Norrona Lofoten has an excellent fit that is not too tight, not too loose, and perfectly tailored. Credit: Sam Willits
We enjoyed the fit of the Patagonia Powder Town. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Arc'teryx Sabre has been a tester favorite for years for its articulated cut, which is pre-curved to match the way the lower body joints move. When the fit is right, the comfort is stellar. However, some skiers may prefer a baggier fit or a higher waist for extra weather protection.
The Arc'teryx Sabre has a stylish lower-rise design that requires a good fit for the best comfort and performance while skiing. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
We also love the fit of the Mammut Haldigrat HS. As a general rule, all the priciest pants we tested have well-tailored cuts that are comfortable to wear. More affordable insulated pants like the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated and The North Face Freedom Insulated tend to have looser, vaguer fits that err toward ensuring mobility.
The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated comes in Short, Regular, and Tall size options. These options help you dial in the length, but the overall fit remains a bit loose and baggy. For a trimmer fit, some customers may be able to size down. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour feels like pajamas compared to the hardshell models. These are a backcountry focused pant, which are generally more comfortable and offer better mobility than most other ski pants on the market. This is important since you'll spend a lot of time hiking uphill in these pants, so they need to be super comfortable. However, this is not a pant we recommend for resort skiing.
Testing the Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour in the backcountry. We love this pant for touring. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Breathability
Each day on the ski slopes is different, from warm, sunny, and windless days to brutally cold and stormy ones. Most skiers only own one pair of ski pants, and these pants need to keep us warm on the coldest days of the season. On milder days, pants may be too warm, so it's good to have the ability to offload extra heat. Breathable, softshell fabrics let warm air escape and aren't ideal for the coldest days. Zippered vents allow the user to choose when to let air escape and when to trap warm air inside.
Our testing team includes backcountry ski guides who recommend well-venting resort pants for occasional backcountry use. However, they noted that if you are an avid backcountry skier, dedicated backcountry pants are well worth the investment due to the benefits of comfort.
Waterproof/breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex have tiny holes that allow water vapor escape but are too small to let water droplets inside. In addition to breathable fabrics, our breathability ratings include ventilation features like zippered interior or exterior thigh vents that open wide to let hot air escape and maximize air flow. The best performers tend to blend breathable fabrics with long exterior vents. We prefer vents without any mesh backing, since they allow air to flow more freely. The least effective vents are often mesh-backed and located on the inner leg. But the mesh will keep some snow out, so if you ride hot and tumble often, mesh-lined vents are probably a good option.
The FlyLow Baker Bib (shown) and Chemical pants feature four vents, two on the interiors of the knees and two on the exterior upper thighs. The result is awesome airflow that dumps heat fast. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Arc'teryx places its large vents at the upper back portion of the thighs to let heat escape while protecting the fronts from snow or blown precipitation while on the go. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Flylow Baker Bibs and Flylow Chemical Pant earn special mention because of their inner and outer leg vents. Dual vents on each leg create a swirling flow of air that travels up and down the legs inside the pants. The pant legs provide great ventilation, but the bibs have extra material around the torso that keeps warm air inside this critical area. You can untuck base layers and shirts from standard ski pants, but untucking a shirt from underneath a bib is not a suitable option.
The long, mesh-free vents of the Arc'teryx Sabre,Outdoor Research Carbide Bib,Patagonia Stormstride Pants, and Mammut Haldigrat are super effective. These pants all use three-layer shell fabrics for weather protection, which are inherently less breathable than softshell fabrics (which aren't waterproof). As such, these long vents are critical for dumping heat when your internal body temperature rises on hot days, aerobic bump runs, or long skin tracks and bootpacks.
The waterproof Patagonia Stormstride provides excellent weather resistance and breathability, fending off the worst backcountry storms while allowing the user to work hard while breaking trail. Credit: Bart Young
Some hardshell pants forgo the use of burly (and expensive) Gore-Tex membranes, instead opting for proprietary or alternative waterproof and breathable membranes. The Patagonia Stormstride and Mammut Haldigrat use alternative technical membranes that are more breathable than Gore-Tex, with minimal sacrifices in weather resistance.
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour uses a softshell fabric, which is much more breathable than even the most ventilated hardshell pants. These pants are ideal for backcountry skiers who are working hard to skin uphill. In fair weather, softshells are our preferred pants for ski touring and ski mountaineering to help prevent overheating. However, we don't recommend these pants as a dedicated resort pant.
We can lunge, stretch, and skin in the Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour without feeling uncomfortable. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Warmth
As with all cold-weather clothing, insulation matters; however, it's important to note that many skiers give little thought to their pants' insulation because our lower bodies aren't as sensitive to cold as our upper bodies. In cold conditions, we usually opt to wear a warm pair of long underwear underneath.
The affordable Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated is also a warm, synthetically insulated pant, but it doesn't have as much insulation as other options on the market. We think this pair strikes the best balance between warmth and versatility. On cold days, we appreciate its insulation, but on warm days, we barely notice that it's there. In general, bibs will be slightly warmer than pants because they add extra material that covers your torso and helps keep drafts from reaching your waist.
A thin layer of synthetic insulation provides adequate warmth in the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Arc'teryx Sabre is made with a three-layer construction, but the inner layer is fuzzy with a micro-fleece lining. This adds enough warmth to simulate the insulation value of the “two-layer” pants with three-layer construction. The rest of the three-layer shell-only pants, such as the FlyLow Baker Bib, are completely unlined, requiring under layers for both comfort and warmth.
The thin, brushed fleece liner of the Sabre's shell fabric adds a small amount of insulating power, as well as great next-to-skin feel. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The FlyLow Baker Bib 3-layer shell fabric is not lined with insulation or a soft fabric. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Backcountry pants and warmth require some further discussion. Backcountry skiing is both warmer (when going uphill) and colder (in the event of even a minor emergency with no lodge available) than regular resort skiing. We bring extra layers for emergencies, and we choose our primary ski pants for the uphill portion. Backcountry ski-specific pants are not nearly as warm as resort pants, for a good reason. The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour pants are made with a thick softshell fabric and are generally warm enough for most conditions while also dumping heat effectively when needed.
Features
Important features include integrated belts, well-designed pockets, key or pass clips, Recco rescue technology, and cuffs that accommodate ski boots. None of these features are make-or-break attributes, but a full set of features makes a good pair of pants even better.
The Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex has the best set of features among hardshell pants. With two large and well-placed thigh pockets, an internal sleeve in one of these pockets for an avalanche transceiver, and a smaller hip pocket for lip balm or credit cards, these pants have all the storage space you'll ever need. They have elastic powder cuffs, scuff guards, and buttons around the lower hems to tighten the circumference around boots while wearing crampons. The pants also feature a zipper around the waist for modular additions of bibs or connecting to a Norrona jacket.
The Norrona Lofoten's two thigh pockets, one hip pocket, adjustable hook-and-loop waist flaps, and belt loops. Credit: Sam Willits
The Flylow Baker Bib also has an excellent set of features, with two thigh pockets and three pockets on the bib itself.
If you want lots of pockets, the FlyLow Baker Bib is for you. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
The backcountry-focused Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour has many useful pockets. Two are located on the waist, one containing a transceiver clip and sleeve to ensure your beacon doesn't rotate into an uncomfortable position. The other two pockets are located in the middle of the thigh and are useful for a wallet, neck gaiter, or small snack.
The rear, thigh, and waist pockets on the Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Style
Style is subjective. However, some rules generally apply. Many skiers prefer pants that blend in with the crowd, instead choosing to use their jackets to make a fashion statement. But if you end up at the watering hole at the end of the day, you'll probably take your jacket off, in which case your pants will be the centerpiece of your look. Furthermore, anyone who has ever skied at a resort knows a ton of thought that goes into the overall look of a ski get-up. And really, it's a shame to spend so much money on a pair of pants that look terrible.
Ski pants don't need to look like anything other than ski pants. You will likely own fewer ski pants than you do ski jackets. Choose your colors carefully. It is tempting to go for one of the colorful pants available, but this limits your jacket selection. If you mix and match jackets, grey or black pants are traditionally the most versatile. But nowadays, ski pants come in a variety of muted colors that branch out from the norms, like khaki and navy blue. Some products are still available in brighter colors, but not all.
Fit is also an important component of style. A baggy fit is fading in popularity. Snowboarders can get away with more “sag” and extra fabric, given that their legs remain a fixed distance apart. Skiers require a greater range of motion. Backcountry users, whether on skis or snowboards, need even more range of motion than skiers at the resort.
The Arc'teryx Sabre features a sleek style that pairs well with most any jacket. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Highlighting these style changes, the Arc'teryx Sabre has slimmed down in the years we have been testing. The latest iteration has a closer fit than its ancestors without losing mobility.
The North Face Freedom Insulated pants are the most neutral pants in our review, and they look pretty good. The Flylow Baker Bibs are a tad loose for our liking, but many skiers and riders prefer the baggy look.
The FlyLow Baker Bibs have wider hips, resulting in a baggy look. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Many high-end technical pants are moving towards a “freeride” look that has been popularized by skiers and riders who shred hard but also need pants that allow them to access backcountry terrain. The best pants for these pursuits have athletic, tailored fits, but the saggy look of past styles still remains attractive. The result is a look that is technical and athletic enough to convey that the user likes to travel through technical terrain but also ski back down with style and ease. The Norrona Lofoten, Mammut Haldigrat, Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour, and Patagonia Stormstride all fit this modern look.
The Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex exemplifies modern freeride style.
How To Choose Ski Pants
Not all snow pants are created equal. Below, we outline some things to consider before making your purchase.
How Often Do You Ski and in What Conditions?
You don't need to splurge for a high-dollar pant if you're only out a few weekends per season. A mid-range or budget option may suit your needs just fine. If you go hard and ski 3+ days a week each winter, you'll probably want to select a well-constructed pant that's durable enough to withstand some use and abuse.
It's also helpful to consider the conditions where you typically ski. If you're in an area that gets a lot of wet snow or you're a beginner who may fall often, you'll definitely want to opt for a waterproof, hardshell pant. We generally only recommend softshell pants for backcountry skiers who are skinning uphill and are confident in their abilities. Folks who spend cold or windy days at the resort will most likely appreciate an insulated pant.
Types of Ski Pants
There are several types of ski pants to choose from, and every skier seems to have their preference.
Insulated Pants - If you run cold, you'll likely want a pant with some added warmth. Many resort skiers opt for insulated pants, which can help keep you warm on those long chairlift rides in blustery winds. Some options have vents to help dump heat on warmer days or if you get too toasty. Insulated pants also allow you to wear a thinner layer underneath.
Shell Pants - These are typically waterproof, but provide no insulation, so you'll need to layer adequately underneath to stay warm. Folks skiing in the backcountry typically opt for an unlined hardshell (or softshell) pant that offers good mobility. These unlined pants can keep you from overheating when skinning uphill.
Bibs - Bibs can be useful for keeping snow away from the waist and adding some extra warmth to your core. Some companies are making a hybrid bib/pant with the option to zip away the upper portion and leave it at home.
What Features Do You Need?
Pockets are an important feature of your ski clothes. Unless you're carrying a backpack, you'll need somewhere to stash your wallet, car keys, ski pass, chairlift snacks, lip balm, etc. Having several well-placed pockets is important, and you'll want them to have closures to keep your valuables safe (Velcro or zippers, although we're partial to zippers).
Some pants are now sold with RECCO reflectors built in, which can help locate you in the unfortunate case of an in-bounds avalanche. Note that you should never use a built-in RECCO reflector as a substitute for an avalanche beacon. If you're traveling in the backcountry, you should always carry a functioning beacon that is powered on. We know most folks are staying in bounds at the resort, though, and a built-in RECCO reflector can provide some peace of mind.
What's Your Style?
We know you want to look and feel good on the ski hill. We do, too! The current style is a neutral fit that isn't overly baggy or too tight. Colors can be all over the map, and we love being able to locate our skiing buddies off in the distance by the unique colors they're wearing. Still, your style is your own, so select something that speaks to you.
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Tour being put through their paces on the uphill. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Other Notable Ski Pants
The North Face Freedom - This is the non-insulated version of the Freedom line from The North Face, and if you're looking for an affordable, well-performing shell pant, it's worth a look. It's been several years since we tested this version (more recently we've examined the bib version and the insulated pant, and we think all versions are worth their salt, especially in a market where a decent pant can cost upwards of $400. These will cost about half that, and they're decently comfortable with respectable weather protection, and they come in a variety of colors. And, since they've been in production for over a decade, you can often find older colorways on discount.
Spyder Dare - This is one of the warmest ski pants we've tested. We liked that they have a suspender setup, so you can wear them in a bib configuration or just as pants. Our testers found them comfortable and the waterproofing adequate, but noted that the vents are small. If you're skiing in super frigid conditions, this is a great pant. However, if the temps warm up at all, you might find yourself overheating, which makes them less versatile for varying conditions.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Pant - This is a backcountry-focused pant with stretchy material for range of motion on the skin track, and they have huge zipper vents for maximum airflow when you need it. Though the bulk of the pant is comprised of a softshell material, there are hardshell panels in the seat and lower legs, which helps protect against abrasion and offers more waterproofing. The pants have RECCO tech built in and a pocket for your avalanche beacon. Though not our favorite backcountry pant, they're worth a look if you're in the market for a pair.
Conclusion
It can be a daunting task to select the perfect pair of ski pants. With the many options available, how do you choose? Weather resistance, comfort, and ventilation are the most important factors for most skiers, but style and features are also important to some. There is a good pair of pants for every budget. Having the right pair of ski pants can make or break a trip. Our recommendations here will help you maximize your fun on the slopes.
