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If you're looking for ski pants that can keep you cozy, warm, and dry on both blizzard and bluebird days — we've got you covered. We've been testing women's ski pants for over a decade and have hands-on experience with over 60 unique pairs. After spending hundreds of hours on the slopes facing weather ranging from below zero to spring conditions, our testers are confident in these recommendations.
Our favorite overall women's ski pants are the Arc'teryx Sentinel. This is a shell pant, which means it has no insulation, allowing you more control over your layering based on the weather and conditions. The three-layer Gore-Tex offers some of the best waterproofing in our tests, and we love the style and fit.
Our overall favorite women's ski bibs are the Flylow Foxy. They're cute and comfortable, with plenty of pocket space for all your chairlift snacks. If you like the idea of an insulated bib, check out the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib, which is affordable, comfortable, and warm.
Editor's Note: We updated and expanded our women's ski pants review on February 6, 2026, after testing new pants from Outdoor Research, Helly Hansen, and Obermeyer.
Come snowstorm or sunshine, Arc'teryx Sentinel can take on any conditions. This is a pant that can transition from the resort to the backcountry with ease. With thoughtful design details and impressive protection through the harshest blizzards, the Sentinel is ready for any adventure. “I can layer underneath for cold resort laps, and large leg vents make it easy to regulate heat while ski touring. These pants do it all,” said our lead tester. They performed extremely well in our shower test, beading off the continuous spray of water. DWR treatment and Gore-Tex ePE membrane help the Sentinel pants keep you reliably dry on the chairlift, no matter the conditions. We found their flannel backer more comfortable to wear against bare skin than other shell options. We appreciate the sleek, tailored fit, especially when paired with the Sentinel Jacket (which we also tested and loved) for a monochrome style (or mix and match, if that's your thing!) The Sentinel pants have “Slide 'n Loc” attachment buttons near the hem to unify compatible jackets and pants to keep snow and drafts out.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.1 lbs
Waterproofing
3-layer ePE Gore-Tex
Vents
Outer thigh
Pockets
2 zippered thigh
Main fabric
80D nylon
Understandably, this high-quality construction comes with a premium price. Our lead reviewer, Kaylee Walden, says, “These pants are expensive, but they prove their worth in versatility and durability.” The non-stretch shell material can feel limiting for high steps and uphill movement, despite the articulation in the design. If you're seeking a pant that moves well with you in the backcountry, something like the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Pants is worth a look. If you're searching for top-level performance in a shell pant, you'll be pleased with the Sentinel. Those on a budget or who don't ski often might opt for a more affordable pair, but it's worth keeping in mind that opting for high-quality pants now might mean you don't have to buy another pair again for many years. As far as women's ski pants go, we haven't found anything yet that checks all of our boxes as well as the Sentinel.
Update: This season's Sentinel Pants were revised to remove chemicals from the construction. The Sentinel pants now use PFAS-free Gore-Tex ePE. The high-denier nylon face fabric is now lighter than previous iterations, but just as durable.
It's rare to find a product that lives up to the hype, but the Flylow Foxy Bib's praise is well-deserved. This bib has everything you'd want for everyday resort skiing, plus thoughtful features for adventures off of the beaten path. With thoughtfully-designed, well-placed pockets (the kangaroo pocket quickly became a favorite), a drop seat for easy bathroom breaks, and several fun color options, this bib did not disappoint. “These flattering bibs are versatile, with a bunch of amazing features, like double-leg vents,” said our lead tester. This bib has the most efficient ventilation system of all the pants we tested. The leg vents on both the interior and exterior of the thigh maximize airflow, and the fabric itself breathes well. While the ability to modulate heat was mostly a blessing, these bibs can be on the cold side and require mindful layering. Especially with the brighter colors, be ready to receive a lot of compliments on and off the slopes.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.4 lbs
Waterproofing
PFAS-Free DWR
Vents
Inner and outer thigh
Pockets
2 mid-thigh pockets, kangaroo pocket, 1 zip chest pocket, 1 zip back pocket
Main fabric
Recycled Tactic 3-layer softshell: 100% polyester
During the testing period, the DWR coating on the Foxy Bib wore down on the pair we bought, allowing the external fabric to wet out on relentless storm days – although no water ever made it through to the interior. We suggest regularly using a waterproofing wash to re-up the DWR treatment regularly. “I would also note that for curvier ladies, these bibs run small. I would size up if you're typically in between sizes,” shared our lead tester. If you're in the market for an excellent pair of bibs for all kinds of skiing and riding, this is our top pick. If you're hoping for a bib that's a bit more affordable, we also like both REI bibs we've tested, the insulated REI Powderbound Bib and the shell-style REI First Chair GTX Bib.
Lift tickets are already expensive, and not everybody needs to (or can afford to) buy ski pants that cost nearly as much as a season pass at their local ski hill. Enter the Columbia Bugaboo II. They're durable and water-resistant, allowing you to hit the slopes for an affordable price, while still staying warm and dry in a range of conditions. They have zippered hand pockets, scuff guards, an adjustable waist, and gusseted knees that allow for range of motion. We were quite impressed with their waterproofing. During our two minute shower test, these pants beaded and shed water better than some pants that cost much more.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.4 lbs
Waterproofing
Omni-Tech
Vents
None
Pockets
2 zippered hand, 2 velcro rear
Main fabric
100% nylon
We tested a lot of really nice ski pants, and compared to the tailoring of some of the premium options, the Bugaboo doesn't quite measure up. The fit runs slim through the thighs and hips, so size up if you like a more relaxed ski pant. The lack of stretch compromises motion if the pants are too tight. They're also one of the only pants we tested without leg vents, something to consider if you run hot. Still, if you just need a pair to hit the slopes a handful of times a season and you're not looking for the absolute best, these will more than get the job done. As our tester said, “I liked these a lot more than I thought I would!” If you're willing to spend a bit more for a warm, comfortable pant with more features, bigger pockets, and leg vents, check out the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Pant.
The Bugaboo is a basic pant that serves its purpose well for a reasonable price.
When testing the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib, we were impressed with how much there was to love at such a reasonable price. Simple yet functional, this bib offers most of what an average skier or rider might want while lapping the resort on winter days. The 2L nylon shell has a DWR finish, and our reviewer noted, “This bib kept me dry during shower testing and warm on cold, long chair rides – and was great for snowmobiling, too.” Articulated knees and hips left room to move, and the adjustable shoulder straps allowed a customizable fit. We loved the color and the fit of these bibs. They run slightly larger than true to size.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.7 lbs
Waterproofing
2-layer Peak
Vents
Outer thigh
Pockets
2 zippered hand, 1 zippered chest
Main fabric
Nylon
However, at such a reasonable price, these ski pants don't include many of the bells and whistles that more expensive, technical models do. As with other ski pants with DWR treatment, it's essential to use a waterproofing wash to maintain its properties. The tiny chest pocket doesn't leave much room for storing gear, though the two thigh pockets easily fit a phone. “These bibs are too warm and insulated for higher output skiing in milder, spring conditions,” noted our tester. The Powderbound Insulated Bib is an excellent option for someone wanting a great basic model and would prefer to save a few dollars rather than have a fully-featured, technical piece of gear. Conversely, those seeking more features and more color options should look at the The North Face Freedom Pant.
The Outdoor Research Snowcrew are relaxed-fit, synthetically-insulated ski pants great for those super cold days on the ski hill. They have the best pockets of any pants we tested — they're large and fleece-lined for extra coziness, and they cover almost the entire length and width of your thigh. (For the backcountry babes, there is even a mesh-lined pocket large enough for an avalanche transceiver pocket, complete with a carabiner clip!) The pillowy insulation is made with recycled fibers and kept us downright cozy when the temperatures dipped. If you get hot, there are inner thigh vents to release trapped heat, and the silky-smooth lining also allows you to comfortably wear them against bare skin in warmer temps.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.4 lbs
Waterproofing
Ventia 2L
Vents
Inner thigh
Pockets
2 zippered hand
Main fabric
75D X 150D Plain Weave Mechanical Stretch Polyester
We noticed right off the bat that these ran big, size-wise. While we loved the relaxed fit and found it really comfortable, we recognize some skiers may not like the baggy look. There are belt loops as well as built-in velcro and spandex adjustment to help them stay put. The only real shortcoming of these pants is the waterproofing treatment. Throughout our test period, the DWR coating became less effective, and some water absorbed into the face fabric during our shower test (though none made it inside the pants). Luckily, they dry quickly, and you can rejuvenate them with a waterproofing wash a couple of times per season. For slightly better waterproofing, we also love the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town Pants, or the more affordable Columbia Bugaboo II (although they're less breathable).
The REI First Chair GTX Bib is an extremely comfortable, well-designed bib with an effective two-layer Gore-Tex membrane. “Even in the wettest conditions, this bib kept me plenty dry,” noted our tester. We love the features loaded into these bibs, particularly the large leg vent openings and the drop tail essential for backcountry bathroom breaks. However, our favorite element of this bib is the extremely reasonable price that won't break the bank, which made an even higher value because of its versatility.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.7 lbs
Waterproofing
2-layer Gore-Tex
Vents
Thigh
Pockets
1 zippered chest, 2 zippered thigh
Main fabric
100% polyester
The First Chair has a few shortcomings, but some compromises are expected from a solid pair of pants at such a great price. We wish this bib included waterproof zips on the pockets and vents, as our tests prove this is a weak point for water saturation. We would also like zippers on all the pockets, as we noticed the hook and loop closure of the exterior thigh pocket limited its usefulness. Overall, it's surprising to see a Gore-Tex bib sold at this price, and we're quite impressed. We also think REI's Powderbound Insulated Bib is worth a look, which is warmer and even more affordable (but doesn't feature Gore-Tex waterproofing).
If you're trying to hit the slopes on a budget, look no further than the Arctix Insulated Pant. We were surprised by how much performance these pants deliver for the low price. Ski pants usually come with a steep cost, but this affordable pair is an exception. “They kept me super warm, and the fit still allowed for dynamic movement,” one tester noted. We also appreciate the tough, workwear-inspired fabric, which held up impressively against abrasion and frequent use.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight
1.5 lbs
Waterproofing
ThermaLock coating
Vents
None
Pockets
2 zippered thigh
Main fabric
100% polyester
If you're prone to overheating or planning to do any kind of aerobic activities while wearing ski pants, the Arctix is probably not the one to go for. “The synthetic insulation was amazing at keeping me toasty warm, but they 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,” said our tester. Our tests showed the DWR coating wore off fairly quickly, too. Without an additional waterproof layer, this meant we experienced some wet-through on heavy storm days and wet spring days. With that in mind, the high-end waterproof/breathable membranes that perform better in these metrics overall have a much higher price point. The Arctix presents a great jumping-off point for the occasional skier, and its price point can alleviate some of the stress associated with purchasing a whole new set of gear. If your budget is a bit more flexible, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant is just as warm and provides vents, although we actually liked the fit and comfort of the Arctix better.
If you're riding lifts all day long in chilly weather, the insulated Arctix will keep you nice and toasty.
Product Comparison Table
The right pair of ski pants can help you focus on the real task at hand -- the skiing! Credit: Kaylee Walden
How We Tested
Our team of female skiers and riders dedicated many hours scouring the market for the best women's ski pants and bibs. Every pair was purchased at full price and tested over a winter season, and beyond. We skied through all kinds of conditions: Deep powder days, strong sun, gusting wind, and relentless storms. To ensure each pant received a thorough inspection, we conducted objective lab tests to level the playing field. Every pair undertook a two-minute shower test to assess the effectiveness of the waterproofing under prolonged, direct water exposure. Through it all, we noted each pair's strengths and weaknesses.
Women's ski pants were assessed with six rating metrics:
Weather Resistance (25% of total score weighting)
Fit and Comfort (25% weighting)
Breathability (15% weighting)
Warmth (15% weighting)
Features (10% weighting)
Style (10% weighting)
We took these ski pants out on the slopes of the resort and backcountry to test them out. Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
Why Trust GearLab
Our women's ski pants testing team is deeply integrated in the ski world. Kaylee Walden is an AMGA-Certified Ski Guide based in Silverton, Colorado, who spends the majority of the year on snow. From the craggy San Juan Mountains to the glaciers of the Alps and the harsh cold of Denali, she knows the importance of gear properly protecting you from the elements.
Sarah Sherman has worked in the ski industry for well over a decade as an instructor, ski photographer, and journalist. A self-proclaimed “gear nerd,” there are few things she enjoys more than helping others find the right gear for their needs.
Reviewer Jackie Kearney is a snow and avalanche professional who calls the San Juan mountains of southwest Colorado home. For the last decade, she has prioritized skiing as much as one human could, both in bounds and out. Professionally, she has worked as a ski patroller in Lake Tahoe, California, and Telluride, Colorado. This team put these pants to the test in the most rigorous and immersive ski and snowboard environments to bring the results to you.
Our team skied and boarded lap after lap to see which ski pants were the best.
Analysis and Test Results
Each pair of pants and bibs was tested and then ranked using our six rating metrics. Pay attention to each rating and reasoning as you go along, as some metrics may be more important to you than others. For example, if you want a pair of pants for backcountry ski touring, you'll want to look for high marks in breathability. If you're always cold, breathability will matter less, and high warmth scores will be a priority.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Ski pants and bibs are available in a wide range of prices, with many factors separating budget-friendly options from premium designs. Our testing explored these differences in detail. We will continue to emphasize that if you only hit the slopes a few times a season, there's no need to splurge on top-tier gear – unless you're looking for it to last for many years.
If you're a bib girl, it's tough to beat the value of the warm and comfortable REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib. It's likely too hot for higher-output skiing, but it's toasty in cold temps, and you get a solid bib for the price. Our favorite budget ski pants are the Arctix Insulated, which are warm and super affordable – likely costing less than your lift ticket. These pants are best suited for those who will only ski a handful of days per season (or if you just want to get out sledding or making a snowman with your kids).
The Arctix Pant really excelled on chilly lift accessed days where its warm insulation kept us nice and toasty on cruisers all day long. Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
We also like the Columbia Bugaboo II, decent, warm pants that should last a few seasons, even for those who ski semi-regularly. The Outdoor Research Snowcrew and Patagonia Powder Town Insulated Pants are a step up in price, but they're higher-quality, durable, and made to last — plus, both Patagonia and Outdoor Research have excellent lifetime warranty programs if you're in need of a repair to your gear.
The OR Snowcrew is a dependable, warm pair of pants for a reasonable price. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is a crucial part of why you wear snow pants. No matter how you spend your day on the slopes, staying dry is key to staying warm and comfortable. Nothing puts a damper on a powder day faster than soggy ski clothes.
To test weather resistance, we wore the pants out in all kinds of stormy weather and subjected each pair to our “shower test” — two minutes of constant, direct water exposure in the shower, testing zippers, seams, and overall waterproofing.
There weren't too many surprises during this testing process. We typically find that the higher-end pants perform better than the rest. The Arc'teryx Sentinel performed the best in our water resistance testing, thanks to their 3-layer material and great DWR coating, along with taped seams and waterproof zippers. The Mammut Stoney HS Thermo, Columbia Bugaboo II, and REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib also impressed us with their waterproofing. These pants showed no leakage during testing and limited water absorption in our shower tests.
Testing ski pants for snow and water resistance. Credit: Kaylee Walden
The REI Powderbound Insulated Bib held up well for its price point, with no leakage and minimal water absorption on the outer fabric and non-waterproof zippers. Other pants, like the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant and the Obermeyer Bliss Pant started out repelling water quite well, but ended up wetting out in places. On both pairs, water snuck in through the non-waterproof zipper of the thigh vent, especially during wet chairlift rides.
Any pants or bibs treated with DWR-coating will wear down over time, especially those with a more flexible face fabric. They need seasonal upkeep with waterproofing wash to perform at their best.
The Flylow Foxy Bib had no water seeping inside, but the external material absorbed water during the shower test and heavy, wet storms. Similarly, we were a bit disappointed by the performance of the Outdoor Research Snowcrew pants here, as water began to absorb into the face fabric by the end of the two minutes of direct spray in our shower test, though nothing made it through to the inside.
The Snowcrew started to wet out after two minutes under our showerhead. Thankfully, none of the water made it through to our underlayers. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Fit and Comfort
The last thing you want to worry about on the mountain is uncomfortable, restrictive outerwear. Your ski pants should feel effortless; a natural extension of your movement. Ideally, they should remain comfortable all day without distractions or constant readjustments. With this in mind, we focused heavily on fit, mobility, and adjustability during testing. Since fit is inherently subjective, multiple women with different body types wore each pair, assessing how they moved both on and off the slopes and how often adjustments were needed throughout the day. Keep in mind what typically works best for you and your body type.
The Black Diamond Stretch Recon, a backcountry-focused pant, snagged top scores in fit and comfort. These uninsulated pants have the perfect amount of stretch to fit like a second skin, with just the right amount of space for layering. These earned the elusive perfect 10 score, but they're really designed for backcountry use and wouldn't be our top choice for resort skiers.
The Flylow Foxy Bib was simple to get on with easily adjusted straps, and once they were on, it was easy to forget they were there. The straps remained in place throughout rigorous testing and did not need constant adjusting, as other bibs sometimes did. “I would definitely size up in these if I had the option, especially for better layering,” noted our lead tester. Thanks to an adjustable belt, the Mammut Stony HS also had great comfort and versatility for a variety of body types.
The Foxy, Sentinel, and Stony all have streamlined, slimmer fits that our testers found to be flattering.
The Outdoor Research Snowcrew and the Patagonia Powder Town both have a silky lining and offer totally unrestricted movement. While they were very comfy, we found both of these pairs ran large. If you prefer a tighter fit, we'd suggest potentially sizing down in these pants.
Velcro and spandex tabs on the Outdoor Research Snowcrew help you dial in the fit. Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Columbia Bugaboo,Obermeyer Bliss, and Helly Hansen Legendary Pant all ran large in the waist compared to the thighs and hips. The Bliss pants especially had a slim, straight fit overall, and we would recommend sizing up for more versatility with layering and better comfort. We found these pants to feel somewhat restrictive, so they may not be the best for activities like cross-country skiing. However, the Bliss pant has an incredibly inclusive size and length range, and also comes in a 'curvy' size.
The Helly Hansen Legendary and the Obermeyer Bliss both had slimmer straight fits.
Breathability
Breathability, similar to warmth, is a metric that matters more or less depending on your preference. Ladies who are looking to backcountry ski tour, cross-country ski, or snowshoe in their ski pants should pay more attention to ventilation and breathability. Insulated ski pants are often designed to trap maximum heat, while shell pants prioritize protection from wind and precipitation while allowing for heat regulation with vents and layering. This is especially important in the backcountry or on days when temperatures are high. To test the ventilation of different pants, we measured the vents on each pair and tried them out in practice. We also assessed the material's breathability and how well it regulated temperature when we got too hot.
The Flylow Foxy Bib stood out with both inner and outer leg vents, allowing maximum airflow. Some skiers may never need this level of temperature regulation, so vents on both sides are a bonus for certain objectives. Our testers who preferred high breathability noted that the inner and outer leg vent combo was awesome, especially when paired with the breathable shell material. The Arc'teryx Sentinel also has long, open vents on the exterior of each thigh, which allow you to quickly and effectively release heat.
The vents on the Foxy bib doing the job while ski touring on a warm day. Credit: Kaylee Walden
It's worth noting that many insulated pants come with basic venting and score lower in this category. Ventilation openings on the inside of the leg, like in the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant,Outdoor Research Snowcrew and Obermeyer Bliss Pant provide less airflow than on the outside. Some vents have a mesh lining to keep snow from entering when you're in deep powder or taking a tumble, but most of our testers preferred the free and open vents. Unless it's a particularly warm day, we generally zip up any vents when heading downhill.
The thigh vents of the Outdoor Research Snowcrew and Obermeyer Bliss are lined with mesh.
The only pants we tested without vents were the Columbia Bugaboo II and the Arctix Insulated. If you don't plan to work up a sweat, you may not mind, but we really appreciate pants that at least give us the option to cool down.
Warmth
Not all pants are designed to be warm, and a low warmth score does not necessarily indicate a poorly performing pair of pants. Insulated pants will inherently score higher in this category, and non-insulated shell pants will score lower. Shells are meant to be paired with more base layers like long underwear for warmth when needed. Consider the typical temperatures at your favorite resorts or local ski area when deciding what level of insulation and warmth you need. Also take into account your own physiology — some people run warm, and some are always cold. If you fall into the “always cold” category, you may want to opt for a pant that falls on the higher end of our warmth scale. We tested pants in various conditions, including sub-zero early mornings, blustery chairlift rides, and all-out blizzard conditions.
The Outdoor Research Snowcrew, The North Face Freedom Pant, the REI Powderbound Bib, and the Patagonia Powder Town all perform well in cold temperatures thanks to their added insulation. We liked the sleeping bag-style baffled insulation of the Powder Town, which helped to keep the insulation evenly distributed in the pants. These options are best for those seeking extra warmth on a cold resort day. We were also impressed with the budget-friendly Arctix and Columbia Bugaboo pants. These kept us nice and toasty during our resort testing days for a significantly lower price.
We stayed cozier on cold days in insulated ski pants like the OR Snowcrew. Credit: Kaylee Walden
The Arc'teryx Sentinel is a shell pant, but it's lined with a thin, flannel backer that adds a touch of warmth. Testers noted that this made the pants feel less cold and more comfortable when worn without a pair of long underwear underneath. Again, most technical shells scored low in this metric. With shells, warmth hinges upon your layering system, which some skiers and snowboarders prefer because it allows them to fine-tune their layers depending on the weather and what kind of skiing they'll be doing that day.
The Sentinel pant kept us warm during windy days in the alpine. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Features
Little details can make a big difference in ski pants,
separating the excellent from the average. Strategically placed, good-sized pockets, a well-designed buckle, a key clip, or effective snow gaiters — all of these features can enhance your overall experience on the mountain. We carefully examined each pair, taking note of every feature and assessing its practicality in real-world conditions.
The Black Diamond Recon Stretch Pant scored well here. It has velcro waist tabs for adjusting the fit, an avalanche transceiver pocket, RECCO technology, gussets, and leg gaiters — many features that a backcountry skier looks for.
For the resort, we love all the features of the Outdoor Research Snowcrew. It comes with some of the largest and best pockets we've seen on a ski pant, with soft fleece lining that adds a touch of coziness. These pants even come with an avalanche transceiver mesh interior pocket, with a carabiner clip to attach the leash.
You can see the outline of our tester's phone in the Snowcrew, illustrating just how roomy and deep these pockets are. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Most pants in the review come with waist adjustment ability. The Mammut Stony and Arc'teryx Sentinel have particularly effective waist adjustments to help keep them where you want them. The Sentinel features an integrated belt that keeps the pants in place, while the Stony has a wider than average velcro adjustment band.
Integrated belts can be helpful for achieving the perfect fit.
The Arc'teryx Sentinel and Outdoor Research Snowcrew feature a ski strap slot to adjust your boots without having to take off the internal gaiters, though we didn't use this feature much in practice. The Patagonia Powder Town had notably functional gaiters, with lace loops and a lace hook that truly kept snow out on various boot types. The Sentinel Pant additionally comes equipped with a key clip and large, articulated pockets.
Lace loops on gaiters, like on the Patagonia Powder Town shown here, can add a very valuable extra level of protection in deep snow. Credit: Jacqueline Kearney
The Flylow Foxy Bib came fully equipped with plenty of pocket real estate, featuring a chest pocket, kangaroo pocket, and two spacious thigh pockets that could easily fit a smartphone or an avalanche transceiver. The REI Powderbound Bibs also feature a chest pocket and thigh pockets for plenty of storage, but the other REI bib we tested, the First Chair Bib, lacks a chest pocket and only has two velcro thigh pockets (although one also includes a zipper for more security). The Columbia Bugaboo II has several pocket options that are appropriately sized.
Good pockets can make or break a pair of ski pants, and it's nice to be able to have a few options for storing essentials.
We appreciate pants with zipper vents for cooling us down (discussed in more detail in the Breathability metric above). Some bibs have vents that double as a drop seat, giving you the ability to take a quick pit stop without removing your jacket or bib straps. This feature works particularly well on the Flylow Foxy Bib.
The REI Powderbound's drop seat zips open on both sides, with snaps at the top. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Style
Look good, feel good, ski good – or something like that. Style is part of the game when purchasing ski pants, and matters more than we often acknowledge in buying decisions. While this is inherently a subjective opinion, we consulted with friends and the current trends to identify pants that can take you from the slopes straight to the après scene and beyond, considering colors, sizing options, and overall look.
The Arc'teryx Sentinel Pant, Flylow Foxy Bib, Obermeyer Bliss, and the The North Face Freedom Pant come in a variety of different colors as well as different length options (short, regular, tall), meaning that there is sure to be an option for anyone's preference or need.
Testers loved the style and cut (and fun colors!) of the Flylow Foxy bibs. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Recently, contrasting zippers have made quite a splash in the market, along with fun prints and patterns. Some folks like to pair bright, mismatched colors, while some will opt for a matching set. Totally up to you how you show your style on the hill, and that's part of the fun! Our testers tend to gravitate towards bright colors that pop on the slopes, like the red-hot Arc'teryx Sentinel pants. Pair the Sentinel or Outdoor Research Snowcrew with the matching jacket for extra style points.
We like the Mammut Stoney's style and color offerings. Credit: Kaylee Walden
We're seeing more brands offer fun prints. Shown here is the Helly Hansen Legendary. Credit: Kaylee Walden
We assessed each pair of pants for their style. Matching kits are a bonus! Credit: Kaylee Walden
How to Choose Ski Pants for Women
When choosing a pair of ski pants or bibs, consider the climate of your home mountain and how and when you like to ski. If your mountain frequently sees rain at lower elevations, you'll want to prioritize the level of waterproofing. If you tend to head for the lodge during inclement weather, maybe high-level waterproofing isn't as paramount.
Types of Ski Pants
Insulated Pants: These pants help keep you warm by trapping warm air around your legs with the use of insulation. Each company has different names for their insulation, which will be noted in grams. Insulated pants are best for those who get cold easily or frequently ski in colder locations.
Shell Pants: These pants have a waterproof and breathable lining, but require thoughtful layering underneath for warmth. They typically have long zippered vents to quickly regulate heat. Shells are best for high-output skiers (especially if you like to hike) and, with proper layering, offer the versatility to wear in all conditions.
Bibs: Resembling technical overalls, bibs have extended fabric that at least covers part of the abdomen and have shoulder straps. Bibs help keep snow out, often offer more pockets, and prevent your pants from sliding down. These are often non-insulated, but insulated options exist, too. We prefer a bib with a drop seat feature that allows you to unzip the backside for bathroom breaks without removing your jacket.
Ski-Touring Pants: Designed for the backcountry, these pants often offer a specific beacon pocket. They also prioritize breathability and waterproofing with a two or three-layer shell. They weigh as little as possible but are often the priciest of the bunch. Softshell pants are also a great option for backcountry touring in continental snow climates, where the snow comes in drier.
Think about your skiing priorities when choosing a pair of ski pants. Credit: Kaylee Walden
How Important is Weather Resistance?
No matter if you're skiing at the resort, snowshoeing a local trail, or exploring the backcountry, staying warm and dry is essential. This is where proper waterproofing makes all the difference. Every pant we reviewed incorporates some level of defense against the elements – though some perform better than others. Insulated and more casual ski pants typically feature a two-layer construction, while technical shells and backcountry options rely on a three-layer design for superior performance. Additionally, a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating can be applied to virtually any fabric, helping to prevent moisture from seeping in even on the wettest of days.
Waterproofing is determined by measuring how much water can be poured over one square inch of fabric without leaking. If you live in a maritime snow climate, look for an option rated around 20,000mm. Anything over 10,000mm is considered “waterproof” – but certain wetter climates demand more.
Breathability is determined by measuring the grams of water vapor that can pass through one square meter of fabric in 24 hours. Those headed out to the backcountry should aim for an option that is rated 15,000 to 20,000 g/m2. This rating is also suitable for someone who tends to run warm. If you're a mellower skier or don't sweat much, anything around 5,000 g/m2 will be sufficient. Choosing an option with adequate ventilation will also help prevent overheating.
The Legendary pants beading water effectively during the shower test. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Other Women's Ski Pants Worth Considering
Patagonia Powder Town Bib - We tested both the bib and pant versions of the Powder Town. Though we liked them both, the pant version is warmer (the version we tested has insulation), and we found the pants slightly more comfortable than the bibs. That said, if bibs are your jam, and you're looking for a shell pair, the Powder Town Bib is well-constructed and features watertight zippers.
Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Pants - Norrona makes high-end ski gear that has yet to let us down. Sure, we'll admit that an $800 pant is unnecessary for those spending a handful of days at the resort each year, but if you're a dedicated skier (and one who frequents the backcountry), the Lofoten provides the protection and features you need for big days out in inclement weather.
Burton Avalon Bib - This is a stylish bib that looks and feels great on the ski hill. They didn't wow us in our water resistance test (the zippers aren't watertight), but for bluebird days when you're looking for a comfortable bib, this is an affordable option that will get you out on the slopes with minimal strain on your wallet.
Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib - This lightweight shell bib is designed for the backcountry and has some great features, like RECCO and a drop seat for quick bathroom breaks. It also performs at the top of the class for water repellency and breathability.
Riding the lift while testing women's ski pants. Credit: Kaylee Walden
Conclusion
Choosing ski gear can be daunting, especially if you're attempting to build your kit from the ground up. Ultimately, a great pair of ski pants will help you stay warm, dry, and cozy on the slopes so you can enjoy your day out, and we hope that our testing has helped direct you towards the right pair for you. Have fun out there!
—Kaylee Walden, Sarah Sherman and Jacqueline Kearney
