The 5 Best Ski Pants for Women

Best Overall Women's Ski Pants

Arc'teryx Sentinel Pants - Women's

Waterproofing	3-layer Gore-Tex
Measured Weight	1.1 lbs
Vents	Outer thigh
Pockets	2 zippered thigh
Main fabric	80D nylon

If you want a versatile, top-shelf ski pant that works for everything from bluebird groomer laps to the harshest storm days in the backcountry, our top choice is the Arc'teryx Sentinel. We love these pants for many reasons. There's a lot to love about these pants. With technical details, impressive weather protection that stood up to our shower test, and plenty of pocket space for your essentials, the Sentinel is ready for any adventure. “I can layer underneath for cold resort laps, and the large leg vents make it easy to regulate heat while ski touring,” one tester noted. We also appreciate the sleek, tailored fit—especially when paired with the Sentinel Jacket for a monochrome style.

The catch? The quality will cost you. Our lead reviewer says, “The price point is high for a pair of pants without many technical features, but I appreciate the minimal, streamlined approach to ski pants.” For backcountry use, we also found the non-stretch Gore-Tex material to be a bit limiting for uphill movement. If it's a performance shell pant you seek, you're likely to be happy with the results that the Sentinel provides. If you don't have wiggle room in your budget, the more affordable The North Face Freedom Insulated is among the warmest in our lineup, and the similarly warm Arctic Insulated will get you out on the slopes for under $50. However, investing in high-quality pants now may mean you don't have to purchase ski pants again for several years. As far as women's ski pants go, we haven't found anything yet that checks all the boxes as well as the Sentinel does.

Read more: Arc'teryx Sentinel review

Best Overall Ski Bib

Flylow Foxy Bib

Waterproofing	3-layer Intuitive stretch stormshell
Measured Weight	1.4 lbs
Vents	Inner and outer thigh
Pockets	2 mid-thigh pockets, 2 chest pockets
Main fabric	Recycled Tactic 3-layer softshell: 100% polyester

It's rare to find a product that lives up to the hype – but we mostly agree with the accolades supporting the Flylow Foxy Bib. This bib has everything you'd typically want for everyday use while excelling in various conditions. With thoughtfully placed pockets (the kangaroo pocket quickly became a favorite), a drop-seat for easy relief in the backcountry, and several fun color options, this bib did not disappoint. “These flattering pants 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, with leg vents on the interior and exterior of the legs to shed heat quickly.

We know bibs aren't for everyone, so even this pair may not convince you. During the testing period, the DWR coating on the Foxy Bib wore down on the pair we bought, allowing the external fabric to saturate on wet storm days – although no water penetrated to our legs. We suggest using a waterproofing wash to re-up the DWR treatment regularly. “I would also note that for curvier ladies, these bibs are on the small side. I would size up if you're typically on the fence,” noted our tester. If you're in the market for an excellent resort and backcountry bib, 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.

Read more: Flylow Foxy Bib review

Best Ski Pant Under $100

Arctix Insulated - Women's

Waterproofing	ThermaLock coating
Measured Weight	1.5 lbs
Vents	None
Pockets	2 zippered thigh
Main fabric	100% polyester

If you are a skier on a budget, look no further than the Arctix Insulated Pant. We were surprised by how much performance these pants deliver for the price. Ski pants usually come with a steep cost, but this affordable pair is an exception. “They kept me super warm, and the fit of these pants didn't prevent any dynamic movement,” one tester noted. We also appreciate the tough, workwear-inspired fabric, which held up impressively against tree branches and hard use. With all of the classic features we look for, these pants handled most resort conditions with ease, but they aren't the best for spring days or cardio.

Where we started to see the Arctix performing poorly was when pushing ourselves when touring or high-output skiing – we got far too hot. The synthetic insulation did a great job of keeping us toasty warm, but it struggled to shed excess heat and moisture from exertion. The lack of zipping vents exacerbated this issue. We also found that the DWR coating wore off fairly quickly. Without an additional waterproof layer, this meant we experienced some wet-through on heavy storm days and wet spring days. Overall, however, the high-end waterproof/breathable membranes that perform better in these metrics come with a much higher price tag. These pants offer a great starting point for the infrequent skier, and their price point can alleviate some of the stress associated with buying a whole new set of gear. If you have a little more wiggle room in your budget, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant is just as warm and offers vents, although we actually liked the fit and comfort of the Arctix better.

Read more:Arctix Insulated Pant review

Best Bargain Ski Bib

REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib - Women's

Waterproofing	2-layer Peak
Measured Weight	1.7 lbs
Vents	Inner thigh, outer thigh
Pockets	2 zippered hand, 1 zippered chest
Main fabric	Nylon

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 colder days. Utilizing a Bluesign-approved 2-layer nylon shell with a DWR finish, 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.

However, at such a reasonable price, these ski pants don't include many of the bells and whistles that more expensive, technical models do. We would not recommend wearing this model for extended periods in wet climates as the 2-layer DWR finished fabric is not designed to withstand heavy rain or snow. Its small chest pocket doesn't leave much room for storing gear, though the two thigh pockets easily fit a phone. “I'd also say that this bib is too hot for higher output skiing in milder winter conditions,” noted our lead 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 feature-loaded piece of gear. Conversely, those seeking more features and more color options should look at the The North Face Freedom Pant.

Read more: REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib review

Best Bargain Shell Pant

REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib Snow Pants - Women's

Waterproofing	2-layer Gore-Tex
Measured Weight	1.7 lbs
Vents	Thigh
Pockets	1 zippered chest, 2 zippered thigh
Main fabric	100% polyester

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.

The downsides with this bib are minimal, but some concessions are expected from a solid pair of pants at such a great price. We wish the First Chair featured waterproof zips on the pockets and vents, as we found this a weak point for water saturation. We also want zippers on all the pockets, as we found the hook and loop closure of the exterior thigh pocket limited its usefulness. Aside from these small criticisms, we found this bib to be a great performer in its lower price range. Still, you may want more peace of mind stashing your items in water-resistant zipper pockets. If such is the case for you, the Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Shell Pant is a prime pick.

Read more: REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	80	Arc'teryx Sentinel Pants - Women's Best Overall Women's Ski Pants	$600
	78	Outdoor Research Hemispheres Bib - Women's	$649
	78	Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Pants - Women's	$649
	75	Backcountry Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Bib - Women's	$399
	74	Flylow Foxy Bib Best Overall Ski Bib	$430
	74	Black Diamond Recon Stretch Pant - Women's	$400
	73	REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib Snow Pants - Women's Best Bargain Shell Pant	$269
	73	Mammut Stoney HS Thermo - Women's	$325
	73	Patagonia SnowDrifter Bib - Women's	$399
	68	Patagonia Insulated Powder Town Pants - Women's	$269
	64	REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Bib - Women's Best Bargain Ski Bib	$219
	64	Columbia Bugaboo II - Women's	$120
	62	The North Face Freedom Insulated - Women's	$200
	60	Patagonia Powder Town Bib - Women's	$299
	57	Burton Avalon Bib	$260
	52	Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant - Women's	$200
	50	Arctix Insulated - Women's Best Ski Pant Under $100	$48

How We Tested

Our team of female skiers and riders dedicated countless hours to scouring the market for the best women's ski pants and bibs, carefully selecting the top contenders featured here. Every pair was bought at full price and put to the test over an entire winter season across North America's mountains. We skied and rode through every kind of condition—warm, sunny spring skiing, deep powder days, and intense storms where the snow didn't let up. To ensure each pant received a thorough inspection, we also conducted objective lab tests to level the playing field. For example, every pair was put through a shower test for waterproofing. Through it all, we took note of each pair's strengths and weaknesses.

Our testing of women's ski pants is divided into six specific rating metrics:

• Weather Resistance (25% of total score weighting)

• Fit and Comfort (25% weighting)

• Ventilation (15% weighting)

• Warmth (15% weighting)

• Features (10% weighting)

• Style (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Our testing team is well-versed in the world of skiing.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 deep cold of Denali, she knows the importance of gear working as it should and keeping you protected from the elements. Sarah Sherman has worked in the ski industry for over a decade as an instructor, marketing professional, photographer, and journalist. A self-proclaimed “gear nerd,” there are few things she enjoys more than shop talk and 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 been skiing in and out of bounds here as much as one human could. 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.

How to Choose Ski Pants for Women

When choosing a pair of ski pants or bibs, consider the conditions and climate of your home mountain and how and when you like to ski. If you like to spend some days going uphill in the backcountry, it's likely you won't want to go for the warmest insulated option, since it will be tough to regulate heat. If your mountain frequently sees rain at lower elevations, you'll want to prioritize the level of waterproofing – so on and so forth.

Types of Ski Pants

Insulated Pants: These pants help keep you warm by trapping warm air around your legs with lofty 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 northern latitudes.

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 activities but are versatile enough, with proper layering.

Bibs: Somewhat resembling technical overalls, bibs have extended fabric that at least covers part of the abdomen and has shoulder straps. Bibs help keep snow out, offer more pockets, and prevent your pants from sliding down. These are often non-insulated, but insulated options do exist, too.

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.

How Important is Weather Resistance?

No matter if you're skiing at the resort 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.

Analysis and Test Results

Each pair of pants and bibs was tested and ranked using our six rating metrics. Be sure to pay attention to each rating and reasoning as you go along, as certain metrics may be of more importance to you than others. For example, if you want a pair of pants for ski touring, you won't mind if a pair earned lower marks in the warmth metric, as you probably want an uninsulated one.

What's the Best Value?

Ski pants and bibs come in a wide range of price points, with many factors separating budget-friendly options from premium, high-performance designs. Our testing explored these differences in detail. But at the end of the day, if you only hit the slopes a few times a season, there's no need to splurge on top-tier gear.

The REI Powderbound Insulated Bib might serve you well in that situation. It may not be the most durable long-term, and it's too warm for higher-output skiing, but what you get for the price will allow you to enjoy most days at the resort. We recommend the Arc'teryx Sentinel Pant if you want a high-end, long-term investment. These are a pair you can expect to put through the wringer and still get quality performance, season after season. The Arctix Insulated come in at an affordable price and are warm. These pants are best suited for those who will only ski a handful of days per season.

Weather Resistance

Weather resistance was a crucial consideration in our testing, heavily influencing each pant's overall rating. 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 perfect powder day faster than wet, soggy ski pants.

To test weather resistance, we not only wore the pants out in all kinds of conditions (sun, very wet snow, and stormy powdery days) but put each pair through our “shower test” — two minutes of constant water exposure in the shower, testing zippers, seams, and overall waterproofing.

There were very few surprises during this testing process—we typically found that the higher-end pants generally performed better than the rest. The Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Shell Pant came out on top. This model seemed to shed water like an umbrella and, even after two minutes in the shower, felt almost completely dry after a good shake-off. Following close behind were the technical, high-end pants, including the Arc'teryx Sentinel, the Outdoor Research Hemispheres Bib, Mammut Stoney HS Thermo and the Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib. These pants all received strong scores for weather resistance with zero leakage during testing and limited water absorption.

The Flylow Foxy Bib had no water leakage inside, but the external material seemed to absorb water and felt heavy to wear, taking on liquid. Similarly, the Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant had a supple face fabric that quickly absorbed water. The Burton Avalon Bib did not bode well during testing, with water seeping through its zippers. Finally, and notably, the REI Powderbound Insulated Bib and REI Co-op First Chair GTX Bib held up well for their price points with no leakage and minimal water absorption on the outer fabric and non-waterproof zippers.

Fit and Comfort

The last thing you want to worry about on the mountain is uncomfortable or restrictive outerwear. Your ski pants should feel effortless—like a natural extension of your movement—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.

The top scorer in both fit and comfort is the Black Diamond Stretch Recon. As the name suggests, these pants have just the perfect amount of stretch to fit more like a second skin than a pair of pants, with a flattering fit and just the right amount of space for layering. These earned the elusive perfect 10 score. The Arc'teryx Sentinel, Flylow Foxy Bib, and the REI Co-op First Chair scored high in the fit and comfort category, though all for different reasons. The 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 Patagonia models also ranked high in fit and comfort, thanks to their super soft, smooth inner lining. Putting these pants on felt like putting on a cloud, and they remained comfortable throughout skiing. On the other end of the spectrum, the Burton Avalon Bib scored fairly low. The bib material felt stretchy and comfortable, even with the legs of the bib being a slimmer fit, but they ultimately scored low due to sizing and mobility. The pants fit longer than others tested and consistently unzipped on the sides when testers bent at the waist.

The Norrona Lofoten Pant scored in the middle of the ranks—it remained comfortable with a baggy fit, but its stiff material felt bulky at times. The Bugaboo Pant and Helly Hansen Legendary Insulated Pant both ran a little large in the waist. Still, the hook and loop adjustments remedied this fit issue. The Outdoor Research Hemispheres bib also ran a bit large on testers, with a bit more extra material around the lower leg than we typically like – but the integrated stretch panels made for a super comfortable fit, especially for hiking in the backcountry.

Ventilation

Ventilation, similar to warmth, is a metric that matters depending on your preference. Those who ski tour or hike in-bounds to less-traveled objectives should pay more attention to ventilation. While some pants are designed to provide added heat to escape the elements, many are designed to provide merely a layer of protection from wind and precipitation while allowing you to regulate your body heat with vents. This is especially important while ski touring or on days when temperatures are warmer and the sun is out. To test the ventilation of different pants, we measured the vents on each pair and tried them out in practice.

The Flylow Foxy Bib ranked highly in this category, as they have both inner and outer leg vents, allowing maximum airflow through the pants. Some skiers may never need this level of airflow, so we don't consider vents on both sides of each leg a must-have. However, testers who preferred high ventilation levels noted that the inner and outer leg vent combo was awesome. The Foxy Bib's upper body portion doesn't vent very well, though.

This is followed by the Norrona Lofoten Pant, which has vents that begin at the boot and go almost up the side of the pant. This is complemented by two-way zippers, allowing a customizable vent size. The Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib also ranked highly, with large outer vents with dual zippers, similar to the long and sufficient vents on the Sentinel.

Finally, it is 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, provide less airflow than on the outside. Those vents covered with a mesh lining inhibit airflow as well. Those mesh linings keep snow from entering deep powder or 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 Columbia Bugaboo Pant came with no venting.

Warmth

On a cold winter day, having a pair of pants that will keep your legs warm can make all the difference. However, not all pants are designed to be warm. Shell pants are meant to be lightweight and paired with base layers like long underwear for warmth when needed. With that in mind, it's worth noting that insulated pants will inherently score higher in this category, and shells will score lower. We recommend considering the typical temperatures at your favorite resorts or ski locale when deciding what level of insulation and warmth you need and consider having enough space under your pants or bibs for sufficient layering. A low warmth score does not necessarily indicate a poorly performing pair of pants. To measure warmth, we tested pants in various conditions, including early cold mornings when temperatures reached well below freezing, windy chairlift rides, and stormy conditions.

The North Face Freedom Pant, the REI Powderbound Bib, and the Patagonia Powder Town all perform well in colder temperatures thanks to their insulation. We liked the sleeping bag style baffled insulation of the Powder Town, which helped to keep the insulation evenly distributed in the pants. The Burton Avalon Bib is listed as a shell product but is lined with a thick material that still provides some warmth, earning a higher score than other shell options. These models listed above would be best for those looking for added warmth on a cold resort day. We were impressed with the budget-friendly Arctix and Columbia Bugaboo options. These kept us nice and toasty during our resort testing days.

The Arc'teryx Sentinel is lined with a thin, flannel backer that adds a touch of warmth to this shell pant. Testers noted that this made the pants feel less cold and more comfortable when worn without a pair of long underwear underneath. It is worth noting that, again, most technical shells scored low in this metric. Warmth is up to the layering ability of the user for these shells, which many skiers and snowboarders prefer.

Features

Small details can make a big difference when it comes to ski pants, often separating the excellent from the average. Strategically placed, good-sized pockets, a well-designed buckle, a key clip, or RECCO technology — all of these features can enhance your overall experience on the mountain. To evaluate this, we carefully examined each pair, taking note of every feature and assessing its practicality in real-world conditions.

One pair of pants that scored well here was the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Pant. Coming with a removable belt, an avalanche transceiver pocket, RECCO technology, gussets, and leg gaiters, these pants are filled with backcountry features. Similarly, the well-designed Outdoor Research Hemispheres Bib ranked high in the features category, with all the pockets one could want (both thighs, a kangaroo pocket, and a chest pocket), including an avalanche beacon-specific pocket with an integrated clip. They also notably have a drop seat for necessary breaks in the backcountry (or making resort bathroom breaks easier), an easily overlooked but much-appreciated feature. Both the Mammut Stony and Arc'teryx Sentinel come with effective, integrated belts to help keep them where you want them.

The Hemispheres also features a ski strap slot to adjust your boots without having to take off the internal gaiters—a thoughtful touch that was also found in the similarly ranked Arc'teryx Sentinel. 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. Finally, it has a low-profile, removable belt that some of our testers liked.

The Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib comes with RECCO technology, and the bib design allows drop seat access from either the left or right side, but they're otherwise fairly simple. The Norrona Lofoten Pant comes with a zip-on attachment that allows them to work as a bib, but it lacks the drop seat that is now featured on many bib designs.

The Burton Avalon Bib has a chest pocket and two thigh pockets, but the thigh pockets do not come with zippers, which resulted in a lower score since testers felt uncomfortable storing valuables in them. For similar reasons, the single non-zippered pocket on the REI Co-op First Chair Bib detracted from its pocket functionality. The Flylow Foxy Bib came fully equipped with plenty of pocket space, featuring a chest pocket, kangaroo pocket, and two roomy thigh pockets that could easily fit a beacon, a beer, or a phone for music. The other pants' features are generally basic, with sometimes an extra pocket or two for aesthetic purposes. The REI Powderhound Bibs also feature a chest pocket and thigh pockets for plenty of storage. As far as pants go, the Columbia Bugaboo II have several pocket options that are appropriately sized.

Style

Look good, feel good, ski good—or something like that. Style is part of the game when purchasing a pair of ski pants and matters more than we often acknowledge in buying decisions. While this is inherently a subjective opinion, we consulted with friends and current trends to identify pants that can take you from the slopes straight to the après scene and beyond, considering colors, sizing options, and the pant's overall look.

Topping the charts in this category is the Burton Avalon Bib. These pants are designed with style in mind, looking casual and similar to regular everyday overalls. The Flylow Foxy Bib 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.

Recently, taped and contrasting zippers have made quite a splash in the market, and we are seeing them on more and more products. Pants like the Norrona Lofoten and the Arc'teryx Sentinel have a more modern and streamlined look, giving them extra credit in this category. Pair the Sentinel with the matching jacket for extra style points. Some pants like the REI Powderbound Insulated Bib Snow Pant and the Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib are only offered in very limited color options, so they scored lower.

Conclusion

Ultimately, a great pair of ski pants can help get you out on the slopes, and we hope that our testing has helped steer you towards the right pair for you. Choosing ski gear can be daunting, especially if you're attempting to build your kit from the ground up. You'll want to start with the best women's ski boots, and a ripping pair of all-mountain skis. From there, grab a pair of cozy ski gloves and ski goggles and you're ready to hit the slopes and have some fun.