Best Ski Pants

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Boulder Gear Pinnacle
Test Winner: Boulder Gear Pinnacle
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As ski resorts open around the country, and as you begin to get itchy feet in anticipation for the new slope season, it may also mean that it’s time for some new skiing gear. And while you may not be interested in replacing your full ski ensemble, investing in a crisp new pair of ski pants is never a bad idea.

A good pair of pants for skiing is essential for staying in good spirits on the slopes. Nobody wants to spend their time on a long chairlift shivering in wet, cold pants. Instead, a reliable pair of water-resistant pants will keep your mind off the severe conditions, because you will feel warm, dry, and comfortable.

Depending on what style of skiing you do, what you will look for in a pair of pants differ. If interested in snowboarding check our guide on snowboarding pants.

Standout Picks

Spyder Men's Troublemaker Athletic Fit Ski Pant
The Spyder Troublemaker Pant was designed with park rats in mind. With articulated knee construction and scuff guards, these ski pants are built to stand up to days spent riding the park and the pipe.
Burton Women's Society Pant
The Burton Society Pants are a versatile and cozy choice for days spend riding a resort. Although Burton is technically a snowboarding brand, these pants are slim fitting enough to be a great choice for skiing as well.
Columbia Women's Bugaboo 2
Red, blue, turquoise, black, yellow, green, and white. These (and more) are all of the colors that you can expect to find with this vibrantly colored ski pant. The Bugaboo 2 is a remake of the beloved original, and the pants are versatile, insulated, and made with quality materials. Find out why we love them below.
Amazon Link
Boulder Gear Pinnacle Bib
The Boulder Gear Pinnacle Bib is an attractive, insulated bib pant that will keep you very warm, even while skiing in severe weather. Adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt make these ones adaptable to many different sized individuals.
Amazon Link
$91.19
Salomon Men's Chill Out Bib Pants
The Salomon Chill Out Bib Pant has important features like a removable bib and high-quality ventilation that make it an extremely versatile ski pant. It is particularly well suited to chilly adventures in the backcountry.
Burton Women's Gloria
The Gloria is a stylish and comfortable addition specifically made for women. While these pants don't feature any specific insulation technology, they are water and windproof. Most skiers find that they are quite comfortable without an extra layer underneath. Even better, you can choose from over 30 different colors and designs.
Flylow Mens Chemical Pant
The Flylow Chemical Skiing Pant is a stylish choice for skiing pants. These uninsulated hardshell winter pants are also very adaptable, proving comfortable on and off the resort.
Volcom Men's Freakin Snow Chino
The Volcom Freakin Snow Chino Pant offers a relaxed yet fitted look that’ll work both in and out of bounds. Uninsulated, and with extra ventilation capabilities, these are an excellent choice for an affordable all-around ski pant.
Arc'teryx Men's Sabre Pants
The Arc’teryx Sabre Pant is a high-quality pant that is made to stay comfortable while skiing a variety of terrain. Breathable, highly waterproof material means you will stay cool on hot days, and dry in bad weather.
Outdoor Research Women's Trailbreaker Pants
The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Pants are designed to be the ideal backcountry ski pant. The lightweight material and large zippered vents can keep you cool as you skin uphill, while the strategically placed waterproof material will keep the cold and wet out.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Insulation

Skiing in the backcountry involves more time spent trudging through heavy snow than flying down the side of a mountain. Skiing is a cardio exercise that will have you sweating even on a chilly day. For more cardio exercises check our guide on the best treadmills.

Because of this, uninsulated snow pants are the best for backcountry skiing. On truly freezing days, where temperatures dip into the single digits and below, some insulation is a good idea. Make sure that the pants you choose still have breathable fabric and are well ventilated though.

If you will be primarily skiing at resorts, then staying warm on cold chairlift rides is of a more significant concern than breathability. Insulated pants will be a lifesaver on chilly days in December and January, especially if you visit a mountain during peak times when you will most likely spend longs spells waiting in lift lines.

Most insulated pants use synthetic insulation, which is measured in grams. The number listed is a representation of how much a 1 meter by 1-meter piece of that insulation weighs. The higher the number, the warmer the synthetic insulation is.

Breathability

It is overheating while skiing is uncomfortable and can impair performance. It can also be dangerous since wet clothes from sweat can cause hypothermia, pneumonia, and other problems when you become cold again. For more on common ski injuries read our blog.

Ventilation is especially important for backcountry skiers since they may be many miles from civilization when an issue arises. Therefore, any ski pant that is going to be used outside of a resort needs extra vents in the legs.

The larger the vent, the better. Look for ones that are on the outside of the leg, which will release heat more quickly than one’s against the thigh. Also, duel vent systems, with one on the inside and outside of the pant leg, gives extra versatility and dramatically increases the airflow throughout the pant.

Additional ventilation is not integral to resort skiing but can be useful if you want to have one pair of snow pants for every type of weather. Small vents on the inner part of the thigh or outside of the leg work just fine to cool down a pair of insulated pants on warm days in bounds.

Fit

More than anything else, the style and fit are a matter of preference. In general, skiing style favors athletic, streamlined cuts that hug the body. However, exceptions exist, such as park skiers, who tend to prefer a baggier look that is similar to the way snowboarders dress. The way winter pants fit can be broken down into slim, medium, and baggy. Well-made pants will look good and have shape no matter what fit they are designed with.

There are a few other variables that can inform the style that you choose. Bib pants are very functional in the snow and can be a good choice if you prefer to ride with a sweatshirt instead of a jacket. The extra protection in the front and back of your torso will keep you warm on days that aren’t especially cold. What colors a pant is available it can also be a deciding factor if you can’t choose between a couple of different styles. Think about what colors your jackets, sweatshirts, skis, and boots are. You want to make sure the pants you choose will match the rest of your outfit.

Value

When looking for a pair of skiing pants, you will find the price tag varies depending on the pair you are looking at. When looking for a great pair for this winter season, do not be solely swayed by the price tag and do the research by checking the customer reviews to make sure you are getting all the features you are looking for in a pair of pants for skiing. If you just purchase solely on price, you may end up with an expensive pair that will not hold up this winter season.

Top Ten Ski Pants

1. Spyder Troublemaker

Where to buy
Spyder Men's Troublemaker Athletic Fit Ski Pant
Spyder Men's Troublemaker Athletic Fit Ski Pant
Amazon Link

The Spyder Troublemaker Pant was designed with park rats in mind. With articulated knee construction and scuff guards, these ski pants are built to stand up to days spent riding the park and the pipe.

Read more

Insulation

These are insulated with 40-gram synthetic lining, which makes them quite warm even on chilly days. They are also made with a waterproof, hardshell material and have taped seams to keep any extra moisture out.

Breathability

Ventilation zippers on the inner thigh of these snow pants help make them comfortable on warmer days.

Fit

They have a fitted look that isn’t too tight or too baggy. This, along with the particular attention that is paid to the construction of the knee, gives them pants great versatility in movement. They are designed for men only and come in black, gray, blue, orange, and red. These winter pants are often found to run long in the leg, even when the rest of the ski pant fits perfectly. They have three pockets, in the front near your waist and one cargo pocket on the right leg, all of which can be zippered shut. These ski pants also feature elastic cuff gaiters at the bottom of each leg.

Value

The price is typical of what one should expect to pay for pants for skiing of this quality. The Spyder Troubleamke Pant is a great snow pant for skiing on resorts. The versatility of movement they have means you will be comfortable using these for riding moguls, trees, and in the park alike. They are also very warm and will keep you cozy even on the chilliest days.

2. Burton Society

Where to buy
Burton Women's Society Pant
Burton Women's Society Pant
Amazon Link

The Burton Society Pants are a versatile and cozy choice for days spend riding a resort. Although Burton is technically a snowboarding brand, these pants are slim fitting enough to be a great choice for skiing as well.

Read more

Insulation

These skiing pants are insulated with 40-gram Thermolite insulation. They also have a taffeta lining for extra comfort. They are fully waterproof and have taped seams to keep moisture out.

Breathability

These snow pants have zippered vents along both inner thighs. Around your ankles, you will find cuffs that help to stop snow from getting into your boots. Zippers at the ankle make putting the cuffs on a breeze.

Fit

They have a relaxed, yet streamlined look that is very attractive. The general fit works well on most bodies, and the pant legs aren’t too long. They come in many bright colors and are styled for women only. These ones also feature two front pockets and two back pockets that can be zippered shut, and an adjustable waistband so they can be adjusted to fit perfectly.

Value

The pants come at slightly below the average price for what one should expect to pay for skiing pants. The Burton Society Pants are a fashionable choice for resort riding. With high-quality insulation for cold days and vents for hot days, they can work every day of the season. However, they won’t be a good choice if you plan on venturing out of bounds.

3. Columbia Bugaboo 2

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Columbia Women's Bugaboo 2
Columbia Women's Bugaboo 2
Amazon Link

Red, blue, turquoise, black, yellow, green, and white. These (and more) are all of the colors that you can expect to find with this vibrantly colored ski pant. The Bugaboo 2 is a remake of the beloved original, and the pants are versatile, insulated, and made with quality materials. Find out why we love them below.

Read more

Insulation

The Bugaboo 2 is made with a waterproof technology called Omnitech. To ensure no moisture ever seeps into, the Bugaboo 2 have been fastened with critical seems. They are also insulated to keep you warm in cold temps. Along with the above features, there are reinforced cuff guards, which will keep snow from sneaking into the snow pants.

Breathability

Not only are you protected from uncomfortable moisture sinking in and making the pants soggy, but they are also breathable to offer you the most airflow and comfort.

Fit

Columbia always provides customers with varied sizes that can fit just about everyone, and these pants are no different. To ensure that they fit you snuggly, you can customize the waistband with the adjustable waist tabs. Additionally, the knees in these Bugaboo 2 pants are articulated, so that they are durable to last for a run after the run (season after season).

Value

If you are in the market for snow pants that can work for skiing or snowboarding, or if you want something that is reasonably priced and durable, you need to look no further.

Amazon Link

4. Boulder Gear Pinnacle

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$91.19
Boulder Gear Pinnacle Bib
Amazon Link

The Boulder Gear Pinnacle Bib is an attractive, insulated bib pant that will keep you very warm, even while skiing in severe weather. Adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt make these ones adaptable to many different sized individuals.

Read more

Insulation

These ski pants have 80-gram synthetic insulation and are fully waterproof.

Breathability

These snow pants come with a small zippered hand pocket. They also have gaiters at the ankles, which help to keep snow out of the pants.

Fit

These ski pants come with a full bib style that covers your chest and back and is secured with shoulder straps. The straps are adjustable, as is the width of the waist. These snow pants are only available in black but can be bought in a style for men and women. Many customers have found that these winter pants run small and recommend buying a size larger than you usually do.

Value

These ski pants are quite inexpensive compared to other similar products. The Boulder Gear Pinnacle Bib wit keep you toasty warm during cold days on the slopes. They are an inexpensive choice for someone who primarily rides at resorts.

Amazon Link
$91.19

5. Salomon Chill Out Bib

Where to buy
Salomon Men's Chill Out Bib Pants
Salomon Men's Chill Out Bib Pants
Amazon Link

The Salomon Chill Out Bib Pant has important features like a removable bib and high-quality ventilation that make it an extremely versatile ski pant. It is particularly well suited to chilly adventures in the backcountry.

Read more

Insulation

These ski pants are insulated at 60-grams with Salomon’s Advanced Skin Warm Insulation technology. They are also fully waterproof.

Breathability

These ski pants have a removable powder bib. This bib stops snow from going up the back of your jacket and makes these pants a great choice for backcountry riding. With so much insulation, these snow pants can get hot for skiing. However, large ventilation pockets are located on the outside of the pant that allows for airflow and releases heat.

Fit

These pants are styled to be slim-fitting without being restrictive. They are available in red and black. They are reported to be true to size. These ski pants are only made in style for men. They also have two front hand pockets and two backside pockets as well as a cargo pocket upfront. All of these pockets can be zippered shut.

Value

These snow pants are on the upper end of the average cost for a similar pair of skiing pants. The Salomon Chill Out Bib Pant is a well-designed and versatile pant that will look good and work well in the park or skiing backcountry bowls alike. With their extra insulation, these pants are too hot for touring in warmer weather.

6. Burton Gloria

Where to buy
Burton Women's Gloria
Burton Women's Gloria
Amazon Link

The Gloria is a stylish and comfortable addition specifically made for women. While these pants don't feature any specific insulation technology, they are water and windproof. Most skiers find that they are quite comfortable without an extra layer underneath. Even better, you can choose from over 30 different colors and designs.

Read more

Insulation

While there isn’t any specifically dedicated insulation, these pants do offer a decent amount of warmth. They are made from DryRide Durashell 2L Polyester with a taffeta lining. They feature two fleece-lined handwarmer pockets and two cargo pockets. To avoid any snow or cold air from sneaking in, the seams are fully taped. Additionally, the inside is very soft and would easily slide under an optional base layer.

Breathability

With a moisture-wicking lining and mesh-lined inner thigh vents, you get plenty of breathability with the Gloria pants. They are finished with a DWR finish and are up to 10,000mm waterproof.

Fit

As Burton’s description claims, these pants are “tailored to fit like your favorite low rider jeans,” but more comfortable and flexible. They have a slim fit, button closure, articulated knees, and expandable snowproof gaiters that make it easy to slip them on and off over your boots. As for the general sizing of the pants, it seems that the waist measurements tend to run true to size but the pants are tight in the thighs for many women.

Value

Depending on the color you choose, the price varies. Overall, they are averagely priced for ski pants. To aid in the durability of the pants, they feature anti-scuff cuffs and come with a one year warranty from Burton. Overall, they weigh only 1.10-pounds. They also feature an ATM pocket and key clip for extra convenience.

7. Flylow Chemical

Where to buy
Flylow Mens Chemical Pant
Flylow Mens Chemical Pant
Amazon Link

The Flylow Chemical Skiing Pant is a stylish choice for skiing pants. These uninsulated hardshell winter pants are also very adaptable, proving comfortable on and off the resort.

Read more

Insulation

These ski pants have no insulation, making them a good choice for warm days on the slopes, or backcountry touring where you will be working up a sweat. They have a breathable waterproof membrane, taped seams, and waterproof zippers on the pockets. To further reinforce their ability to keep you dry, these snow pants are also treated with water repellent.

Breathability

To ensure comfort no matter the weather or how hard your working, these ski pants feature a dual ventilation system. One set of zippered vents are located on each inner thigh, while another set on the outside of the pants. This maximizes airflow through the ski pants.

Fit

These ski pants have a slouchy, baggy fit, which is great for layering on cold days. They come in an assortment of black and brown tones and have stylish detailing on the knees and around the cuff. They are designed in style for men only. These winter pants have four pockets, two in the front and two in the back, all of which can be zippered shut. Finally, they also have powder cuffs around the ankles and an adjustable waist belt to maximize comfort.

Value

These ski pants are expensive however they have a quality make and are worth the price. The Flylow Chemical Skiing Pant is an attractive ski pant that is well suited to pretty much any activity you want to do in the mountains. The lack of insulation and breathable material make them appropriate for backcountry skiing, while the baggy fit allows for layers on cold days of resort riding.

8. Volcom Freakin Snow Chino

Where to buy
Volcom Men's Freakin Snow Chino
Volcom Men's Freakin Snow Chino
Amazon Link

The Volcom Freakin Snow Chino Pant offers a relaxed yet fitted look that’ll work both in and out of bounds. Uninsulated, and with extra ventilation capabilities, these are an excellent choice for an affordable all-around ski pant.

Read more

Insulation

These snow pants are not insulated, but can still provide am warmth on cold days if appropriately layered. They are also very waterproof and have taped to ensure you won’t get wet.

Breathability

Large ventilation zippers along the inner thigh allow for airflow if you become hot. Gaiters and zippers around the ankle make it easy to get the winter pants on and keep the snow out.

Fit

These ski pants are technically designed for snowboarders, but the relaxed yet athletically tapered fit will look great with a pair of skis as well. They come in a variety of colors that all fall within the white, black, and brown spectrum and are designed for men only. They do tend to run long, so if you are short sizing down may be a good idea. These ski pants have two pockets located in the back. Finally, an adjustable waistband ensures the perfect fit.

Value

The ski pants come at a price that is consistent with other similar products. The Volcom Freakin Snow Chino Pant will have you looking fly wherever you wear it. This versatile pant offers great movement and breathability and will be comfortable while doing pretty much any type of skiing.

9. Arc’teryx Sabre

Where to buy
Arc'teryx Men's Sabre Pants
Arc'teryx Men's Sabre Pants
Amazon Link

The Arc’teryx Sabre Pant is a high-quality pant that is made to stay comfortable while skiing a variety of terrain. Breathable, highly waterproof material means you will stay cool on hot days, and dry in bad weather.

Read more

Insulation

These ski pants have a light, fleece lining, that insulates, and are soft against your legs if worn without a base layer. The outer is a fully waterproof softshell. Gore-Tex tape is also used along the seams of these winter pants to give added protection from the elements.

Breathability

These ski pants have five pockets in total. Two of these pockets are vents on the outer thighs and provide quick relief if you are overly insulated, allowing you control your inner temperature.

Fit

These pants are slim fitting and are meant to have a streamlined athletic look. They come in many different colors, most with attractive two-toned details. They are available in a bib style as well but only come in a fit catered to men. They do tend to run large in the winter pant length and width, so if you’re looking for a tight fit sizing down may be recommended. All of the pockets can be shut with water-resistant zippers. They also have powder cuffs for keeping the snow out of your boots. Finally, a built-in belt will help make sure the snow pants fit right.

Value

These ski pants come at a premium price, but you are getting what you pay for in terms of versatility and quality. If you are looking for an all-mountain pant, that will also do well for some light backcountry, the Arcteryx Sabre Pant is a great choice. Highly waterproof, breathable, and allowing for ample movement, they will keep you comfortable every day of the season.

10. Outdoor Research Trailbreaker

Where to buy
Outdoor Research Women's Trailbreaker Pants
Outdoor Research Women's Trailbreaker Pants
Amazon Link

The Outdoor Research Trailbreaker Pants are designed to be the ideal backcountry ski pant. The lightweight material and large zippered vents can keep you cool as you skin uphill, while the strategically placed waterproof material will keep the cold and wet out.

Read more

Insulation

These ski pants are an uninsulated softshell, which makes them very breathable. Most of these winter pant repels water but will not stay dry in the rain. In snow, especially the dry snow of the Rockies, these pants will work perfectly fine though. Around the lower part of the leg, there is a fully waterproof area, which helps keep your legs dry while breaking the snow.

Breathability

These snow pants have large ventilation pockets on the outside of each leg that can be open to created airflow and release heat.

Fit

These ski pants are slim fitting, with a body-hugging, athletic look. There is also an adjustable waistband to ensure you get the perfect fit. They are available in black and tan and have a stylish, two-toned look. They are designed in style for men and women. The men’s version comes with suspenders. They also have two zippered hand pockets and a back pocket specifically designed to fit a beckon. Gaiters inside each leg and zippers along the ankles are there to keep snow out of your boots and provide added comfort.

Value

These ski pants come at a price that is consistent with what one should expect to pay for similar products. The Outdoor Research Trailblazer Pants are an almost perfect backcountry pant, offering breathability, lightweight movement, and multiple handy features. Their lack of insulation makes them less desirable for truly cold days though, and the fact that they are only water-resistant means that are a bad choice for wet skiing or if you will be falling a lot.

Sources

  1. Casey Fiedler, The 7 Best Women’s Ski Pants, Outdoors Blog
  2. Admin, Top 15 Best Women Ski Pants in 2019, Travel Gear Blog