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Best Snowboarding Pants
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Fit
Probably the most important factors you’ll need to consider prior to making your purchase is the comfort and fit of the pants for snowboarding you decide to buy. Fit and comfort can be very subjective concepts and based highly on personal preference as well as your own standards and expectations. To gage fit and comfort, you’ll want to try your pants for snowboarding on prior to purchasing them so that you can test out how they feel.
Snowboarding pants tend to be slightly baggier in the crotch area, to allow for squatting and a full range of movement. Depending on your body type, for ultimate mobility, you may need to size up. However, pants for snowboarding come in different styles and designs, and the different style choices you get when selecting your pants for snowboarding typically fit somebody well, but not everybody. So, you’ll need to make an informed decision before making your selection.
Materials
The materials used in the pants for snowboarding you look at will also affect the comfort and fit of the pants overall. Fabric texture does make a difference since some pants feel softer and more comfortable than others, based on the fabric and materials used with the pants. Some pants feel thicker and are quite stiff when you wear them and don’t feature hanging liners, making them very durable.
However, they typically don’t feel as comfortable or as flexible than pants designed to be more lightweight and also made with fleecy linings. So, depending on how thick, durable, and stiff you need your pants to be, you need to remember you’ll be trading off some level of comfort and flexibility if you opt for thicker pants. On the other hand, lightweight pants won’t be as durable or quite as protective but will feel much more comfortable and will also move with you better.
Comfort
Some of the pants on our list are designed with one of these two concepts in mind, sacrificing either flexibility and comfort for durability and thickness, while other pants on our list provide you with comfort and flexibility but won’t be as durable or thick. As far as a good all-around choice where you’ll get a decent feeling in all categories, the Arcteryx Sabre Pants do a good job of balancing everything out. The Columbia Bugaboo II Pants are designed with a very soft fleece lining, which makes them comfortable, but they are also very thick so you don’t get the flexibility you might want depending on where your skill level is at.
Weather Resistance
Another very important feature you’ll want to consider is the level of weather resistance offered to you by your pants for snowboarding. You need pants that will protect you from the elements, still keep you warm, and keep out the snow, moisture, and wind as you move on the slopes. In pants for snowboarding, you’ll find weather-resistant technology in the shell fabric areas and the design of the garment.
The pants we’ve provided on our list above all offer some level of water resistance, while also offering windproof protection designed into the outer fabric. However, while many pants feature weather protection, they aren’t all created equally, and the construction on the outer fabric of the pants is what makes the key difference in the level of weather protection you’re likely to receive.
You want to make sure that the pants for snowboarding you purchase have tight inner cuffs that are separate and also feature solid zippers and flaps to help you keep the snow out. Also, make sure your pants for snowboarding come with some type of good water-resistant finish, like DWR (Durable Water Repellant), which will keep the water out of the exterior of the pants and make the water bead off the fabric. Another type of water protection you’ll see is Gore-Tex, which is one of the best types of weatherproofing technologies you’ll find in pants for snowboarding.
Both of these water repellent technologies also help keep the pants breathable since the waterproof technology is a laminate, and still allows the pants to ventilate. Depending on the amount of time you spend snowboarding, and the weather conditions you snowboard in, you’ll need to factor in the amount of weather-resistant features you’ll need in a pair of pants for snowboarding. People who are snowboarding often in stormy weather conditions should consider pants with ample amounts of weather protection, like the Arcteryx Sabre, which offers top-level weather protection built into the design of the pants.
Other pants for snowboarding perform well with weather protection in more predictable snowboarding weather conditions, but the fabrics these pants are designed with can fail you if they get too overwhelmed. Also, some of them are designed with fabrics that aren’t very breathable, which means humidity can create condensation on the inside of the pants, making you feel wet throughout your interior pant leg area. However, if you aren’t going to be snowboarding when the weather conditions are stormy, these other pants can offer the level of weather protection you need while balancing out other features you might want in your pants for snowboarding. So, before you really decide on your level of weather protection, make sure you are honest with yourself about the types of conditions you are most likely to encounter.
Top 10 Picks
1. Arcteryx Sabre
Arcteryx’s Sabre pants are designed to bring snowboarders a high-quality piece of protective clothing that runs on the expensive side, but also delivers a lot of all-around benefits that any snowboarder would enjoy. Made to be very durable and long-lasting, you’ll get excellent weather protection from these pants, and you’ll also be able to use them for many seasons.
Read moreFit
Designed to be stylish, Arcteryx’s Sabre Pants deliver all-around protection from both the weather and abrasions while still offering insulation, ventilation, and plenty of durabilities. They offer a relaxed fit and run true to size. You’ll get a lot of use out of these pants, and they will help you stay warm and dry each time you set out on a new snowboarding adventure.
Materials
The exterior of the Arcteryx Sabre Pants is made with flannel, nylon, and polyester, and is waterproof on the outside.
Comfort
The interior area of these pants is lightly insulated, and designed to be lightweight while still ventilating well and keeping you warm. The pants are made with Tiny Gore seam tape and have a micro-seam allowance to cut back on weight.
Weather Resistance
The waterproof features on these pants derive from the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish on the outside of the fabric, which also makes the pants windproof and abrasion-resistant.
2. DC Nomad
DC's Nomad pants offer you some completely waterproof but insanely breathable pants so you can be sure to keep dry while out on the slopes but not overheat while you're shredding.
Read moreFit
These pants are a more typical fit for snowboard pants as they're a little baggy. This might make the pants a little more comfortable on the slopes but if that's not your style it might be something to look into.
Materials
These pants are made from 100% Polyester. The lining is made from mesh and taffeta with tricot brushed panels.
Comfort
DC brings to snowboarders some of the most comfortable, best ventilated, and strongly insulated pants you’ll find for purchase today, while still bringing you ample amounts of weather protection.
Weather Resistance
DC's Nomad Pants feature fully taped seams and lower leg zippers, zip-up hand-warmer pockets, and zippered back pockets. You’ll also get inner snow gaiters with gripper elastic and cuff anchors designed to help ventilate so that you won’t overheat.
3. Volcom Knox
Knock em' down with the Knox pant from Volcom. This women's pair of snow pants provide ultimate weather-resistance and comfort. They are wind and waterproof and feature 60g of synthetic insulation. You'll love all of the small details that make these pants one of our top three picks.
Read moreFit
Not to start off on a bad foot, but finding your correct size can be quite a challenge with these pants. It seems as though the lengths and waistbands vary drastically size by size. Luckily, there is an adjustable inner waistband that makes adjustable the waist easier. The Knox has a modern slim fit and looks great on and off the slopes.
Materials
The exterior of these pants is made from Nylon and then finished with multiple water repellant systems. For warmth, you’ll be greeted with synthetic insulation and a polyester lining. Reviewers have been pleased with the overall feel and durability of these pants. To further ensure their durability and craftsmanship, the rise and back hems are triple reinforced. Additionally, there is a patch reinforced seat to make your time on the lifts more comfortable.
Comfort
Providing insulation, breathability, and weather-resistance, these are very comfortable pants. To keep you warm, there are two tricot-lined handwarmer pockets and 60g of synthetic insulation. The Knox also features a V-Science breathable lining, as well as two zippered mesh vents for ultimate breathability.
Weather Resistance
As they should be, these pants are both wind and waterproof. There are two layers of Gore-Tex that are finished with a breathable laminate. The pants also feature a DWR finish to further waterproof them. The seams are fully taped and YKK Aquaguard zippers are used as well. Combining all of this protection with the warm synthetic insulation, you’re all set for a great snowy day on the slopes.
4. Volcom Species Stretch
Volcom’s Stretch Snow Pants are made to keep you comfortable, warm, and dry on all of your snowboarding adventures. These pants offer a lot of versatility and flexibility in their design and are manufactured with plenty of weatherproof features to keep you going strong all day long.
Read moreFit
Volcom’s Stretch Snow Pants are also made with an adjustable inner waistband to ensure you always get a great, comfortable fit each time you put them on. They also come with several pockets to help you organize your items.
Materials
Volcom’s Stretch Snow Pants are made of v-science stretch twill fabric features to offer a lot of versatility and freedom of movement, so you’ll never feel like you are restricted when you wear these pants.
Comfort
Volcom’s Stretch Snow Pants also are made with mesh-lined zippered vents to allow you to control the ventilation in the pants as you see fit.
Weather Resistance
You also get plenty of waterproof and weatherproof protection along with breathability, meaning these pants can ventilate to keep you warm and dry even as you sweat so you feel comfortable. Other features you’ll find in these pants are critical tape seams and a zip tech jacket to pant interface, which is designed to help keep the snow out of your pants so you don’t feel cold.
5. Arctix Cargo Sport
Arctix's products are known to be more on the expensive side, but for the Cargo Sport pants, the price is well worth it. Fully taped seams improve the water-resistance and offer a sleek look, and they come in sizes ranging from Extra Small to Extra Large so you'll be sure to find a pair that fits well.
Read moreFit
The articulated knees provide solid freedom of movement, and the boot zippers provide easy on/off access without any hassle.
Materials
These pants are made from Polyester and feature Denier Ballistic reinforcements in ankles, scuff, and hem guards. They can easily be washed in the washing machine.
Comfort
These pull-on pants are easily adjustable and comfortable. For a perfect fit, they feature an adjustable waist. They provide a great amount of warmth without compromising their weight.
Weather Resistance
All seams are fully taped and the exterior has a DWR coating, which will keep water out. This along with the 85g of lightweight ThermaTech insulation mean you won't have to worry about your legs getting cold or wet when you're out. The boot gaiters are designed with grippers for a seamless integration, which along with the fully taped seams and DWR protection will keep water out during all of your adventures.
6. White Sierra Insulated Bib
One of the less expensive options on our list, White Sierra's Insulated Bib packs a lot of warmth and durability into a well-fitting and affordable option that's sure to please.
Read moreFit
The shoulder straps are adjustable for a custom and comfortable fit. It is available in many sizes, ranging from Small to XXXL. For the most part, they fit true to size.
Materials
With a 100% nylon outer shell and a 100% polyfill insulation lining, the White Sierra Insulated Bib is designed with a good balance of warmth and water resistance.
Comfort
120g polyfill insulation is the best of both worlds; it's warm and good at retaining heat while providing a comfortable fit without being cumbersome. The articulated knees further improve on this ease of movement as well. Sizes range from small to 2XL, and typically runs true to size.
Weather Resistance
Aside from keeping you warm, this bib is also waterproof. It features elastic gaiters and a reinforced scuff guard for durability and to prevent snow from entering the suit. As versatile as this bib is, it has been mentioned that it is not waterproof enough for wading.
7. White Sierra Toboggan
White Sierra has been in the business of outdoor gear since 1979, and in those almost four decades they've been creating high-quality products at affordable prices. With 120g of insulation and waterproof nylon outer, White Sierra's Toboggan pants are made to keep you warm and dry during all of your adventures.
Read moreFit
Coming in at under $75, the Toboggan pants are a solid investment for seasons to come, even for those who are on a budget. They come in a wide range of sizes, from small to 2XL. so you'll be able to find a pair that fits as well as they work.
Materials
The outer is made of 100% nylon, which is both waterproof and durable. The lining is made from 100% polyester.
Comfort
Articulated knees and an adjustable internal waistband ensure an ideal fit as well as ease of movement. Reviewers say that the feel of the materials is very comfortable and the angled hand pockets are great.
Weather Resistance
The White Sierra Toboggan feature 120g of polyfill insulation- more than some other pats on this list- for excellent warmth and heat retention. Additionally, the pants are waterproof.
8. Columbia Men's Ridge 2 Run II
Sometimes all you want is something simple. No frills, nothing fancy, they just work. That's where the Columbia Men's Ridge 2 Run II pants come in. Made with a solid waterproof design, taped seams, and a special Omni-Heat interior, these pants offer everything you need, without any unnecessary features you don't.
Read moreFit
Men's sizes range from Small to 2XL, all sizes come in either a regular or long inseam, and these pants typically run true to size.
Materials
The outer shell is made from Nylon Legacy Twill. The interior is made from polyester and features a Thermal Reflective Microtex lining.
Comfort
Taped seams and the brand's own Omni-Heat technology work to keep you warm, though considering these are just a shell you will need some layers in the event of extreme temperatures. The Omni-Heat technology works through a grid of small silver dots inside the pants that are designed to reflect heat back to your body. Leg venting allows for more tailored temperature control on warmer days, and the articulated knees make them move with you, which is very important when snowboarding.
Weather Resistance
The outer is waterproof to a certain point, while still allowing for breathability. The Omni-Heat technology on the interior reflects heat back to your body, to keep you warm without sacrificing breathability or ease of movement.
9. Burton Covert
The Covert is a moderately priced option from Burton that provides strong water-resistance as well as breathability. The roomy fit allows for a base layer if necessary, and they come in a wide range of sizes and colors, so you'll be sure to find a pair that best suits you.
Read moreFit
The roomy fit allows for thermals or a base layer to be worn under them in the event of extreme temperatures. A cargo pocket on the right leg gives you a place to store essentials. Sizes range from XXS to XXL, run true to size, and come in a wide range of color options, from basic blacks and greys to bright yellows and blues.
Materials
These pants are made from a blend of mesh and polyester. The DRYRIDE two-layer fabric has a waterproof rating of 10,000mm.
Comfort
Thanks to the “living lining,” you’ll be comfortable in these pants whether you are resting by the fire or heading up the lift. Reviewers say that these pants are comfortable and feature great flexibility, without being baggy.
Weather Resistance
The two-layer nylon fabric is made with DRYRIDE material to ensure solid water resistance. This along with the "Living Lining" mesh ventilation will ensure that your legs stay dry no matter the conditions. The boot gaiters use a clip design to keep snow out, and the expandable cuffs allow you to put on and remove your boots with relative ease.
10. Burton Gloria
Burton designed the Women's Gloria pants to be Bluesign approved, meaning that they take great care into making the production process more eco-friendly. While these are definitely a more expensive option, they're quite warm and will be a purchase you can feel good about.
Read moreFit
The articulated knees and polyester outer allow for freedom of movement without the pants being too baggy or unflattering. The overall design is quite fitted and provides a feminine silhouette, and comes in a wide range of colors, from standard black to bright oranges and reds, and even a few patterns. Some users have reported that these pants can run large, so if you have concerns you may need to order a size down.
Materials
The outer layer is designed with a DRYRIDE Twill Weave fabric, providing solid water-resistance and range of motion while still offering a stylish fit. The insulating material sits between the water-resistant outer and a moisture-wicking inner layer to keep you dry and comfortable.
Comfort
A few reviewers have described these pants as “a dream!” They provide optimal comfort and flexibility for a successful day on the slopes. If it is predicted to be an especially cold day, you may want to choose a thin and comfortable base layer to go underneath.
Weather Resistance
You’re ready to go with the Gloria pant. The DRYRIDE fabric is finished off with a strong DWR finish that will prevent water or snow from being absorbed by the pants. To ease your mind a little bit more, the seams are also fully taped. They are decently warm but may need to be layered for extremely cold days.
Sources
- , The 7 Best Snowboard Pants Reviewed & Rated [2018-2019], Article
- , The Best Women’s Snowboard Pants: My Top 10, Buying Guide
- , Best Snowboarding Pants 2019, Buying Guide