Ski Pants Buying Guide
Ski pants are a crutial part of your snowsports ensemble. From style, type, protective materials and more, chosing the right ski pants will make sure you stay warm, dry and comfortable all day on the mountain. Our in-store gear specialists have outlined what you need to look for when choosing your ski pants.
Find The Right Fit
Plus Sizes
Our Plus Size range is a selection of hand-picked quality outdoor clothing available in a wider range of sizes to ensure that everyone can make the most of their time outdoors. Delivering innovative waterproofing, insulation and breathability so that you’re ready for anything. Explore the range now to discover some of our bestselling brands, including Mountain Equipment, Patagonia, Rab, and The North Face.
Women’s - sizes range from XXS to XXXXL, including short, regular and long leg lengths.
Men's - sizes range from XXS to XXXL and 28’’ to 40’’ waist fit, including short, regular and long leg lengths.
Ski Pant Style
Slim Fit
A flattering close fitting look for those who want to minimise bulk & reap the benefits of stretch fabrics.
Regular Fit
The most standard fit option, often featuring a slightly tapered boot cut shape, with space for layers and freedom of movement.
Relaxed Fit
A relaxed look with plenty of room to move and layer up on colder days. Often with more stash pockets practical for all mountain adventures.
Ski Pant Type
Shell
Focused on waterproof, breathability and durability; shell trousers are great for freeriders looking to explore the whole mountain. It’s best to invest in a variety of weights of base-layer thermals to ensure you are covered for colder temperatures.
Insulated
A reliable choice for the majority of skiers, but especially those new to the mountains. Providing ample warmth for colder conditions with just a light base-layer thermal. Review the different levels of ventilation if you tend to ski later in the season.
Softshell
Protective, high stretch fabric with a brushed fleece backer that’s ideal for dryer conditions. Close fitting silhouette provides flattering fit and minimises bulk, whilst providing maximum freedom of movement.
Additional Features
Snow Gaiter
A snow gaiter is a waterproof seal, designed to fit around your ski boots to keep snow and water from entering. Gaiters might have hooks that connect to your ski boots' buckles for extra protection, and adjustable to ensure the right fit.
Cuff Reinforcement
Unlike snowboard pants, ski pants are usually reinforced where the inner edge of the ski is likely to wear the fabric of the pants down. An extra-durable fabric is used to reinforce the cuffs and protect against contact with your ski edges and crampons.
Vents
Some ski pants will have vents on the insides of the thighs for air circulation and temperature regulation. These will vary in material and length depending on what the pants are designed for. Technical backcountry ski pants will often have full-length side zips for maximum ventilation.
Pockets
Different types of ski pants will have different numbers and styles of pockets, from baggy salopettes with cargo pockets to slim-fit pants with pockets only big enough for your ski pass.
Consider what you'll need when deciding on a pair of ski pants.
Waterproofing
Your ski pants should be waterproof to keep you protected from unexpected weather.
Some pants will have a waterproof rating, usually between 5,000mm and 20,000mm (5K - 20K); the higher the number, the more waterproof the pants. However, some ski pants are made from specialist materials, like GORE-TEX or The North Face's DryVent, which are waterproof but aren't rated using this system.
Warmth
Consider your chosen terrain before selecting your ski pants. Experienced snow chasers could opt for a versatile shell ski pant which is 100% waterproof and provides ample space for different layering options. Whereas if you're new to the slopes or get cold easily, select insulated ski pants.
If you enjoy backcountry missions, lightweight, breathable softshell or shell will keep your temapertaure regulated on the uphill and give space to layer when the temperature drops.
Seams
Seam taping prevents moisture from seeping through the seams of your ski pants.
Critical Taping
The least waterproof option when you're expected dry weather as only moisture exposed seams are taped.
Full Taping
Fully-taped ski pants have every seam taped, inside and out, for ultimate waterproof protection.
Don't forget each brand will vary in sizing and style. And if you're not sure which is best for your snowsports adventures, book an in-store appointment at your nearest Snow+Rock store and our gear specialists will help you find the perfect fit.
Ski Pants FAQs
Ski pants fit like regular trousers and fasten at the waist, while snow bibs extend over the chest with shoulder straps for extra coverage and to keep snow out. Bibs are ideal for deep snow or those wanting more protection, while pants offer a classic, easy-to-layer fit.
Ski pants come in slim, regular, and relaxed fits. Slim fit offers a modern, close look; regular fit provides space for layering and freedom of movement; relaxed fit is roomiest, great for layering and comfort on colder days. Choose based on your style and layering needs.
Options include shell pants (waterproof, breathable, uninsulated), insulated pants (added warmth for cold days), and softshell pants (stretchy, breathable, best for milder conditions). Select based on your activity level and typical weather conditions.
Key features include snow gaiters to keep snow out, cuff reinforcement for durability, multiple pockets, ventilation zips for temperature control, and adjustable waistbands for a secure fit. Reinforced knees and scuff guards add extra protection in high-wear areas.
Yes, many brands offer extended size ranges for both men and women, including options for different leg lengths and waist sizes. This ensures a comfortable and functional fit for all body types, so everyone can enjoy time on the slopes.
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