Staff, Courtesy of Columbia
Your ski pants are about fit and function, but fashion shouldn’t take a back seat (no pun intended). You’ll want waterproofness and breathability for protection against the elements; insulation and durability for warmth; pockets with easy access to essentials for the day’s adventures; and a look that makes you feel confident and inspired.
The Expert: I choose what ski pants to wear based on the mission. I have lightweight shell pants for uphill touring, insulated pants for cold days riding lifts, and bibs for powder days. I own a pair of solid black Columbia Sportswear shell pants that I just can’t seem to destroy even after a half-dozen years of hard use, and they go with any color jacket.
I’ve been a professional gear tester for more than 20 years and it’s taken me to some amazing places. When I’m not out trying to break tents and shoes and bikes and skis in a remote locale, I’m testing gear right out my back door at 9,000 feet above sea level in Colorado. Having been a writer and contributor to publications including Backpacker, Men’s Health, Gear Junkie, 5280, Elevation Outdoors and others, I delight in providing the context and experience that will help you make great gear choices—and have more fun outdoors.
Features to Consider
Fact: Winter sports take a toll on your body. The cold and wet environment coupled with unpredictable or rapidly changing snow conditions combined with intense physical exertion means you’re laying it on the line every time you venture outdoors. You need to stay light, agile, and dry. One general rule: too many features or too much weight will only slow you down in situations that require extreme mobility and quick thinking.
Waterproofness
Measured in millimeters, the waterproof rating tells you the amount of liquid your ski pants can resist without leaking. Look for at least 5,000mm, or 5K. A rating of 20,000mm (20K) or more offers the highest quality construction with more reliable waterproofing membranes. Lower waterproof ratings are suited for fair weather where you’ll take frequent breaks. Full days out in any conditions require 5K to 10K ratings. Going to be in the backcountry? Then 20K or more is the way to go.
Warmth
Insulation determines warmth and comfort. For frequent rides up the chairlift go with insulated pants so you don’t lose all your heat between runs. Heading somewhere super cold? Insulation is crucial in consistently low temperatures. Skiers who prefer touring at higher intensities benefit more with little to no insulation to avoid getting too hot and moist. Others prefer a non-insulated shell so they can layer their own way underneath.
Breathability
Similar to waterproof ratings are ones for breathability which are measured in grams per square meter. Choose a garment with a 5,000-10,000g rating for lower intensity activity like in-bounds downhill skiing. Move into the 10,000-15,000g range for moderate touring in the backcountry. Ratings over 15,000g boast enough breathability for big days, warmer climates, or extended touring through deep and steep terrain.
Get Set For the Slopes: Best Men’s Ski Jackets • Best Ski Boots • Best Women’s Ski Pants • Best Roof-Mounted Ski and Snowboard Racks
Style
Ski pants come two ways: pants or bibs. Pants are, well, pants. They stop at the waist with button and/or zip closure systems, usually with some hook-and-loop tabs or a belt, sometimes suspenders, to keep everything in its proper place. Bibs include added material up to the belly or chest and suspender straps over your shoulders for more security and weather protection. Bibs may offer a few more pockets but are a little harder to get in and out of, and they will be warmer as well.
How We Selected
I picked these ski pants from top brands based on the spectrum of qualities that skiers need in a range of styles, features and fits. There’s something for every type of skier depending on what the day holds: touring, powder, in-bounds or out, cold weather or warmer, low budget or high rolling, and niche needs versus overall best in show. These are the best ski pants for you to buy now.
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