What ski or snowboard pants and for what conditions?

Depending on the conditions and activity, we choose from an insulated version or not. If you are an alpine skier or snowboarder who tends to spend most of the winter in a ski resort (in-bounds) or simply you easily get cold, opt for an insulated version of ski pants. And since the odds of getting wet pants are higher than jacket, synthetic insulation in pants is preferred due to its water resistance and ability to continue providing warmth till the last chairlift ride of the day. However, for those who are dedicated to ski touring, freeriding (higher energy output activity) or alpine climbing which requires hiking, will most likely opt for a non-insulated version. This is also a very weather dependent choice, since we could lay eyes either on softshell or hard shell pants. In the event of choosing softshell pants you should be aware they are meant for high output energy activity with excellent moisture wicking capability as well as with wind stopper membrane, however bear in mind they are not fully waterproof, and taking them into unreliable weather conditions followed by snowfall or rain, could result into ending up wet throughout the day. Nonetheless, if you are headed out knowing the weather is going to be snowy, windy, wet, essentially harsh, you should go for hard shell pants to keep you protected from outer elements (this also applies to ski jackets for example).

Hard shell pants usually have 2 or 3-layer construction, which are constructed for more extended and demanding activities. So, in the end the 3-layer ski or snowboard pants would look like a sandwich-1st is durable outer fabric usually with DWR (durable water repellency) coating to beads water off, 2nd layer entails the waterproof membrane that won’t let the snow through but is also able to transport sweat molecules out on the surface and 3rd layer is a backer or inner layer (sometimes slightly insulated with fleece material). Despite hard shell pants provide the utmost climate protection against rain, snow and wind with fully taped seams, they are not designed to keep you warm as stand-alone piece without reliable base layer underneath (e.g., synthetic, wool or a combination of these two).

Waterproofness and permeability (breathability)

Before we move on, it’s important to mention that besides waterproofness, breathability of pants is also a huge decision factor when picking out the right ski or snowboard pants. Because everyone’s body runs on different kind of fuel as well as sweats differently, it is very important to look for waterproof and breathable ratings on garment. So, when you look at the label, what do those numbers actually mean, 10k/10k, 20k/20k, 30k/30k? Unfortunately, there isn’t a standardized process within the whole industry and manufacturers either outsource the testing to 3rd parties or in their own labs.

Ski Pants

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