How to choose ski pants
Think all ski pants are created equal? Think again. Yep, there are lots of things to consider when finding the perfect pair – and certain elements separate the average from the amazing. Feeling ready for an upgrade? Read on and discover how to choose ski pants.
When it comes to ski pants, you’ll quickly discover there are tons of options. Do you want bibs or classic pants? Will you need insulation, or is a shell design okay? What kind of waterproof rating should you choose? What about fit, fabric, and features?
Don’t worry – we tackle all these questions and more below. So, pay attention to our quick-fire guide and make sure your pants are as good as they can be this season.
What to look for in ski pants
Fabrics and materials
Waterproofing
Just like ski jackets, pants need proper waterproofing. Look for a rating in ‘mm’ — such as 10K, 15K, or 20K — to see how well they deal with wet conditions. A higher number means better protection against moisture. If you’re expecting wet or heavy snow conditions – or intend to be out all day – 20k is a solid number to go for. With ski pants, fabric and material can make or break your day on the slopes. Most modern pants use polyester or nylon – both super-tough performance fabrics.
These performance fabrics often include three elements: a bonded waterproof membrane to keep external moisture out, reliable breathability to ensure sweat doesn’t build up, and insulation to provide warmth in chilly conditions. By checking these three basics, you’ll find pants that balance dryness, ventilation, and comfort. So, let’s take a closer look.
Prefer venturing into deep powder? More protection is always a safe bet. You might opt for something with a DWR (durable water repellent) treatment, too. This invisible coating helps repel water by preventing it from soaking into the fabric, increasing the material’s performance. Taped seams (critical or fully taped) also keep soggy conditions out. Fully taped seams are definitely worth considering if you plan to ski in all weather.
Breathability
Breathability pairs with waterproofing to regulate your comfort level, especially when working up a sweat. Breathability is often measured in g/m²/24h, indicating how much moisture can escape in a day.
Do you run hot or love intense activities, such as ski touring? Pick pants with higher breathability — otherwise, you’ll end up wet from your own sweat. Mostly cruise groomers at a leisurely pace? A moderate breathability rating is enough. For mixing intense and cruisey days, a breathability rating of 20,000 g is plenty.
Insulation
Insulation in ski pants helps you stay warm, but it also adds bulk. Some pants have synthetic insulation, offering a balance between warmth and mobility. Others are shell pants with zero built-in insulation, relying on your base layers to do the heavy lifting.
Light-to-medium-weight insulation (such as 40 gsm) is usually a good choice because it helps keep you warm without restricting movement. However, lots of riders prefer no insulation in their pants. So, which should you go for? Think about how you handle the cold and the temperatures you ski in (i.e., freezing temps in mid-Jan or end-of-season spring days). Then, pick the insulation level that fits your needs. And don’t worry – we cover the differences between insulated vs. shell more in our next section.
Style and fit
Style and fit go hand in hand when choosing ski pants. Whether you opt for a bib design or classic pants, you want to feel secure yet free to move. Remember, you can also select insulated pants, which offer built-in warmth. Alternatively, shell pants rely on layering to handle temperature swings.
Let’s lift the lid on what to consider. With the right style, you look good, feel good, and ride with total confidence.
Bib pants vs. classic pants
Bib pants come with an upper section that covers your torso, secured by suspenders. Bibs offer extra coverage, so snow can’t sneak in if you take a tumble or venture off-piste.
Some riders love the secure feel and added warmth of bibs. Others, though, prefer the simplicity of classic pants without the extra material. If you’re a powder hound who doesn’t mind a little extra coverage, bibs might be your dream come true. If minimal bulk is your priority, classic pants still reign supreme.
Insulated pants
Insulated pants are an awesome choice for skiers who frequently ride in colder conditions or don’t want to fuss with too many layers. Think of them like a cozy cushion against icy chairlifts and gusty summits.
Okay, insulated pants are less adaptable. For example, once you’re hot, you can’t strip out the insulation. However, for regular in-bounds riding where the temperature rarely swings dramatically – or if you tend to feel the cold – these pants make life easier.
Shell pants
Shell pants are all about versatility. They skip heavy insulation, leaving the warmth choices down to you and your layering system. On a milder day or spring session, you might wear a thin base layer underneath. When temps drop, add thicker thermals or fleece tights.
Shell pants are also lighter and more flexible, making them popular for touring or aggressive riding styles where mobility matters. They can also handle almost any condition. If you’re a pro at fine-tuning your layers, shell pants are the way to go.
Key features
Beyond fabrics and fit, make sure your pants have the features to turn your day on the mountain into the best one ever. These include pockets to keep your essentials handy, vents to help you cool off on warm days, and suspenders or belts to let you dial in your waist fit.
There’s a whole list of features to think about — some vital, others just personal preference. So, let’s dive in, shall we?
Pockets
Some ski pants have a cargo pocket on the thigh for easy access, while others stick to zippered hip pockets. So, consider how you carry your essentials. Do you need a dedicated pocket for snacks or a pass? If you’re a minimalist, two good pockets might be enough. But if you’re forever hunting for a place to stash your stuff, pants with more pockets can save you from lugging a backpack or filling up your jacket.
Vents
Being able to moderate your temperature is a big plus for anyone who rides in changeable conditions or overheats. Vents — often hidden along the outer or inner thigh — let you quickly release warmth. If you’re slogging up a backcountry route or get hot on sunny spring days, unzipping vents helps cool you down fast. Insulated pants benefit from vents, too, since you can’t remove the insulation.
Suspenders and belts
Some ski pants come with built-in suspenders or belt loops to achieve a snug, secure fit. Suspenders ensure your pants don’t slide down during the day, which can be handy for those who like a looser cut. Without them, loose pants may compromise movement or let snow in if you bail. Belts give you adjustability, too. However, choose one that won’t dig into your waist while riding.
Snow gaiters
Snow gaiters are elasticated cuffs at the bottom of each pant leg that fit over your boots. They keep snow out if you fall or head into fresh powder and save you from cold, soggy socks. Most gaiters come with a rubberized band and sometimes a hook to latch onto your laces (if you’re a snowboarder).
Reinforced hems
Cuffs often rub against skis, bindings, and boots, fraying over time. So, if you plan to ski hard and often, reinforced hems are a wise investment. Reinforced hems use tougher fabric or an extra patch to combat wear and tear. This patch keeps your pants looking better for longer and prevents small tears from becoming gaping holes.
Wrapping up
Choosing the right ski pants boils down to thinking about your go-to conditions, personal warmth preferences, and the features you need most. If you’re the type to feel cold easily, insulated pants might make life easier. Love spring slush or long tour days? Shell pants with solid vents are a no-brainer.
And don’t forget about pockets, waist adjustability, and reinforced hems to deal with the punishment of daily wear. It’s important to remember comfort and function come first. Nail those, and you’ll stay warm, dry, and stoked from first chair to last lap. Happy days!
Oh, and don’t forget to check out our new collection, too. With MONTEC, you’ll own a pair of high-performance ski pants loaded with tech and style.
