How to Buy Ski Pants

Ski pants keep you warm and dry while you enjoy a day on the slopes. You can find a balance between cost and comfort by considering the different ski pant features. All ski pants should fit loosely enough that you can move easily while walking, bending and squatting.

  1. Pants vs. Bibs

    • Bib overall ski pants come up to your mid-torso and are held up by suspender straps. Most often the bottom of your ski coat will end below the top of the bib, which helps keep snow out of your pants, especially after a fall. Bib overalls also tend to be warmer than pants, but more difficult to deal with when visiting the restroom. Also, pants give you more mobility. Most ski pants have gaiters at the bottom of the pant leg that keep snow out of your boots.

    Shell vs. Insulated Pants

    • Some pants are just a single layer of waterproof/windproof material, while other pants are fully lined and insulated. Insulated pants are warmer, while shell pants are more appropriate for spring skiing, hiking or heavy layering underneath. Some pants have a zip-out insulated liner.

    Waterproofing

    • Ski pants come in varying degrees of waterproofing, using a rating from 5,000 to 20,000. Less-waterproof pants are usually cheaper, and can be adequate if you don't ski very often or ski in an area with very dry snow. The higher the waterproofing rating, the less breathable the fabric. Higher-quality pants have extra insulation and waterproofing in the seat and knees of the pants, and tape-sealed seams.

    Underneath the Pants

    • Wear a synthetic or wool base layer against your skin. The base layer should wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm. Do not wear cotton, which absorbs water.