How to Choose Your Ski and Snowboard Pants?

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Choosing the right ski or snowboard pants is essential for your days on the mountain. More than just a style choice, they’re designed to keep you warm, dry, and moving freely. Whether you're carving groomers or exploring backcountry powder, here’s how to find the perfect pair for you.

Ski and snowboard pants: Why they matter

Wearing ski and snowboard pants matters much more than you might think! Beyond the look, they're designed to help you stay comfortable while performing, keeping you warm and dry.

If you’re planning a weekend skiing or snowboarding trip, choosing the right ski clothes is essential. Regular pants would get soaked and heavy too quickly, restricting your movement while not offering you appropriate weather protection.

Key features to look for to find the best snow pants

Alright, getting a pair of snow pants is important. But what exactly should you look for in ski or snowboard pants? Besides size and style, here are some key features to take into consideration.

Waterproof

This may seem obvious, but your snow pants must be waterproof (and windproof, too). Most of the time, the outer layer is covered with a water repellent spray. Waterproofing is essential for your comfort, as it prevents moisture from reaching your base layer, which would chill your body.

To identify whether a pair of snow pants is waterproof or not, you can look for the fabric used and the waterproof rating. It should be at least 10,000 mm, and around 15,000 to 20,000 for wet conditions.

Breathability

Even while being waterproof and windproof, your snow pants should always be breathable. It is essential to keep your body temperature at a comfortable level. This also helps to prevent sweat and moisture from accumulating within the pants.

Snow pants often have specific ventilation options, such as zipper vents.

You can also look for the breathability rating, which should be around 10,000 g/m² for moderate activity (hiking, snowboarding, etc.)

Fit and mobility

Besides comfort, snow pants are designed to be versatile (mobility and durability). You should look for pants with some of these features:

  • Articulated knees: Provide better movement for skiing or snowboarding

  • Stretchy fabric: Optional but excellent for added comfort and flexibility

  • Adjustable waist or belt loops: Helps fine-tune the fit

  • Appropriate length: Ensure the cuffs cover your boots but don’t drag.

Different types of snow pants: insulation or shell?


When looking for snow pants, you'll quickly have a choice to make: insulated ski pants or shell pants?

Insulated pants are ideal for staying warm, especially if you are skiing in very cold climates. They are also recommended for beginner or intermediate skiers, as they tend to generate less body heat. They are also ideal if you get cold easily.

Shell ski pants, on the other hand, are ideal for backcountry skiing, or simply for warmer climates. With these pants, you can get full control over your layering system, and prioritize mobility.

Some pants strike a middle ground, offering strategic or light insulation in key areas while maintaining breathability elsewhere. These are good for skiers who want versatility with a touch of warmth.

How to choose your ski and snowboard pants with Orage

Looking for pants or jackets for your outdoor adventure in the cold winter? Take a look at our website! We offer a wide variety of snow pants, both shell and insulated. We have everything you need to stay dry and comfortable at all times.