Should Ski Pants Touch the Ground?

If you are wearing ski pants, it is likely that you are either wearing a baggy pair, or you have a regular fit pair that is meant to be a little looser ski pants. If you are trying to decide between the two, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Snowboard Pants are Baggy

When it comes to snowboarding, there are several different types of pants available. These range from fitted pants to the baggy types. Choosing the right kind of snow pants for you depends on your style and the conditions in which you play.

The best baggy snow pants for your budget are the ones that are comfortable, and that have plenty of pockets. Ideally, they'll be waterproof and windproof, too. In cold climates, insulated snowboard pants are a good choice.

The North Face A-CAD bibs have a chimney venting system on the leg. They also have durable suspenders. Designed for backcountry skiers and resorts, these bibs are great for negative degree starts.

One of the more popular pairs is the Burton Summit. It features a stretchy face fabric and tricot backer. It also has a breathable membrane that helps keep you warm.

Another standout is the Patagonia Powder Town. Featuring a taffeta liner, 100% recycled materials, and 60-gram Thermogreen insulation, these are a great value.

Technical Ski Mountaineering Pants Feature Full-Length Side Zippers

For ski mountaineering, streamlined bottoms are key. Some styles feature full-length side zippers that allow for easy on/off access when you want to leave your ski boots on the ledge. Others have suspenders, which keep snow from entering the pant and prevent them from falling down.

When choosing a pair of ski pants, consider the activity and weather conditions. You may want to choose a warmer model, which has insulation or a technology to trap heat inside. But you'll also want to have the ability to vent the pants if they get too warm.

Ski pants come in a variety of fabrics, including Gore-Tex, Hyvent, and Event. It's always a good idea to choose a three-layer waterproof material, which should be breathable.

Pants with an elastic waist can add comfort and stretch. Thigh zips are great for venting, and you can sometimes adjust the thigh zips for venting. Full-length side zippers are also a popular feature, but some people lament the loss of them.

Regular-Fit Ski Pants are the Perfect Compromise Between Baggy and Loose

When selecting the perfect pair of ski pants, there are a lot of options to choose from. Fortunately, many of them are quite affordable. There are two primary things to keep in mind when picking a pair: fit and style.

The best ski pants will have a snug, yet comfortable fit. They also need to be waterproof. Skiing in the rain can cause your lower body to feel cold and damp. Make sure your pants have a snow gaiter, which helps prevent the snow from getting in your boots. If they are comfortable enough, you could squat in ski pants.

Some ski pants are designed with a 3-layer construction, which is more expensive than a 2-layer design. This is a good choice for serious skiers, because it adds more breathability and next-to-skin comfort.

Another important feature is a waterproof zipper. Many of the most expensive models are made with a Gore-Tex membrane, which has the ability to withstand the harsh mountain weather.

Most ski pants have some sort of zippered vents, which can improve air circulation. Also, some have a mesh lining to help keep stray snow out.

Insulated Ski Pants

Insulated ski pants are a great option for those who love to ski, and who want to stay warm on cold days. These pants are often fully waterproof and offer a boost of warmth. They come in a variety of different materials and weights, and can be used in conjunction with your baselayers.

Bibs are a comfortable alternative to ski pants, as they offer additional layers of insulation around the upper body. However, they are less breathable, and their style options are limited. Some bibs feature straps to hold them in place, and some feature suspenders. This allows the wearer to choose a more athletic or stylish look. Unlike traditional waist-height ski pants, bibs may be more suitable for aerobic skiing.

While many insulated ski pants include a fleece lining, they are not always waterproof. If you are skiing in areas with wet or humid snow, you might consider opting for uninsulated pants, which can be worn over several layers.