But for active riders or those that like to hike into the sidecountry, breathability jumps up the priority list. Spending an additional $55 for the Volcom Freakin Snow Chino above will earn you 15K waterproofing, which will be worth it for most. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: Hard-to-beat combination of technical performance, features, and style.What we dont: Expensive and some might not like the baggy fit. And while its not as premium as Gore-Tex, the in-house H2Nos water and wind protection have impressed us throughout years of testing numerous Patagonia products. To remedy the issue, manufacturers reinforce the cuffsoften through use of thicker fabrics or even siliconeand sometimes even provide a way for you to raise the cuffs to keep them from dragging through the parking lot or lodge. In particular, don't waste too much focus on the breathability rating: there isnt an established procedure to compare products, and the test is done in a controlled lab environment (in other words, not out in snow). This is often done via a cinch near the ankle or extending up the backside of the leg (Burton has nicknamed them bungee cuff elevators, and Picture Organic calls it their I-Fit System). But Patagonia nevertheless excels at the quality part of the equation, with designs that hold up exceptionally well over time and look good to boot. To start, its almost always a good idea to throw on at least a thin pair of long underwear. Below we provide a breakdown of the best snowboard pants and bibs on the market, ranging from premium, highly protective options for deep days to budget-friendly resort designs and models that cross over from the ski world. Baker Storm Bibs. Category: InsulatedInsulation: 40g ThermoliteWaterproofing: 2L Dryride DurashellWhat we like: A stylish insulated pant at a great price.What we dont: Not as protective or durable as the Patagonia Powder Bowl. For this reason, those headed to the backcountry typically prioritize breathability, and it doesnt get much better than the Outdoor Research Skyward II. Baker Storm Bibs See the Women's OR Mt. For those who prefer bibs, check out Outdoor Researchs newSkytour Bib, which pairs the same AscentShell membrane with a slightly burlier, 40 x 65-denier face fabric Read in-depth reviewSee the Men's Outdoor Research Skyward II See the Women's Outdoor Research Skyward II. Combining a 3-layer construction with stretchy fabrics for mobility, Outdoor Researchs Skyward II is one of the most well-rounded ski pants weve tested to date. Shell pants are a great option for most days on the slopes, but especially in mild conditions (such as those found in the PNW) or those who tend to run warm. And with a burly face fabric, the Covert Insulated is built to withstand many seasons of demanding resort use. Baker boasts a full-length front zip that extends from the chest through to the fly, a swing seat for bathroom breaks, and inner thigh vents (compared to the more traditional outer leg zippers on the Trew Gear). Below we break down the top all-mountain snowboards of the 2022 season, from highly versatile models to those that Colorado is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the Unites States. Assembling a pant requires connecting multiple pieces of fabric, which leaves potential vulnerabilities for moisture to seep through. That said, although the Freedom Insulated will do the trick for casual riders, performance-minded boarders likely will be left wanting more. Jacket-to-Pant Attachment Systems This translates to exceptional protection and improved breathability compared to the 2-layer designs that dominate the market. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks. It all adds up to a pant thats capable of resisting heavy wind or wet snow while offering the range of motion and breathability you need for rigorous ascents. Outdoor Research Skyward II Ski Pant Review, See the Men's Patagonia Insulated Powder Bowl, See the Men's Outdoor Research Skyward II, See the Women's Outdoor Research Skyward II, Outdoor Research Mt. For women, the Summit (also $365) builds off of the design of the Cyclic, adding a stretchy face fabric and tricot backer for extra mobility and warmth. The most common locations for the zippered panels are along the inside or outside of your thighs. In the end, wed recommend the Powder Bowl for true winter conditions and those who get out a lot, but the Covert Insulated (and women's Society) is perfectly serviceable for most recreational snowboarders. All nitpicks aside, the Sabre AR is one of the best snow pants money can buy (its our favorite ski pant this year) and is a great choice for those who split their time between the backcountry and the resort.See the Men's Arc'teryx Sabre AR See the Women's Arc'teryx Sentinel AR. The Snowshot offers fairly middling breathability with a standard mesh liner, so chances are high that youll quickly work up a sweat on a sidecountry trudge, riding in the trees, or when hitting the park. With a budget membrane, the Covert's waterproofing and breathability don't stand a chance against the Powder Bowl's more premium Gore-Tex and won't hold up in sustained wet weather. We expect Jones will be working out a few kinks in their first few years of production, but were happy to see the iconic brand entering the apparel scene and anticipate big things to come.See the Jones Shralpinist 3L Gore-Tex Pro. The design features Trews proprietary 3-layer PNW construction that's reminiscent of premium Gore-Tex in both look and feel, full seam taping with reinforcements, smooth-operating water-resistant zippers, and bomber coverage that keeps even the wettest of snow at bay. Weve included the Shralpinist on our list for its ultra-premium build, but the simple truth is that this pant is overkill for most. Weve listed a number of sub-$200 options above, but those looking for truly bargain-basement design can save even more with the 686 Standard here. Patagonias pants are built for both skiers and snowboarders, so its important to note that you wont find any snowboard-specific trimmings like cargo pockets or a baggy fit. They also run a little warmer thanks to the extra layering that covers part of your upper body, which can be both a pro and a con. Moving up, we see higher-end materials that are lighter but still durable, such as the AK Cyclics 70-denier build. In short, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more thoughtfully designed bib: OR patterned thicker fabrics in exposed and high-wear areas (like the upper front legs and butt), stretchy and breathable softshell at the torso, and even 45-gram insulation in the seat for chilly chairlift rides and chillin in the park.

Among the growing range of options, the well-built TREWth Bib (and womens Chariot) is our top pick of the season. And while weve been pleased with the Skywards durability overall, keep in mind that it wont hold up as well to the rigors of resort use. Insulated Built specifically for women, the Roxy Backyard Pant forgoes the more typical baggy snowboard style for a classy, tailored fit with an adjustable waistband and unobtrusive front and back hand pockets. Manufacturers will even take it a step further for backcountry use: the new Jones Shralpinist features Gore-Texs Most Breathable Pro membrane in high-heat areas, while the Outdoor Research Skyward II uses a stretchy 3-layer fabric almost akin to a softshell. Category: ShellInsulation: None (light flannel backer)Waterproofing: 3L Gore-TexWhat we like: Bomber 3-layer build that excels both at the resort and in the backcountry.What we dont: Expensive; clean, technical look wont be for everyone. At $439, theres no hiding the fact that the Trew Gear is expensive, but the price is reasonable for what you get. These pants will provide sufficient protection in moderate and dry conditions, but the lower-end builds arent as long-lasting or reliable on particularly gnarly days.Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish This year, theyve expanded their lineup to include outerwear for both resort and backcountry snowboarders, and the Shralpinist here is their no-holds-barred backcountry pant. If youre just getting started, wed instead recommend buying a simple shell pant and a few separate layering options, including a thin baselayer and a fleece or merino midlayer (especially if you anticipate riding in cold conditions). Baselayers are offered in a range of thicknesses, including lightweight designs for warm days or backcountry use, as well as mid- and heavyweight options for cold days at the resort. For high-output mountain exploration in bad weather, you simply wont find a more protective or purpose-built design. Snowboard pants are the traditional choice and what most folks are familiar and comfortable with. Weve found that outer-thigh vents do a better job dumping heat, while those on the inner thigh add unwanted bulk and can occasionally impact comfort (on the bright side, they are less conspicuous). Patagonia doesnt offer any true entry-level products, but their mens Snowshot (and womens Snowbelle) pants cover all the basics for resort riders for just $200. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L 32 RepelWhat we like: An affordable and protective bib with great snowboard-specific looks.What we dont: Less waterproof and breathable than 2L Gore-Tex designs. Bibs are the remedy for these maladies as they offer better protection from the snow, wind, and wet.

For most resort uses, weight is only a small consideration. Category: InsulatedInsulation: 60g ThermogreenWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: Great fit and finish offers insulation without the bulk.What we dont: Velcro waist adjustment is stiff and a bit abrasive. Picture Organic is another brand building up a small but loyal following. Insulated snow pants typically use a thin but warm dose of synthetic fill (unlike down, synthetic continues to keep you warm when wet) that varies in terms of warmth and bulk. Finally, Flylow Gear's Chemical has vents on both sides of the leg, which provides excellent cross ventilation. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: A sub-$300 Gore-Tex pant.What we dont: A couple of fit and finish issues. In this case, the Cyclic uses proven Gore-Tex (widely regarded as the best in the business) and full seam taping (some pants are only taped at critical seams) for protection. The Reserve Bib is one of their most popular offerings, so much so that its made in both Gore-Tex and non-Gore-Tex varieties (the latter uses proprietary waterproofing). A lot of snowboard pants can be fairly bland, so kudos to Picture for experimenting and putting some serious effort into their designs. It's worth noting that the Chemical hits a similar price point as our top-ranked Burton Cyclic above. There are also a few main design differences worth noting: the Mt. Led by brands like Patagonia and Picture Organic, were seeing greater use of recycled materials, particularly in the shell and lining fabrics. As long as youre not overdoing it with insulation and sticking to groomers or shorter runs in the trees, most pants are breathable enough to keep you comfortable. This finish is added to the exterior fabric to keep the nylon or polyester material from absorbing moisture, which helps keep the waterproof membrane functioning properlyif too much water gets through the outer fabric, the membrane can get overwhelmed, which causes issues with breathability and even leakage. That said, despite the Freakin Snow Chinos fully waterproof construction, its important to note that the pant (like most budget designs) is taped only at the critical seams. For budget-seekers and those just getting started, The North Face Freedom is a great deal and one of the most popular pants on the slopes. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. And when the mercury does rise, the Backyard is bound to heat up quickly given its insulated and barely breathable nature, meaning youll likely want a different pant for warm spring days. Ventilation On the women's side, Volcoms Knox Insulated sports a similar build with 2-layer Gore-Tex but adds 60-gram Low Loft insulation and retails for $250.See the Men's Volcom L Gore-Tex See the Women's Volcom Knox Gore-Tex. Volcom excels in the budget category (as seen with the Freakin Snow Chino above), but the L Gore-Tex pant here is a very competitive mid-range offering. Not everyone wants or needs insulated snowboard pants, but if you frequent the resort in particularly cold climates like the Northeast or Mountain West, theyre a nice option to have. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: Highly durable, good looks, and quality protection.What we dont: No drop seat and doesn't come in short and tall sizes.

But we keep coming back to value: the Freedom pants are a proven choice with a surprisingly long lifespan and undercut most of the competition by a sizable margin. In a 3-layer build, this liner is streamlined and affixed to the inside of the waterproof/breathable membranehence the third layer. If you like to earn your turns or charge hard in and out of the ropes, a 3-layer design like the Trew Gear above will do a much better job regulating temperature, and the Mt. Combining a premium 2-layer Gore-Tex construction with a breathable liner and inner thigh vents, the L will keep you dry on wet lift rides but isn't prone to overheating on spring-like days.

On the other hand, the Covert is almost $200 cheaper and has a snowboard-inspired fit and aesthetic, which many resort riders will appreciate. Baker Storm Bibs is cost. But if your main concern is cost, the 686 is the cheapest option here and will realistically still get the job done (just not as comfortably).See the Men's 686 Standard See the Women's 686 Standard. And like many bibs here, it isnt offered in short or tall sizes (the non-GTX version is). The bib was recently updated with improved waterproofing and breathability (Thirtytwo gives it a 15K/15K rating), and the full seam taping and triple stitching in high-wear areas only add to its all-around appeal. That said, if you dont have specific needs for an ultra-breathable pant and don't get out in very wet conditions, a design like the Thirtytwois fully serviceable. When the coldest winter months arrive, its time for a serious jacket. Therefore, it comes as little surprise that OR's namesake bibs are purpose-built for aggressive riding and weather with a 2-layer Gore-Tex construction and burly materials throughout. The end result is that 2-layer designs are inherently bulkier and dont dump heat quite as well, while 3-layer pants typically are more unencumbered, lighter-weight, and more breathable. Resort riders generally dont need the class-leading breathability and minimal weight of Gore-Tex Pro, and the expedition-level performance will be lost on those who frequent the lodge every few hours. All that said, it's important to recognize what you give up with such a budget design. Serious riders will also appreciate the articulated fit, which makes for a stylish yet functional freeride design that won't weigh you down. To aid in breathability, the vast majority of snowboard pants use a zippered ventilation system (essentially pit zips for your legs). What's more, the Covert isn't quite as warm with 40-gram insulation compared to the Patagonia's 60. These boarders might want to check out Jones Mountain Surf Bib ($380) instead, which uses thoughtfully patterned materials without the high price point of Gore-Tex. Tack on features like cargo pockets, extra stitching at the inner rise, and hem reinforcements, and it's clear that the L is a thoughtfully built snowboard pant through and through. Additionally, a mesh liner and zippered inner thigh vents make breathability about as good as it gets for a 2-layer build. With a commitment to sustainability at the helm, their products are a highlight reel of organic and recycled materials, PFC-free water repellent treatments, and ethical production practices. The Thirtytwos stock is limited at the time of publishing, but we expect to see more inventory as the season progresses.See the Thirtytwo Basement Bib. If youre in the market for a robust resort-specific bib, the Reserve (and womens Avalon) should be toward the top of your list. Additionally, its easy to overheat with the cheap waterproofing technology, and while we like the zippered vents, their placement along the inner thigh (and the accompanying waterproof flaps) creates extra bulk. The primary downside is felt when cold air or moisture finds its way up your back on the chairlift or after taking a fall. In recent years, theres been a noticeable shift in sustainable practices within the snowboarding apparel market. That said, we think the Volcom hits a nice sweet spot for price-conscious riders looking for a step up from an entry-level design. Pockets There are a lot of reasons to opt for a bib over a pant: not only are they stylish, but they provide great protection against snow and enough storage for all the essentials. By applying tape to the interior lining and seams, companies can provide an effective and mostly watertight seal. Based in British Columbias Coast Mountains, Arcteryx is no stranger to bad weather. The vast majority of insulated pants use synthetic fill due to its affordability and ability to keep you warm even when wet (unlike goose or duck down, which clumps up). For reference, the $449 OR is $10 pricier than the TREWth Bib above, which features a more breathable and streamlined 3-layer construction. 686s Smarty has long been a popular option amongst 3-in-1 enthusiasts, with a durable and protective shell (this model is made with proprietary infiDRY, although 686 also offers a GTX version) and a cozy fleece midlayer that zips in and out. Further, a growing number of manufacturers, including Burton and Flylow Gear, are using DWR coatings that are PFC-free (short for perfluorocarbons, which is a non-biodegradable chemical). You also get a thin layer of 25-gram insulation (the comparable women's Exa uses 40g fill), making it a nice choice for most wintery days on the slopes. But laying a skin track or a boot pack is no small task, and heat can build up in a hurry. The layers you wear under your snowboard pants dont get as much attention as those warming your core, but they nevertheless remain an important consideration. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 3L AscentShellWhat we like: A stretchy and breathable backcountry-specific pant.What we dont: Not durable or protective enough for resort use. The GTX Reserve here packs in a ton of quality for the price: you get a 2-layer construction along with full seam taping and burly 150-denier face fabric (the Cyclic above is 70D) for just $325comparable offerings like the Outdoor Research Mt. To help prevent this, some manufacturers place a button or loop on the jackets powder skirt to connect it to a corresponding attachment on the pants, forming a solid seal from the wet and cold. Combine that with a truly impressive dedication to sweating the small details, and the brand consistently delivers premium, top-performing outerwear. Lets face it: wipeouts happen, regardless of your skill level. Where do the two differ? Along with a jacket attachment, taffeta liner, and thoughtful hem details, the $140 Roxy stands out as an excellent value for penny pinchers, new riders, and those who only get out a few times a year. The Basement is the embodiment of the quintessential snowboard bib: you get a baggy fit, clean but poppy styling with two-tone colorways, and good overall performance for the price. That said, snowboarding pants do differ slightly in terms of fit and features: In general, snowboarders prefer a looser cut with more pockets and style components. Theyre completely capable for all forms of riding and are much easier to slip on and off. In researching snowboard pants, youll consistently find two numbers being marketed heavily: a waterproof rating (usually listed in millimeters) and a breathability rating (provided in grams). With great coverage and a mix of weather-ready No matter your ability level, picking up a helmet for skiing or snowboardingis ano-brainer. Further, some pants feature a system that pulls the cuff up so it doesnt drag when walking through the parking lot or the lodge. When choosing a pant, its important to also think through the thickness of your layers underneath to avoid any binding and comfort-related problems. Finally, the quality of the taping can varyGore-Tex taping has a long lifespan, while cheaper varieties can peel back or even partially disintegrate over time. From the very beginning, style has been a defining component of snowboarding culture and has largely influenced the sport's gear and apparel as a result. From this collection, the mens Cyclic is our favorite all-around pant, combining top-notch waterproofing and a well-rounded feature set (including a great assortment of pockets) with Burtons industry-defining style. Finding your sweet spot will depend on the conditions you get out in, your riding style (aggressive or casual), and if youre prone to running hot or cold. Importantly, manufacturers will then add a hanging mesh or taffeta liner in order to protect the membrane from your skin. A design like Picture Organic's Object even places vents on the front of the thigh for maximum effect. Pants in the mid and high end of the market often boast full seam taping, while budget-oriented models like the Volcom Freakin Snow Chino and Roxy Backyard only protect the critical seams (areas most prone to moisture, such as the rear). Our picks for the best winter jackets and parkas below are among the warmest on the marketthey are packed with down fill (or synthetic on occasion) and built to stand up to Arcteryx is a leader in the technical backcountry ski market, and their Sentinel LT Bib Pant (and mens Sabre LT) slots in as a lightweight and comfortable touring option for long days on the skin track. The breathability test is more convoluted and less standardized, but it's designed to measure how much water vapor travels from the inside to the outside of the fabric over a 24-hour stretch. But the 686 has its place for no-fuss boarders that want the convenience of a 3-in-1 purchase and don't mind the tradeoffs.See the Men's 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo See the Women's 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo. Compared to the Cyclic above, the TREWths 3-layer construction eliminates the need for a hanging liner, minimizing bulk and resulting in much better breathability. The easiest answer is cost: most resort-goers dont want to spend $549 on a pair of pants, nor do they need to (2-layer construction is perfectly serviceable for in-bounds riding). If youre deciding between the Covert and Patagonia Insulated Powder Bowl above, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you like the look of baggy pants but want to minimize holes at the hem, its a good idea to look for one or both of these features. If you charge hard and want a burly yet breathable pant that won't hold you back, the Flylow is a great choice.See the Men's Flylow Gear Chemical See the Women's Flylow Gear Nina. Added up, the Snowshot is a simple yet reliable pant for most days at the resort. Flylow Gear flies a little under the radar compared to bigger names like Burton and The North Face, but the Chemical (and womens Nina) pants are a solid offering from the Colorado-based brand.



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