Hey there ski lovers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best ski pants for men to slip into this year. As we get ready to ski, jackets and gloves tend to draw more interest and attention, often at the expense of some good pants.
However, reliable ski pants can greatly assist you in keeping warm, dry, and comfortable on the mountain. So for those of you looking to get into a good pair of men’s ski pants, I have had a look around and come up with three decent options below. Let’s check them out.
My three recommended ski pants for men
I will review these in more detail below, but if you want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are ski pants for men?
Ski pants are specialized trousers that warm the legs all the while allowing a skier to move freely and comfortably on the slopes. They are also designed to be more form-fitting so that skiers can have a successful run using tighter, more subtle movements.
Their slimmer fit allows for less airflow, for extra warmth, with robust material around the ankle and inner leg for greater durability and cut resistance (ski edges can be sharp).
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good pair of pants to suit your skiing needs.
- Fabric materials
- Fabric layers
- Breathability
- Waterproofing
- Durability
- Pants vs. Bibs
- Additions
Fabric materials
Modern ski pants are typically made from one of three types of shell fabric as follows:
- Softshell – This material is stretchy, air-permeable and soft against the skin making it ideal for high-intensity activities. On the other however hand they absorb moisture much more readily than hardshells. As a result, softshell pants are a poor choice for wet weather, and even sitting on snow for an extended time can be problematic. For this reason, I don’t recommend this fabric type on rainy days.
- Hardshell – A traditional hardshell pant is an excellent choice for most resort days and offer a dependable barrier against wet snow and strong winds. Hardshells however aren’t particularly breathable due to their sturdy constructions and you’ll have to put up with their more rigid feel.
- Softshell with stretch – These provide the best of both worlds and are often considered essential for hard-charging resort skiers, side-country enthusiasts and most backcountry skiers where a little extra stretch is a welcome feature. Stretchy fabrics also allow more air to flow than hardshells, making them feel less impervious to strong gusts however most are built with a waterproof shell for greater protection against the elements.
Fabric layers
Most high-end ski pants have a three-layer construction, which includes three separate pieces of fabric: an outer shell, the actual waterproof and breathable membrane, and an inner lining. This design reduces bulk compared to a 2-layer design while improving breathability and next-to-skin comfort.
Many mid-range and low-cost ski pants have a two-layer construction. These are less breathable than 3-layer designs, but they frequently use thick, durable fabrics. In most cases, 2-layer pants are ideal for resort use, where ventilation and mobility aren’t as important.
Breathability
As we probably know, temperature regulation and layering requirements can be different for different people. Ski pants, in general, will provide varying degrees of ventilation and breathability depending on their intended use.
Most skiers will be more comfortable in heavier, less-breathable pants while running laps on groomers at the resort whereas in most cases, those covering larger areas will want something allowing in a little more air.
Waterproofing
When skiing, you will most likely sit on wet surfaces or move through falling rain and snow while wearing ski pants. As a result, dependable water resistance is a must for your preferred ski pants.
GORE-TEX is widely regarded as top-tier waterproof protection in the outerwear industry and look for taped seams, waterproof zippers and a waterproof coating as well.
Durability
Ski pants will undoubtedly face a tough life as they slide across ice, scrape against trees and rocks or rub against boot buckles etc. The fabric denier (D), which measures the thickness of the threads used for the shell material, is the most commonly used method of determining ski pant durability. So the higher the denier rating, the better.
It’s also worth noting that many ski pants have a reinforced patch along the inside of the cuff (aka scuff guard) to provide extra protection from ski edges.
Pants vs. Bibs
Is it better to ski in pants or a bib? Ski pants fit like regular pants and have a zipper and button at the waist for closure. Snow bibs are distinct in that they extend from the waist to the chest and are held in place by shoulder straps, similar to overalls.
The weather has a significant impact on your skiing experience. Some days are sunny and clear on the slopes, while others are windy, snowy, or wet. Ski pants must keep you warm and dry.
Because they provide an extra layer of insulation at your core, bibs provide more warmth. whereas ski pants only provide warmth to your waist, leaving your ski jacket to do the rest.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Pockets: These are placed to keep your small items safe as you ski.
- Boot gaiters: These are located beneath the cuff of the pants. Boot gaiters are intended to keep snow out of your boots and lower extremities.
- Adjustable and removable suspenders: These are an excellent addition to your ski pants to secure and keep your pants in place.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. BenBoy Men’s Snow Ski Pants
My first option offers impressive fit and breathability with a less expensive price tag. The design and construction ensure you get warm and protected as you hit the slopes or if taking a hike as well. See their specifications below:
- Brand: BenBoy
- Fabric material: Softshell
- Construction material: 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Weight: 1.71 pounds
- Size: Small to xx-large
Other inclusions:
- Multi-pocket system
- Adjustable waistband
- Scratch-resistant
Why have I chosen them?
These pants are waterproof, windproof and fleece-lined, making them ideal for winter outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. They feature a lightweight polyester shell for easy movement and a soft fleece inner that has been static-treated to keep you warm and dry.
They also have a slim fit, making them warm without being bulky or restrictive and mobility is not an issue thanks to clever construction techniques such as a gusseted knee and additional darts in the knee area as well.
2. clothin Men’s Insulated Ski Pant
My second ski pants offer great value and excellent functionality consisting of valuable features that will protect and allow you freedom of movement whenever you on the slopes. You will also love its lightweight feel. See its specifications below:
- Brand: clothin
- Fabric material: Softshell
- Construction material: 100% Polyester
- Weight: 1.45 pounds
- Size: Small to xx-large
Other inclusions :
- Adjustable waist
- Multi-pocket system
- Boot gaiters
- Articulated knees
Why have I chosen them?
These ski pants have articulated knee sections that help you move more freely with material that is both fully waterproof and reasonably stretchy. Combined with a good ski jacket, these pants form a full-body weatherproof system ideal for ski mountaineering.
They also have elastic snow gaiters, zippered cuffs and thoughtfully placed pockets making them an excellent buy at a reasonable price.
3. Spyder Mens Boundary Insulated Ski Pants
My last ski pants are designed for breathability and warmth with excellent insulation and an extra durable outer layer. See their specifications below:
- Brand: Spyder
- Fabric material: Softshell
- Construction material: 100% Polyester
- Weight: 1.9 pounds
- Size: x-small to xx-large
Other inclusions:
- 3M Thinsulate Insulation
- Removable adjustable suspenders
- Critically seam taped
- Thigh ventilation system
Why have I chosen this?
In general, these pants are exceptionally weather resistant with elastic powder cuffs that keep snow out of your ski boots and suspenders that prevent the waist from drooping and letting in moisture. The outer shell is made of a dependable fabric for extra protection as well.
They have a very comfortable inner lining, are stretchy, comfortable and wide enough to distribute weight evenly. The suspenders are removable too.
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Primary Rating:
4.5
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Primary Rating:
4.5
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Primary Rating:
4.5
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$56.99
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$385.00
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Conclusion
There you have it, my three best ski pants for men. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
