For most lift-assisted snowboarding, breathability is not a top consideration. 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. To save money, many manufacturers utilize in-house designs, and proven options here include Patagonias H2No and Outdoor Researchs AscentShell. The most common locations for the zippered panels are along the inside or outside of your thighs. However, the Mt. Combining two blends of Gore-Texs most premium Pro membrane, the Shralpinist boasts extra durability on the seat and knees and maximum breathability at the waist, groin, and back of the legs. The first thing we look for is the quality of the waterproof construction, and in terms of protection and longevity, its hard to beat Gore-Tex. And then there are designs like the OR Mt. Every year, millions of skiers flock to the slopes to bask in the epic mountain terrain, abundant snowfall, and claimed 300+ days of sunshine (we havent counted, but that seems As your main line of defense against snow and wind, a quality snowboard jacket is a key piece of your kit. Snowboard pants are a durable bunch, relying on substantial face fabrics to fend off harsh weather and rough use around chairlifts, park features, and sharp gear. Lets face it: wipeouts happen, regardless of your skill level. Baker Storm Bibs is cost. In addition, weight correlates with the categories weve listed above: shells are the thinnest and lightest, while insulated models will feel much heavier. Among the growing range of options, the well-built TREWth Bib (and womens Chariot) is our top pick of the season. 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. Further, 2-layer designs often weigh more than 3-layer designs due to the added heft of the hanging liner. 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: InsulatedInsulation: 60g WarmFlight EcoWaterproofing: 2L DryFlightWhat we like: Female-specific fit and insulated for warmth.What we dont: Budget waterproof membrane won't hold up to sustained moisture. But for an undeniably premium and hardwearing insulated design, its hard to go wrong with the Patagonia Read in-depth reviewSee the Men's Patagonia Insulated Powder Bowl See the Women's Patagonia Powder Bowl. Further, some pants feature a system that pulls the cuff up so it doesnt drag when walking through the parking lot or the lodge. Baker Storm, which uses ultra-breathable softshell material on the bib where weather protection matters less. In the end, theres no shortage of options for snowboarders who need a breathable pantbut expect price to go up alongside performance. 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. 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. 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. 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. You wont find features like a softshell upper or insulated seat (as we see in the OR Mt. 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 In fact, youll see a lot of crossover in products when searching on a manufacturer or retailer site, and brands like Patagonia and Outdoor Research specifically state their pants are intended for both activities. Synthetics are the cheaper option and efficiently wick moisture, but merino wool is our favorite. Its worth noting that in nearly all cases, youll need to purchase a jacket from the same brand for the system to work and integrate properly.Cuff Reinforcements and Risers And the price is right too: at $230, the Basement is the most affordable bib here by a wide margin. The most obvious downside to the Mt. Combine that with a truly impressive dedication to sweating the small details, and the brand consistently delivers premium, top-performing outerwear. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: A sub-$300 Gore-Tex pant.What we dont: A couple of fit and finish issues. On the other hand, the Covert is almost $200 cheaper and has a snowboard-inspired fit and aesthetic, which many resort riders will appreciate. Its no secret that snowboarders like to wear their pants low, which can often result in torn cuffs from sharp edges over time. 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. We highly recommend erring on the side of under-insulating, as its far easier to add layers underneath than deal with roasting in a too-warm pant. Category: InsulatedInsulation: FleeceWaterproofing: 2L infiDRYWhat we like: 3-in-1 value with a durable, long-lasting shell.What we dont: In most cases, wed advise against a 3-in-1 design. If youre in the market for a robust resort-specific bib, the Reserve (and womens Avalon) should be toward the top of your list. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 3L SurfaceWhat we like: Great durability and breathability for hard chargers.What we dont: Surface membrane isnt quite as premium as Gore-Tex. And like many bibs here, it isnt offered in short or tall sizes (the non-GTX version is). In both their mid-range 2-layer and lighter and more breathable 3-layer varieties, weve found Gore-Tex to be reliably wind and waterproof even in harsh and wet conditions. Waterproof ratings can be the first clue towards discerning the level of protection a pant will provide, but its important to dig a bit deeper into the specs. Most notably, waterproofing and breathability (both rated at 5K) are a considerable step down from most of the pricier models above. As a result, we wouldnt push the pant too hard in sustained wet conditionsa good excuse to duck into the lodge. Despite the myriad options, we recommend against packing these pockets full, as filling them with larger items can feel ungainly and restrict movement. Ever since Jake Burton Carpenter started building boards in his barn in the late 1970s, snowboarding and Burton have been practically synonymous. Category: InsulatedInsulation: 60g Heatseeker EcoWaterproofing: 2L DryVentWhat we like: Proven and tough resort design at a great price.What we dont: Style is not snowboard-specific and not everyone needs the added insulation. From the silicone reinforcements and I-Fit system at the hem for rolling the cuffs back to the waterproof zippers and fully taped seams, the rest of the Object is well-built with a keen attention to detail. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L infiDRYWhat we like: Bargain-basement price and snowboard-specific feature set.What we dont: Not waterproof. Read more about us. There is some value in the static-column ratinga higher number will typically lead to better waterproofingbut plenty of other factors come into play, including the quality of the membrane, DWR coating, fabric denier, and seam taping. 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. 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). Second, the Sabre AR isn't specifically built for snowboarders, resulting in a more technical style that lacks features like cargo pockets and extra butt protection. Field of view is another Tasked with transmitting your location and helping you search for buried victims, an avalanche beacon (also called a transceiver) is an essential piece of gear for backcountry exploration. The extra layer not only provides insulation and protection from cold snow and freezing chairlift seats, but it also wicks moisture away from your skin. Further, the Reserve does not include a drop seat (notably, the womens Avalon does), which can make bathroom breaks a bit of an ordeal. 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. 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. 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. The DWR used in higher-end designs is most often higher-quality and longer-lasting, while you might find yourself needing to refresh the finish of a pant like the budget 686 Standard more often (regularly applying a product like Nikwax TX.Direct will do the trick). Seam Taping Now, the brand is a one-stop shop for everything from hardgoods to outerwear and lifestyle clothing, and their premium [ak] line sets a high bar for technical performance. Tack on a high-quality fit and finish and generous side vents that run from knee to chest, and the TREWth Bib is the full package for both resort and backcountry riders. Along with style and features, a snowboard pants waterproofing and breathability are what differentiates one design from the next. But youd be hard-pressed to find a better combination of performance, durability, and style at this price point, and there's a reason the Reserve is one of the best-selling bibs among snowboarders.See the Men's Burton GTX Reserve See the Women's Burton GTX Avalon. Minor gripes aside, the Trew Gears quality is second to none. In the case of Volcoms Zip Tech (as seen on the Freakin Snow Chino and L Gore-Tex pants), you get a full wraparound zip. 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. Importantly, manufacturers will then add a hanging mesh or taffeta liner in order to protect the membrane from your skin. 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. 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). 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. In choosing a baselayer, its worth getting a soft and close-fitting design to maximize warmth. Where do the two differ? 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. To start, its almost always a good idea to throw on at least a thin pair of long underwear. 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. Baker Storm Bibs ($449), See the Women's Patagonia Stretch Snowbelle, See the Jones Shralpinist 3L Gore-Tex Pro, Back to Our Snowboard Pant Comparison Table. As one of the first resorts to welcome snowboarders, Mt. Their go-to pant for both resort and backcountry riders is the Sabre AR (and women's Sentinel AR), which features bomber yet light 3-layer Gore-Tex waterproofing. 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. 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. 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. What's more, the Covert isn't quite as warm with 40-gram insulation compared to the Patagonia's 60. By applying tape to the interior lining and seams, companies can provide an effective and mostly watertight seal. You wont find a lot of Gore-Tex in the sub-$300 price range, making the Volcom L one of the better values out there (it offers similar protection to the Cyclic above for a whopping $105 less). For just $100 (and often found on sale), the Standard comes equipped with most of the features recreational snowboarders look for, including boot gussets and gaiters, reinforced patches at the hem, inner leg vents, and a decent assortment of pockets. We do wish that Trew had simplified the chest storage (there are three pockets, but none are large enough for a beacon or phone), and like most waterproof bibs, the TREWth can run warm at the stomach. The value is hard to beat: for well under $200, you get a thick 2-layer construction that is super durable and blocks out wind and snow effectively. We were initially skeptical of the Skywards relatively thin (50D) and stretchy fabric, but in practice, it proved to be a stalwart defense against the elements. 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). Top shells from our list include Burtons AK Cyclic, the Trew Gear TREWth Bib, and Volcoms L Gore-Tex. 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. 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. Thirtytwo has a ways to go to build up a track record in technical performance and longevity compared with bigger apparel brands like Patagonia and Outdoor Research. All that said, it's important to recognize what you give up with such a budget design. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L V-ScienceWhat we like: Uncompromised style and nice assortment of features.What we dont: Critical seam taping isnt great for very wet conditions. 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. Most of these pants keep prices low (around $100 to $160) with trimmed-down feature sets and proprietary waterproof membranes (i.e., not Gore-Tex), but theyre fully serviceable for most inbounds riders. Without going too much into detail (we break down waterproofing ratings in our buying advice below), the main takeaway is that the pant is more water-resistant than waterproof, which isnt great for new snowboarders spending a lot of time sitting (or falling) in snow. For most resort uses, weight is only a small consideration. That said, designs fall into fairly predictable categories: entry-level and mid-range pants are often quite tear-resistant and tough, using thick materials to provide a boost in weatherproofing (the Burton Reserve Bibs and Ballast pants both feature 150D shells). Theyre also the most breathable option, particularly those of the premium 3-layer variety. Designed for both men and women, the Basement is offered in seven sizes from XXS to XXL and tacks on an adjustable inner waistband and cuff cinches for effectively dialing in fit. 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. To help, each of the models above features at least two vents (one on each leg), which can be helpful for dumping heat on warmer days. This means that it isnt particularly well-suited for sustained and heavy snowfall, especially in warm and wet conditions. But if you run cold or ride in consistently frigid temperatures, a good case can be made for an insulated model. 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. 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. 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. 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). All told, its a well-built design and a great option for spring days or those who tend to run particularly warm. Many women will appreciate the more feminine cut, which also adds a layer of 60-gram synthetic insulation for deep-winter warmth. And many brands are recognized as certified B Corps and/or utilize the bluesign system for sourcing materials responsibly. Baker Storm above), but for half the price, the Basement arguably is the better valueespecially for riders who want that classic snowboard styling. 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. 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. When the coldest winter months arrive, its time for a serious jacket. 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. The height of the water at that point of failure is its rating. 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. Further, the interiors of snowboard pants (especially uninsulated designs) are often not very plush, with exposed mesh, zippers, and minimalist liners that become less comfortable as the day wears on. Pockets And while theyre offered in both short and regular inseams so you can dial in fit, the Snowshot pants dont have that snowboard-specific look that some riders are after.
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