5 Best Skiing Snow Pants of 2025

A good day on the slopes starts with the right gear, and nothing ruins a ride faster than cold, wet legs. That’s where a solid pair of snow pants comes in. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder, hitting the backcountry, or just enjoying a day at the resort, the right ski pants keep you warm, dry, and moving freely. In 2025, brands are pushing the limits with better waterproofing, improved breathability, and designs that balance durability with comfort.

We’ve rounded up the five best skiing snow pants of the year—tested for performance, fit, and features—so you can focus on the thrill of the ride without worrying about the principles.

Here’s a comparison table for the top five skiing snow pants of 2025:

Name	Waterproofing	Insulation	Fit	Key Features	Best For	Image
Arc’teryx Sabre Pant	Gore-Tex 3L	Light Fleece Lining	Athletic	Ventilation zips, reinforced cuffs	Resort & backcountry
Patagonia Powder Bowl	H2No Performance	Thermogreen 60g	Regular	Eco-friendly, articulated knees	All-mountain skiing
The North Face Freedom	DryVent 2L	Heatseeker 60g	Relaxed	Budget-friendly, cargo pockets	Beginner & casual use
Outdoor Research Hemispheres	Gore-Tex 3L Stretch	No Insulation	Athletic	Stretchy, breathable, lightweight	Backcountry skiing
Burton AK Gore-Tex Cyclic	Gore-Tex 2L	Shell (no insulation)	Regular	Snow gaiters, breathable lining	Freestyle & powder

1. Arc’teryx Sabre Pant Backcountry

The Arc’teryx Sabre Pant is a powerhouse for serious skiers who demand top-tier performance in all conditions. Built with a 3-layer Gore-Tex shell, these pants provide exceptional waterproofing while maintaining breathability for those intense downhill runs.

The light fleece backing adds just enough warmth without bulk, making them a solid choice for layering. With articulated patterning for unrestricted movement, side vents for cooling, and reinforced cuffs for durability, the Sabre Pant is a premium option that thrives in both resort and backcountry settings.

Tech Specs:

✅ Pros

• Excellent waterproofing and persistence
• Lightweight yet warm with fleece lining
• Excellent mobility with articulated fit
• Side vents for temperature regulation

❌ Cons

• Premium price tag
• Not the warmest for extreme cold

2. Patagonia Powder Bowl All-Mountain

For those who value sustainability without sacrificing performance, the Patagonia Powder Bowl Pants deliver. This model is crafted with H2No Performance fabric and insulated with eco-friendly ThermoGreen material. They provide excellent protection against wind and moisture.

The regular fit allows for layering, and articulated knees enhance mobility. These pants are an all-around performer—great for deep powder days and cruising groomed runs. These pants are also compatible with Patagonian snow line jackets. It has ventilation openings with mesh lining on the thighs.

Tech Specs:

✅ Pros

• Eco-friendly materials
• Great warmth without bulk
• Durable reinforcements in high-wear areas
• Reliable waterproofing

❌ Cons

• Can feel a bit stiff compared to stretch fabrics
• Slightly heavier than other options

3. The North Face Freedom – Budget

If you’re looking for solid appearance at a budget-friendly price, The North Face Freedom Pants are top options. I’ve had these pants for 3 years now and they still look fresh. It features DryVent 2L waterproofing and 60g Heatseeker insulation. They provide dependable warmth and protection.

With a relaxed fit, cargo pockets for extra storage, and reinforced kick patches for robustness, these pants are ideal for beginners or casual skiers who want reliability without breaking the bank.

Tech Specs:

✅ Pros

• Affordable without sacrificing performance
• Warm and comfortable for resort skiing
• Plenty of pocket space
• Relaxed fit for easy layering

❌ Cons

• Not as breathable as higher-end options
• Can feel bulky for aggressive skiers

4. Outdoor Research Hemispheres

Since 1981, Outdoor Research has created trusted apparel accessories and equipment for you to thrive outside. The Outdoor Research Hemispheres Pants redefine comfort and mobility in the backcountry. These bibs featuring Gore-Tex 3L with stretch panels, which offer incredible flexibility without compromising waterproofing.

The lightweight and uninsulated design makes them perfect for touring. Whether you’re skinning up a ridge or skiing down fresh powder, these pants move with you and keep moisture at bay. It will provide elite weather protection and resort riding in all conditions.

Tech Specs:

✅ Pros

• Exceptional mobility with stretch fabric
• Lightweight and breathable for touring
• Premium waterproofing
• Reinforced in high-wear areas

❌ Cons

• Expensive
• No insulation—requires layering in colder conditions

5. Burton AK Gore-Tex Cyclic for Skiing

Freestyle skiers and powder enthusiasts will love the Burton AK Gore-Tex Cyclic Pants. With a 2-layer Gore-Tex shell, they keep you dry without overheating. These pants have Zippered hand-warmer pockets, back pockets, and cargo pocket with tool sleeve for storage.

The relaxed fit allows for unrestricted movement, and mesh-lined vents help regulate temperature during high-energy sessions. With reinforced cuffs and built-in gaiters, these pants handle everything from deep powder to park sessions with ease.

Tech Specs:

✅ Pros

• Great waterproofing and breathability
• Loose fit for outstanding mobility
• solid construction for freestyle skiing
• Excellent ventilation

❌ Cons

• No insulation—requires layering
• Can feel baggy for those who prefer a slimmer fit

Skiing Snow Pants Buying Guide

Here’s what to consider before making a purchase.

Waterproofing & Breathability

Skiing often means dealing with snow, slush, and wet conditions. Look for pants with high-quality waterproofing to stay dry.

• Gore-Tex (2L or 3L)—The gold standard for waterproofing, offering excellent protection and breathability.
• H2No & DryVent—These are proprietary waterproof technologies from Patagonia and The North Face, providing reliable performance at a lower price.
• Waterproof Ratings—Measured in millimeters (mm), a 10,000mm rating is good for light snow, while 20,000mm+ is ideal for heavy snowfall.

Insulation vs. Shell

Ski pants come in insulated and shell versions:

• Insulated Pants—Best for cold conditions, featuring synthetic insulation like Thermogreen or Heatseeker (measured in grams). More grams = more warmth.
• Shell Pants–No insulation but offer better breathability. Ideal for layering so you can adjust warmth depending on conditions.

Fit & Mobility

Ski pants should allow movement without being too baggy or restrictive.

• Athletic Fit – A slimmer cut that moves with the body (great for active skiers).
• Regular Fit – Balanced between mobility and comfort.
• Relaxed Fit – Looser for added comfort and easier layering.

Ventilation & Temperature Control

Look for inner thigh or side vents to release heat on warm days or during intense activity. Mesh linings prevent snow from getting inside.

Durability & Reinforcements

Reinforced cuffs, knees, and seat areas add persistence, especially if you ski in rugged conditions or frequently rest on the snow. Look for Cordura panels or kick patches to prevent wear and tear from ski boots and edges.

Additional Features

• Gaiters—Prevent snow from getting inside your boots.
• Pockets—Handwarmer pockets, cargo pockets, and beacon-compatible pockets for backcountry skiers.
• Adjustable Waistbands & Belt Loops—Helps customize fit, especially when layering.
• Jacket-to-Pant Integration—Some brands offer attachment systems to keep snow out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Do I need insulated pants if I’m skiing in mild weather?

If you’re skiing in mild weather, you might prefer shell pants or lightly insulated pants. These allow for layering, so you can adjust your warmth by adding or removing base layers. Insulated pants are best for colder conditions.

What’s the difference between Gore-Tex and other waterproof fabrics?

Gore-Tex is known for its high performance in waterproofing and breathability. While other fabrics like DryVent and H2No are also effective, Gore-Tex offers superior durability and moisture-wicking properties. If you’re skiing in extreme conditions, Gore-Tex is often the top choice.

Can I use ski pants for snowboarding?

Yes! Ski pants are versatile enough for snowboarding as well. However, snowboarders might prefer pants with a slightly looser fit to allow for more movement. The key is ensuring the pants have enough waterproofing, breathability, and durability for your chosen activity.

What should I wear under my ski pants for warmth?

For additional warmth, wear moisture-wicking base layers under your ski pants. Fleece, merino wool, or synthetic materials are excellent choices to keep sweat off your skin and keep you warm. Avoid cotton as it traps moisture and can make you cold.

Are ski pants machine washable?

Most ski pants are machine washable, but always check the care instructions. Make sure to close all zippers, use cold water, and avoid fabric softeners, which can impair waterproofing. It’s also important to reapply water-repellent treatments as needed after washing.

Do ski pants come with built-in gaiters?

Not all ski pants have built-in gaiters, but many premium models do. Gaiters are designed to prevent snow from entering your boots and help keep your legs warm and dry. If your pants don’t have gaiters, consider purchasing them separately.

Are there ski pants for women and men, or are they unisex?

Many brands offer both men’s and women’s ski pants, tailored to fit the specific body types. Women’s pants have a more contoured fit, while men’s pants are more straight-cut. However, unisex options are available and often have adjustable features to fit a wider range of body types.