How to choose snowboard pants
Multiple factors come into play when selecting a fresh pair of snowboard pants. These elements ensure you’ll shred from first lifts to last laps without shivering, overheating, or becoming soaked with snow. Want a hand? Don’t worry – Dope Mag’s quick-fire guide is here for you to learn how to choose snowboard pants successfully.
Finding the perfect pair of snowboard pants is a bit of an art form. You see, there’s more to it than just picking your favorite color. There are a few other things to remember so your new setup keeps you warm, dry, comfortable – and shredding in style. So, let’s get into it, shall we?
Choosing the best snowboard pants
Different types of snowboard pants
Materials and fabrics
Waterproofing
Breathability
Features
Fit and style
Different types of snowboard pants
Before clicking ‘Buy’ on your new snow pants, it’s handy to grasp the different types – from shell to insulated. So, let’s take a closer look – and learn how each differs.
Insulated
Insulated snowboard pants have built-in warmth to trap and retain body heat – and the level and type of insulation can vary. These types of pants are an awesome choice if you ride in chillier temperatures, spend a hefty amount of time stationary on chairs, or run cold. And, when temps are extreme, wearing base layer leggings underneath provides a nice lil’ heat boost.
Remember that insulation is measured in grams per square meter (e.g. ‘40 gsm’), and the higher the amount, the warmer the pants. Some designs feature even insulation throughout, while others use strategically placed warmth, such as in the thighs and backside.
Shell
Shell snowboard pants have zero insulation. That means they’re more suited to warmer temps and spring slush times. However, they also put the power of layering in your hands.
Shell pants are more breathable and versatile than their insulated counterparts. That’s because you can wear base layer leggings underneath to add extra warmth when needed. Alternatively, opt for a lighter base layer to stay comfortable during higher-intensity rides, like bootpacking or hiking in warmer temperatures.
Bibs
A snowboard bib will extend up over your chest with shoulder straps just like a denim bib overall. They might be insulated or shell. However, choosing them is down to preference.
For example, some riders wear bibs when slashing deep pow, as they offer greater warmth and stop snow getting into your waistband. Other riders (such as backcountry addicts) prefer to leave their bibs at home. That's because getting bibs off and on isn’t exactly easy when nature calls (although some have strategic zippers and openings).
Materials and fabrics
So, what are snow pants made from? Well, they typically use a durable synthetic outer fabric (such as polyester) designed to withstand big slams and multiple seasons. This ‘face fabric’ is usually windproof with a waterproof, breathable membrane laminated to the back side – but we’ll dive into that more in our next section.
The outer layer of snow pants is normally treated with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This extra coating ‘repels’ moisture so snow and rain bead and roll off the surface instead of soaking through. That way, you stay dry and able to ride for longer. A DWR treatment also helps boost your pants’ durability – so you can shred in them winter after winter.
Varying amounts of 4-way stretch fabric are almost always included in snowboard pant construction, too. This ensures your range of motion isn’t affected as you head up for multiple grabs, deep carves, and hikes for fresh tracks.
Waterproofing
Whether slashing pow, sitting down to strap in, stacking it, or taking a rest, one thing’s inevitable on the mountain: you’ll get snow on your pants. And that’s especially true if you’re in-resort when it’s nuking. So, it’s super important to ensure your gear is waterproof.
For instance, 15,000mm is ideal for most conditions (including rain in the PNW). This rating shows how much moisture your pants can handle before it starts to soak through the material. So, the higher the rating, the more waterproof your setup is.
The seams of any item of clothing are always the weakest when it comes to waterproofing. And brands fix this through seam taping. There are two kinds: critically taped seams mean only the most ‘critical’ seams are waterproof – such as those in exposed areas, like your behind. Then, there are fully taped seams, which are an optimal bet if you’re planning to ride in various conditions. They create a completely watertight seal to help keep you dry all day long – even when you’re waist-deep in pow.
Breathability
Snowboarding is exercise. So, just like with your workout wear, breathability is handy to keep in mind. Without it, you’ll feel sweaty and clammy because there’s no way for that warm air and sweat buildup to escape. And, if your pants can’t wick away moisture, you’ll become super cold once your sweat freezes. That doesn’t sound great, does it? So, check out the breathability rating, written and measured in grams.
This gram measurement indicates how much water vapour can escape within a 24-hour period and how effectively moisture (aka sweat) can be wicked away. And the higher the measurement, the more breathable the pants. Of course, it’s essential to think about where and when you ride. For example, if you’re addicted to sunny and slushy spring laps (or you sweat a lot), you’ll value higher breathability to keep things feeling fresh. However, your pants need to be breathable even when conquering freezing mid-Jan conditions. That’s because you’re still moving and working hard.
As an example, a breathability rating of 15,000 g is a dependable option. This sets you up for a variety of conditions and temperatures. Plus, waterproof and breathability ratings go hand-in-hand. For example, you might see them written as ‘15,000 mm/15,000 g’. If your snowboard pants have a reliable waterproof rating, chances are, the breathability will be high, too.
Features
Now we’ve got the techy stuff out of the way, let’s take a look at the little extras that make a big difference to your ride.
Vents
We’ve already mentioned breathability. But sometimes, you want an extra boost of airflow, right? That’s where vents come in. These are typically on the thighs, ready for you to unzip and let off heat when needed. These vents might be lined with mesh or fully open. Okay, this feature isn’t an absolute necessity. However, it’s nice to have – especially if you ride warm.
Pockets
We say outerwear can never have enough pockets – and that includes your snowboard pants! From big media pockets to medium snack-sized ones – and small zip storage for lip chap – pockets are an awesome feature to keep your belongings and necessities safe.
Waistband
Most styles include adjustable waistbands. Pants might have Velcro tabs, while bibs might feature snapper-adjustable waists. These help form a secure seal, preventing snow and cold air from seeping in and ruining your ride. You might spot belt loops, Velcro belt loops for suspenders, or built-in belts, too. These customizable features enhance comfort and create a perfect fit.
Fly closure
No one wants to go viral because you accidentally dropped trou mid-lap, right? That’s why snowboard pants have secure fastenings to stay put, whether on groomers or upside down in the park. Reinforced fly closures are the most common design choice – with dual snap buttons and Velcro for extra security and comfort.
Snow gaiters
Snow gaiters (sometimes called inner cuffs) are extra pieces of fabric underneath your hem. Usually elasticated, they fit tightly over your snowboard boots and attach with a lace hook to help keep snow out. And when you’re not riding? You can roll them up to stop your hems dragging on slushy pavements and après terraces.
Hems
The majority of snowboard pant hems are adjustable in some way to expand and fit over your snowboard boots. This could be through zippered gussets or snap buttons. Changeable hems provide tailored snow protection and a customizable look in one. Neat.
Fit and style
Okay, fit and style are a totally personal choice – i.e., they’ll rarely affect your pants’ performance. However, we argue that when you look good, you ride better. So, it’s important to choose a design that makes you feel stylish and confident. Oh, and comfortable, too.
Traditionally, snowboard pants are loose and baggy. However, there are a variety of fits today – from slim-cut to tailored and more. Whichever you choose, remember to ensure you feel comfortable, with enough room to wear base layers under your outerwear if needed.
Wrapping up
Snowboard pants are a vital part of your snowboarding setup. Sure, they add a touch of style. But they also keep you warm, protect you from the elements, hold your essentials, and last a long time. Oh, and give you the freedom to jib all over the mountain and charge harder, of course.
Oh, and now that you know more, aim straight for our latest collection. It’s packed with features and technical pointers while making sure you look good from head to toe (and summit to base). Check it out below.
