While jackets often get all the attention, your choice of snow pants is equally crucial for comfort on the mountain. Whether you're laying down carves on groomers or searching for powder stashes in the trees, your pants need to keep you dry, comfortable, and moving freely. For snowboarders specifically, we recommend spending more time searching for the right pair of pants, as they tend to spend more time in direct contact with the snow.
Shell Pants: Maximum Versatility
Like their jacket counterparts, shell pants focus on weather protection without built-in insulation. They're the choice of many experienced riders because:
- Adaptable to any condition with base layer options
- Ideal for high-output activities
- Perfect for spring conditions
- Typically more breathable
- Easier to pack for trips
Insulated Pants: Ready-to-Ride Warmth
Built with synthetic insulation, these pants provide additional warmth without extra layers. They're great for:
- Riders who typically run cold
- Less active skiing/riding styles
- Consistently cold conditions
- Beginners who haven't dialed in their layering
- Aggressive riders beware: insulated pants and jackets can often cause you to overheat when you are most active.
Essential Features:
Inner boot gaiters to keep snow out
- Reinforced cuffs to prevent edge cuts
- Thigh vents for temperature control
- Articulated knees for mobility
- Water-resistant or waterproof zippers
- Belt loops or adjustable waist
- Cargo pockets for essentials
🔥Aggressive Riding Style? Choose Shells.
Insulated jackets and pants might seem like an easy solution, but they can quickly become a liability for aggressive riding styles. Hitting the park, charging steeps, or hiking sidecountry generates significant body heat. Shell outerwear paired with proper layers gives you the flexibility to adapt on the fly – zip open your vents, shed a mid-layer, or add one back when needed. Remember: you can always add layers, but you can't remove insulation that's built into your outerwear.
