9 Best Womens Ski Pants – Safe, Stylish & Sensible Choices!

There is no way I could be more thrilled about the upcoming ski season. And since you are here, it is very likely that this also applies to you.

When it comes to ski pants, it doesn’t matter if you are a novice or a true ripper; I’ve got you covered. After all, how could you visit the mountains or a ski resort without a great pair of ski pants for women, not to mention pants in general?

Choosing the best women’s ski pants may seem simple, but there are actually so many options available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks, that careful consideration of each one is required before making a choice. Even more so if we consider the cost since – let’s be honest – this is another crucial factor.

In any case, we will discuss the elements that you must pay attention to when choosing a pair of ski pants later. For now, we’ll focus on the best options you have, so I can make your life at least a bit easier.

So, let’s take our skis and talk a bit about pants!

Product

Details

Best Overall

Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants – Women’s

• Length:Regular
• Material:GORE-TEX, Nylon, Synthetic

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Value & Performance

Outdoor Research Skyward II

• Length:Regular
• Material:Nylon, Polyester, Spandex
  

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Affordable Option

Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants

• Length:Regular
• Material:Polyester

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For Every Condition

Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Pant

• Length:Regular
• Material:GORE-TEX, Nylon

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Budget-Friendly

The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants

• Length:Regular
• Material:Nylon, Recycled Nylon

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Full Coverage

Trew Gear Chariot Bibs – Women’s

• Length:Regular
• Material:PNW 3L Classic Fabric

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Best-Looking

Roxy Rising High Pants – Women’s

• Length:Regular
• Material:Elastane, Polyester

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Value for Money

Helly Hansen Legendary Pants

• Length:Regular
• Material:Polyester

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Best durability for the price

Black Diamond Stretch Reco

• Length:Regular
• Material:Elastane, Nylon

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Best Women’s Ski Pants

In the next paragraphs, I will present to you my top 9 picks when it comes to ski pants.  I think I know a thing or two about ski pants, therefore I sincerely hope you will put your faith in me enough to consider these options.

I’ll discuss the features, costs, as well as benefits, and drawbacks of each pair of ski pants with you so you can choose the best item for this crucial piece of gear.

1. Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants – Women’s

Since the Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants – Women’s are made to the highest standards of quality and performance, they are perfect for both resort skiing and backcountry excursions, regardless of the weather. The 3-layer Gore-Tex construction offers a dependable barrier from the elements in windy and wet circumstances.

Also, the Arc’teryx Sentinel has taped seams for increased weather resistance, a detachable waist belt, and twin side zips for simple ventilation.

The quality is just what you need if you are a frequent skier, but you need to know that the price is a bit high, as they normally sell for around $500. Although the Sentinel LT is designed to be simple and light, they are actually very sturdy.

You might avoid having to purchase ski pants for several seasons if you make an investment in high-quality pants now. The Sentinel LT also merits your notice because it provides everything a skier could possibly require when out on the slopes.

The Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants are my top pick every single day, and I hope that the characteristics I’ve listed here will pique your interest enough to convince you to give them some serious thought. These pants will undoubtedly improve your life on the slopes.

Yes, they cost a lot, but you won’t need to buy another pair for a while because these are sturdy and you’ll fall in love with them after only one ride.

Features

• Fit: Slim
• Material: GORE-TEX, Nylon, Synthetic
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Really lightweight
• Perfect regardless of the weather 
• Breathability through side zips

Cons

• Quite expensive.

Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants – Women’s

The price of ” Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants – Women’s ” varies, so check the latest price at

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2. Outdoor Research Skyward II

The lightweight, breathable, and waterproof comfort of these Outdoor Research women’s pants is designed for ski tours. You can take them into account even for winter hiking due to their lighter weight. Additionally, they may readily release excess heat accumulation through their outer thigh vents without having to take them off.

If warmth and waterproofing are the two factors that matter the most to you, these pants are the ones you should choose. This occurs because the three-layer, stretch-infused AscentShell fabric moves and ventilates like a softshell while providing protection that is almost as good as a hardshell.

Additionally, these ski pants give you a full range of motion because skiing is all about freedom.

You can have both performance and value because the Outdoor Research Skyward II is the ideal blend of these two factors. These ski pants cost about $300, and despite not having GORE-TEX, they allow you to still be comfortable while engaging in your favorite activity.

If you want a pair of exceptionally high-quality ski trousers but don’t want to spend the money on the Arc’teryx Sentinel LT Pants, you should think about the Outdoor Research Skyward II.

If you’ve been hunting for the perfect ski trousers for a while and have read all the articles on the subject, you’ve undoubtedly already noticed that these pants appear on nearly all lists. And more importantly, there is a good explanation for this, as I’ve mentioned above.

Features

• Fit: Standard
• Material: Nylon, Synthetic
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Breathable (leg vents) while still being durable
• Weather resistance
• Roomy pockets

Cons

• Not as efficient as GORE-TEX

Outdoor Research Skyward II

The price of ” Outdoor Research Skyward II ” varies, so check the latest price at

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3. Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants

The Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants is one of the best options you have on the market, at an affordable price – because, yes, you can always find great ski pants that cost a fortune, but it is difficult to find a pair that is really affordable. Like in this case, you will have to pay around $200 for Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants. 

While this price is not that low either, considering that, in fact, you just want to buy a pair of pants, the features these pants have really deserve all the money. And let’s not forget that you will use these pants for multiple seasons. 

The Patagonia Snowbelle Insulated Pants come with an H2No membrane for weather protection. Also, it is important the mention that these pants are one of the best when it comes to fitting, because they came with adjuster tabs on the adjustable waistband, so you will feel really comfortable. 

The zippered pockets are strategically and really optimal placed, so you can carry essentials with you on the slopes without having to worry about losing them or damaging anything. 

If you are a backcountry skier, it is important to know that these pants have some problems when it comes to ventilation, so it is better to opt for something else, if you are not a lady that likes to spend time in resort areas.

I like my pants and other gear, like ski goggles for women, to be made out of recycled materials, because skiing is all about the beautiful outdoors, so I find it essential that the things I wear be in agreement with nature. 

In the end, let me say just that these pants are absolutely perfect if you are a beginner or an intermediate, but you should study the market a bit more for a better pair if you are a ripper. 

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Material: Polyester
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Comfortable, given the fact that they come with adjuster tabs for an adjustable waist.
• Great for resort skiers, even if for backcountry skiing they may not be that great.
• Made of recycled polyester, so you can feel in agreement with nature.
• Affordable, with the price being around $200.

Cons

• Not ideal for experts, so it is better to look for a pair made especially for backcountry skiers.

Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants

The price of ” Patagonia Insulated Snowbelle Pants ” varies, so check the latest price at

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4. Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Pant

The Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Pant is the ideal alternative on the market for you if you are an avid skier who regularly finds time to hit the slopes and who also has some financial resources.

This pair of ski pants perfectly satisfy your needs if you’re seeking clothing that allows you to move freely down the hill while also keeping you dry no matter how harsh the weather is outside. Besides, the Arc’teryx Sentinel AR shell pant also offers great breathability.

With waterproof zippers, 3L Gore-Tex protection, completely taped seams, and other features, the Sentinel AR is the perfect ski pant for both the resort and the backcountry. It can meet the needs of any skier.

They provide quick cooling thanks to two double side zips for ventilation, and the dual zipper feature lets you choose the size and placement according to your preferences. For folks who want to use these pants in the backcountry, this is a crucial feature.

Each of these features carries a cost, which in this instance can reach $550. But don’t forget that these pants can be worn beyond a single season, and their longevity will undoubtedly pay off.

Therefore, if you don’t have the funds now but still want them, think about waiting a little while to raise enough cash so that this winter may be truly spectacular.

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Material: Nylon
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Great breathability
• 3L GORE-TEX protection
• Perfect for both the resort and the backcountry
• Durability

Cons

• Expensive.

Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Pant

The price of “Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Pant ” varies, so check the latest price at

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5. The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants

If you want to buy a pair of good ski pants, but still don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on a pair – especially if you are a beginner – you should take a look at the North Face Freedom Insulated Pants, which costs just around $170. 

The North Face is my favorite company on the market, but I will try to be as objective as I can when it comes to their products. 

Despite the low price at which these pants are sold, they are a really durable water repellent option, so you can wear them for multiple seasons, if you don’t want to make a change or if you don’t want to try something more up-market. 

Also, given the fact that they are ski pants, it is important to mention that they are really comfortable and weatherproof, so you can stay for hours on the slopes and even on that groomer trying to stick a great trick. 

Still, as you’ve probably already thought, there are a few problems with these budget ski pants, especially the fact that the seams around the zippers are not sealed.

Being concerned about keeping the heat inside, the company that made these pants did not pay so much attention to ventilation, as the inner thigh vents are covered with mesh, so you can’t really cool off. 

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Material: Nylon, Recycled Nylon, Recycled Polyester
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Really affordable budget pant, at less than $200.
• Warm, because they use a lot of synthetic insulation.
• Comfortable, if we don’t think about the ventilation. 

Cons

• The vent design is not that effective.
• Not the best option for the rippers.

The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants

The price of “The North Face Freedom Insulated Pants ” varies, so check the latest price at

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6. Trew Gear Chariot Bibs – Women’s

The most recent version of the Chariot Bibs, a longtime bestseller, has an enhanced fit and a practical drop-seat design for whenever nature calls. They still feature the same robust construction and outstanding waterproofness and breathability.

The Trew Gear Chariot Bibs are equipped for all your uphill and downhill activities because they are extremely waterproof, incredibly breathable, and have pockets strategically located across the bibs, hips, and thighs.

Base layers are required while backcountry skiing in cooler weather because the Chariot Bib lacks insulation. Also, another key feature that these bibs are missing is a drop seat, which makes using the restroom for women considerably simpler.

Given that they contain numerous pockets, these bibs will undoubtedly gratify anyone seeking to carry on them everything they need for a day on the hills. With the help of a pull button on the zipper, the three-quarter length side vents are quite effective at assisting with rapid cooling.

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: No
• Warranty: Three years

Pros

• A lot of pockets
• Warmth
• Comfort

Cons

• Not great when it comes to insulation.

Trew Gear Chariot Bibs – Women’s

The price of ” Trew Gear Chariot Bibs – Women’s” varies, so check the latest price at

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7. Roxy Rising High Pants – Women’s

The Roxy Rising High Pants look great, so if you consider yourself a stylish person, then it is time for you to pay attention because here are your next pants that you will have by your side for seasons to come. 

When it comes to these pants, the waterproof rating is not the best you will find on the market when it comes to ski pants, at around 15k, but it is still good, so you can spend hours on the slopes without having to worry too much about getting wet from all that wet snow. 

These are a terrific option if you want to look stylish while skiing but still want a quality pair of pants. 

The worst part when it comes to how stylish these pants are is the fact that they are really fit, so you don’t have that much room for layering. In other words, sometimes things can get a bit chilly out there. 

To be brutally honest, these pants don’t have that many features, so they are an option if you are a stylish beginner. Of course, they can keep you warm and dry on the slopes, for some hours, but they aren’t the greatest option you will try on your skiing adventures. 

Features

• Fit: Regular ski pants
• Material: Elastane, Polyester, Recycled Polyester
• Belt Loops: No
• Warranty: 1 year

Pros

• Stylish look, even if that means you don’t have much room for layering.
• Affordable price, at around $200.
• Comfortable enough for skiers as the perfect resort-specific ski pants.

Cons

• Not too many features for a pair of ski pants.
• Not good for experts, but still a good option for beginners.

Roxy Rising High Pants – Women’s

The price of “Roxy Rising High Pants – Women’s ” varies, so check the latest price at

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8. Helly Hansen Legendary Pants  

There are high expectations for the Helly Hansen Legendary Pants because of the brand’s long history. They are legendary after all, aren’t they?

I think these pants are truly great because they offer everything you could possibly desire or need in a pair of ski trousers. They are adaptable as well, coming in a variety of colors and sizes for both male and female skiers.

The pants provided lots of flexibility and comfort while effectively shielding my bottom half from snow and wind. They provide adequate insulation, and you will not overheat if it runs hot. Also,  these pants never become overly saturated or wet on a powder day.

The 60-gram Primaloft insulation, which combines the required insulating qualities with a lightweight design to block out the cold without weighing you down, provides warmth.

It’s also vital to note that people who don’t usually work up a sweat will love the 2-layer waterproof shell. The pants’ construction isn’t very excellent, and they will gradually become worn out. But for their price of roughly $200, these pants provide all you require.

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Material: Polyester
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Clean design
• Affordable price
• Comfortable
• Adequate insulation

Cons

• They wear out over time.

Helly Hansen Legendary Pants

The price of ” Helly Hansen Legendary Pants” varies, so check the latest price at

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9. Black Diamond Stretch Reco

The Recon offers premium features like a built-in belt and thigh pockets with watertight zippers coupled with a stretchy 3-layer hardshell construction. All these are for a price of roughly $350. 

Although Black Diamond’s own BD.dry membrane doesn’t have the same name recognition as Gore-Tex, it is still a good feature. These pants are perfect for both resort and backcountry skiers since they provide a fantastic balance of protection and movement with articulated knees.

The Recon Stretch Pants for women feature a less-than-flattering, somewhat baggy fit, but they are nevertheless good pants on the slopes because movement takes precedence over fashion.

Ever wondered why do snowboarders wear baggy clothes? It’s because a loose fit makes layering beneath easier for colder environments.

The women’s Black Diamond Recon Stretch Pant can be summarized as a technical ski pant that is flexible, uninsulated, and largely windproof. It is a fantastic choice for women looking for a backcountry ski pant that performs admirably across the board and still have a mid-range price.

Features

• Fit: Regular
• Material: Elastane, Nylon
• Seam Sealing: Fully Taped
• Belt Loops: Yes
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Pros

• Comfortable
• Mid-range price
• Flexible
• Good for both resort and backcountry

Cons

• Don’t have GORE-TEX.

Black Diamond Stretch Reco

The price of “Black Diamond Stretch Reco” varies, so check the latest price at

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Buying Guide: All You Need To Know Before Choosing the Best Ski Pants

The characteristics that pants offer you, a beginner or ripper, can benefit from are all important. The cost of this ski equipment can be rather high, but if you choose a pair that has all the functions you require and is also sturdy, you can use them for multiple seasons, making up for the higher cost.

I’ll cover all you need to know about ski pants in the following section, from breathability to warmth and from comfort to style. Everything merits a thorough examination so that you can pick the ideal equipment.

Weather Resistance

The materials used to make pants for skiing are the most crucial component when it comes to weather resistance. Because you will need to choose between hard shell, soft shell, or insulated pants, you should first consider the conditions in which you want to ski.

So that you may better grasp what each fabric is great for, let’s talk about all of these materials.

Hardshell Pants

No matter the weather, a hardshell membrane will keep you dry.

It all depends on how waterproof you need them to be and how much money you have to spend whether you want to go with 3 layers, 2½ layers, or 2 layers. I advise wearing pants with a three-layer fabric if you frequently ski in wet weather circumstances or in deep powder, but let’s examine what each choice has to offer on its own:

• When a fabric has 3 layers, the membrane is shielded by both an interior and an external fabric.
• In 2½-layer pants, the interior is covered by a “print,” while the external fabric covers the membrane.
• With 2-layer fabric, the waterproof membrane is only covered on the outside, while the interior is lined with an insulating material.

Softshell Pants

If you want more comfort and mobility, the softshell pants may be a good choice. This fabric is soft and breathable while producing a windproof and thermal insulating effect. Because it has more elasticity than hardshell materials, this material is also popular with park and pipe riders.

Insulated Pants

Pants with synthetic insulation are a good option for people who quickly get cold or for extremely cold days. These pants will cost you less than the hardshell or softshell options.

Fit and Comfort

Performance and comfort are definitely more important than fashion, and that doesn’t mean that you should buy pants that also look good. 

Look for less material and lighter weight when ski touring. Look for a looser cut and a bigger fit for freeriding. Additionally, search for a cut that is made for flexing and extension movements for resort skiing. 

Moreover, you should reconsider buying loose-fitting pants and rather choose ski bibs instead.

Generally speaking, there are three fit categories: thin, regular, and loose. Regular will always be your best option because it gives you all the comfort you need while preserving your freedom of movement.

Ventilation

Most ski pants come with a zippered ventilation system to help with breathability. The zippered panels are typically located on the outside of your thighs or along the inside of your upper legs. 

Backcountry-specific pants frequently have zippers on the outside of the legs. For enhanced comfort, many pants have a mesh material inside the opening.

If you enjoy skiing in any environment—cold or warm, resort or countryside – you should pay close attention to the ventilation characteristics because your requirements will change as you ride the slopes.

Warmth

Here is a little bit about personal preferences and, in fact, how cold or hot you run. I am a pretty cold person, so I prefer pants that are insulated and still I add a pair of thermal leggings.

In fact, it is not recommended to wear your ski pants or ski bibs directly on your skin, because things can get chilly really fast. Let’s not forget that you will be in a mountain area, where the weather is pretty unpredictable. 

Most ski pants that you will find on the market are synthetically insulated ski pants, like the North Face Freedom Insulated Pants. You may also find fleece lining in ski pant for optimal warmth. You should also need to know what to wear under ski pants before skiing.

Breathability

The ability of pants to transport sweat or water vapor from the cloth is measured by their breathability. Breathability rating is measured and indicated in grams (g). How many grams of sweat per square meter can exit the material over the course of a day is measured so the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) can be determined. 

The greater the number, the more air can move through the fabric of the pants and the more moisture may escape. The number can go up to 20.000 for pants with very high breathability. You should need to now how to wash ski pants.

FAQ’s

How Important Are Ski Pants?

Your legs will stay toasty and dry on the slopes if you wear ski pants. Wearing ski pants rather than regular pants or jeans is essential whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier.

In fact, avoid wearing jeans at all while on the slopes because they are composed of a rigid material and may make you feel stiff when worn with the additional layer of snow pants, making it difficult for you to turn and move.

Consider going skiing while wearing a pair of jeans, even the comfiest ones. You will be chilly and wet in less than 30 minutes, and you will consider skiing to be a burden.

Ski pants are essential for keeping your warmth in place and keeping you dry outside while participating in this challenging sport. You need to be comfortable while also being safe.

How Much Should I Spend on Ski Pants?

The prices for ski pants are really diverse. You can find almost anything on the market. So, you will find – for sure – pants that will cost less than $100, but you can also find pants that cost way more than $500. 

Before you pay a fortune for a pair of ski pants, it is better to ask yourself a few questions. What is your skill level? Will you go frequently on the slopes? Are you a backcountry skier or a resort enthusiast? Do you like to run hot or do you prefer pants with great ventilation systems? 

If you are a beginner, there is no need for you to spend a lot of money on a pair of pants, because you are at the stage when you test what equipment is best for you. On the other hand, if you are a ripper, you can spend more, because, most probably, you already know the needs and expectations you have from a pair of ski pants. 

What Material Is Best for Ski Pants?

That depends on the type of skier you are. If you are a colder person, then you should opt for synthetically insulated pants. Still, the best option on the market is the pants that use an uninsulated shell with a lining. In this way, you can add, without effort, thermal leggings so you will feel really warm and comfortable. 

Try to opt for shell pants, which means buying pants that use hardshell or softshell materials, but be ready to pay a little bit more than for insulated pants. Make sure the durable construction of your ski pant can bear up abuse from the ski edges.

Conclusion

Ski pants, just like ski boots, are an essential piece of equipment. You can’t go skiing with a regular pair of jeans or go without pants at all. You should consider a variety of aspects before selecting a pair, and I sincerely hope that the information I have provided will assist you in making your decision.

Also, keep in mind that there’s a difference when talking about ski pants compared to snowboard pants.

Even if you choose to ski in resorts, skiing is a challenging activity. Everyone has a unique experience, therefore this is another aspect to consider when selecting your ideal pair of ski pants that will ideally last for a long time because let’s be honest, they are not that inexpensive.

Examine the ski pants possibilities I’ve supplied, and if you’re still unsure of your decision, consult the buying guide for all the information you require.