Get your gear down right and you could be skiing for years to come, while get it wrong and you are soon off the slopes and back in the supermarket stocking up on leggings and a water-repellent windcheater for the rest of the ski week. So, while it’s no news that women’s ski pants are an essential piece of technical and comfortable ski wear, today we are going to look closely at the five aspects that should be considered when shopping for ski pants – material and composition, fit, waterproofing and breathability, add-ons (like extra pockets and liners), and comfort. We’ll explore each aspect in turn in order to help you make an informed choice when it comes to what you look for in a pair of ski pants.
Table of Contents:
– Understanding the Material
– Finding the Perfect Fit
– The Importance of Waterproofing
– Breathability Matters
– Additional Features to Consider
Understanding the Material
As with all clothing, the material that a pair of ski pants is made out of is the starting point for their function. Traditionally, ski manufacturers have favoured synthetic fibres for their durability, their water resistance and for how well the materials insulate against cold temperatures. Materials such as nylon and polyester, which are often coated in waterproofing treatments and woven that particles will penetrate through the fabric, have long been go-to materials for ski garments. But recent innovations in textile technology have yielded ultra-modern materials that stretch, giving skiers more freedom of movement than ever before, without sacrificing comfort and protection from the elements. Learn about these materials and you can make better decisions about your comfort and performance on the hill.
Finding the Perfect Fit
You could have the warmest insulation in the world but, if your pants are too tight, the blood will rush to the area and you’ll be cold. On the other hand, if they’re too loose, they’ll shift around on you when you’re skiing, but then be tight again when you stop and take them off. Like the skis, the fit of your ski pants is hugely important. Get a pair that fit well, allow for movement, allow for your base layers, and won’t shift around or bunch up at the waist when you’re moving. Women’s ski pants come in many cuts – slim-fit, relaxed, etc – to fit different kinds of bodies and suit different preferences. When you try them on, move around like you’re skiing to ensure they don’t restrict your flexibility. Beyond that, the right fit will keep you warm because it will eliminate as much space as possible where cold air can dart inside.
The Importance of Waterproofing
You can’t. After all, that ski pants from regular trousers and pants, right? Along with its close relative, breathability, waterproofing is the factor that protects you from the slush and the storms and allows you to stay dry for a full day on the mountain. Waterproofing is measured in millimetres. Higher numbers mean better repellence, and a minimum of 5,000 mm is typically adequate. However, it’s not just about the numbers: pants may be kept waterproof by fine details in their construction, such as sealed seams and waterproof zippers.
Breathability Matters
Just as you need to keep water out, you also want moisture from your body to escape. The breathability of ski pants is rated in grams, which relates to how many grams of water vapour can pass through a square metre of fabric in 24 hours. The higher the number, the more breathable the fabric is and the less sweat accumulates inside your pants. A build-up of sweat can contribute to an uncomfortable feeling of being wet, and the chilling effect of cold sweat cooling down on your skin. If possible, ski pants should have ventilation zippers at thigh level or look for pants with breathable panels.
Additional Features to Consider
Then there are the extras, features that complement the basics of any ski pant by making your time on the slopes more convenient, comfortable and safe. Pockets, obviously, are about having a place to store things, but they need to be positioned and designed in such a way that your stuff stays put without swaying or flopping as you’re skiing. Adjustable waistbands and gaiters (the wraparound fabric at the bottom of the legs) keep snow from finding its way into your boots. Reflective elements are helpful for visibility in low-light conditions. Every little feature contributes to the overall functionality of your ski pants.
Conclusion:
There might be no ‘perfect’ pair of women’s ski pants, but it’s easy to choose the right pair if you consider your priorities when it comes to material, fit, waterproofing, breathability, and extra features. Consider these five factors and you’ll find the ultimate pants for you – a pair that reflects your type of skiing and enhances your mountain experience. The right gear can change your life.
