The Best Women’s Ski Pants: That’ll Keep You Cozy
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It’s that time of year again! The snow is falling, the slopes are calling, and it’s time to prepare your gear for winter fun. If you need new ski pants, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of the best women’s ski pants on the market, perfect for any budget or style.
Whether you’re looking for something warm and waterproof or functional and durable, we’ve got you covered. So grab your skis or snowboard because it’s time to hit the slopes!
What are the Best Women’s Ski Pants?
When choosing ski pants, the most crucial factor is where you will use them most. The requirements of resort skiing, free riding, or backcountry ski touring vary greatly, and features to consider will be fit, material, waterproofness, insulation, durability, and breathability.
Your perfect pair of ski pants will have the features you care about most for your needs, including extra pockets, zip vents, reinforced fabric at ankles, a high waist, or articulated knees. And, of course, they’ll go smashing with your favorite ski boots.
Here are Our Top 5 Picks for the Best Ski Pants in 2023.
- Best Overall – Arc’teryx Sentinel Pants
- Best Insulated for Resort – Helly Hansen Switch Cargo
- Best Backcountry Hardshell – Outdoor Research Skyward II AscentShell
- Best Budget – Obermeyer Malta
- Best Runner Up – Patagonia Powder Town Insulated
Arc’teryx Sentinel Pants
best overall
Overview
The Sentinel Pant is crafted for top-level big mountain freeride touring, with exceptional waterproof and breathable protection. Its N70p GORE-TEX 3L fabric keeps you dry, while the brushed fleece lining adds a layer of light insulation to stay comfortable in all weather. With 100D Cordura® PowderCuffs™ to seal out snow and Keprotec insteps to stave off abrasion and ski cuts, these pants will remain uncompromised on any terrain! And if that wasn’t enough – the Slide’n Loc attachments keep it close fitting over jackets, offering extra defense against wind chill and keeping out the powder!
Features
- Type: Hardshell
- Material: N70p 3L GORE-TEX
- Waterproof Tech: Gore-Tex
- Cut: Regular
- Insulation: Fleece Lining
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $550
Our Take:
For those backcountry skiers and boarders who split their time between resort laps and the skin track, the Sentinel Pant is the top choice. We love quality build and superior protection from water and the wind.
The fit is comfortable alone with a cozy flannel liner but also wears well as a shell pant over multiple layers making this versatile pant an option for all conditions. Large zippered thigh pockets offer ample options for storage, and long zippered vents are perfect for regulating temperature on long tours.
Helly Hansen Switch Cargo
best insulated for resort
Overview
Hit up the hills with these ultra-performance insulated ski pants! Ultra lightweight and durable HELLY TECH® Performance fabric system offers optimal breathability while keeping you dry no matter the weather, plus 100% recycled PrimaLoft® Black Eco insulation for all-day warmth. 2-way stretch guarantees dynamite freedom of movement when taking on those challenging runs – an adjustable waist helps customize your fit even further. Did nature get a little too warm? Cool down quickly via manual zip vents before returning to resume your mountain adventure! Safety features such as reinforced lower hems, boot gaiters, and an emergency RECCO transponder ensure peace of mind during thrill-seeking expeditions.
Features
- Type: Insulated
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Waterproof Tech: HELLY TECH®
- Cut: Relaxed with Articulated knees
- Insulation: PrimaLoft® Black Eco
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $225
Our Take:
I absolutely love these insulated ski pants from Helly Hansen. Full disclosure: I’m biased toward insulated pants and error on the side of warmth, even in backcountry ski pants. The relaxed cut allows for mobility on long tours, and articulated knees plus stretch material supports steep climbs. The cargo pockets offer access to stashing gear, sunscreen, or trail snacks.
Outdoor Research Skyward II AscentShell
best backcountry hardshell
Overview
Be prepared for unforeseen weather on your next alpine adventure with the award-winning Skyward II Pants. Powered by AscentShell technology, these incredibly lightweight pants offer unbeatable waterproof and breathability protection against ice, snow, wind – you name it! Plus, more stretch in its face fabric provides maximum mobility while kick-turning or taking long strides up the mountain. Don’t let Mother Nature ruin your ski tour ever again!
Features
- Type: Hardshell
- Material: AscentShell™ 3L
- Waterproof Tech:
- Cut: Regular + Strech
- Insulation: No
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP: $329
Our Take:
Any backcountry enthusiasts who find themselves charging up steep pitches are going to love these pants. Designed with the backcountry in mind, these waterproof ski pants will keep you dry even in the wettest conditions while being comfortable and breathable.
You can dump heat quickly with the outer thigh vents; zippered thigh and hand pockets give you a place for everything. We also found the waistband with belt loops and adjustable tabs great for finding your perfect fit over base layers and snug under jackets.
Obermeyer Malta
best budget
Overview
Get ready for your next day on the mountain in the Malta Pant! These popular resort-specific affordable ski pants are designed to keep you warm and comfortable all day. Crafted with REPREVE® recycled materials, sustainability meets high performance in this snow solution equipped with Thermore® insulation, Skier Critical™ seam sealing, and Ski Contour™ articulation – everything you need for an unforgettable experience!
Features
- Type: Insulated
- Material: REPREVE® recycled materials
- Waterproof Tech: Waterproof Breathable Technology
- Cut: Fitted
- Insulation: Yes
- Vents: No
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $149
Our Take:
We love the Obermeyer Malta insulated ski pants for periodic resort skiers or those looking to build a ski kit from scratch. They will perform best in colder, drier conditions versus the wetter Pacific Northwest.
We love the use of Repreve® materials that transform recycled bottles into fabrics. With these women’s ski pants, you can feel good about supporting the planet and your wallet.
Patagonia Powder Town Insulated
best runner up
Overview
The Insulated Powder Town Pants are the perfect choice for any adventure, featuring a PFC-free performance that keeps you warm and dry. A two-layer H2No® shell offers waterproof/breathable protection against windy weather, while 60 grams of Thermogreen insulation provides cozy warmth. An articulated fit allows complete freedom to move about with ease, plus a smooth taffeta liner ensures comfortable layering without snags – all Fair Trade Certified™!
Features
- Type: Insulated
- Material: Recycled Polyester
- Waterproof Tech: 2-layer H2No® shell
- Cut: Regular
- Insulation: Yes
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $269
Our Take:
The Insulated Powder Town women’s ski pants will keep you both warm and dry with their H2No®, and the material is made from recycled polyester, so you can feel good about your choice while supporting the planet.
The higher price tag and limited pocket options made the Helly Hansen Switch Cargo our top pick for insulated ski pants. This solid insulated resort pant option will keep you drier than the Obermeyer Malta, especially in wet snow.
Flylow Nina
Overview
You need gear that can handle both conditions when you don’t know if it’ll be a day in the ski resort or earning your turns in the backcountry. With the Flylow Nina constructed of fabric and features, you get double-duty performance to tackle any terrain – from resort laps on powder days to storm skiing deep powder, and you can have it all without breaking a sweat!
Features
- Type: Hardshell
- Material: 3-layer hardshell fabric: 100% polyester
- Waterproof Tech: High-performance DWR
- Cut: Relaxed
- Insulation: No
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP: $365
Our Take:
These Nina shell pants check off so many boxes when it comes to features it’s hard to find any faults. They are constructed well of high-quality, durable fabrics, and in particular, we love the burly reinforced cuff to protect against ski edges.
The relaxed fit allows for extra layers when resort skiing and mobility in the backcountry is enhanced with the articulated knee for those long tours. All these plus four zippered pockets make this a solid choice for those who spend their time both inbounds and out.
The North Face Freedom Ski Pant
Overview
The Freedom women’s ski pants from North Face provide unbeatable performance regardless of climate. With Heatseeker™ Eco insulation, waterproof and breathable fabric, and cool all-conditions styling – available so many color options for an extra boost of confidence in any environment!
Features
- Type: Insulated
- Material: DryVent™ 2L shell
- Waterproof Tech: non-PFC DWR
- Cut: Relaxed
- Insulation: Heatseeker™ Eco 90% post-consumer recycled polyester
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP: $170
Our Take:
These could be the perfect pant if you want a solid option to keep you warm and dry for resort skiing. We like the feature lineup, including zippered hand pockets, thigh vents, articulated knees, and a cargo pocket.
The cargo pocket has a velcro closure – not our first pick for closure, as velcro can get embedded with snow and not secure well. They have the most inclusive sizing options in women’s ski pants from short, regular, and tall lengths from XS- 3XL.
Helly Hansen Alphelia 2.0
Overview
Look good and stay protected on the slopes with these stylish ski pants. Their HELLY TECH® PERFORMANCE fabric system ensures waterproof breathability, while 4-way stretch gives you maximum flexibility of movement. Primaloft® Black Eco insulation keeps you warm in even icy temperatures, while a soft lining and mesh ventilation keep you comfortable all day. The high back waistband is adjustable for a perfect fit that won’t let cold drafts in, plus unique details like RECCO®, boot gaiters with grips, PFC-free water repellant treatment – plus recycled materials used throughout – make this an eco-friendly choice too!
Features
- Type: Insulated
- Material: HELLY TECH® PERFORMANCE
- Waterproof Tech: HELLY TECH®
- Cut: Fitted
- Insulation: Primaloft® Black Eco insulation
- Vents: No
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP: $300
Our Take:
The cut and stretch material on these Helly Hansen Alphelia women’s ski pants set them apart from other insulated pants available this year. They perform better for resort skiing when more mobility is needed on varied terrain or backcountry skiing. The high-back waistband is a nice addition for powder days or for those who prefer pants over bibs.
Dynafit Beast Hybrid Pant
Overview
You can take on any backcountry adventure with the Beast Hybrid Ski Touring Pants. Outfitted with Dynashell 3-layer fabric for waterproof protection and 2-layer Dynastretch windproof fabric for enhanced breathability around your hips, these hybrid pants provide superior temperature regulation no matter what challenging approaches or untracked slopes stand in your way. In addition, taped seams and water-resistant zippers deliver even more weather resistance so that all that is left to do is enjoy champagne powder under bluebird skies!
Features
- Type: Softshell
- Material: DYNASHELL FULLDULL WATER RESISTANT 3L
- Waterproof Tech: DWR
- Cut: Sport
- Insulation: None
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP: $349.95
Our Take:
If you are looking for one pair of pants that can do it all and spend most of your time in the backcountry skiing, the Dynafit Beast Hybrid pant is a solid option. They are more fitted than some other backcountry pants and are relatively lightweight. We find these pants optimized for comfort on long accents up the skin track while handling some weather but won’t handle as well in wet weather conditions.
Norrona Lofoten GORE-TEX Pant
best overall
Overview
Discover the perfect blend of performance and style with these waterproof ski/snowboard pants. Constructed from a 3-layer 70DX160D GORE-TEX® face fabric, these pants offer 28,000mm water resistance and are windproof to protect you in all weather conditions. For added durability where it counts most, Vectran fibers have been integrated into the leg bottoms to withstand frequent abrasion against ski boots or steel ski edges – making them ideal for freeriding, general skiing, and snowboarding on or off the slope!
Features
- Type: Hardshell
- Material: GORE-TEX® 3-layer C-Knit™
- Waterproof Tech: GORE-TEX®
- Cut: Technical – second tightest fit after slim fit
- Insulation: No
- Vents: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP: $549
Our Take:
Although the Norrona Lofoten women’s ski pant is designed for free riders and backcountry skiing, these pants are full of features that make them even better should you also take some resort laps. We particularly like the option-packed lineup of cargo pockets, zip vents, snow gaiters, and a dedicated tool pocket. They are a more fitted cut, but it works well with the articulated knees and gusseted crotch.
What to Look for in Ski Pants?
Most women’s ski pants are designed with a specific type of skiing in mind—either resort, backcountry, or both. To help guide your decision, first determine what type of skiing you intend to do.
Resort ski pants are built tough: you typically get strong face fabrics, waterproof and windproof constructions, and generous fits for layering.
If you ski consistently in extra cold temperatures, an insulated design like the Helly Hansen Switch Cargo pants is our pick for the best insulated ski pants. A non-insulated shell allows you to tackle any conditions comfortably, with the option of adding layers.
For those backcountry skiers tackling steep terrain in the backcountry, mobility, and breathability take top priority. Look for clothing with a body-hugging fit enhanced by integrated stretch fabric and thigh pockets —and don’t forget to maximize airflow with some mesh-lined thigh vents!
No matter what fabric you wear (softshell or hardshell), ensure it’s tailored to your area’s weather conditions so you stay protected without getting too hot.
Types of Ski Pants
Hardshell
Hardshell pants are reliable, robust barriers against wind and wet snow for skiers hitting the slopes in resorts. They offer impressive durability as our top picks for best ski pants, Arc’teryx Sentinel Pant, and incredible warmth in affordable ski pants options like the Obermeyer Malta.
Be sure to consider options such as adjustable waistbands – for layering, fully taped seams to keep winter weather out, and pockets with waterproof zippers.
Softshell Hybrid
Softshell pants appeal to backcountry skiers attacking the skin track or boot packing. Combining stretchy fabric with breathability and utmost comfort, particularly for those who prefer fitted ski pants.
The Dynafit Beast Hybrid offers excellent insulation while keeping away moisture build-up. However, they may not be suitable when wet weather takes over, but their versatile design blends hardshell protection with windproof technology, providing reliable performance even under harsh conditions.
The Fit
Ski pant fit is about finding the right combination of performance, comfort, and style. For downhill skiers, starting with a comfortable cut that isn’t too tight or baggy is key! Most importantly, find something with enough room to tuck in an extra layer (think baselayers) when needed; being ready against unexpected temperature drops can be critical on the slopes!
We also recommend testing the pocket volume for the items you intend to carry – loaded pockets will impact mobility and fit. Don’t forget about length – as there are many options for both shorter and longer cuts in the Northface Freedom Ski Pant.
What is the Best Women’s Ski Pants?
Skiing and snowboarding might seem simple, but you’ve got to make sure your gear is up for the task. Outsmart cold weather with our top pick, the Arc’teryx Sentinel, for the best women’s ski pants.
Made not only for durability and comfort but also designed so it won’t limit your movement while on the slopes – perfect for all kinds of terrain in and out of bounds!
Get ready; these shell pants will be there when things start heating up…get after it!
Conclusion
Now that you’ve got the best women’s ski pants list in 2023, it’s time to get out and hit some serious slopes! Whether skiing backcountry infernos, gunning around resort powdery trails, or free-styling off-course obstacles, you’ll be ready to blaze a stylish path thanks to your new ski pants.
If a fit and chill skiing experience is what you’re after in 2023, the right skiing gear is undoubtedly essential. With the latest technology crafted into each pair of your chosen ski pants, it’ll only take one skiing sesh before you’ll be planning your next one.
All that’s left is finding out which amazing ski pants will come home with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right fit and style?
The fit and style of ski pants are crucial for comfort and performance. Ski pants should balance being snug enough to retain heat and loose enough to allow a full range of motion. Many ski pants come in styles like regular, slim, or relaxed fit, and some have adjustable waistbands for a more personalized fit. Additionally, consider if you prefer pants with a higher waist for more back coverage or ones with a lower cut for comfort.
What level of waterproofing and breathability should I look for?
Waterproofing and breathability are essential for ski pants to keep you dry and comfortable. Look for pants with a high waterproof rating, typically measured in millimeters. Breathability, often measured in grams, is also important to allow moisture to escape inside the pants. Features like waterproof zippers, sealed seams, and breathable fabrics like Gore-Tex can enhance these qualities.
Are there specific features in ski pants that are beneficial?
Specific features to look for in women’s ski pants include reinforced areas like the knees and seat, which are prone to wear and tear. Also, look for pants with gaiters at the cuffs to keep snow out of your boots. Ventilation zips can be useful for regulating temperature, and adjustable or elasticized cuffs can accommodate different boot sizes. Pockets are handy for storing essentials, and some pants come with removable suspenders or bibs for additional coverage and support.
