What're The Best Snowboarding Pants On The Market?

 

Finding the perfect pair of snowboard pants can be the difference between a great day on the mountain and a miserable, soggy one. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know what to choose. To help you out, we consulted a lot of people within the snowboarding community to find out what riders are actually wearing and recommending.

This article breaks down the fan favourites by highlighting what makes each pair stand out. From waterproof ratings to fit and features, we’ve got the full rundown to help you make an informed decision that'll keep you dry for many years to come.

What to Look For in Snowboard Pants

 

Before you dive into the list of favorites, understanding the key features of snowboard pants is crucial.

 

Waterproof and Breathability Ratings

 

This is the most critical factor. These ratings are typically represented as two numbers (e.g., 10,000mm/10,000g).

• Waterproof Rating (mm): The first number measures how much water pressure the fabric can withstand before moisture seeps through. A rating of 10,000mm is good for light-to-moderate snowfall, while 20,000mm is excellent for heavy snow and wet conditions.
• Breathability Rating (g): The second number measures how much moisture (sweat vapor) can escape from the inside. A higher number means the fabric is more breathable, which is essential for preventing a clammy feeling.

 

Fit and Style

 

Slim Fit: A modern, tapered look that offers less bulk but can be restrictive.

Regular Fit: The standard fit, providing a balance of style and freedom of movement.

Baggy Fit: The most popular choice for park riders, offering maximum range of motion and a classic, relaxed style.

 

Essential Features

 

Vents: Most snowboard pants have zippered vents on the inner or outer thigh to dump heat on warm days or during intense hikes.

Pockets: Look for strategically placed, zippered pockets to keep your phone, lift pass, and other essentials secure.

Gaiters: Integrated elastic gaiters inside the leg cuffs prevent snow from getting into your boots.

Reinforced Cuffs: Durable material at the bottom of the leg prevents tears from your bindings or boots.

Jacket-to-Pant Interface: Many brands, like Volcom, offer a system to zip your jacket and pants together, creating a seal against snow.

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Pants vs. Bibs: Which is Right for You?

 

This is a common debate in the community. Both have pros and cons.

 

While having the right pants is essential for a great day, the right gear extends beyond your apparel. Ensuring your snowboard is properly waxed and tuned is just as critical for a smooth ride. For a professional-level tune-up from the comfort of your garage our Snowboard Tuning Stand provides a stable and portable workbench for all your maintenance needs.

 

A-List Snow Pants: The Community's Top Picks

 

686 - Smarty 3-in-1 Cargo Pants: A true favourite for their incredible versatility, the 686 Smarty pants come with a removable fleece liner, giving you the ability to adapt to any weather condition. Riders praise their durability, functional design, and reliable waterproofing.

Burton - AK Gore-Tex Cyclic Pants Fan Favourite: Widely considered the gold standard, Burton's AK line is praised for its top-tier performance. The Cyclic pants, a shell pant featuring a Gore-Tex membrane, are celebrated for their unbeatable waterproofing, breathability, and bombproof construction that holds up season after season. Many riders swear by them for their ruggedness and the peace of mind that comes with a solid warranty.

Flylow - Baker Bibs: If pants aren't your style, bibs are a popular alternative, and the Flylow Baker Bib is a consistent community favourite. Riders love the rugged material, a high waterproof rating, and a design that effectively keeps snow out. They are a go-to choice for both resort and backcountry riders who need maximum protection and mobility.

Patagonia - Powder Town Pants: Patagonia’s reputation for quality and sustainability extends to its outerwear. The Powder Town pants are a durable, insulated option that offers great value. They are known for their reliable waterproofing, articulated fit, and a robust warranty program that ensures a long life for your gear.

The North Face - Freedom Pants: A great entry-level and budget-friendly option, The North Face Freedom pants are a popular choice for their proven durability and reliable wind and snow blocking. While they may not have all the high-end features of more expensive brands, they offer exceptional value for casual and resort riders.

Volcom - Arthur Longo Gore-Tex Pants: Volcom’s collaboration with pro rider Arthur Longo resulted in a highly-rated pant that delivers on both style and function. The community loves these pants for their comfortable fit, high-quality Gore-Tex waterproofing, and the signature Volcom Zip-Tech feature, which seamlessly connects them to a compatible Volcom jacket to keep snow out.

 

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Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Gear Fresh

 

Once you've found your ideal pants, proper care is essential to ensure they last.

• Washing: Always use a technical wash (like Nikwax or Grangers) and a front-loading washer. Avoid regular detergents and fabric softeners, as they can damage the waterproof membrane.
• Re-waterproofing: After several washes, the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating will wear off. You can easily re-apply it with a spray-on or wash-in product to restore the fabric's ability to shed water.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you're hitting the park, exploring the backcountry, or just carving up the resort, the right gear makes all the difference. Investing in a quality pair of pants means you'll focus on your riding, not on staying dry.

For more information on our snowboard tuning products, explore the full ARES Fabrication shop. You can also contact us directly with any questions about our products.

Think we missed something on this list? Contact us with your suggestions and we'll continue to make updates!