snowboard pants men's

For most lift-assisted snowboarding, breathability is not a top consideration. Some brands are still guilty of the shrink it and pink it strategy when it comes to designing womens clothing, but Roxy is not one of them. Despite the myriad options, we recommend against packing these pockets full, as filling them with larger items can feel ungainly and restrict movement. Its true that the Freedom is a noticeable step down in quality from a design like the Burton Cyclic above, but it covers all the bases for many snowboarders at a very reasonable price. Minor gripes aside, the Trew Gears quality is second to none. However, not all snowboard apparel brands provide a fabric denier spec (a measurement of density and thickness), so it can be hard to compare models without seeing them in person. Weve included the Shralpinist on our list for its ultra-premium build, but the simple truth is that this pant is overkill for most. And if youve had the pleasure of experiencing a tumble on the slopes, you know that snow is adept at finding its way into the crevices of your jacket or pants. That said, were not huge fans of 3-in-1 pants. Another key component of a snowboard pant's wet-weather protection is its durable water repellentcoating (DWR for short). A lot of snowboard pants can be fairly bland, so kudos to Picture for experimenting and putting some serious effort into their designs. What's more, the Covert isn't quite as warm with 40-gram insulation compared to the Patagonia's 60. If youre in the market for a robust resort-specific bib, the Reserve (and womens Avalon) should be toward the top of your list. From the picks above, the best ventilators are non-insulated and feature premium 3-layer constructions, which keeps air flowing a lot better than 2-layer designs (more on this below). That said, if you dont have specific needs for an ultra-breathable pant and don't get out in very wet conditions, a design like the Thirtytwois fully serviceable. Baker below will cost over $100 more. Interchangeable lenses dominate the high end of the market with systems that are getting quicker and easier by the by the year. Baker Storm, which uses ultra-breathable softshell material on the bib where weather protection matters less. The GTX Reserve here packs in a ton of quality for the price: you get a 2-layer construction along with full seam taping and burly 150-denier face fabric (the Cyclic above is 70D) for just $325comparable offerings like the Outdoor Research Mt. The easiest answer is cost: most resort-goers dont want to spend $549 on a pair of pants, nor do they need to (2-layer construction is perfectly serviceable for in-bounds riding). Today, a good number of snowboarders still wear jackets and pants made by legacy brands like Burton, Volcom, and Roxy, although more mainstream names like Patagonia and Outdoor Research have entered the ring with their own freeride-inspired offerings. Patagonia is a leader here as well, with an excellent repair program thats managed both online and in their brick-and-mortar stores. For waterproofing, many manufacturers use whats commonly referred to as a static-column test: a piece of the pants shell fabric is set below a 1-inch-diameter tube, which is then filled with water until the fabric begins to leak. Now, the brand is a one-stop shop for everything from hardgoods to outerwear and lifestyle clothing, and their premium [ak] line sets a high bar for technical performance. And while its not as premium as Gore-Tex, the in-house H2Nos water and wind protection have impressed us throughout years of testing numerous Patagonia products. Within this category, the Volcom Freakin Snow Chino is our favorite option for men, with subtle but classy looks, a stretchy twill face fabric for great comfort and mobility, and a 2-layer V-Science membrane that should stand up to most moderate precipitation and wind with ease (for reference, it has a 15K/15K waterproofing/breathability rating). But for active riders or those that like to hike into the sidecountry, breathability jumps up the priority list. Bibs are the remedy for these maladies as they offer better protection from the snow, wind, and wet. Where do the two differ? Top shells from our list include Burtons AK Cyclic, the Trew Gear TREWth Bib, and Volcoms L Gore-Tex. For reference, the $449 OR is $10 pricier than the TREWth Bib above, which features a more breathable and streamlined 3-layer construction. Thirtytwo has a ways to go to build up a track record in technical performance and longevity compared with bigger apparel brands like Patagonia and Outdoor Research. In the end, wed recommend the Powder Bowl for true winter conditions and those who get out a lot, but the Covert Insulated (and women's Society) is perfectly serviceable for most recreational snowboarders. In addition to the impressive level of protection, the pants also ventilate well, and you can release hot air in four places: two zippered vents along the inner thigh and two large vents along the outside of your legs. Category: ShellInsulation: None (light flannel backer)Waterproofing: 3L Gore-TexWhat we like: Bomber 3-layer build that excels both at the resort and in the backcountry.What we dont: Expensive; clean, technical look wont be for everyone. Their go-to pant for both resort and backcountry riders is the Sabre AR (and women's Sentinel AR), which features bomber yet light 3-layer Gore-Tex waterproofing. If youre just dipping your toes into snowboarding, theres no need to spend big on a premium pant. In both their mid-range 2-layer and lighter and more breathable 3-layer varieties, weve found Gore-Tex to be reliably wind and waterproof even in harsh and wet conditions. And if you cant decide, pants like Picture Organics Object offer a nice middle groundthe high waist keeps out snow without the added fabric and inconvenience of a bib. All told, its a well-built design and a great option for spring days or those who tend to run particularly warm. To remedy the issue, manufacturers reinforce the cuffsoften through use of thicker fabrics or even siliconeand sometimes even provide a way for you to raise the cuffs to keep them from dragging through the parking lot or lodge. Outdoor Research Skyward II Ski Pant Review, See the Men's Patagonia Insulated Powder Bowl, See the Men's Outdoor Research Skyward II, See the Women's Outdoor Research Skyward II, Outdoor Research Mt. The DWR used in higher-end designs is most often higher-quality and longer-lasting, while you might find yourself needing to refresh the finish of a pant like the budget 686 Standard more often (regularly applying a product like Nikwax TX.Direct will do the trick). In recent years, theres been a noticeable shift in sustainable practices within the snowboarding apparel market. Built specifically for women, the Roxy Backyard Pant forgoes the more typical baggy snowboard style for a classy, tailored fit with an adjustable waistband and unobtrusive front and back hand pockets. Category: Shell (insulated in seat)Insulation: 40g VerticalX EcoWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: Very thoughtful construction and feature set.What we dont: Also very pricey. After a full season of skiing in conditions ranging No matter your experience level or budget, there is a great ski goggle waiting to be found. As snowboarding season kicks into high gear, its time to take stock of the equipment that will help make your winter that much better. To help prevent this, some manufacturers place a button or loop on the jackets powder skirt to connect it to a corresponding attachment on the pants, forming a solid seal from the wet and cold. As one of the first resorts to welcome snowboarders, Mt. The extra layer not only provides insulation and protection from cold snow and freezing chairlift seats, but it also wicks moisture away from your skin. At $439, theres no hiding the fact that the Trew Gear is expensive, but the price is reasonable for what you get. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: A sub-$300 Gore-Tex pant.What we dont: A couple of fit and finish issues. To start, its almost always a good idea to throw on at least a thin pair of long underwear. Tack on a high-quality fit and finish and generous side vents that run from knee to chest, and the TREWth Bib is the full package for both resort and backcountry riders. Closely tied to durability is weight: a thicker and very tough snowboard pant will logically weigh more. If you consistently head into the backcountry in soggy conditions, a rigid 3-layer hardshell pant (like the Jones below) will provide more sustainable protection, but at the cost of mobility and comfort. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 3L AscentShellWhat we like: A stretchy and breathable backcountry-specific pant.What we dont: Not durable or protective enough for resort use. Finally, backcountry-specific models like the Outdoor Research Skyward II put a greater emphasis on quality and functionality over quantity, with dedicated storage for items like an avalanche beacon and extras like a map or GPS device. Tack on a casual aesthetic and unobtrusive fit, and theres no denying that 686s most basic pant offers pretty good bang for your buck. Category: InsulatedInsulation: FleeceWaterproofing: 2L infiDRYWhat we like: 3-in-1 value with a durable, long-lasting shell.What we dont: In most cases, wed advise against a 3-in-1 design. And the price is right too: at $230, the Basement is the most affordable bib here by a wide margin. With a budget membrane, the Covert's waterproofing and breathability don't stand a chance against the Powder Bowl's more premium Gore-Tex and won't hold up in sustained wet weather. The most obvious downside to the Mt. Theyre also the most breathable option, particularly those of the premium 3-layer variety. Among the growing range of options, the well-built TREWth Bib (and womens Chariot) is our top pick of the season. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L Gore-TexWhat we like: Highly durable, good looks, and quality protection.What we dont: No drop seat and doesn't come in short and tall sizes. To help, each of the models above features at least two vents (one on each leg), which can be helpful for dumping heat on warmer days. It's worth noting that the Chemical hits a similar price point as our top-ranked Burton Cyclic above. Weve found that outer-thigh vents do a better job dumping heat, while those on the inner thigh add unwanted bulk and can occasionally impact comfort (on the bright side, they are less conspicuous). Many women will appreciate the more feminine cut, which also adds a layer of 60-gram synthetic insulation for deep-winter warmth. Second, the Sabre AR isn't specifically built for snowboarders, resulting in a more technical style that lacks features like cargo pockets and extra butt protection. Weve listed a number of sub-$200 options above, but those looking for truly bargain-basement design can save even more with the 686 Standard here. For just $100 (and often found on sale), the Standard comes equipped with most of the features recreational snowboarders look for, including boot gussets and gaiters, reinforced patches at the hem, inner leg vents, and a decent assortment of pockets. All that said, it's important to recognize what you give up with such a budget design. Most park rats prefer extra space to maximize range of motion and limit pinch points (and style undeniably plays a role), while riders that seek out sidecountry lines typically like a streamlined, sleeker shape (often referred to as a standard or regular fit). When the coldest winter months arrive, its time for a serious jacket. And many brands are recognized as certified B Corps and/or utilize the bluesign system for sourcing materials responsibly. Their lack of insulation means you can tune your layers underneath based on conditions: go with a light baselayer for spring days or throw on a thick fleece pant to stay warm in cold temperatures. Finally, if youre looking for a premium 3-layer design, you can save almost $200 with the Flylow Gear Chemical above (or for the same investment, opt for the snowboard-specific Jones Shralpinist below). We expect Jones will be working out a few kinks in their first few years of production, but were happy to see the iconic brand entering the apparel scene and anticipate big things to come.See the Jones Shralpinist 3L Gore-Tex Pro. As a result, we wouldnt push the pant too hard in sustained wet conditionsa good excuse to duck into the lodge. All nitpicks aside, the Sabre AR is one of the best snow pants money can buy (its our favorite ski pant this year) and is a great choice for those who split their time between the backcountry and the resort.See the Men's Arc'teryx Sabre AR See the Women's Arc'teryx Sentinel AR. This finish is added to the exterior fabric to keep the nylon or polyester material from absorbing moisture, which helps keep the waterproof membrane functioning properlyif too much water gets through the outer fabric, the membrane can get overwhelmed, which causes issues with breathability and even leakage. If that's what you're after, check out the Burton Covert Insulated below. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L H2No Performance StandardWhat we like: A mid-range pant with top-notch fit and finish.What we dont: Average breathability and not styled specifically for snowboarders. Baker Storm Bibs. In a 3-layer build, this liner is streamlined and affixed to the inside of the waterproof/breathable membranehence the third layer. Ever since Jake Burton Carpenter started building boards in his barn in the late 1970s, snowboarding and Burton have been practically synonymous. On the women's side, Volcoms Knox Insulated sports a similar build with 2-layer Gore-Tex but adds 60-gram Low Loft insulation and retails for $250.See the Men's Volcom L Gore-Tex See the Women's Volcom Knox Gore-Tex. We highly recommend erring on the side of under-insulating, as its far easier to add layers underneath than deal with roasting in a too-warm pant. But for lady rippers who run cold or ride in consistently wintery climates, the Backyard is a fully serviceable insulated pant at an excellent price point.See the Roxy Backyard Pant. Well admit that we have been disappointed with the waistbands Velcro adjustmentits stiff and can be abrasive against bare skinand the Powder Bowls price tag might be hard to stomach for some. Outdoor Research might not be on many riders' radar, but Mt. But the Volcom gets the job done on dry and cold days, and the relaxed fit eliminates extra material while still allowing ample room for layering underneath. But we keep coming back to value: the Freedom pants are a proven choice with a surprisingly long lifespan and undercut most of the competition by a sizable margin. Designed for both men and women, the Basement is offered in seven sizes from XXS to XXL and tacks on an adjustable inner waistband and cuff cinches for effectively dialing in fit. Pockets are a significant style component of many snowboarding designs, which often include a range of rear, cargo, thigh, and handwarmer storage. Theyre completely capable for all forms of riding and are much easier to slip on and off. This translates to exceptional protection and improved breathability compared to the 2-layer designs that dominate the market. Serious riders will also appreciate the articulated fit, which makes for a stylish yet functional freeride design that won't weigh you down. Snowboard pants are a durable bunch, relying on substantial face fabrics to fend off harsh weather and rough use around chairlifts, park features, and sharp gear. Baker also excels with more breathable fabrics patterned throughout. Pants in the mid and high end of the market often boast full seam taping, while budget-oriented models like the Volcom Freakin Snow Chino and Roxy Backyard only protect the critical seams (areas most prone to moisture, such as the rear). Further, you get inner thigh vents, an adjustable waistband, and Volcoms Zip Tech jacket attachment for keeping snow at bay. You wont find features like a softshell upper or insulated seat (as we see in the OR Mt. These pants will provide sufficient protection in moderate and dry conditions, but the lower-end builds arent as long-lasting or reliable on particularly gnarly days.Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish While its nice to reduce bulk, many resort riders are perfectly content with a moderately heavy design. If you like to earn your turns or charge hard in and out of the ropes, a 3-layer design like the Trew Gear above will do a much better job regulating temperature, and the Mt. Seam Taping Its also available in a nice range of vibrant colorways (five at the time of publishing), as well as short and tall inseam options. No matter the resort, youre bound to see more snowboarders wearing Burton than any other brand. Importantly, manufacturers will then add a hanging mesh or taffeta liner in order to protect the membrane from your skin. Every year, millions of skiers flock to the slopes to bask in the epic mountain terrain, abundant snowfall, and claimed 300+ days of sunshine (we havent counted, but that seems As your main line of defense against snow and wind, a quality snowboard jacket is a key piece of your kit. Not everyone wants or needs insulated snowboard pants, but if you frequent the resort in particularly cold climates like the Northeast or Mountain West, theyre a nice option to have. Category: ShellInsulation: NoneWaterproofing: 2L V-ScienceWhat we like: Uncompromised style and nice assortment of features.What we dont: Critical seam taping isnt great for very wet conditions. A quality Gore-Tex membrane finishes off the build, resulting in a tough and long-lasting snowboard pant. The best models are made with either synthetic or merino woolcotton doesnt insulate when wet, so its a bad idea even on a resort day. That said, although the Freedom Insulated will do the trick for casual riders, performance-minded boarders likely will be left wanting more. That said, snowboarding pants do differ slightly in terms of fit and features: In general, snowboarders prefer a looser cut with more pockets and style components. Snowboard pants are known for having fairly large and baggy fitsand this holds true for a lot of marketalthough there are a growing number of designs with trimmer cuts that reduce bulk. That said, designs fall into fairly predictable categories: entry-level and mid-range pants are often quite tear-resistant and tough, using thick materials to provide a boost in weatherproofing (the Burton Reserve Bibs and Ballast pants both feature 150D shells). In the case of Volcoms Zip Tech (as seen on the Freakin Snow Chino and L Gore-Tex pants), you get a full wraparound zip. You also get a thin layer of 25-gram insulation (the comparable women's Exa uses 40g fill), making it a nice choice for most wintery days on the slopes. Volcom excels in the budget category (as seen with the Freakin Snow Chino above), but the L Gore-Tex pant here is a very competitive mid-range offering. In short, the added performance of a more premium pant will be overkill in most resort applications and simply isnt worth the jump in price. This year, theyve expanded their lineup to include outerwear for both resort and backcountry snowboarders, and the Shralpinist here is their no-holds-barred backcountry pant. You wont find a lot of Gore-Tex in the sub-$300 price range, making the Volcom L one of the better values out there (it offers similar protection to the Cyclic above for a whopping $105 less). Waterproof ratings can be the first clue towards discerning the level of protection a pant will provide, but its important to dig a bit deeper into the specs. Category: InsulatedInsulation: 25g Thermal STDWaterproofing: 2L DryPlayWhat we like: Sustainable materials and well-sorted features.What we dont: Not everyone will love the unique Euro styling. For a step down in price, check out Trew's Jefferson (mens) and Astoria (womens) bibs, which were designed in collaboration with Evo and feature more affordable 2-layer constructions.See the Men's Trew Gear TREWth Bib See the Women's Trew Gear Chariot Bib. We provide more details on waterproofing and breathability in the sections below. Backcountry-focused pants sacrifice a little durability for less weight and improved range of motion and breathability, but weve found even models like the Outdoor Research Skyward II (50D) are reliably tough. In short, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more thoughtfully designed bib: OR patterned thicker fabrics in exposed and high-wear areas (like the upper front legs and butt), stretchy and breathable softshell at the torso, and even 45-gram insulation in the seat for chilly chairlift rides and chillin in the park. However, if youre a serious rider, get out a lot, or dip into the backcountry from time to time, consider bumping up to a 3-layer pant. So with that glowing review, why do we rank the Sabre AR here? Being able to attach your jacket to your pant is certainly not a required feature for either resort or backcountry use, but it's a nice addition for many. Finally, Flylow Gear's Chemical has vents on both sides of the leg, which provides excellent cross ventilation. The layers you wear under your snowboard pants dont get as much attention as those warming your core, but they nevertheless remain an important consideration. And with a burly face fabric, the Covert Insulated is built to withstand many seasons of demanding resort use. Whats more, the Smarty in particular has a fairly cheap feel, with a plastickyalbeit durableshell and relatively busy feature set. If youre not put off by the flashy Euro styling, its a great value at $200 and a nice intro to what Picture Organic is all about.See the Men's Picture Organic Object See the Women's Picture Organic Exa. Therefore, it comes as little surprise that OR's namesake bibs are purpose-built for aggressive riding and weather with a 2-layer Gore-Tex construction and burly materials throughout. Further, a growing number of manufacturers, including Burton and Flylow Gear, are using DWR coatings that are PFC-free (short for perfluorocarbons, which is a non-biodegradable chemical). Pockets Construction Without going too much into detail (we break down waterproofing ratings in our buying advice below), the main takeaway is that the pant is more water-resistant than waterproof, which isnt great for new snowboarders spending a lot of time sitting (or falling) in snow. That said, we think the Volcom hits a nice sweet spot for price-conscious riders looking for a step up from an entry-level design. The vast majority of insulated pants use synthetic fill due to its affordability and ability to keep you warm even when wet (unlike goose or duck down, which clumps up). In addition, you get a brushed liner for extra warmth and next-to-skin comfort and generous side zips for dumping heat on the skin track. In choosing a baselayer, its worth getting a soft and close-fitting design to maximize warmth. 686s Smarty has long been a popular option amongst 3-in-1 enthusiasts, with a durable and protective shell (this model is made with proprietary infiDRY, although 686 also offers a GTX version) and a cozy fleece midlayer that zips in and out. Most snowboard pants feature a 2-layer build, which consists of the shell fabric and a waterproof/breathable membrane. But if youll be hitting the backcountry or even spending a fair amount of time off-trail, a lighter shell pant will provide a nice boost in mobility and all-around comfort. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. Baker Storm above), but for half the price, the Basement arguably is the better valueespecially for riders who want that classic snowboard styling. Picture Organic is another brand building up a small but loyal following. The 60-gram Heatseeker Eco insulation is a nice touch for those wanting a little extra warmth, and the venting system is surprisingly good for a budget pant. Baker Ski Area has long been an epicenter for the alternative sport thanks to its punk-rock vibes, accessible sidecountry terrain, and epic annual snowfall. Further, some pants feature a system that pulls the cuff up so it doesnt drag when walking through the parking lot or the lodge. This is often done via a cinch near the ankle or extending up the backside of the leg (Burton has nicknamed them bungee cuff elevators, and Picture Organic calls it their I-Fit System). The first thing we look for is the quality of the waterproof construction, and in terms of protection and longevity, its hard to beat Gore-Tex. Along with a jacket attachment, taffeta liner, and thoughtful hem details, the $140 Roxy stands out as an excellent value for penny pinchers, new riders, and those who only get out a few times a year. It all adds up to a pant thats capable of resisting heavy wind or wet snow while offering the range of motion and breathability you need for rigorous ascents. From this collection, the mens Cyclic is our favorite all-around pant, combining top-notch waterproofing and a well-rounded feature set (including a great assortment of pockets) with Burtons industry-defining style. However, the Mt. Finally, 3-in-1 designs like the 686 Smarty toe the line between shell and insulated pants, giving you the option for both configurations in addition to a standalone midlayer. There is some value in the static-column ratinga higher number will typically lead to better waterproofingbut plenty of other factors come into play, including the quality of the membrane, DWR coating, fabric denier, and seam taping.

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