When it comes to snowboarding, the importance of suitable, high-performance equipment is undeniable. Among the essential elements of this kit, snowboard pants occupy a place of choice. Designed to offer protection, comfort and freedom of movement, the choice of snowboard pants needs to be carefully considered, especially for top athletes who face extreme conditions and demand the very best from their equipment. This buying guide will provide you with in-depth, technical advice on choosing the ideal pair of snowboard pants for your specific needs in the mountains. Find our best men's snowboard pants and our best women's snowboard pants, as well as other snowboard equipment.
One of the first criteria to consider is the pants' ability to protect against the elements while allowing perspiration to escape. Waterproofness is generally measured in millimeters (mm), with pants offering between 5,000 mm and 20,000 mm of water resistance, depending on the intensity of your riding and weather conditions. For a competitive snowboarder or one practicing in extreme conditions, a minimum of 15,000 mm is recommended for effective protection.
Breathability, measured in grams (g), indicates the amount of moisture that can pass through the fabric in 24 hours. Pants with a breathability of at least 10,000 g are recommended to prevent overheating and moisture build-up inside the garment.
Don't forget that among the top brands available on our site are Ortovox, Volcom and Picture, all of which offer models to suit the varied requirements of riders.
Insulation is crucial in cold conditions. Pants are available with different insulation thicknesses: single lining for maximum mobility or thick insulation for colder environments. Materials such as Primaloft or merino wool are popular thanks to their insulating capacity while remaining lightweight.
For those who snowboard intensively, opt for a model with ventilated zips to regulate your body temperature according to the effort involved and the climatic variations encountered on the slopes.
Durability is essential, as these garments are often exposed to the rigors of the terrain: frequent falls or direct contact with snow can quickly wear out a basic product. So look for reinforced fabrics in critical areas such as the knees, as well as taped seams to guarantee longevity.
For added functionality: think strategically placed pockets for quick access to essentials such as maps or snacks; make sure they're sturdy, too, so no snow gets in during your frantic downhill runs.
A good fit in the waist or suspenders not only ensures greater comfort, but also better performance during your intense sports sessions! Integrated gaiters at the bottom of the pants will prevent any snow intrusion into your boots during your winter adventures.
Choosing the right pants therefore requires careful consideration of the balance between optimum protection against the elements and total freedom of movement, which is essential when every move counts in the face of mountain challenges! By taking these criteria into account, you'll be better equipped to select the pants that will accompany you on all your future snowboarding adventures! Feel free to explore our other categories, such as Women's ski jackets, Polar fleeces and Swimwear.