You will find in this article all the characteristics to be taken into account to choose his ski trousers correctly. The purpose of ski trousers is to keep you warm and above all dry, throughout your day of skiing. In direct contact with the snow, they must be waterproof and breathable while providing comfort thanks to their thermal insulation that will keep you warm. Softshell trousers can be a good option if you are looking for comfort or greater freedom of movement. This two-dimensional weaving technique provides thermal insulation and windproofing while maintaining flexibility and breathability.

Choosing waterproof and breathable ski trousers

Waterproofness is measured in Schmerber mm: the higher the number of mm, the better the membrane's performance. Choose an index greater than or equal to 10,000 mm, to be dry in all conditions. The trousers must also have all seams waterproof.

The breathability of a garment is essential: you start to feel cold when you are wet. Perspiration must be efficiently evacuated. Breathability is measured in grs/m2/24H: the higher the number of grs, the better the moisture transfer. Choose an index greater than or equal to 8,000 grs/m2/24H.

For more information, see an article dedicated to the waterproofing and breathability of clothing. 

Optimal insulation for ski trousers

Thinsulate™ Insulation material is used in the lining of trousers. It is composed of very dense synthetic fibres allowing for better insulation.

PrimaLoft® technology, present on many products, offers light, breathable and warm clothing. PrimaLoft® is a light, warm, water-repellent synthetic fabric that retains all its technical features when in contact with moisture.

The little details to choose your ski trousers

Ventilation zips

To adjust the air flow during your efforts, it is advisable to choose ski trousers with ventilation zips. Located on the side of the thighs, they will keep you at the right temperature.

Snow gaiters

You will find snow gaiters integrated under your trousers. These are specially designed to prevent snow from seeping into your trousers, especially when you are off-piste in powder snow.

Reinforcements

For beginners and freeriders, a few strategic reinforcements in the buttocks, knees or lower legs can make a difference in the event of a fall.

Safety markers

Off-piste enthusiasts can add a safety feature by choosing ski trousers equipped with a RECCO-type tracking beacon. These are markers sewn into the garment. They reflect the signal of the transponders of the rescue services in the resort, allowing you to be located more quickly if you are the victim of an avalanche.

Adapting your ski trousers to your sport 

For ALPINE SKIING

If you spend your days on the slopes, you will need waterproof and breathable trousers. During this practice, you will have moments of cooling, in particular on the chairlifts. Warm, well-fitting trousers are therefore recommended.

For FREERIDE SKIING

You will need waterproof trousers that protect you even when you spend your days in the snow. A resistant component and a reinforcement at the knees will also be important to resist the abrasion of external elements (roots, branches, rocks, etc.). As far as the shape is concerned, you should opt for a rather loose fit to have a wide range of movement in your ski. For waterproofing, choose a 20,000 mm rating. For off-piste enthusiasts, if you want to emphasise safety, you can choose ski trousers equipped with a RECCO type tracking beacon.

For TOURING SKIING

Ski touring involves a lot of effort on the way up and a little less on the way down. This is why your trousers must be both waterproof and breathable. On the other hand, they should not be too insulating. Your ski touring trousers should not be too hot because of the climbing phases. A windproof component protects you from wind and other weather conditions, especially on the way down. In addition, external openings are recommended for ski touring, as they allow for better ventilation.

For SNOWBOARDING

In the beginning you will spend a lot of time on your buttocks and knees. So you need reinforced trousers in these areas to keep you dry. And of course, your trousers should be warm and waterproof. For powder lovers, integrated gaiters will be appreciated. They prevent snow from getting in if you fall, keeping you warm all day long.

For cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing is an endurance sport with a high variation in body temperature. To avoid being too hot or too cold while maintaining freedom of movement, choose tights, which will keep you warm at the beginning of the session, and which will then evacuate perspiration during the effort.

For the size, beyond the standard sizes for women or men, some brands offer different leg lengths adapted to your size.