When it comes to buying ski pants, there are three factors to consider before making a purchase. First, how durable are they, against water and tearing? Second, are they going to keep you warm? And third, can you still ski while wearing them?
Durability is a major consideration when it comes to ski pants. This is, in fact, one of the most important characteristics to consider when it comes to what you wear while skiing. You absolutely need water-proof pants to prevent moisture from seeping through your clothing to soak your body with freezing cold dampness. This can lead not only to discomfort, but even to medical dangers, like frostbite. And of course, you want the pair of pants that will last as long as possible within your budget.
The problem with a lot of water-proof fabrics is that they end up feeling like plastic. This is no good. You need pants that are breathable and prevent build-up of moisture from your own perspiration. Activity produces sweat, after all, even if you’re not very warm to begin with. If you let this moisture sit there, it will get cold, and then you will, causing more problems. You also need pants that fit properly, because if cold air and snow can get in, then the whole point of the pants is lost, and you’re freezing anyway.
Warmth often demands thickness, but thickness often steals flexibility. You need pants that will allow you to move and ski properly, or else you won’t ski as well, and that can lead to accidents, which can be very severe on the slopes.
Ski pants have to walk a fine line in these three areas. They must be water-proof, and they should be durable; yet they must also keep you warm while wicking away your sweat; and finally, they must allow you to move if you’re going to be able to ski at all. Always make sure that your pants cover each of these issues before you buy them.
