It’s not every day that someone makes a pair of pants just for you. But that’s exactly what happened with these new ($259). Let me explain how it happened, and why it should matter to you, fellow outdoorsy pants wearer.

Since 2017 or so, I’ve been wearing Fjallraven Kebs ($255) most of the time I’m active outdoors. In fact, I called them “Damn near perfect,” in a review the next year.  They do a good job of combining freedom of movement with durability, and have really good pockets. The fact that they flatter my slim proportions, and are made by a brand I like just seals the deal.

What’s Forloh, Actually?

In fall of 2020, some guy named Andy Techmanski called me and invited me to come elk hunting with him and his son. Techmanski was launching a new, 100 percent American-made and sourced clothing brand targeted at hunters, and figured the most effective way to show it to me would be to actually go hunting in it. One of his employees allegedly sent me a box of gear, but it never turned up, so I ended up going on that hunt in my Fjallravens. We saw no elk, but enjoyed each other’s company, and now try to grab a few days in the mountains together every fall.

That was the story in 2022, when Robert Yturri tagged along too. Techmanski had tapped Yturri to lead development for Forloh, his new made-in-America brand. And after spending most of his career at pretty much every major technical clothing brand you’ve ever heard of watching production get outsourced overseas, Robert jumped at the opportunity to return to making apparel in the United States.

At some point that weekend, all three of us were knocking back a few beers, and Techmanski looked at my pants, pointed them out to Yturri, and asked him if Forloh could do better.

I promptly forgot about that conversation until, a few weeks ago, I opened up a box from Techmanski and found a pair of pants inside that looked a lot like the Fjallravens, but felt higher quality to the touch.

I texted Andy to see what the deal was. His response? “They are way better with more tech.” To find out how and why, I called Yturri, who’s over in Africa taking his son hunting right now.

“The Fjallravens are a great pant for hunting,” Yturri explains. “But they were made for trekking.”

Yturri acknowledges that he drew heavily from the Fjallraven Keb concept, then figured out a way to make it in America, from American-made materials (the Fjallravens are made in Vietnam from internationally sourced parts). The big difference? “They’re damn similar, but we’re hardier,” he says.

What Makes a Pair of Pants Good for Hunting?

Where hiking, backpacking, and most other casual outdoor activities largely take place on trails, the kind of adventurous mountain hunting the Forloh guys and I are into takes us as far off-trail as possible. So where a hiker is primarily concerned with movement, comfort, and weather resistance, a hunter also has to consider things like abrasion, tear resistance, and durability. We spend more time wading through thick, thorny brush, sliding down scree fields on our butts, and crawling around on our hands and knees trying to convince ourselves that we’re being quiet.

None of that is to say that that the merits of a designed-for-hunting product won’t appeal or be relevant to other users. Product designers just love to envision hero use cases to define the problems they’re trying to solve. If you clear brush on a rural property, chase your dog through bushes, or are just really bad at navigating, then Forloh’s Brush to Mountain pants will also work for you.

To add in that “hardiness” to the basic Fjallraven formula, Yturri tells me he started by sourcing an American-made ripstop polyester-cotton blend fabric for the seat, knee, and calf reinforcements. The Swedish brand’s G1000 fabric is also a poly-cotton, but doesn’t feature woven-in barriers to halt tears before they can grow.

Those reinforcements are then mounted to the same stretch-woven polyester-spandex blend fabric Forloh uses in in its (also excellent) . That’s a four-way stretch material made in a hefty 315 grams-per-square-meter weight, which is also treated with a durable water repellant coating.

Why Waxed Cotton Works Better Than Untreated Cotton

Where synthetic materials like polyester and spandex don’t absorb water, cotton can absorb up to 27 times its weight in sweat, precipitation, or submersion. That’s why it’s the absolute —everywhere but the desert—at least in untreated form. But cotton is much stronger than synthetic fibers. Woven into a canvas, it’s also much more abrasion and tear resistant than its more weather-ready alternatives. And, fortunately, the hollow construction of cotton fibers is just as happy to soak up wax as it is water. When filled with wax, cotton becomes highly water resistant.

I’ve previously taken a deep dive into what makes waxed cotton so different from it’s untreated alternative.

Yturri tells me that applying wax to the poly-cotton ripstop canvas also increases abrasion and water resistance by up to 50 percent. And while the Forloh pants ship pre-waxed, the technology allows users to modify garments to their own needs. Planning a wet weekend? Rub a bar of Forloh’s proprietary all-natural wax treatment (also made and sourced in America, it smells like a pine tree) thoroughly over the ripstop reinforcements before heading out.

Spend a few years wearing and washing the Fjallravens, and eventually the stretch-woven panels will start to grow thin and come apart. Yturri says Forloh’s pants should last considerably longer before doing the same due to their thicker, higher quality weave. He also points to the zipper pulls as another weak area he’s addressed.

Why I Choose Forloh Above All Else

One area where I’ve had problems with the Fjallravens is in the belt loops, which are barely able to accommodate a 1.5-inch thick rigging belt and eventually fail when stretched out by that belt, and the four pound Glock 20 I use it to carry.

Yturri explains that Fjallraven’s belt loops are connected to the pants with an automated belt loop machine using “just regular sewing.” In contrast, Forloh stitches its much more generously sized, reinforced belt loops on by hand using bar tack stitching. Forloh then stitches a suede-like reinforcement around the entire inner perimeter of the waistband so those stitches won’t get abraded by wear. That waistband is also fitted with silicone inlays to help keep your shirt tucked in.

Small details like that really add up, especially in something like a pant that you just want to put on and forget. Another example? The Fjallraven kneepad pockets are simply square, with a portion left unstitched at the bottom through which you can insert those pads. That means the pads tend to work their way out over time, especially at inopportune moments when you’re kneeling or crawling. To counteract that, Forloh folded its kneepad pockets over internally by a few inches and sized the pocket to the exact dimensions of its American-made, non-Newtonian , so those’ll never accidentally come loose.

None of that was actually hard for Forloh, it’s just the process Yturri, Techmanski, and all their employees put into making technical clothing that doesn’t cut corners. Yturri says the hard part was actually finding a way to print Forloh’s proprietary, science-based camouflage scheme on a ripstop poly-cotton canvas.

To do that, the company turned to a military supplier, since like Forloh, the U.S. Government sources its clothing in America. But where the Army’s camo pattern only contains four colors, Forloh’s contains 13. Yturri says he’s spent a big portion of the last two years working with the supplier to figure that out, and is why the BTM pants are initially launching in plain colors only.

So those elk might be able to see my legs when Techmanski and I try to find some this fall. But I’ll be able to go looking for them in a much more durable pant, complete with intact belt loops, knee pads that stay where you want them, and the satisfaction that I’m supporting domestic manufacturing and American workers.

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For six months last year, once a week between May and October, I put on a pair of overalls and played farm girl as a volunteer on a near my home in Boulder, Colorado. I’ll soon start shifts for this summer. The experience has taught me a lot: That everything on a farm has a purpose. That nothing on a regenerative farm is wasted. That hard work is rewarding, as is caring for others, even if (especially if?) they’re goats. And that overalls rock as workwear.

When my stint on the farm started last year, my husband bought me a pair of as a birthday gift. I’d owned a pair of super-baggy denim overalls in my 20s that I really wish I’d kept. But I hadn’t worn a pair of overalls since. Despite feeling a little, dare I say, sheepish about looking like I was playing dress up to rake some urine-stained bedding, I stepped into my new overalls, pulled the shoulder straps over a grubby t-shirt, and reported to my shift.

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Dovetail Freshley Lightweight Overalls

I instantly appreciated the durability of the fabric, as goats nibble on clothes. I also appreciated the fact that I could reach high or low and not bare my midriff or look like I was playing plumber instead of farmer. And since the bulk of my stint took place in the summer months, I was grateful that the overalls were made of lightweight ripstop cotton (with a touch of nylon and spandex for stretch) instead of heavy canvas or denim. The fabric is tough enough to withstand farm work stress—the reinforced knee and cuffs help—without making me overheat. It’s also rated UPF 50 and sheds water.

The stretchy suspenders and gusseted crotch allow full mobility whether I’m filling a bucket full of water with a garden hose (cue “There’s a hole in the bucket, Dear Liza, Dear Liza” running through my head) or carrying said bucket across a field to the kids (adorably rascally baby goats).

But the pockets, oh the pockets. The 15(!) pockets on my Dovetails are almost my favorite part about them. Loading up these pockets reminds me of “moving into” a backpack—organizing my stuff into multiple pockets—something I freaking love. Packing a backpack always kickstarts the adventure ahead, and I love the sensibility and strategy of smartly designed pockets that I’ve smartly loaded.

I feel similarly about the overall pockets in that they have made my life easier while satisfyingly organizing my stuff on my person. I stick my phone in a zippered pocket on my thigh. I place a lip balm in the fold-over pocket on my chest. I sometimes tuck sunglasses away. Truth be told, I don’t have a lot of gear/packing needs for working with the goats, but the pockets keep what I do need safe and right where I know where to find them.

My absolute favorite thing about my overalls, however, is that they make me want to work. At the goat farm, I arrive in my overalls, ready to kick the goats out of the barn—which is also entertaining—so we can rake soiled hay, shovel it into a wheelbarrow, wheel it on over to the compost pile, and repeat before spreading new bedding. I carry the full buckets—a great strength training move, especially for my aging bones. I sometimes set up the electric fence used to move the goats’ grazing area around the farm, if we’re moving it that day.

And then we walk the goats on leashes to their grazing pasture where they happily gnaw down the weeds while aerating the ground with their hooves. Walking the goats is my favorite part of the 2.5-hour shift. Holding multiple leashes, each one connected to a goat, isn’t easy—they’re like large, crazy, stubborn dogs—but it makes me smile every time.

My Dovetail overalls have served me well on the goat farm, but they’ve also inspired me to set my alarm for 6 a.m., hook them over my shoulders, and head out into my own backyard to peter around cutting back plants, raking leaves, and irrigating my garden as the sun comes up. I’ve put on my overalls, and a pair of , to aerate my lawn like the goats in the fields, and spread weed and feed. (Crampons may not be as good as an actual aerator  for this job, but hey, I’m more gearhead than landscaper.)

Dare I say my overalls inspired me to sand and stain a picnic table—and they worked great for the job. My list of chores I plan to do in my overalls is growing. They inspire work. They inspire me to get shit done.

Sure, I could play homesteader in regular shorts or pants. I could work on the goat farm in other clothes. But, built for any job, my overalls make me work better, and more often.

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Dialing in the perfect fit is never more important than in ski pants designed for touring. The last thing you want to be thinking about as you tackle variable conditions and mitigate safety issues is pants that are too tight, falling down, or pinching in unfortunate areas. That’s where we come in. Our testers put almost three dozen pairs of backcountry ski pants through the paces to bring you these six fully vetted pants and bibs. Here are the best options for backcountry missions that kept us dry and comfortable on the up and the down.

The Winners at a Glance

Unisex/�ѱ��’s Pants

• Best Do-Everything Pants: Ortovox Ravine 3L Pant
• Best For Deep Days: Orage Grade 3L Bib
• Best Bibs For All-Day Comfort: Helly Hansen Odin BC Softshell Bib Pant

�´dz����’s Pants

• Best For Storm Days: Patagonia Untracked Bib
• Best For Bombproof Protection: The North Face �´dz����’s Summit Tsirku GTX Pro Bib
• Best For Long Days on the Skin Track: Mammut Haldigrat Air HS Pant

The Reviews: The Best Backcountry Pants and Bibs of 2024

�ѱ��’s Pants

Best Do-Everything Pants: Ortovox Ravine 3L Pant ($520)

Weight: 1 lb
Sizes: S-XXL

Pros

• Lightweight
• Excellent windproofing

Cons

• Didn’t hold up well to long periods of wet precip

The all-new Ravine Pant is part of Ortovox’s new freeride collection, a lightweight yet durable kit that provides a welcome departure from the tight and stretchy uphill-oriented clothes we’ve tested from the Euro brand in the past. Ortovox is known for pairing its waterproof pieces with components of merino wool—in this case, a Dermizax NX membrane backed with a merino layer—and it resulted in impressive breathability without sacrificing weight and packability. “I appreciated the thin design when it came to temp regulating on the up and how light and mobile they felt to skin in,” said Jackson-based tester Lucy Iselin. Two large thigh pockets were more than spacious enough for a dedicated beacon pocket as well as a spot to stash snacks and a pair of gloves. While some pants suit midwinter touring and some work better for warm spring missions, testers found the combo of the light construction and protection of the Ravine pants to stick with them from frigid to storm days through balmy spring temps. “These pants do very well in the wind,” said tester James Temple after slogging up a 3,500 feet in bone-chilling winds in Grand Teton National Park. “And I felt equally comfortable skiing belly button deep powder as a late-April corn mission!”

Bottom line: An excellent do-everything touring pant that holds up to deep powder days as well as spring missions

Best For Deep Days: Orage MTN-X GRADE LIGHT 3L BIB ($525)

Weight: 1.4 lbs
Sizes: S-XXL

Pros

• Breathability
• Stretch and mobility

Cons

• Back zipper sometimes bunches around a backpack

Stretchy and breathable while maintaining a freeride fit, these bibs impressed testers with their all-day comfort and protection while going out for long missions in Grand Teton National Park. We put the DWR-treated polyester shell through the wringer in the Tetons and found it no worse for the wear, skiing through a storm that dropped 12 inches throughout the day and shwacking our way through overgrown forests. Jersey backing provided a soft feel and stretch that one tester claimed he “wore day and night during a yurt trip.” We loved the stretchy elastic bib strap design, which never dug in while wearing a pack thanks to the adjustment piece at the waist (instead of the shoulder). One tester noted that the back zipper rubbed a little bit while skiing choppy terrain with a pack on, but that he could mitigate that by throwing on an extra layer, and it was worth it for the full-length side venting.

Bottom line: Stretchy and breathable bibs for freeriders who want to go deep into the backcountry.

Best Bibs For All-Day Comfort: Helly Hansen Odin BC Softshell Bib Pant ($400)

Weight: 26 oz.
Sizes: S-XXL

Pros

• Breathability
• Stretch and mobility

Cons

• Small thigh pockets

For fast-paced days in the backcountry, the new Helly Hansen Odin BC Softshell Bibs boasted the best breathability and all-day comfort in our test. Built with a synthetic blend of polyester, polyamide, and elastane, the Odin softshells regulated temps on long tours and steep bootpacks, while still shedding light snowfall. “Despite the relatively tight fit, these are supremely comfortable for athletic skiing missions,” said Jackson-based tester Max Ritter. “A great bottom for technical ski mountaineering.” The low bib design with adjustable elastic suspenders was a hit with testers who are used to wearing softshell pants, allowing a more secure fit for long days out. “Combining the cut and fit of a hardshell bib with a softshell pant is really cool,” added Ritter. Reinforced panels below the knee upped the durability, which was much appreciated while donning crampons and kneeling in the snow when strapping skis to our packs. The only real downside was the small thigh pockets, which we had a hard time fitting more than a few snacks inside.

Bottom line: A comfortable and unrestrictive softshell bib for crushing vert during high-pressure windows

�´dz����’s Pants

Best For Storm Days: Patagonia Untracked Bibs ($649)

Weight: 1.3 lbs
Sizes: XS-XL (women’s)

Pros

• Storm proofing
• Easy to use drop seat

Cons

• Less packable
• Baggy in the back

Not only did the new Untracked Bibs top the charts for storm protection, but the new kit utilizes a Gore-Tex ePE three-layer membrane approved for use in harsh weather. The strong and lightweight membrane is PFC-free, backed with a solution-dyed recycled nylon flannel backer. On snow, testers raved about the protection and moisture-shedding properties while skiing in weather that would have kept most of us mere mortals inside. “I skied a day in Revelstoke in the worst freezing rain/snow/sleet I’ve ever been in,” said PNW tester Mikayla Olin. “I was completely covered in ice. The jacket and bibs repelled water and I was bone-dry underneath all day.” Despite the robust shell design, the Untracked Bibs offered impressive articulation, with a drop seat and side vents that pull down easily mid stride. Initially, we noticed a stiff and crunchy feel at first that broke in after three or four ski tours. Ladies also noticed they did run a little baggy, especially in the back.

Bottom line: Ladies looking for a protective bib for deep storm days will be satisfied with this option

Best For Bombproof Protection: The North Face �´dz����’s Summit Tsirku GTX Pro Bib ($700)

Weight: 1.2 lbs
Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros

• High coverage bib offers maximum protection
• Ample pockets for all your gear

Cons

• Pretty thick, so not ideal for spring tours
• Less breathable

The all-new TNF Summit Tsirku GTX Pro Bib was our favorite high-coverage bib, with ample pockets for all our gear, a super-adjustable fit, and impressive storm protection while testing them out during a record-breaking winter in the Tetons. With an 80-denier nylon face fabric and a Gore-Tex Pro membrane, the Summit Tsirku made us feel invincible while lapping our favorite pow stashes in 30 mph winds on a Teton Pass storm day. We stashed a spare set of gloves, a phone, sunnies, and a few Lara bars in the vertical chest pockets, which had a tether on the right side for stowing a beacon (which you’ll also find in the thigh pockets). Waist pockets bump up the storage even more, and although one tester claimed she “barely ever had to reach into my backpack with all these pocket options,” these bibs never felt overly bulky. A waist cinch helps create a customizable fit that helped with the overall baggy design, and full length leg vents kept us reasonably cool once spring skiing finally hit.

Bottom line: A durable bib that offers maximum protection for deep winter days, this bib is a great hybrid piece for the resort and backcountry

Best For Long Days On the Skin Track: Mammut Haldigrat Air HS Pant ($449)

Weight: .9 lb
Sizes: US 2-16

Pros

• Lightweight
• Breathable

Cons

• Missing belt loops or suspenders

While we felt that the Haldigrat jacket was a great inbounds layer (page TK), the lightweight and breathable pants stood out in our backcountry test, especially on longer hikes and missions. A robust three-layer construction complete with a 40-denier polyamide face fabric was both soft and easy to move in. “I wore these pants on a four-day hut trip in the Tetons, and they kept me dry and comfortable on the deepest days where the snow never let up, but also breathed well and almost felt like yoga pants on days where I spent all day walking,” said tester Lily Krass. Testers appreciated the two thigh pockets, which had enough space for a transceiver on one side and snacks on the other, without adding too much bulk. Snap buttons attached the pants to the jacket, but since we rarely utilized that feature in the backcountry, we missed the presence of a belt loop or suspenders like the men’s version has. There are two Velcro straps on the sides, but we had a hard time getting them to stay.

Bottom line: A lightweight touring pant for long days on the skintrack

How We Test

• Number of testers: 19
• Number of products tested: 27
• Number of miles: 1,200
• Number of vertical feet: 410,000
• Overnight ski tours: 8
• Peaks bagged: 16
• Deepest storm day total: 49 inches
• Longest single day ski tour: 8,600 vertical feet

From high alpine peaks to low-angle pow laps, our team of 19 testers tested 27 pants and bibs last season, evaluating each piece for its breathability, durability, protection, and features. Testers spanned the gamut from vert-crazed uphill fiends to downhill-inclined freeride skiers, newer backcountry skiers, and everything in between. Jackson, Wyoming was our hub for testing this year, the perfect place to put jackets through the wringer on both deep storm days and high pressure windows in the alpine. Testers also took these layers for a spin in maritime climates like the Pacific Northwest and Interior British Columbia, as well as the high peaks in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains and steep slopes in Southeast Alaska. We slogged up steep bootpacks, meandered along skintracks, walked knife-edge ridges, scored deep powder turns, smeared spring corn, and fought our way down variable wind crusts to bring you the best backcountry pants of the year.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Lily Krass is a freelance storyteller based in Jackson, Wyoming with a love for long days in the backcountry. In addition to an all-consuming addiction to powder skiing and exploring high places on skis, Lily takes snacking seriously, and when she’s not writing or sliding on snow, she’s likely deep into a baking project in her tiny kitchen. She is the co-author of Beyond Skid: A Cookbook For Ski Bums, a collection of dirtbag-friendly recipes inspired by life in a mountain town.

More From the 2024 Winter Gear Guide

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Ski jackets get more attention, but we think it’s much harder to find a great pair of ski pants. And more important, too. Your legs do a lot more moving in skiing than your upper body, so if your pants are too tight, too baggy, or just don’t sit right, you are going to notice. Plus, pants spend more time in contact with other surfaces—sitting on the chair, soaking in the slush, kneeling in the snow—so durability and weather resistance really matter. We sorted through two dozen new ski pants and bibs to find these six standouts that will fit better and help you stay out longer.

The Winners at a Glance

• Editor’s Choice: Stio Figment Bib
• Best For Frigid Conditions: Flylow Baker Insulated Bib
• Best Universal Fit: Orage Exodus Insulated Pant
• Most Eco-Conscious: Patagonia Stormshift Pant
• Best Budget Buy: Eddie Bauer Chair Six
• Best Weather Protection: 686 Gore Pro 3L Thermagraph

The Reviews: The Best Resort Ski Pants of 2024

Editor’s Choice: Stio Figment Bib ($479)

Weight: 2 lb
Size: S-XXL

Pros

• Excellent weather protection
• Functional pocket placement

Cons

• Belt is not adjustable enough for thinner skiers

Usually, the first time wearing a bib pant involves a few stops to make adjustments. Not with the Figment. Adjusting the fit required just a quick tighten or release of the Velcro tabs on the suspenders and a pull on the waist belt. Done! Whether sitting, carving, or picking his way down the steeps off of Whistler’s Peak Chair, category manager Ryan Stuart didn’t notice the pants again. “They felt like a custom fit,” he says. Articulation in the knees, gusseting in the crotch, and stretchy shoulder straps that stayed put played a big role in ensuring everything sat as it should. Beyond fit, the proprietary weatherproof-breathable membrane was impenetrable, even sitting in a chairlift puddle for a 20-minute ride. The pocket layout was equally dialed for resort riding. The two hand pockets were accessible sitting or standing, the bellowed thigh pockets easily carried extra gloves, and the chest pocket could hold a beacon or other valuables. Finally, Stio beefed up the recycled polyester face fabric in the knees and seat to a burly 150 denier. With a relaxed, but not too baggy look and a timeless color-blocked style, these bibs are ready for years of abuse.

Bottom Line:With an inner thigh vent and an uninsulated design, these bibs are optimized for the resort but ready to play beyond the boundary line too.

Best For Frigid Conditions: Flylow Baker Insulated Bib ($430)

Weight: 2.2 lb
Size: S-XXL

Pros

• Super durable in high-wear spots
• Just the right amount of insulation

Cons

• Buckles on the bibs conflict with packs

These insulated bibs were designed for skiers like tester Paul Karchut, who skis fast, works hard, and breaks things. Flylow took their popular Baker Bib shell pant and stuffed it with 40 grams of recycled insulation. “It’s just the right amount to cut the cold, but not make them unusable once the weather warms up,” says Karchut, who tested them in temps ranging from -30 to 20 degrees F skiing in the Canadian Rockies around Banff. Heating up on bootpacks and skin tracks, he cracked the mesh backed thigh vents. There were pockets in all the right places: hands, thigh, back, and two on the chest. And the fit was dialed for an athletic guy like Karchut, though stockier skiers might find the bibs snug. As a mostly reformed telemark skier, Karchut also appreciated the durability. The 150-denier polyester was already stout, then Flylow cranked it to 1,000 denier around the articulated knees and the cuffs. His only gripe was that pack straps overlapped with the oversized bib buckles. Small quibble for Karchut, who happily wore these all winter long.

Bottom Line:A tough bib for resorts skiing in colder zones.

Best Universal Fit: Orage Exodus Insulated Pant ($325)

Weight: 1.7 lb
Size: S-XXL

Pros

• Stretchy materials helped with fit and mobility
• Lightweight insulation

Cons

• Narrower fit

Tall, short, stocky, or thin, these pants were body inclusive, shape-shifting to fit every tester. Velcro tabs on the waistline played a big role, providing several inches of adjustment. Four-way stretch throughout the pants also helped. The Oeko-Tex waterproof-breathable membrane, recycled polyester exterior fabric, and synthetic insulation had plenty of stretch. Add articulation through the knees and gusseting in the crotch and even a tester whose massive quads filled out the pants said he never felt restricted. The fit is narrower than some might like, but the 60-gram insulation seemed just right for typical winter conditions. No tester complained about them being too warm—they are super lightweight for insulated pants. And “the pockets are perfect,” reported Ryan Stuart. Sitting on a chairlift, he could pull his phone out of the hand pockets without contortion and he could stuff the thigh pockets without them bouncing around or feeling bulky.

Bottom Line: Best for resort skiing in cold weather and a good choice if your waist size tends to vary through the winter. Hello, après beer gut!

Most Eco-Conscious: Patagonia Storm Shift Pants ($400)

Weight: 1.6 lb
Size: Regular, short, XS-XXL

Pros

• No PFCs
• Comfortable wear and fit

Cons

• Bulky two layer design
• Some fit concerns

We were rooting for these pants even before testers reported loving them. They feature the new Gore Tex ePE membrane, which is the first waterproof-breathable barrier from the industry leader that includes no perfluorinates, or PFCs. These forever chemicals have long-term health and environmental concerns. Patagonia went even further and eliminated PFCs in the DWR and the rest of the two-layer design. The change resulted in no loss in performance: We stayed dry all day during a soggy, above-freezing snowstorm in the Coast Range near Whistler.

The lining is a comfort booster. It feels soft next to your skin (and wicks moisture, too), slides over the roughest of base layers, and adds a hint of insulation. That’s welcome on cold days, but not an issue in warmer weather. Overheating on the bootpack up to Blackcomb’s Chimney, tester Ethan Sjogren said that opening the mesh-lined outer thigh vents instantly dumped heat. “But they didn’t let snow in when I forgot to close them.” After 20 days of use, he reported that the pants were still in good shape, with no signs of wear around the cuffs thanks to oversized scuff guard patches. Some testers reported inconsistencies in sizing, but with multiple length and size options, everyone should be able to find a pair that fits.

Bottom Line:Casual resort pants that will ease (some of) your environmental worries.

Best Budget Buy: Eddie Bauer Chair Six Shell Pant ($229)

Weight: 1.3 lb
Size: Regular, tall, S-XXL

Pros

• Resort to backcountry design
• Great value

Cons

• Thigh pocket gets floppy

The Chair Six Shell Pant is all about value. Normally, $200 will get you ho-hum quality, but Eddie Bauer outfitted these pants with a three-layer fabric for more packability, better weatherproofing, and superior breathability. The membrane is EB’s proprietary Weatheredge Pro, which boasts 20,000 mm of water resistance. “I was shocked when I saw the price,” reported tester Chris Baikie. “The pants performed about as well as the Gore Tex pants I’ve owned, but cost about half as much.” He tested the weather resistance during a full day of skiing in the drizzle at Vancouver Island’s Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

In nicer weather, the hot-running tester appreciated the inner thigh vent, which ran right through the crotch with two-way zips. “I could use it as a regular vent or unzip it all the way,” he said. “It’s a unique design that would be welcome on hot ski tours.” He found the 75-denier polyester fabric with a hint of stretch was burly enough for the ski hill, but not too bulky for slackcountry laps. His one complaint: Packing too much into the big thigh pocket made it floppy. Otherwise, these are an awesome deal for shell-loving skiers.

Bottom Line: Budget shell pants with top-shelf quality and materials.

Best Weather Protection: 686 Gore Pro 3L Thermagraph Bib ($600)

Weight: 2.9 lb
Size: S-XXL

Pros

• Super tough and highly waterproof
• Lightly insulated in all the right places

Cons

• Pricy
• On the heavier side

These bibs proved that believing in science will lead to more skiing. 686 paired Gore Tex’s most durable Pro waterproof-breathable membrane with a 150-denier face fabric that feels like rhino skin (which is the name of the gray fabric color). Then they added panels of Polartec Alpha, a synthetic insulation developed for U.S. Special Forces, to the seat and knees, where research shows the body feels cold the most. They also placed vents on either side of each leg to engineer a cooling cross breeze. And they built a water bladder system into the lumbar area, because the human body performs best and stays warmer when properly hydrated. “I don’t know if it’s the insulation, the Gore Tex, or actually being hydrated, but I felt more energetic all morning,” said Ryan Stuart, who tested them during several soggy days of skiing. “These are the most waterproof pants I’ve tried.” Testers reported the fit on the baggy side of the spectrum and running a little large for the size. But unlike most 686 pants, these are made for skiers, with a scuff guard around the bottom of the legs and a gaiter that played well with ski buckles. They are pricey, but then science and technology is never cheap.

Bottom Line: When staying dry is your biggest challenge, these are the bibs you should own.

How to Buy

Consider these six factors when buying ski pants.

Waterproofing: Because pants spend more time in contact with the snow and potentially wet surfaces like chairlifts, waterproofing is even more important than in jackets. Pick pants with a waterproof rating higher than 15,000 mm with sealed seams to prevent water from seeping in.

Breathability: While it’s crucial to keep water out, you also want your ski pants to be breathable, so sweat vapor doesn’t leave you wet from the inside. Look for pants with breathable membranes and venting zippers. For the resort, mesh-backed vents are best, so you can ski with them open.

Insulation: Consider the level of insulation you need based on the conditions you typically ski in and your personal preference. Uninsulated shell pants paired with base layers offer versatility. Insulated pants will always be warmer and are good for colder regions. For reference, between 40 and 60 grams of synthetic insulation offers a versatile warmth.

Fit and Mobility: To help fine-tune the fit, look for pants and bibs with adjustable waistbands and shoulder straps. Articulated knees, gussets, and stretchy materials help with mobility, which plays into fit. Finally, check that boot gaiters and venting zippers are compatible with your boots and body shape.

Durability: Metal edges, kneeling in the snow, and sitting on chairlifts, all take their toll on ski pants. To add longevity to your gear, look for pants made from higher-denier materials and reinforcements in key zones, like knees, seat and, especially, around the boot cuff.

Features and Extras: Consider additional features that may enhance your skiing experience, including the number and placement of pockets, integration with jackets and powder skirts, and RECCO locators.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 16
• Number of products tested: 26
• Number of chairlift laps: 5,000-plus
• Most vertical skied by a tester: 1.7 million feet

Testing ski pants is all about vertical. The more time our testers spend sitting on chairs, turning on snow, and hiking to the goods, the better they can judge whether a pant is good or great. To make our test team, testers have to log at least 30 days per season. We recruit from across the continent and try to find a variety of skier types and interests to give us as diverse feedback as possible. We send them each several pairs of pants to test and ask them to put in at least a couple days with each item. We also ask them to hand each pair off to friends and ski buddies to try, too. Once the flakes start melting, we check back in with our test team to record their feedback and find out which ones stood out from a winter of testing. These are the top six.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Ski buddies of Ryan Stuart, our Lead Tester and category manager, say it’s tricky to keep track of him at the resort. Not so much because he skis so fast, but because he’s always wearing something different. Is it the red jacket and black pants today or the yellow jacket and gray pants? His helmet doesn’t help either. As the technical editor at Ski Canada Magazine, he also tests lids and other ski gear. When he’s not on the slopes or traveling the world to write about skiing, Ryan’s at his desk on Vancouver Island. He’s a full-time freelance writer focused mostly on the outdoor world and is working on his first book, a history of skiing in Canada.

Other integral testers include Canadian Broadcast Corporation weekend radio host Paul Karchu, whose flexible weekday schedule allows him to chase storms around western Canada. He visited nine resorts last winter, the highlight being a 20-inch day at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

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The best ski days are the ones where the mountains, the snow, and the friends you’re with are the only things on your mind. A great pair of ski pants or bibs eliminates distractions, like a wet butt or a cold one, so that every day you ski can be memorable for the right reasons. This year’s ski pants and bibs are lighter and softer overall, making it easier to move freely down the slopes. And bibs? They’re nearly universally better designed to make dropping the seat for a bio break a stress-free event. Whether you’re looking for insulated pants for sub-zero days skiing Stowe’s Front Four or you want bibs that can bounce between JHMR and Teton Pass, read on for our favorites.

The Winners at a Glance

• Most Functional Bibs: Backcountry Cottonwoods Bib
• Best Value: Columbia Highland Bibs
• Most Stylish: Beringia St. Elias Bib 2.0
• Most Breathable: Arc’teryx Rush Bib Pant
• Most Versatile Bibs: Patagonia Untracked Bibs
• Best Bang For Your Buck: Helly Hansen Powderqueen Pant
• Best Resort-Meets-Backcountry Bibs: Salomon QST GTX PRO Bib
• Best For Tall and Lean Skiers: Adidas Terrex Techrock 3L Gore-Tex Bib Pants
• Best Insulated Bibs: Flylow Foxy Insulated Bib
• Best Mobility: Jones Shralpinist Stretch Bib

The Reviews: The Best �´dz����’s Resort Pants of 2024

Most Functional Bibs: Backcountry Cottonwoods Gore-Tex Bib Pant ($399)

Weight: 1.9 lb
Sizes: XS-XXL

Pros

• Extremely durable
• Can be worn as a pant and bib
• Generous cut

Cons

• Fabric is stiff and crinkly
• Lots of zippers
• Built-in waist adjustment system is redundant with belt loops
• Run large (size down)

If you find ski pants confining, you’ll jump with joy when you slip into Backcountry Cottonwoods. The fit is generous. Idaho-based tester Michelle Nicholson said, “These are the best fitting women’s bib I’ve tried in a while. They gave ample room for layering since they’re just a shell, but didn’t feel bulky when I wasn’t all layered up.” Nicholson said she loved the bibs’ clean lines, and that they weren’t too form-fitting. “I even liked how loose they made the halter,” said Nicholson. “There was space to breathe for women with breasts.” Testers also praised how easy these were to operate when nature called. “The relief zippers are on point, there was no having to awkwardly sit so you don’t pee on yourself or your pants when going inside isn’t an option,” said Vermont tester Bec Wojtecki. Made from woven nylon with a Gore-Tex membrane, the Cottonwoods can take the hardest abuse and come out the other side as good as new. They have tons of pockets–the chest one fit a beacon perfectly, and we loved the pleated leg pockets that had room to hold snacks, gloves, and more. Ankle gaiters kept snow out, and the bib is removable if you prefer to wear these as pants.

Bottom Line: Super durable, and highly functional bib with plenty of space for layering and movement

Best Value: Columbia Highland Summit Bib ($200)

Weight: 1.1 lb
Sizes: XS-XXL in long, regular, and short; 1x-3x come in regular and short

Pros

• Big size range
• Great value
• Relaxed fit

Cons

• Boxy cut
• Leg zip flaps didn’t lay flat

“As I was riding the quad up the face of Mt. Mansfield on a sub-zero Vermont morning in Columia’s Highlands Bibs I realized that for the first time in a very long time, my butt cheeks were completely warm,” said Vermont-based Louise Lintilhac. If you hate a cold butt sitting on a chair lift, these bibs will eliminate that problem permanently. “On the chair, I was super warm and comfortable, which was relaxing because the Highlands kit was soft, not stiff,” said Montana-based Caroline Painter. “These pants helped me last a little longer on very chilly days.” But the Highland Summit Bib’s great features don’t stop at warmth. Dual waist-to-knee side zips made getting into and out of these bibs a cinch and testers loved the broad, comfortable shoulder straps. The bibs weren’t fully bathroom-break-friendly without removing the shoulder straps due to the high-cut back. But we had high praise for the two sets of waist snaps. The bibs had plenty of room for layering, but could also be made more shapely on days that required fewer fleecy tights. Snaps on the lower leg accommodated bulky ski boots but also cinched down for standard snow boots. And the bibs had a unique microfleece-lined chest pocket with a handwarmer kangaroo pocket at the waist. They were fuzzy and warm, but only usable with an unzipped jacket.

Bottom Line: The best value cold day ski bib, and a killer choice for skiers who struggle to stay warm on the lift.

Most Stylish: Beringia St. Elias Bib 2.0 ($675)

Weight: 1.4 lbs
Sizes: XS-L

Pros

• Convertible bib to pants
• Made from soft and quiet material
• Wide shoulder straps were comfortable

Cons

• Halter has to unzip for pee breaks

Not sure if you prefer pants or bibs? With Beringia’s St. Elias, you get both. You also get a weather-adapting membrane that subtly releases extra heat or seals tighter against the wind as conditions and your body temp require. “The convertible bib to pant system is the best I have seen so far…it’s super easy to use, and I especially like the front zipper for getting in and out of the bibs,” said Vermont-based Caitlin Kelly. Kelly and others also praised the stretch and the generous waist belt loops. Sometimes bibs can feel like they’re cutting into your shoulders. These have broad straps that were notably comfortable. They also have a wide, breathable mesh back panel that enhanced the fit without making us overheat. Thigh zip pockets were spacious. One has a lanyard. One of the oversized chest pockets has a top and side velcro closure that made getting a phone in and out fast and glove-friendly. A bootlace or buckle hook kept the cuff from riding up when we weren’t wearing ski boots.

Bottom Line: Durable, flattering, functional, frontcountry/backcountry ready, and a great choice for serious skiers.

Most Breathable: Arc’teryx Rush Bib Pant ($700)

Weight: 1.3 oz
Sizes: 00-16

Pros

• Lightweight
• Generously cut
• Not restrictive

Cons

• Not the warmest bibs in our test

Often, simpler is better, and that’s what testers loved about the Rush Bib Pant. These Gore-Tex bottoms, which some called high pants, and others considered a bib, have a C-Knit backer which made them one of the most breathable pairs of bibs we tested. Plus they just feel good to put on. They’re lightweight, but the high-tech fabric combined with water-resistant zippers kept the weather out. And when we needed to let heat out, hip-to-knee zips were one-hand operable and fully vented the legs. After skiing in the Rush for a week in deep powder in Jackson Hole, Vermont tester Broudy said, “ The mid-high below the boobs halter didn’t crush my chest. It didn’t restrict my breathing, it wasn’t confining in any way. Plus, the bibs were easy to get out of when I needed to pee thanks to the full side zip that’s secured with a snap on top. I loved them.”

We also loved the cuffs, which were easy to slide over boots, as well as the robust kick guard that kept these from getting cut by ski edges. And the pockets were perfect. Both thigh pockets had extra features–a loop lanyard on the left, and an inner pocket on the right. The bib pocket, which was sized to hold a beacon, also has a loop lanyard. “Relaxed fit and true to size,” said Vermont tester Douglas. “I felt like a pro in these bibs. They were incredibly versatile for all weather conditions and easy to layer and vent.” “On an extra-early storm day dawn patrol, I had to do my morning business in the woods, in the dark, in a blizzard, due to an unfortunate misalignment of circadian rhythms and athletic ambitions,” said New Mexico-based tester Abigail Barronian. “The drop seat is perfect–easy to access with a jacket still zipped, and long enough to easily get the pants out of the way.” The bibs have an embedded RECCO reflector to assist search and rescuers in an emergency. They’re also cut more generously than other Arcteryx ski bibs we’ve tried, which was a huge win.

Bottom Line: An all-around stellar bib/pant that was a top pick of all testers, and a favorite of women who don’t usually love bibs because the chest is too tight

Most Versatile Bibs: Patagonia Untracked Bibs ($649)

Weight: 1.3 lb
Sizes: XS-XL

Pros

• PFC-free waterproofing
• Easily transitions from frontside to backside
• Perfectly placed and sized thigh pockets

Cons

• Suspenders aren’t removable
• Too long for some testers

Freedom. That’s the word testers most often used to describe these bibs. “The pant legs were wide but not too wide and the cuffs fit excellently over my ski boots which often doesn’t happen with size small bibs,” said Utah-based Anneka Williams. “I liked how soft and flexible the material felt. Bibs often feel like they constrain movement or are just made of stiff, resistant fabric. These bibs, though, were super flexible and comfortable for a long day of movement. This made them really versatile across different terrain types.” And long-legged skiers were over the moon with the length. Easy-to-operate dual waist-to-knee zips with one-hand operable zippers made pee breaks quick and efficient. Testers loved the overlapping zipper plus snap high-cut princess waist.

The Untracked bibs are made with an ePE membrane built for the harshest weather and extreme and extended use that doesn’t leech bioaccumulating PFCs into the snowpack. The bibs use a lighter face fabric and membrane paired with a soft-shell recycled nylon flannel backer and a PFC-free DWR finish. “These bibs offer easy venting so you can regulate your temperature throughout the day and the season,” said Vermont-based Lintilhac. “The mid-coverage bib with the drop-seat configuration made it easy to go to the bathroom without taking off all your layers, and these pants gave me all the range of motion I needed in the skin track. The back panel breathed really well and the side vent did a great job of dumping heat while I was on the up track”.

The drop-seat configuration and single-snap, zip-fly closure allowed testers convenient relief when nature called. And testers who bounced between the front country, sidecountry, and backcountry praised the exterior belt loops at the waist which allowed them to lower the bib top on sweaty tours. The Untracked bibs have two zippered thigh drop pockets, and the right pocket has an internal stretch-mesh pocket to hold a beacon or phone.

Bottom Line: The most versatile, and the most eco-friendly bibs you can buy.

Best Bang For Your Buck: Helly Hansen Powderqueen Pant ($300)

Weight: 1.6 lb
Sizes: XS-XL

Pros

• Fun colors
• Gusseted thigh pocket
• Vented thighs

Cons

• Hand pockets have limited use
• Waist doesn’t stretch

Fully waterproof and breathable, but without the crinkly, techy feel of a lot of the pants we tested, Helly Hansen’s Powderqueen is made for every skier who wants to have a warm, dry, unrestricted day on the mountain. This pant’s biggest wins are in the details: double pockets on the right thigh, a redundant snap and clip waist, and stretchy fabric without a ski tight fit. The knees are articulated and the crotch is gusseted for full freedom of movement. And the Powderqueen is outfitted with RECCO to help you get found in an accident. To give these lightly insulated pants weather versatility, Helly added mid-thigh-to-knee zips. Reinforced fabric on the bottom hem prevented ski cuts, while a snow gaiter kept the fluffy stuff out of our boots. Broudy says she loved them because the heathered shell is warm, waterproof and breathable with a chill vibe, “so you get pro-level performance in a pant that’s a little lower key.” Bonus: every pants purchase comes with a free ski ticket through HH’s Ski Free program.

Bottom Line: An approachable pant with all the best tech, and a more relaxed attitude.

Best Resort-Meets-Backcountry Option: Salomon S/LAB QST GTX Pro Bibs ($600)

Weight: 1.7 lb
Sizes: XS-XL

Pros

• Loads of pockets
• Dual zips for easy bio breaks

Cons

• Loud fabric
• Gaiters were hard to slide over alpine boots

If you’re often frustrated by the lack of pockets in women’s ski pants, you’ll be thrilled when you zip into Salomon’s S/LAB QST GTX Pro Bibs. When Idaho tester Michelle Nicholson was “swimming in powder” on the deepest day of the year at Grand Targhee, these bibs kept the snow out. She sang the praises of the QST GTX’s baggier fit, which accommodated her athletic build without binding. Vermont-based tester Bec Wojtecki felt the same. “These bibs were roomy enough on a curvy medium body to allow me to layer up and down.” The stretchy halter accommodated most chest sizes and shapes. And a long chest zip made the QST GTX easy to get on and off. To-the-knee side zips facilitated bio breaks, and a snap at the waist kept zippers from working their way open as we shussed down the mountain. The bibs are lightweight but heavy-duty. And testers loved that these bombproof bibs came in black, which hid the salsa stains. One chest pocket has a beacon tether, but the thigh pocket does not. The cuffs are adjustable, but inner gaiters are not, and both are cut slim.

Bottom Line: A techy pant that’s front-country/backcountry ready.

Best For Tall and Lean Skiers: Adidas Terrex Techrock 3L Gore-Tex Bib Pants ($550)

Weight: 1.3 lb
Sizes: XS-XL

Pros

• Easy to operate drop seat
• Sweat-wicking back panel
• Generous two-way zips for venting

Cons

• Thigh pocket is tight for a beacon

Brushed for softness against the skin, and cut for freedom of movement, Adidas’ Terrex Techrock 3L Gore-Tex Bib Pants were slim, trim, and sweat-wicking. “For taller, leaner skiers, like Douglas, “Adidas really knocked it out of the park with these bibs fit-wise. I didn’t want to take these off and got compliments après-ing.” “The fit was great: trim through the butt and torso but baggy in the legs, which made them easy to move around in,” said Barronian. They’re light, with a protective rubber print on the inner cuffs instead of heavyweight fabric, and ribs-to-mid-thigh zips for venting, which also made bio breaks easy. Testers loved that we never needed to worry about snow down the pants with these bibs. They’re cut high in the back, but the back panel is stretchy and breathable, enhancing movement along with the gusseted crotch, and pre-shaped knees. Major props for the oversized chest pocket that held a phone, keys, and even a sandwich. But the inch-and-a-half webbing waist belt got mixed reviews because it’s not removable without cutting it off, and some testers thought it didn’t match the bib’s clean aesthetic. Bonus: the pants come with a repair patch to keep them in service longer. And another bonus: the bib straps are quick-release and easy to adjust. Snow gaiters let us snap these tight around different kinds of boots, and an inner gaiter snugged around boot cuffs to keep snow out.

Bottom Line: Technical bibs cut for straight, not curvy, women.

Best Insulated Bibs: Flylow Foxy Insulated Bibs ($430)

Weight: 1.7 lbs
Sizes: XS-XL

Pros

• Easy drop seat
• Double thigh vents and chest pockets
• Good value

Cons

• Chest insulation made these too warm for some testers

With universally-appealing steezy style, and all the bells and whistles of the best bibs, Flylow’s Foxy fit great and held up beautifully even after a season of heavy use. Made from Intuitive Tactic 2L, a wallet-friendly, proprietary waterproof breathable membrane under a 100 percent recycled polyester shell with 40 grams of insulation, the jacket kept testers warm and dry whether the wind was blasting and the snow was falling, or we were being pelted with a wintery mix. “Super comfortable, perfectly fit, and warm!” said Jackson-based Flo McCall. Designed for practicality, the drop seat was user-friendly. “Anytime I needed to use the restroom, these bibs made it so easy… the mesh stretch in the back made it quick to move the butt fabric aside,” said Utah-based Abby Ghent. We also loved that leg pockets close by zipping down, a thoughtful detail that made grabbing a quick snack or some lip balm a non-event. Testers appreciated the oversized side entry chest pocket that was overlaid with a small pocket for keys and a credit card. Powder skirts aren’t always useful. Powder skirts in Flylow jackets snap to Foxy Bibs to give skiers and riders onesie-like snow protection. Zippered thigh pockets held essentials. These have a back pocket too. And all key zippers are waterproof.

Bottom Line: An insulated bib with attitude and all the features.

Best Mobility: Jones Shralpinist Stretch Recycled Bibs ($500)

Weight: 1.4 lb
Sizes: XS-L

Pros

• Spacious chest and thigh pockets
• Belt loops
• 100 percent recycled fabric

Cons

• Limited sizing

Whether we were lapping the hill, then lunching before lapping some more, hammering out as much vert as we could before work, or snowmobiling to ski backcountry lines, we loved these bibs. Made for big missions, but just as good at handling moderate ones, Jones’ Shralpinist Bibs have all the features to let skiers focus on the line without being distracted by confining clothing or gear limitations.

Four-way stretch and a 30K/30K waterproof breathable membrane were protective, soft, and easy to move in without being crinkly or confining. The adjustable shoulder straps were “set em and forget em” comfortable. Side seam venting doubled as a release for stress-free bio breaks. And stretch woven panels in the chest and back left plenty of breathing room. The fit was relaxed and flattering without being baggy with belt loops that let us trim the fit if needed, and also drop the bib for hiking. “The pockets were perfect,” said Broudy. “Thigh pockets accordioned and had an inner stretch sleeve tether to hold a beacon, and chest pocket storage was separated so I could keep track of stuff I needed to carry, and didn’t have to search around.” And, when the ski day continued into a ski night, these bibs had enough stretch to handle the dance floor. Testers also loved the ski edge repelling gaiters and elasticized inner gaiters which worked as well for skiers as for snowboarders.

Bottom Line: A high-performance bib with extreme weather protection for winter missions.

How to Buy �´dz����’s Resort Pants

Buying ski pants or bibs is a little like buying jeans. Sometimes you have to try on a few pairs before you find the ones that feel like they were made for you. Here are our top tips for buying the bottom half of your ski kit.

Pants or bibs? Are you a bibs girl or a pants girl? If you hate tight things around your waist, you sometimes tour as well as ski lift-serve ski, or regularly ski in deep conditions, bibs might be the best choice. They have more weather protection, more pockets, and most can be easily dropped without stripping when nature calls.

How’s the fit? Whatever your size and shape, there are pants and bibs out there for you. Buy a pair with space to layer underneath, and with enough stretch or space that they aren’t restrictive on the chair, on the slopes, and during apres.

Do the pockets deliver? Whether you need to carry snacks, an avy beacon, a goggle wipe, sunscreen, or something else, get ski pants that have pockets that are intuitive, easy to access, and the right size to hold what you need.

Insulation and vents? The best ski pants for you will keep you warm enough but not too warm. If your personal temperature seems to fluctuate, get pants or bibs with thigh vents. Choose insulated if you always have a cold butt and don’t want to wear too many layers. Or go for shell pants for ultimate temperature flexibility–you can add as many or as few layers as the day requires.

How We Test

First, we get in touch with all the brands we know and love. Sometimes we even awkwardly introduce ourselves to steezy skiers in the lift line when we see ski pants we like and we want to know more. Then we reach out to our favorite ski clothing brands and wrangle samples of next year’s styles. We box up those pants and bibs and ship them to testers all over the country: Vermont, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Colorado, Montana, and New Mexico. Then we hit the slopes, the side country, and the backcountry. We ski our faces off, and keep those pants on for other winter activities too: snowmobiling, fat biking, sledding, and of course apres. We do everything we can think of in the pants to see how they hold up, how warm they keep us, and how they feel when we ski them bell to bell, and if the salsa stains wash out. We’re women from 23-59. Some of us are expert skiers and ski professionals. Some are full-time moms who shred. Some of us are weekend warriors and dawn patrollers who get laps in before work and after hours. All of us love to ski whenever, wherever, and however we can.

• Number of testers: 19
• Number of Products Tested: 28
• Number of Days on Snow: 846
• U.S. States Tested In: 8 (plus 4 countries)

Meet Our Testers

Berne Broudy is a Vermont-based skier who calls Stowe Mountain Resort her home hill, though she spends as much time in the backcountry as possible. Broudy has been reporting on environmental issues, gear, and travel for two decades. She’s developed and guided hiking and cycling trips all over the U.S. and South America. She’s led students through Ghana and Peru, and she’s biked across the United States. She’s had fat biking first descents in Alaska, she helped establish the first sport climbing in East Greenland, and she was on the first female team to traverse the country of Jordan by bike. Before writing and photographing professionally, Broudy worked in the sustainable forestry industry. She skis every day there’s snow on the trails behind her house, and clocks resort days and backcountry days anytime and anywhere she can, from Vermont to Japan and all points in between.

Salt-Lake City-based writer and climate scientist Anneka Williams grew up roaming around New England’s trails and trying to keep up with the “big kids” on ski lines at Mad River Glen. Now 25, she’s already notched adventures in Chilean Patagonia, the Bhutanese Himalaya, the streets of Copenhagen, the trails of the French Alps, the Alaskan tundra, and the Andean paramo. One of Williams’ favorite places to ski is Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico. “There’s nothing better than finishing a ski in the Wheeler Peak basin and then going for a dip in the Rio Grande Gorge, unless you’re also snacking on chocolate-covered espresso beans,” said Williams.

Kerry Douglas, a 38-year-old Vermont-based ex-ski racer loves groomers, the woods, steep and deep pow turns, and everything in between including earning her turns in the backcountry. Douglas learned to ski at 18 months old sliding down the driveway of her family’s Stowe, Vermont home between her Dad’s legs. Douglas recently returned to Vermont after 12 years in New York City where she worked in marketing and visual design for Patagonia. Now she’s a mom, and she loves raising her daughter in the mountains. Douglas logged 500,000 vert this season. But that wasn’t her most memorable time on snow. In August 2017, her husband proposed after they booted up La Chimenea in Portillo, Chile.

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Diehard hikers often rank their bottoms—be they pants, shorts, or skorts—as their single most important piece of performance apparel. That’s because bottoms serve several functions, all of them critically important: They shield against chafing, manage sweat, and fend off assaults from trailside brush and branches. These pants, shorts, and skorts do all that—and more.

The Winners at a Glance

Houdini Daybreak Shorts ($130)

Kühl Haven Joggr ($109)

Kuiu Attack Pant ($149)

Mountain Hardwear Mountain Stretch Skort ($65)

How We Test

Number of Testers: 12

Number of Products Tested: 45

Number of Miles Hiked: 299

Number of Holes Golfed: 18

Number of Continuous Pitches Climbed: 3

Pounds of Blackberries Foraged: 1

Number of Jelly Spills: 1 (staining avoided)

All hikers are wonderfully unique, which is why we tapped a group of testers with the most diverse body types and hiking habits we could wrangle. One tester who serves on Search and Rescue and rarely registers fatigue before mile 80 struggles to find pants that accommodate her extra-capable calves. Another tester loves short-shorts but hates inner-thigh chafing. Short legs, broad bellies, sensitive skin—these and other realities helped us evaluate and winnow out the products that don’t fit and feel comfortable on an array of women’s bodies. Our diverse group of testers put these bottoms through their paces all across the United States and Canada, from Maine’s deep forests to the gusty summits of the Colorado Rockies.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Over the 20 years that Kelly Bastone has been subjecting her 4’11” frame to the gear-testing mission, she’s watched the outdoor industry make significant improvements to the fit and function of women’s gear. Yet even now, pants rarely earn her approval (properly fitting her pear shape requires an above-average attempt at patterning). Living in Steamboat Springs, Colorado puts a wealth of testing opportunities at her doorstep—she hikes, mountain bikes and fly-fishes across the Rocky Mountains and adjacent canyon country. For her testing squad, she recruited West Coast resident Emma Veidt, Colorado River hiker and rafter Sabrina Motta, youth outdoor coach Kelly Landers, and a range of additional women representing various outdoor experiences and body types (from XS to XL).

The Reviews: The Best �´dz����’s Hiking Apparel of 2023

Houdini Daybreak Shorts ($130)

Weight: 6.2 oz (small)
Size: XXS-XL
Pros: Outstanding fit; Lightweight fabric feels tolerable in hot weather
Cons: No hand pockets

It’s rare for one pair of shorts to earn raves from all testers, but women of varying shapes agreed that the Daybreak ranks among the best-fitting bottoms they’ve found. “Like they were made especially for me,” says Colorado-based Kelly Landers. Multiple seams improve the fit from hip to belly, so that even pear-shaped testers experienced no gapping at the waist. Scaling a talus slope in 90-degree temps, category manager Kelly Bastone appreciated the lightweight ripstop fabric, which uses mechanical stretch (not elastane, which slows the fabric’s dry time) for freedom of movement, and stays in place while walking and high-stepping. It’s also Bluesign-approved with a PFAS-free DWR finish that repels drizzle and stains. Two zippered pockets on the thigh are big enough for a smartphone, and a rolled-up windbreaker fits in the large back pocket. The polyester fabric (38-percent recycled) proved plenty durable while shimmying through Utah’s sandstone slot canyons, but when these shorts do wear out, they’re recyclable: Houdini re-engineers its discards into new duds. Also available for men.

Bottom Line: The Houdini Daybreak Shorts fit so well, you’ll wear them everywhere.

Kühl Haven Joggr ($109)

Weight: 10 oz (small)
Size: XS-XL
Pros: Fabric is light but tough enough to survive abuse on-trail
Cons: Hip pocket zippers can create hot spots beneath a hip belt

Joggers made for indoor gyms often use soft fabrics that get snagged and torn while hiking among scrub and rock. Not the Haven: Its ripstop-woven tencel (with 27-percent nylon and 4-percent Spandex) stood up to abrasive conditions, like when our testers wore them slot-canyon slithering in eastern Utah. Yet the fabric is also light enough for hot-weather wear, and the minimal Spandex content adds stretch without slowing the fabric’s dry time. “After soaking the cuffs in a stream crossing, the pants were dry again within 15 minutes,” reports category manager Kelly Bastone. Nearly all testers approved of the gathered elastic waistband, which is smooth enough to provide everyday comfort and avoid chafing under a pack belt. A drawstring eliminates gaps at the waist, and ample pockets (two back and two hip, all zippered) secure a phone, lip balm, and ear buds.

Bottom Line: Comfort loungewear meets rugged construction in the Kühl Haven Joggr.

Kuiu Attack Pant ($149)

Weight: 15 oz (size 4)
Size: 2-14
Pros: Fit is excellent; Durable fabric doesn’t sacrifice all-day comfort; Hems can be lengthened
Cons: Only earth tones/camo available

Some of the most durable fabrics are armor-stiff and noisy—but not this workhorse of a pant, which can stand up to the rigors of hunting and off-trail hiking yet feels comfortable enough to wear while road-tripping and chilling around a campfire. Credit the densely-woven polyester with four-way stretch that let testers scale steep hillsides and fended off thistles and pricks. Its brushed interior feels soft like pajamas, and a DWR finish repels moisture (one mushroom-foraging tester strode through dew-soaked brush and stayed dry). Two zippered, mesh-backed vents on the outer thigh dump heat on sweltering afternoons, and a plethora of streamlined pockets keep stuff organized (four of the six pockets are zippered). The fit is among the best that category manager Kelly Bastone has tested: The curved back yoke eliminates gapping at the waist, and ergonomic patterning (such as a gusseted crotch panel and seaming that accommodates bent knees) creates a body-hugging cut that’s unconfining while hiking. Extra fabric stitched into the cuffs (a common feature in kids’ pants) let tall testers grow the inseam from 32” to 33.5” just by removing a secondary seam. And an odor control finish prevents stink for a week or more without washing. A men’s version is also available.

Bottom Line: The Kuiu Attack Pant is a heavy-duty pant, perfected.

Mountain Hardwear Mountain Stretch Skort ($65)

Weight: 2 oz (size small)
Size: XS-XL
Pros: Undershorts stay put; the waistband feels comfortable beneath a hip belt
Cons: High-rise cut felt constricting to some testers

This skort earned vanity points for its figure-flattering modesty (skirts are more body-concealing than shorts). But testers’ highest praise went to the comfort of the slightly compressive undershorts, which eliminated inner-thigh chafing. “Unlike the shorts under most skorts, they did not ride up,” reports Colorado-based tester Kelly Landers. The minimalist waistband creates a low-bulk interface with a pack’s hip belt. But a thigh pouch on the undershorts holds a smartphone or snack, and the 100-percent polyester fabric (used in both shorts and overskirt) feels soft and wicks sweat. And because it looks good when paired with a sweater and spiffy shoes for around-town wear, it streamlined testers’ packing decisions when traveling.

Bottom Line: Practical for hiking and backpacking, Mountain Hardwear’s Mountain Stretch Skort looks cute off-trail, too.

How to Buy

Fit is paramount. Apparel that doesn’t suit your shape can prove uncomfortable on the trail. It’s also likely to languish in your closet because you won’t feel excited about wearing it. Once you’ve found apparel that fits, consider its fabric content: Different fibers deliver various performance benefits and drawbacks:

>Nylon resists abrasion and dries fast, but can feel rough against the skin.
>Polyester is softer to the touch, but sometimes less durable. Unless treated with an odor-resistant finish, it also gets stinky after contact with body sweat and bacteria.
>Elastane (sometimes branded as Spandex) provides stretch but slows the fabric’s dry time
>Merino wool is breathable, temperature-regulating (it cools you in warm weather and insulates you in chilly conditions) and naturally odor-resistant, but can be less durable than synthetics.

Finally, consider how garment features may dovetail with the rest of your hiking kit. Will the pull tabs on zippered hip pockets create hot spots beneath a pack’s hip belt? Do the pant cuffs pick up dirt and mud while wearing low-top hikers? By forecasting how your apparel will integrate into your ensemble, you can avoid buying pieces that disappoint you while hiking.

When it’s time to upgrade your gear, don’t let the old stuff go to waste–donate it for a good cause and divert it from the landfill. our partner, Gear Fix, will repair and resell your stuff for free! Just box up your retired items, , and send them off. We’ll donate 100 percent of the proceeds to .

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After hiking boots, your pants take the brunt of the abuse on the trail. From scrambling through dew-soaked brush and thorny shrubs to boulder-top rest breaks and bathroom squats, your bottoms need to do a whole lot more than simply keep you presentable. These five are the very best of the year, with breathability, durability, and comfort at the forefront.

The Winners at a Glance

Fjällräven Abisko Hike Trousers

Outdoor Research Cirque Lite

Cotopaxi Brinco Shorts

Helly Hansen Tech Trail Shorts

ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Briefs

How We Test

Number of Testers: 14

Number of Products Tested: 18

Number of Miles: 300+

Hottest Temperature: 105 F

With 14 testers from around the country, the team was able to test pants and shorts in a wide range of conditions. Temperatures ranged from the mid-30s in Alaska to over 100 degrees in the foothills near Boise, Idaho. Testers took these pants on treks of varying difficulties, from easy, after-work strolls to demanding multi-day adventures in rain and sleet. Our testers ranged in clothing size (S to XL) and experience level (casual day hikers to seasoned thru-hikers) and reported on everything from comfort and breathability to durability and water resistance.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Our men’s hiking apparel category manager is Nathan Pipenberg, an AT-thru hiker and freelance writer who covers ultralight hiking for Backpacker. Other testers include Bruce Etter, a two-time thru-hiker who works and hikes in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and Dorn Van Dommelen, a professor from Anchorage, Alaska.

The Reviews: The Best �ѱ��’s Hiking Bottoms of 2023

Fjällräven Abisko Hike Trousers ($150)

Weight: 11.1 ounces
Size: 29-40
Pros: Excellent fit and durability, great waistband
Cons: The 35-percent cotton blend dries slightly slowly

The Fjällräven Abisko trouser is our pick for a lightweight pair of pants that’s durable enough for anything you throw at them, from bushwhacking to splitting firewood. The pants feature Fjällräven’s lightest and most breathable fabric, a recycled polyester/organic cotton blend known as G-1000 Air Stretch. Our testers were apprehensive about cotton in hiking apparel, but were soon won over. “These feel like the perfect mix of work and hiking pants,” said one, adding that they stood up to long days of cross-country travel through sagebrush and prairie grass. A gusseted crotch and articulated knees improve comfort and durability, and testers didn’t report any seam blowouts. Despite the cotton blend, the Abisko pants were fairly quick-drying (a matter of minutes, rather than hours, but slower than thin, synthetic options like the Outdoor Research Ferrosi pants). They don’t have a DWR finish, and although Fjällräven does offer a waterproofing wax that can be applied to G-1000 fabrics, we found wax unhelpful in conditions other than wet and freezing, since it compromises breathability. Testers raved about the fit and features, with a tapered leg, three zipped pockets (two hand pockets and one on the right thigh) and a locking adjustable waistband that, once set, never needed to be readjusted. A zippered air vent on each leg allowed us to shed heat in hot weather.

Bottom Line: The Fjällräven Abisko Hike Trousers are hard-wearing pants that fit like a glove—a solid choice for off-trail adventures.

Outdoor Research Cirque Lite Pants ($139)

Weight: 12.7 ounces
Size: S-XXL
Pros: Very durable, reinforced leg cuffs
Cons: The aggressively technical appearance is too much for some

The Cirque Lite pants are all about versatility, with the technical specs to withstand inclement weather while remaining light and airy enough for casual hiking. Our resident Alaskan tester, Dorn van Dommelen, wore the Cirque Lite on numerous backpacking and hiking trips across the state throughout the summer and fall. His conclusion? These pants will keep you comfortable from the dog days of summer to when the snow starts falling, thanks to a robust, softshell-esque, 90-denier nylon-spandex blend and DWR finish. Van Dommelen gave the Cirque Lite high marks for durability as well. On a trail run outside Anchorage, he suffered a fairly serious dog bite that left puncture wounds in his leg. The pants emerged unscathed. Convenient features include an adjustable waistband, two standard hand pockets, and a right thigh pocket big enough to house a phone or headlamp. They’re also well-suited to mountaineering use, with reinforced fabric on the leg cuffs meant to stand up to wear from crampons. His one critique: With such a technical look, the Cirque Lite pants are wholly out of place for everyday jaunts around town.

Bottom Line: An all-rounder that shines in tough conditions.

Cotopaxi Brinco Shorts ($70)

Weight: 7.1 ounces
Size: S-XXL
Pros: Durable and stylish
Cons: The thick fabric and rear pocket are bulky for minimalists

Cotopaxi is ushering in the ’90s again with the Brinco shorts, replete with a short inseam (five inches) and bold, colorful patterns. But even if these look like cotton workout shorts from a bygone era, their construction is thoroughly modern. First, there’s the thick nylon-spandex blend, which is both stretchy and surprisingly abrasion-resistant. There’s also nylon webbing backing up seams on the thighs, which decreases the chances of blowout. Our testers’ favorite feature? A mesh liner so thin that even the liner-hating members of the testing group became converts. “Typically, I absolutely despise built-in liners in shorts,” said Bruce Etter, a New Hampshire-based tester. “With these, the mesh is stretchy and the seams are very thin. I was surprised how quickly I came to like them.”

Bottom Line: The Cotopaxi Brinco Shorts are a vintage-inspired short with modern performance.

Helly Hansen Tech Trail Shorts ($85)

Weight: 5.5 ounces
Size: S-XXL
Pros: Quick-drying and comfy, minimalist
Cons: Steep price tag for a fairly simple pair of shorts

A great pair of trail shorts is often the result of what’s left out, rather than what’s included. The Tech Trail shorts are the perfect example, with a minimalistic design that’s sure to please ultralighters, fastpackers, and anyone who likes their clothing streamlined. The shorts combine a super-stretchy and quick-drying woven polyester (with 11-percent elastane) with just a few well-designed features, like a comfy elastic waistband and drawstring, two hand pockets, and a zippered rear pocket. Despite the light and minimal design, testers found the shorts durable enough to survive overgrown trails in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The eight-inch inseam also hit a sweet spot for our testers, who by and large prefer their shorts to land just above the knee.

Bottom Line: The Helly Hansen Tech Trail Shorts are a lightweight trail short with great performance and comfort

ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Brief ($30)

Weight: 4 ounces
Size: S-XXL
Pros: The fastest-drying and most odor-resistant underwear we’ve found
Cons: No compression or support

ExOfficio’s Give-N-Go underwear has always been well-loved among travelers and hikers, and the 2.0 brings only improvements to the line. The updated version is softer, more breathable, and just as odor-resistant as the original model, and several testers swore they could keep the funk at bay, even wearing the same pair for an entire backpacking trip. After extensive use, we also saw little in the way of unraveling seams or waistband stretching. Lastly, the nylon/elastane fabric is unmatched when it comes to drying time. “These boxers are the only pair I can wash in a sink at night and be 100-percent sure they’ll be dry the next morning,” said one tester.

Bottom Line: The ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Boxer Brief is a funk-proof, fast-drying undies for both city and trail.

How to Buy

Good hiking pants and shorts are breathable, comfortable, and allow a wide range of movement. In general, look for synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon that wick moisture and dry quickly. Cotton blends can boost comfort and durability, but take longer to dry and aren’t the best choice for wet or cold conditions. Reinforced stitching and fabrics are key for avoiding blowouts, especially if you also plan on using your pants for mountaineering, climbing, or skiing. Small details can make or break your favorite hiking attire, so look for pants with well-placed pockets and zippers for easy access to gear while you’re on the move.

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If someone told me I had to pick just one pair of shoes to wear for the rest of my life, I’d have no idea what to choose. Same goes for a jacket, hat, or shirt. But if one pair of pants had to get me through the next several decades, I’d feel totally confident and happy picking Proof Rover pants. Hands down.

The choice is easy because the Rovers, which are named after the all-terrain, all-use Land Rover, are truly the Swiss Army Knife (pardon the cliche) of pants. Billed as work pants, they have a sturdy cotton build that will put up with tons of abuse—chopping wood, yard work, car maintenance, etc. The pants are also great for everything from bike commuting to camping thanks to a bit of lycra blended with the cotton, which makes them stretchy, and some Sorbtek (recycled polyester) to help wick moisture.

But what truly elevates these pants is that in addition to their versatility, they look good nearly anywhere. I can wear the Rovers while loading something into my truck, getting them dusty and even slightly greasy, then turn around and wear them to a work meeting (with a pair of Blundstone boots) and still look professional. Somehow these pants look even better when they’re worn in and have their own patina.

I love the Rovers so much that ever since I reviewed them in 2019, I wear a pair at least 200 days of each year and take them off begrudgingly each June because it’s finally too hot to wear them every single day. I’ve worn them so consistently that after three to four years I finally wore holes into the knees and crotch.

Given my obsession, you won’t be surprised to hear how excited I was to get my hands on the newest iteration of the Rover. Called the , which stands for Every Day Carry, they come with several additional pockets to help enthusiasts organize and carry their favorite EDC gear, such as knives, wallets, pocket flashlights, etc.

When I first heard the EDC pants have eight pockets I was worried they would look like dorky cargo pants from the late ’90s or tactical pants you’d buy at an Army surplus store. But I found that from the front you can barely tell the difference between the OG Rovers and the new EDC edition. From the side you get the full pocket view, but all the additional pockets are small, subtle, and well placed—so you don’t look like an EDC dork or wannabe prepper.

My favorite addition is the zippered pocket that sits mid-thigh on the left side and is just big enough to hold a slim wallet. The zipper gives me confidence that my wallet won’t slip out if I’m riding my bike to the store and that I won’t get pickpocketed in a crowd. The traditional front hand pockets (the same pocket you’d find on any pair of jeans) has a special spot at the bottom where you can clip on a pocket knife. With the knife safely out of the way, it’s much easier to quickly jam your hand into the pocket.

Some folks will be upset to learn that the Rover EDC pants are made from a slightly thinner, less robust fabric blend. These pants will likely deteriorate a little faster than the traditional Rovers. But I’m happy with the change because the EDC pants breathe better so I can wear them longer into the spring and summer when the days get warmer. And after wearing the EDC pants a couple times already, I’m not worried about them falling apart noticeably sooner; I fully expect to get several years from each pair.

The EDC edition is $128, or $10 more expensive than the regular Rovers. As someone who grew up in the ‘90s, paying over $100 for a pair of pants still chafes me a bit. But because I wear these pants so damn much, they actually work out to be the least expensive thing in my wardrobe if you calculate their cost-to-use ratio (less than 20 cents a day at $128 / 200 days/year X 3–4 years). Full disclosure, I’ve stocked up on the regular Rover pants, with at least one new pair sitting around at all times because if Proof ever decides to stop making them it’s going to take me a very long time to find a replacement. Now I’ll start stocking the EDC version.

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After an intense rock scramble in Connecticut last April, I looked down in horror to see that my pants had ripped—a ragged line from waist to thigh. In any other scenario, this would just be an inconvenience. But I was in the middle of a 200+ mile thru-hike of the New England Trail and it was my only pair. I tried my best to fix the seam with my humble sewing kit, but the tear was simply too big. I needed new pants. I eventually found a few pair after my fiance traveled to every REI in the state to find one that would fit me.

Finding adequate men’s extended-size hiking pants can be frustrating; pairs that have both sizing accessibility and the qualities of technical hiking gear are hard to come by. Some brands have succeeded at offering extended sizes in recent years, which certainly gives them a leg up as the outdoor industry seeks to become more inclusive. But it’s still difficult to find these size options in-store, which leaves most customers to scour the internet for their next piece of gear. (In my experience, most men’s pant sizing at brick-and-mortar gear shops tops out at a 38-inch waist; I wear a 40-inch.) Discerning how apparel will perform based solely on a product description can be exhausting, which is why I sought to test them myself. After months of hiking and wearing them in the field, these are three pairs of hiking pants that we think deserve a place in your wardrobe.

Mountain Hardwear Traverse Lite ($95)

Best For: Backpacking
Sizing Options: Up to a 46-inch waist
Fit: True to size

The is my favorite pair of backpacking pants. After 100 miles of hiking in the Green Mountains, they didn’t show a single scratch, snag, stain, or tear. Made from a stretchy nylon-elastane blend, they feel light and airy when moving, but hold their shape and stand up to the elements well—credit the DWR water-resistant coating and UPF 50 protection. Plus, they have two zippered thigh pockets and a sturdy button. If you’re going to be relying on a pair of pants for days on end, the Traverse Lite offers the features and comfort you need.

Duluth Trading Company DuluthFlex Hike Yeah Jogger Pants ($65)

Best For: Trail to Town
Sizing Options: Up to a 48-inch waist
Fit: True to size

Duluth has always been a leader in producing size-inclusive, affordable, and technical equipment, and the is no exception. Not only are they one of the most affordable pairs on the market, but they also beat out most of the competition in quality and sizing. These cotton blend moisture-resistant pants feature four pockets, and are incredibly flexible—ideal for all of the contortions and weird positions hikers get themselves into. Its elastic waistband also has belt loops, which is a plus for folks who are in between sizes. Its casual cut also blends into a standard day-to-day wardrobe. I like how I can wear these joggers for a night on the town, a workday, or some urban exploration.

Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants ($70)

Best For: Overall Versatility
Sizing Options: Up to a 54-inch waist
Fit: These can run small in the thighs, especially around the zippers. We recommend sizing up.

Columbia has been producing the in extended sizing for years and they are still one of the most accessible bottoms on the market. Many outdoor retailers will even carry these in stock into the mid-40-inch waist sizes. While they can run a bit tight in the thighs, they are a staple for a reason: the Silver Ridge pants can be used in almost any environment. They are light enough for summer hiking but stand up to both bushwhacking through tick-infested fields and rock scrambling. Need to cross a stream? Simply unzip the bottom portion of the legs and you won’t have to fret about having wet pants for the rest of the day. You can even hike with these in late fall by pairing them with a base layer. Essentially, these pants stood up to any test I put them through.

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There are so many good shell pants on the market these days that it’s hard to choose just a few to highlight in our annual Winter Buyer’s Guide. To make the cut, each pair has to do everything pretty much perfectly, from fit and comfort to function and features. These are the runner-up products that did everything almost perfectly, and are still worth a look.

Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Warm Pant ($129)

Though they’re made for hiking, Mountain Hardwear’s Chockstone Warm pants became a tester favorite for backcountry Nordic touring, too. The softshell exterior sheds snow and light precipitation, while the gridded, fleecy interior is soft enough against skin to go out sans-baselayers on truly warm days. The only downside: the cuffs aren’t tapered or elasticated, the way many dedicated Nordic pants’ are, so you’ll probably get some snow in your socks on deep days. For winter hiking on cold—but not snowy—days, these are the bottoms we’d choose. —Ariella Gintzler (Buyer’s Guide editor), backcountry nordic touring test manager

Marmot Women’s ���ϳԹ��� Bib ($450)

The ���ϳԹ��� bibs are a wise choice for deep winter shredding. Constructed with waterproof and windproof three-layer Gore-Tex fabric and fully taped seams, they provide superb protection from formidable conditions but are still remarkably airy. The athletic cut, racerback silhouette, articulated knees, and adjustable suspenders work together for optimized mobility. Extra long side zippers provide ample venting and deep zippered thigh pockets stash sundries. —Joe Jackson and Melissa McGibbon, ski pants and bibs test managers

FW Future Wild Manifest Tour 3L Bib ($550)

These high-waist bibs more than pass muster for ergonomic design. Long, off-set two-way side zippers in the front provide the novel ability to visit the loo without removing your jacket because they have more give. Extra large thigh pockets, hidden kick patches, adjustable suspenders with comfortable flat buckles, and snaps behind the knees to yield a slimmer silhouette are just a few of the stand-out particulars. Of course, the bibs are made from waterproof, breathable, stretchy fabric, and are also hella cute. (1% for the Planet) —J.J. and M.M.

Jones High Sierra Pant ($200)

The High Sierra Pants wear more like joggers or yoga tights than any ski pant we’ve tested. One tester legitimately forgot he was wearing these lightweight softshell bottoms after a pre-work skin and went about his day as if he were in athleisure. They proved not quite waterproof enough for resort days in wet Cascade concrete snow, but repelled enough of the elements to become one hot running testers’ all time favorite spring pant. —J.J. and M.M.

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