3 Tips for Finding the Perfect Snowboard Pants

By: Jamel Hickel


Snowboarding has become such a popular pastime over the past few years, that if you haven't already tried it, chances are you will before long. It's a great winter hobby that families can do together, and in this day and age, it's getting harder and harder to find something that everyone can enjoy. Nothing makes a new experience more exciting then having the right stuff for the job, and a good pair of snowboard pants is essential to enjoying yourself on the slopes. They'll not only help keep you warm, but since you'll probably be spending a good portion of your time on the ground like the other first-timers, they'll keep you dry too.

1. You can go to any sporting good store and find a decent pair of snowboard pants, but you should make sure that the ones you get fit properly. You're going to be doing a lot of bending and moving, so something that's too snug, even a little, is going to make this harder that it's already going to be all bundled up in your gear. Keep in mind that you'll most likely be wearing at least one thing under them, such as thermal underwear, so you should buy something with an adjustable waist that will offer a little more room when necessary. A good fitting pair of pants can make the all the difference.

2. The next thing to consider when you're shopping for your snowboard pants is that they are in fact for snowboarding. There are hundreds of different types of snow pants on the market today, but if they're simply for being in the snow, or even for skiing, you'll have a hard time getting your snowboard boots to fit properly into them. Snowboarding boots are really wide, so you have to be sure that your pants can easily fit around them to avoid letting snow in. Your pants should also have nylon gaiters with elastic at the bottom as a last defense against getting snow up in them.

3. The last thing you should keep in mind when you're searching for a great pair of snowboard pants is that they are comfortable. Not just that they fit properly, but that they are actually comfortable. Many of today's pants offer nice little extras, such as polyester fleece lining at the seat, knees, and waistband, which can add a little extra warmth where you'll need it most. Be sure that you choose pants you that are the right for you, not just for the name brand. You want something that's going to be warm, but that's also lightweight, that you can spend the entire day in, whether you're cruising the slopes or taking a pit stop at the hill top cantina.

The right gear is essential for having fun on the mountain. Snowboarding is a great way to get a little exercise, while enjoying the great outdoors, but without the right stuff, you'll more then likely end up whining your way indoors long before everyone else. So, before you buy just any pair of snow pants, be sure that they're the designed for snowboarding, and that they not only fit, but fit comfortably.


Jamel Hickel is a professional snowboarder and skiing for last 8 years. Visit his website at www.snowsearch.info to learn from his experience the art of snowboarding and skiing and you can find skiing, snowboard gear.