The way that your ski boot fits, supports, and holds your foot and ankle is vitally important to the foundation of your ski experience. Essentially your boots transfer energy from your feet, to your bindings, and subsequently to your skis. If your ski boots do not fit properly you’re asking for a world of trouble. Select boots that are sized too large and you will end up working certain leg muscles more than necessary, resulting in cramps and increased fatigue. Select boots that are sized too small and your feet will hurt badly…very badly. To avoid all of these potential issues it is crucial that you take the steps necessary to get the right ski boots from the start. It is our goal with this sizing guide to provide you with the information necessary for you to make the right sizing decision.

What’s My Size?

• How to Determine Your Boot Size
• Mondo Point Sizing
• Width
  
• Video Tutorial: How to Select the Correct Size Ski Boots

Mens v. Womens Ski Boots

• Video Tutorial: Differences Between Mens and Womens Ski Boots

Boot Fit

• How to Achieve the Best Fit
  • Shell
  • Liner
    
  • Socks

Additional Media

• Video Tutorial: How to Select a Ski Boot
  
• Video Tutorial: Differences Between Ski Boots
  
• Buying Guide | Ski Boots
• Size Chart | Ski Boots
  

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What’s My Size?

How to Determine Your Boot Size

The most common question that people will have when buying ski boots, especially those purchasing for the first time, is, “how do I determine what my size is?” Well, if you aren’t a skier who already knows his or her ski boot size, there is a simple technique that you can use to determine the proper size for you. First, you will need a piece of cardboard that is large enough for your foot to fit on, both length and width wise. You can also use a pad of paper of a piece of cardboard is not available. You will also need a pen or marker, as well as a tape measure. If you have a tape measure that offers you a centimeter measurement on it, it is suggested you use that.

To determine your ski boot size, get a friend to trace your foot on to the piece of cardboard or paper while you are standing on it. Then take the tape measure and measure from the tip of the foot to the heel. This measurement will be used to determine your boot size.

Ski boots are sized on the Mondo Point size scale, which is in centimeters. If you used a tape measure that offered a centimeter display on it, you can simply take this measurement and you have your boot size in Mondo Point. However, if you measured your foot in inches, you will want to take this measurement and multiply it by 2.54. This will give you your boot size in Mondo Point (centimeters). To see this process in action, please review the video below on How to Select the Right Size Ski Boots.

Mondo Point Sizing

As mentioned in the previous section, ski manufacturers use a sizing system known as Mondo Point to size boots in a universal measuring system. Mondo Point is a European measurement for shoe sizes that is measured in centimeters. To determine US sizing from Mondo Point, simply add the first and second digits together, and then add the decimal point (you will need to add 1 to your calculated result to convert a US men’s size to w women’s size). For example, a boot that is sized as a Mondo Point 29.0 would be calculated as 2 + 9 + .0 = 11.0. Thus a Mondo Point 29.0 is a men’s 11.0.

One special point of note here, once you reach a Mondo Point size 30.0, this calculation will begin to fall apart unless you alter your formula to add 9 to the result. For example, a Mondo Point 31.5 would need to be calculated as follows: (3 + 1 + .5) + 9 = 13.5. Without the addition of 9, your calculation would end up as 4.5, which would definitely be too small for an individual looking for a 13.5.

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Width

In addition to the length that was measured above, you will also want to account for the width of your foot. Manufacturers do a great job of creating different lines of boots to satisfy all different widths, so you typically will not have to worry about finding a boot that will fit both length and width. Most people will know whether their foot is narrow, normal, or wide based on the shoes that they buy. If you know that you have narrow feet, you will want to look for boots that have a width ranging from 98 - 102mm. If you have normal width feet, you’ll look for something in the range of 100 - 104mm. For wide feet, look for boots with a width of 104mm or above.

It is important to compensate for both length and width because people have a tendency to buy ski boots too large. This is because the boot is initially tried on, people feel like the boot is too tight. You want to avoid going larger than your shoe size because the padding that is in the boot is what makes it feel tight initially, but as you wear and use the boot, the padding with condense down and offer you additional room. If you buy too large from the get-go, you’ll end up with a very sloppy boot.

A good fitting ski boot should be comfortably snug and not sloppy. You should be able to wiggle your toes but not have slippage of movement from side to side or forward to back.

Video Tutorial: How to Select the Correct Size Ski Boots

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Mens v. Womens Ski Boots

There a number of differences that exist between men’s and women’s ski boots, particularly when it comes to sizing and fit. And while there are women who do choose to purchase men’s ski boots, there are some distinct advantages for a woman when they decide to choose a women’s specific ski boot.

The most notable difference exists with the height of the boot. The cuff on a woman’s boot is significantly lower than a man’s boot and this is because of the position of the calf muscle on a woman’s leg. The position of the calf muscle is lower on a woman’s leg and thus having a lower cuff will create a more correct fit, and be more comfortable.

Additionally, the heel design on women’s ski boots is more narrow than a men’s ski boot. This is done to address the anatomical differences that exist between a woman’s foot and a man’s. This is important to consider when you are a woman looking for a comfortable fitting ski boot.

Finally, the construction of the liner in a woman’s ski boot is different. They are typically thicker to help keep the feet warmer, which will also play a significant role in fit and comfort. For more information on the differences between men’s and women’s ski boots, please review the video below.

Video Tutorial: Differences Between Mens and Womens Ski Boots

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Boot Fit

How to Acheive the Best Fit

The process of achieving the best fit is rather difficult to do unless you have the boot on to try right? Certainly true, which is why we are providing you with some post-purchase “how-to” for your ski boots in this section. If you’ve followed the steps for determining your size, you should be good-to-go with the following sections that discuss fit.

Shell

Once you have received your ski boots, and before you begin trying them on, remove the liner from the shell by unbuckling the boot fully and pulling on the back cuff of the liner until it slides out of the shell. Next, put your foot in the boot’s shell and push your toes up until they touch the front of the boot. Then look to see how much space is between your heel and the back of the boot. You’re looking for 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch of space, and even less if you are a racer or very high performance skier who likes a very tight fit. If you have more than that, you probably have a boot that is too large. This process, known as shell fitting, is another good way to make sure you will have the correct size boot before hitting the slopes.

Liner

If you have conducted a shell fitting as outlined above, slip on the liner while it is still out of the shell. If you have not removed the liner from the shell, do so and then slip it on your foot. Your toes should just feather the fron the of the liner (NOTE: this assumes that your foot has stopped growing; a little growing room for kids is fine). Next, look at how the liner is shaped compared to your foot. If any part of your foot is pushing hard or stretching out the sides of the liner, you may have a boot that is too narrow. If the liner fits properly, put the boot back together. This can be a little tricky, but it helps if you put the boot shell on a hard surface. Insert one hand into the liner (making a fist), while using your other hand to spread the shell as you push down hard with the liner.

Socks

While we won’t spend a lot of time on socks here, we will say that it is important that when you are sizing for your ski boots, whether tracing your foot as described in earlier sections of this guide, or when trying on your ski boots after you’ve purchased and received them, to have the socks on that you will be wearing when on the slopes. This is a small, but very important aspect of ski boot sizing that can make the difference between a comfortable, accurate fit, and a miserable, sloppy boot.

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Additional Media

• Video Tutorial: How to Select a Ski Boot
• Video Tutorial: Differences Between Ski Boots
• Buying Guide | Ski Boots
• Size Chart | Ski Boots

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What is a Hydration Pack?

Who uses a Hydration Pack?

Uses for a Hydration Pack?

Structure and Design

Accessories

Maintenance

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What is a Hydration Pack?
A hydration pack is essentially a large plastic bag or bladder that can be filled with water. A long hose with a valve is attached to the bag so the user can drink from the bag. The bag is then placed into a backpack and carried on the users back. The hose is run from the bladder, out of the backpack and to the users’ mouth. Hydration packs have become a much preferred alternative to the traditional water bottle. This is because hydration packs carry more water, fit comfortably on your back and can be used while on the go.

Who uses a Hydration Pack?

Hydration packs are most popular for athletes who want to drink on the go, and don’t like the hassle of a water bottle. Because hydration packs are carried on your back, they are comfortable and can be taken anywhere. But the most important feature is the fact that the user can take a drink without stopping. All they have to do is bite on the hose and take a drink. Therefore, hydration packs have become very popular among hikers, skier, snowboarders, snowshoers, bikers, rollerbladers, and many others. With the exception of sports played on a field or court, water bottles have been replaced by hydration packs.

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Uses for a Hydration Pack

The obvious reason to use a hydration pack is to get water into your system to stay hydrated when taking part in any activity. One of the best perks of owning a hydration pack is the fact that it is quintesentially a backpack so you can easily pack ample equipment for a days activity. The hydration pack becomes a keep all for anything you may need and relieves stress of trying to find a place to put things that will not interfere with your activity.

Structure and Design

Hydration packs similar to many items in sporting goods have many variations to how they are made and to what specifications. Here we will get into what different parts go into a pack, how they vary and what that means to you. Getting to know what goes into the structure and design of a hydration pack will ultimately ensure you are an educated shopper who gets what they need when making that purchase.

Pack Size
The higher the volume of the bladder, the larger the pack which carries it needs to be. This is an important thing to consider. The larger and bulkier the pack, the more cumbersome it will be. However, in certain situations, it may be an advantage to have a larger pack. For example, if you are a road biker, you most likely do not want a very big or bulky pack. It will feel awkward and weigh you down. However, of you are a backcountry skier, a large pack will give you a place to put extra gear, a lunch, spare clothes, ect. So think about the sport you will be doing and how much room you would like you pack to have.

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Closure Systems

Different hydration packs come with different closure systems. The two most popular are the zip-lock closure system, and the screw cap closure system. The zip lock closure system works basically like a heavy duty zip lack back, requiring the user to seal it together after it is filled. The screw cap system is our favorite, and it requires the user to simply screw a cap back on after filling. We like this system better because it tends to have fewer problems with leaks.

Straps

Almost all hydration packs come with padded shoulder straps. However, you may want to investigate if a given hydration pack has a sternum strap and hip straps. A sternum strap connects the shoulder straps across the chest. This is a very nice feature if you plan on using your hydration pack while on the go, as it prevents the shoulder straps from slipping off. Hip straps are very convenient if you plan on carrying a significant amount of weight in you pack, as the take much of the weight off your shoulders and displaces it to the hips. The more types of straps a hydration pack has, the more is can be custom fitted to your body and needs.

A hydration pack should fit similar to a hiking backpack. It should fit snug against your back, with the shoulder straps adjusted so the pack sits comfortably on your shoulders. If you leave the straps to low, the hydration pack will give you a shoulder ache, to high and it will feel uncomfortable and awkward.

bite valve

Valves

At the end of every hose is a valve to keep the water from leaking out when the user isn’t drinking. There are a few different valve designs that hydration pack hoses use. The most common valve is a bite valve. These valves are made of soft rubber with a small slit in it, and are placed on the end of the hose. When the user wants a drink, they simply bite on the valve and suck. When the user stop biting down, the valve automatically closes. However, because these bite valves are prone to leaking, some hydration packs will also have a switch to open and close the water flow. This is a very nice feature, especially if you plan to use your hydration pack in the winter, as the leaking water will freeze to your clothes. Make sure to look for these details when looking at hydration packs for your outdoor exploration.

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Accessories

There are a few accessories which make excellent additions to you hydration pack. The first is a hose insulator. This is a neoprene sleeve which fits over the hose and prevents it from freezing. This is a must have add on if you plan on using your hydration pack in the winter, because as soon as the water in your hose freezes, the hydration pack is useless. The second is a bite valve cover. This is a large rubber cover which easily fits over the drinking end of the hose. This will keep any dirt or dust from getting into your drinking water. It also can act as in insulator, keeping the valve from freezing in colder temperatures. The last handy accessory is a cleaning kit. This will provide you with everything you need to keep your hydration pack clean and sanitary.

Maintenance

With a hydration pack it can be easy to look past storage or cleaning as it is so often looked at as a backpack with no special needs. A hydration pack is very easy to care for and with just a few tips you can have your hydration pack for many years and many memories.

Basic Clean and Care for your Hydration Pack

For the most part hydration packs are a very low maintenance item. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure the longevity of your hydration pack. The first tip is to only put water in your hydration pack. Drinks with sugar make the inside sticky and can cause it to mold, mildew, and clog. Only using water or specially designed flavor tabs will ensure this does not happen. Second, always allow your hydration pack to dry out after use. Draining it completely and opening the closure system will allow the pack to dry and keep from mildewing. If you use your hydration pack frequently, investing in a drying device may be worth your while. This is a device which inserts into the bladder of the hydration pack and keeps it stretched open so air can more easily circulate and the bladder can dry faster.

Be sure to clean your hydration pack every few uses. NEVER run it through the dishwasher, hydration pack bladders are fragile and need to be washed by hand. The first step is to remove the hose from the tube. Once these are separate, use a very small amount of mild dish soap and warm water to fill both the hose and the bladder. If you purchased a cleaning kit, they will provide you with the proper brushed. Otherwise, use a soft brush, like a baby bottle brush to clean the bladder and a long pipe cleaner to clean the hose. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it dry. If you find that your hydration pack has developed an odor, fill the bladder with water and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Then let it sit overnight and finish cleaning it in the morning.

Storage

There are only a few things to look for when storing a hydration pack between uses or for the season. If storing between uses you can simply drain any excess water out and rinse the pack before hanging it above the ground. It is recommended hydration packs be hung to keep the hose clean of debris and or household pets, this will also keep the structure of the pack in good order. When storing for an extended amount of time a washing of the bladder of the pack is recemonded to clear any possible dirt or debris out. After washing ensure the pack is dry and hang off the ground until the next time you are looking for some refreshment for an exhilarating activity.

Now that you have all the education needed to pick out a hydration pack for use in your activities we guarantee you will make a good choice and be enjoying water on the go in no time. Remember the basics, refer back to this guide with any questions and remember to stay hydrated!

Hydration packs come in a number of different volumes. Most hydration packs range from one liter to three liters in capacity. Depending on the sport you are doing, how hot it will be, and how long you plan on going without a refill, different size hydration packs are appropriate. For example, skiers tend to drink less water than long distance bikers. When you are picking out your new hydration pack, you will want to think about how much water you typically drink while out. You also want to remember that you will be carrying this on your back. The larger the hydrations pack, the more it will weigh and the bulkier it will be.

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Types of Snowshoes

• Recreational
• Mountaineering and Backcountry
• Race and Fitness
• Women’s

Other Important Things

• Cost
• Buying Second Hand
• Importance of Sizing
• Have Fun

Additional Media

• Sizing Guide | Snowshoes

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Types of Snowshoes

Recreational

Looking to get some moderate exercise on your local groomed trails, walk the dog and have the capability to break your own path on occasion, recreational snowshoeing could be for you. One of the most popular categories because of the limitless capabilities of a recreation snowshoe and the fun that can be had. A recreational snowshoe will be very easy to walk with on any flat or rolling terrain have very easy adjustments for anyone to use and are slightly less aggressive than others in varying categories. The crampons, which are the metal pieces that grab the ice and snow, on this style are moderate to not inhibit walking but enough to offer good grip on icy, snowy terrain.  These are typically considered an entry level style and can be found at a good price for someones first pair of snowshoes.

Mountaineering and Backcountry

Feeling like breaking your own trail through the woods and deep snow, how about hiking and backpacking up some steep and icy terrain, backcountry or mountaineering snowshoes may be right for you. These snowshoes are beefed up with larger crampons to offer that extra grip and security that you need when your summiting that peak you have wanted to climb for years. The bindings on these models will also be bigger and sturdier to accommodate bigger hiking and outdoor boots. Backcountry and mountaineering snowshoes are also constructed in a whole bigger and beefier to withstand anything you wish to throw at them.  A great choice for any serious snowshoe enthusiast looking to go  in the deepest snow and in all  the varying weather conditions.

Race and Fitness

If your an active runner and cannot run your favorite trails due to the winter weather change, run all the same trails and keep your heart pumping all year around with race and fitness snowshoes. Much smaller than regular style snowshoes these are lightweight with different and adjustable crampons for varying trails and snow types. The bindings on these styles will cradle and wrap around athletic and running shoes. These snowshoes are not intended for use in off trail situations and perform best on groomed and kept paths. Great for the athletic runner or outdoor enthusiast looking to excel in the winter and take advantage of all season’s and enjoy scenic landscape along the way.

Women’s

A no brainer, women are made different than men and need a specific product for certain sports, snowshoeing is one of those where a woman will benefit from having the proper equipment.  Women’s snowshoes are designed with a woman’s foot in mind, built narrower with a more contoured frame to fit their natural foot type. Bindings are also built specific with a smaller foot in mind to ensure that they are getting properly snugged in all activities and situations. The women’s category of snowshoes will have backcountry, racing, recreational and all other types of snowshoes fit specific to a woman’s foot type.

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Other Important Things

Now that you have hopefully narrowed down what type of snowshoer you are going to be lets take a look at a few more factors that can help determine which snowshoe is right for you.

Cost

Snowshoeing in general is  a very cost friendly activity that anyone can get into without breaking the bank. Typically you can get into snowshoeing for around 200 to 300 dollars with a good set up. Many companies will offer packages for beginners that include shoes and poles which is a cost effective way to get into snowshoeing. If your an active person and know that you will excel and enjoy the sport of snowshoeing  it may make sense to spend a bit more initially so that you do not have buyers remorse months later.

Buying Second Hand

It is typically not recommended that one purchase snowshoes second hand based on not knowing the structural sturdiness of the shoe.  If you do find yourself purchasing a used snowshoe it is imperative that you inspect the shoe very closely to ensure there are no defects, chips, or weak points. Snowshoes can have a long life but they must be cared for and sometimes it is hard to tell if they have been abused or not with the naked eye, be cautious.

Importance of Sizing

Snowshoes like most sports products must be sized correctly for them to perform at their best. We will cover intricate  sizing issues in detail in our Snowshoe Sizing Guide, here are some basics. Snowshoe’s are sized by the user’s weight and it is very important to be brutally honest when sizing yourself for a pair of snowshoes. Another often overlooked issue is the gear that many will be taking along with them, factor this in and add this to your weight when picking a pair and they are sure to perform like they were intended to.

Have Fun

Last but not least, envision all the fun you will be having when choosing your new pair of snowshoes and all the beautiful places your going to go. Think of all the beautiful scenery snowshoeing is going to show you and all the unique experiences you will forgo.  Snowshoeing is a great exhilarating activity that anyone can take part in and have a fun at their own pace, slow or fast.

Additional Media

• Sizing Guide | Snowshoes

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If you buy your snowshoes too small, you will sink like a rock, but if you buy them too big, they will feel awkward and be difficult to use. But don’t get discouraged, sizing snowshoes is really very simple. Snowshoes usually come in three set sizes; 8” x 25”, 9” x 30” and 10” by 36” (width x length). Although some models will vary, these are the general sizes. In this article, we will explain all you need to know to fit yourself into the right size snowshoe.

Pick A Type

Know Your Environment

Know Your Weight

• Chart | Weight to Snowshoe Length

Additional Media

• Buying Guide | Snowshoes

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Pick A Type

Snowshoes come in three styles when referring to size; Men’s (or unisex), women’s, and kids. Men’s or unisex snowshoes are designed for heavier individuals with larger feet. Women’s specific snowshoes are an excellent choice for women hikers, as they are designed to for women’s body shape and feet size. This means they will typically be narrower, have smaller bindings, and can be found in sizes as small as 8” x 21”. Kids’ snowshoes are obviously smaller, and usually have more limited features than their adult counterparts.

Know Your Environment

Think about where you will be doing your snowshoeing most. Will there be hills? How deep will the snow be? How dry is the snow? These are all things to consider because the deeper and dryer the snow, the more float, and thus larger the size, you will need. On the same note, if you will be most on trails or in the neighborhood, a smaller snowshoe will be easier to control and will weigh less.

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Know Your Weight

First things first, you need to know your weight. This is the most important step, as a snowshoes job is to keep you afloat in the snow, so NO cheating. Once you know your weight, it is important to estimate how much gear you will usually be carrying with you when you are snowshoeing, as this will add extra weight. Individuals who will be carrying backpacks and gear will need a larger snowshoe then those who are only going for a stroll around the block. So be honest with yourself about how much you will weigh with your gear on.

Chart | Weight to Snowshoe Length

Once you have considered this information, use this chart to the proper size for your snowshoes. Remember, you will need to slide the bar up or down depending on how much extra weight you will be carrying as well as other factors discussed above. The chat suggests the recommended length, width is a function of both style of snowshoe and length, but for the most part, the width will be in line with the proper length.

Additional Media

• Buying Guide | Snowshoes

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Types of Pants

• Insulated Pants
• Shell Pants
• Bib Pants
  

Waterproof Rating

Breathability Rating

Fabric Durability

Seams

• Fully Taped
• Critically Taped

Features

• Boot Gaiters
• Articulated Knees
• Scuff Guards
• Waist Adjustment
• Suspenders
• Side Zips
• Inner Leg Vents
• Leg Lifts
• Jacket-to-Pant Link
• Pockets
  • Pass Pocket
  • Cargo Pocket
• Glove Holster
• Video Tutorial: Technical Features of Snowboard Pants

Additional Media

• Video Tutorial: How to Dress Correctly for Snowboarding
• Video Tutorial: Differences Between Base Layers and Long Underwear
• Sizing Guide | Snowboard Pants

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Types of Pants

When shopping for snowboard pants you are going to find several different types that are available. The most common type is an insulated pant, with the other types being shell pants, stretch pants, and bib pants. The most common question that people have is, “which one should I buy?” The simple answer to this question is that there is no right answer. The reason for this is that each person has a different body temperature regulation. Some people will get hot very quickly and thus having an insulated pant would cause them great discomfort once the heat builds up. Others, however, are routinely cold and having an insulated pant only makes sense because a shell pant would leave them even colder. Additionally, some people prefer the added protection from the snow with a bib pant, and many women prefer the less bulky feel of a stretch pant. With this being said, the first step to selecting the pants that are best for you is by determining if you are warmer or colder person by nature and what protection you prefer from the snow. Once these are determined, you can then move forward in the process of selecting your snowboard pants.

Insulated Pants

The construction characteristics of an insulated pant include an outer layer that is waterproof and windproof, along with an insulated layer that is built directly into the pant. The insulating inner layer is likely to be made of fleece, down, or a synthetic fabric such as Primaloft. You may also find some insulated pants that have a separate insulator piece that can be removed to help regulate the internal temperature.

The insulation that is found in insulated pants is most commonly measured in grams. The greater the number weight in grams, the warmer the pants will be. Insulation types can range as low as 30 grams and go as high as 800 grams, which is most commonly found with Down material. For people who are colder by nature, an insulated pant is the most suitable option.

Shell Pants

Shell pants are windproof and waterproof but contain no internal insulation and are highly breathable. Now, you might wonder why anyone would choose a pair of pants that contain no internal insulation. The reasons for this are several, one of which has already been identified; being a warmer person by nature. Another reason that one may choose this type of pant is because they prefer to have added mobility that is not available with an insulated pant. As shell pants are usually worn over a base layer and a mid layer, shell pants do not have the added bulkiness that an insulated pant has. This means that you can contain the warmth of your body via your base layer and mid layer, but have added range of motion.

Shell pants can be worn on their own on warmer days or layered with base and mid layers for colder days. However, for extremely cold temperatures and extended periods of time outdoors, a shell pant is probably not the best option, but the final decision is ultimately up to you. For more information on base and mid layers, please review our article on the importance of layering.

Bib Pants

Bib pants are insulated snowboard pants that offer an added piece of fabric that extends up from the waist to cover the back and chest areas. If you can imagine a pair of overalls, you have the design of a pair of bib snowboard pants. The two greatest benefits to this type of pant is that one, it provides extra warmth to your core areas. The second benefit is that it provides additional coverage above the waist to protect from snow going up your jacket or down your pants.

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Waterproof Rating

Probably the most important characteristic of any pair of snowboard pants is the waterproof rating. This rating tells you how quickly your pants will become saturated and begin allowing water to penetrate to the layers below. Waterproof ratings are measured and indicated in millimeters(mm). The level is determined by placing a tube filled on the fabric and filling it with water. The level at which the water begins to penetrate through the fabric is the waterproof rating. The higher the number, the more waterproof the pant is and the longer it will withstand snow and rain. For a pair of pants to be deemed legally waterproof, it must achieve a minimum 1,500mm rating. Pants can be rated as high as 20,000mm, but the average rating is typically between 5,000 and 10,000mm. Keep in mind that as the rating goes higher, so too will the price.

There are many different types of waterproof fabrics that are used on the market today. Among the more well-known materials that are used are Gore-Tex, Hyvent, and Event. What makes materials such as these so effective is that they contain pores which are larger than a molecule of sweat, but smaller than a molecule of water. This means that not only is the material waterproof, but also very breathable.

Breathability Rating

Just like the waterproof rating measures how effective a snowboard pant is at keeping water outside, the breathablity rating of a pant measures how effective a pant is at transferring moisture from inside to the outside. The same fabric pores that help prevent water from penetrating inside a pair of pants, allow sweat molecules to escape and ultimately keep your warmer.

Breathability rating is measured and indicated in grams (g). The measurement is determined by finding the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR). The MVTR determines how many grams of sweat per 1 square meter can escape a pair of pants in a 24 hour period. The higher the number, the more moisture escapes and the more breathable it is. Entry-level breathable fabrics will have MVTR ratings in the range of 2,000-3000g. Fabrics at the high end of the breathability scale will have an MVTR around 25,000g.

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Fabric Durability

Contrary to what many people believe, snowboard pants are different than your everyday snow pants that you’d wear in the backyard. Yes, you can wear your snowboard pants as your everyday, backyard snow pants, but if you haven’t purchased a pair of pants specifically for snowboarding, you’re best not to wear the everyday snow pants that you bought at the department store to the slopes. The reasons for this are several, but one of the most important ones is that your snowboard pants are going to be far more durable.

Snowboard pants are made of tightly woven nylon or polyester. Materials which are designed for high performance use in the elements of winter. Extended exposure to high winds and the wet elements of the winter is what makes the construction of a snowboard pant different from your everyday snow pants. This is also why you’ll find that snowboard pants will cost more than snow pants you’d buy from the department store.

Seams

Fully Taped

Fully taped seams is exactly what it sounds like. All of the stitched seams have been taped for waterproofing. This is done with a waterproof tape that is glued on the interior and exterior of the seam. Fully taped seams are the best option if you want to be waterproof in these important areas that are prone for moisture. They will, however, cost more than pants with only critically taped seams. As an additional note, higher-end garments will offer Welded Seams, which are even more effective at protecting against moisture penetration at the seams.

Critically Taped

A less expensive option than Welded or Fully taped seams is Critically taped seams. Critically taped seams means that only some of the seams are taped and protected against moisture penetration. On a jacket this is not necessarily a bad thing, but with snowboard pants it is strongly encouraged that you choose pants with Welded or Fully taped seams. This is because your pants are going to spend more time on the snow, whether it be from a fall, sitting on the snow, or sitting on water that has accrued on the seat of a chair lift.

If you opt for snowboard pants that only have Critically taped seams, you will still be protected, but you’ll want to avoid spending long periods of time in wet weather, or avoid falling in the snow. Regardless of what you choose, know that Critically taped seams will offer the protection you need.

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Features

When shopping for snowboard pants it is important to know that beyond how waterproof and breathable a pair of pants are, there are a number of features that you can expect to find available to you. In the following sections, we’ll cover many of these features so you will know what to expect when shopping from one model to the next.

Boot Gaiters: Boot Gaiters are a simple, but very effective feature of snowboard pants. A Boot Gaiter is an elastic fabric that is positioned at the bottom of snowboard pants. This fabric fits snugly over your boots to prevent snow from going up your leg. It also helps to retain heat that can escape through the bottom of your pants.

Articulated Knees: To help with flexibility and also to reduce bulkiness at the knee, many pants will offer the feature of an Articulated Knee. Articulated knees have a seam sewn in the has a natural bend form. This feature is not a must have, but certainly a nice option for improving flexibility.

Scuff Guards: A Scuff Guard is extra durable fabric that is positioned inside of the ankle of a snowboard pant. Its purpose is to keep the pants from fraying in an area that is highly prone to friction. This feature is considered by many as a must have because it helps to protect the investment made in snowboard pants.

Waist Adjustment: To help with comfort and fit, many snowboard pants will offer some adjustability features such as a waist adjustment. This adjustment feature is usually present as a Velcro strap, cinch cords, or snaps. While not a must have feature, it certainly is a luxury to be able to adjust your pants at the waist, particularly if you need to wear more, or remove base or mid layers throughout the day.

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Suspenders: Another adjustment feature that is available on select styles of snowboard pants are pants with suspenders. Pants with suspenders will work in similar fashion to regular dress pants with suspenders. The difference is that most pants with suspenders will have the suspenders sewn into the pants. If you find that your snowboard pants are routinely falling down, you’re best to select this type of pant. Pants with suspenders will keep your pants from falling down, especially during activities with increased movement.

Side Zips: Located near the bottom of the leg, side zips are a convenience feature that helps with positioning your snowboard pants over your boots after you’ve put your boots on. The zippers can also be left unzipped on warmer days, or if you need to let some heat out of your pants if you get too warm.

Inner Leg Vents: Inner Leg Vents are temperature regulating features that are present on many snowboard pants. Inner Leg Vents are zippers located on the inner thigh that can be adjusted on the fly to help retain or release heat that builds up inside a pair of pants. If you’re cold, or the temperature starts to drop, you can close them up to help keep heat close to the body. On warmer days these can be opened up fully to allow heat to escape while you remain fully protected from the elements everywhere else. While not considered a must have, they are certainly suggested if you want the luxury of regulating your core temperature easily.

Leg Lifts: Located inside of the pant, snowboard pants with the Leg Lifts feature have a cord with a snap located at the bottom of the pants. This allows you to fold the pants up and snap them higher when you’re done snowboarding and walking in your street shoes or after snowboarding boots. This is a great feature for many because it helps prevent damage to the cuff of the pant when it is hitting the ground.

Jacket-to-Pant Link: While not offered by all brands, this feature allows you to snap or zip the powder skirt of your snowboard jacket to your snowboard pants. This help to further protect you from wind and any snow that may creep up your back.

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Pockets

• Pass Pocket: Offered on select pants is a Pass Pocket. This pocket is provided so you can stow your lift ticket pass while you’re snowboarding and have it readily available if someone comes asking. While not a must have, it is nice to have a place to store your pass so it isn’t constantly flapping in the wind.

• Cargo Pocket: Just in case your snowboard jacket doesn’t have enough pockets for all of your essential items, some models of snowboard pants will offer a cargo pocket to put any remaining items. This pocket is a great feature if you’re a parent who wants to have a few on-the-go snacks available for children.

Glove Holster: Glove Holsters are positioned at the side of the pants and are great for stowing your gloves when you’re not using them. This will insure that you don’t misplace your gloves, or have to stuff them into your pockets which already have essential items in them.

Video Tutorial: Technical Features of Snowboard Pants

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Additional Media

• Video Tutorial: How to Dress Correctly for Snowboarding
• Video Tutorial: Video Tutorial: Differences Between Base Layers and Long Underwear
• Sizing Guide | Snowboard Pants
  

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