The best women’s ski and snowboarding trousers you can buy right now
IF you're planning on hitting the slopes any time soon, you're going to need a decent pair of ski or snowboarding trousers.
In our experience, getting the right pair can make the difference between staying out for après and heading back to the chalet early because you've spent the day shivering.
But, without trying before buying, how do you know which pair will actually perform?
We've done the hard work for you, putting different offers through rigorous testing on the slopes - and the results are quite surprising.
Still, when you're shopping for ski trousers, there are a few things you'll need to bear in mind:
- The fit - ski trousers tend to be more figure hugging to create a streamlined silhouette whereas snowboarding styles have a wider cut
- Weight - It's worth considering how insulated you need your gear to be as well. If you're heading to France in the spring, you might want air vents to cool you down; whereas Canada in winter probably calls for some thicker trousers (although you can always compensate with extra thermals underneath).
- Waterproofing - this is a given of course, but in colder climes without sunshine, it's even more essential that everything is sealed off and no snow can escape through seams or under cuffs because it won't be evaporating anytime soon.
- Colour - yes, seriously, it's an important factor to consider. You need something that will be visible but also something that will stand the test of time, so don't go spending all your funds on a flash in the pan trend. We recommend dodging the trend for buying white gear as it's less visible on the slopes, plus it'll end up looking pretty grubby by the end of the week, especially if you're a beginner.
We've rounded up the best options below - now all you need to do is take your pick.
Columbia
These trousers are among the best we tested thanks to the brand's fancy Omni-Heat lining.
We certainly gave these trousers a good workout (mostly by falling over repeatedly) and found them to be both waterproof and warm no matter how much snow we fell into.
They're also extremely comfortable and are available in nine colours that range from electric pink to some more understated tones.
Protest
The best bit about Protest's trousers is the cut, with a slim leg through the thigh and a flared hem, they're more flattering on the body than most.
These Carmacks trousers held up in a real mix of conditions that varied from a minus 20 blizzard to clear and warm.
Thanks to the infallible waterproof fabric and zippers, plus 100% sealed seams, this pair kept us dry and warm even when we went off piste.
Killtec
If you're looking for trousers in a slightly larger size, it's worth having a look at the various ranges at Curvissa, whose sizes range from 14 to 32.
We tried out this pair of Killtech Minosa ski pants and loved them from the get go.
They kept us warm even when conditions got a bit grim, thanks to their water and windproof material (but don't worry, it's also super breathable.)
Burton
Burton know how to make some top notch snowboarding gear, so if you're an avid boarder, it's well worth investing in a pair - and not just because they offer a lifetime guarantee.
The Society style have a slightly slimmer silhouette than standard snowboarding trousers, without sacrificing any of the comfort of a looser style.
They're warmer than a lot of the other pairs of trousers we tested as well, and we didn't find ourselves getting too cold when we had to sit down and wait for the rest of the group to catch up.
And yet, you can rest assured they'll work for sunnier seasons too due to the air vents and breathable THERMOLITE® Insulation that works both ways.
With Burton, you pay for extra details - like the snow gaiters that enhance the cargo-inspired silhouette and the extended cuffs that keep your hems from getting grubby in mud and sleet.
Dare2b
We've become big fans of Dare2B since testing its gear out over the ski season: the high street brand offer on-trend bold designs that really help you stand out on the slopes but don't feel too faddy either.
These trousers are not fashion over function though: they proved to have excellent windproof and waterproof features with great breathability.
They have a slim fit but they didn't feel too constrictive when we were sliding down the mountains.
Last season is already in the sale, so we recommend snapping these bargain bits up while you still can.
Helly Hansen
Throughout our testing, we've been impressed with the ruggedness of Helly Hansen's gear.
Although we can't 100% confirm after one week of testing, this pair certainly feels tough - they even have reinforced hems and seams to prevent wear and tear over the years.
Made from flexible double-stretch fabric to aid movement, they're lined with the brand's PrimaLoft® insulation that's not only warm, but breathable too.
They also have heat sealed seams, YKK® zippers and streamlined boot gaiters to keep the snow, wind and water out.
With Helly Hansen, you might be paying more but you get all those little details that make a difference, like the hand warming pockets and silicone grippers at the hem to stop your trousers riding up over your boots.
If you're looking for a ski jacket as well, why not check out our guide to the best ones for women?
And if you're looking for men's options too, we've also reviewed the best ski trousers and the best ski jackets for this season.
And you may need some beauty essentials for the slopes too.
This article and any featured products have been independently chosen by The Sun journalists. All recommendations within the article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click a link and buy a product we may earn revenue: this helps to support The Sun, and in no way affects our recommendations.