Ski pants

You want to get the most out of your time on the slopes. That starts with the right equipment. Good ski pants keep you warm, dry, and free in your movement, from the first descent to the last run after lunch. Choosing the wrong pants is something you'll notice quickly: cold, wet clothes, or restricted movement can significantly ruin a wonderful winter sports holiday.

In our collection, you will find a wide choice of ski pants for every winter sports enthusiast, available in many colors and from various brands. This way, you always find pants that contribute to a successful winter sport.

On this page, you will find everything you need to choose the right ski pants. We explain what to look for regarding waterproofing and breathability, help you choose between shell or insulated pants, and give size advice for men, women, and children. View the full range of ski pants and find the pants that fit your adventure.

What makes good ski pants?

Not every pair of pants is suitable for the slopes. Ski pants protect you from wind, snow, and cold, while simultaneously giving you enough freedom of movement to ski to your full potential. But what exactly should you look for?

Waterproofing is one of the most important properties. The water column indicates how much water pressure the fabric can handle before moisture penetrates. A water column of at least 10,000 mm is a good lower limit for recreational skiing. If you frequently ski in wet snow or bad weather conditions, choose 15,000 mm or higher. This way, you stay dry even after a fall or a heavy snow shower.

Breathability is at least as important. While skiing, you move actively and build up heat. Without good ventilation, you'll sweat your clothes soaking wet from the inside out. That feels just as unpleasant as rain from the outside. Ventilation zippers on the inside of the thigh solve this. Open them on warm days or during energetic descents and you regulate your temperature effortlessly.

Snow gaiters are elastic bands at the bottom of the pant legs that prevent snow from entering your ski boots. This is especially important during a fall or in deep powder snow and contributes to the comfort and functionality of the ski pants.

An adjustable waist ensures your pants stay in place all day long, even after lunch. And reinforced knees extend the lifespan of your pants if you actively ski or snowboard.

Functionality, such as snow gaiters, adjustable waistbands, handy pockets, and reinforced pant legs, is essential for comfort and performance on the slopes.

Features to look for in ski pants:

• Water column of at least 10,000 mm for good waterproofing
• Breathability for temperature regulation during skiing
• Snow gaiters at the bottom of the legs to keep snow out during a fall or in deep snow
• Ventilation zippers for extra cooling on active or warmer days
• Reinforced knees or pant legs for extra durability during intensive use
• Adjustable waistbands for a personal fit
• Handy pockets for extra functionality while skiing

Shell or insulated ski pants: which one suits you?

There are two fundamentally different types of ski pants: shell pants and insulated ski pants. Which one suits you best depends on your riding style, destination, and how quickly you get warm or cold.

The technology: Shell vs. Insulated

A shell ski pant is light and thin. It offers wind and water protection but has no built-in insulation. This might sound cold, but with the right thermal layer underneath, it isn't. By varying thermal layers, you can adapt your outfit to the temperature of the day. This makes shell pants a versatile choice for active skiers who warm up quickly.

Softshell ski pants have become increasingly popular in recent years. Made from elastic fabric, this type offers extra freedom of movement and optimal comfort on the slopes. While they are often water-repellent rather than fully waterproof, they breathe excellently during intensive descents.

An insulated ski pant has a lined interior and keeps you warm immediately without needing extra layers. This makes it ideal for beginners, families with children who get cold quickly, and winter sports enthusiasts traveling to colder destinations. You put them on, and you're ready to go.

Different models for every style

Besides insulation, the fit and model determine your experience on the mountain. At Rehall, you can choose from various designs:

• Bib pants (Salopette): This model runs high and has shoulder straps. It is the best choice for keeping snow out during a fall or when skiing in deep powder.
• Baggy fit: For those who love a relaxed look and maximum room to move. Especially popular among snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
• With suspenders (helpers): Ideal for those who want their pants to always stay perfectly in place, no matter how intensely you move.
• With snow gaiter: These models are equipped with an extra barrier at the waist or ankles to prevent splashing snow from entering your clothing.
• Tyrolean style: Want a unique look on the slopes? The Almduft models combine a traditional appearance with modern technical performance.

Practical advice: what do you choose?

Are you an active skier who is constantly on the move and regulates heat well? Then choose shell pants and combine them with thermal underwear, such as thermal leggings. Are you a beginner, going on a winter sports holiday with young children, or expecting extremely cold conditions? Then an insulated ski pant offers the most comfort without the hassle.

At Rehall, you will find both types and all mentioned models in a wide range of sizes and styles. Functional, affordable, and ready for adventure, for every level on the slopes.

Men's ski pants

Men's ski pants fit differently than a unisex or women's model, and you'll notice that immediately on the slopes. The anatomical fit for men ensures the right balance between freedom of movement and a snug fit that doesn't let cold in, like the bib pants. Our ski pants for men are available in various fits, such as regular fit, so you always find a fit that suits your style and preference.

Straight cut, more room in the crotch and thigh: those are the features of men's ski pants that really work. No pinching fabric when you bend your knees. No material bunching up when you take a turn. Just free movement, all day long.

View the full range of men's ski pants and find your ideal pants for the slopes.

Fit and size advice for men

The right size makes all the difference. Pants that are too tight hinder your movement and give an uncomfortable feeling after a few hours of skiing. Pants that are too wide let cold and drafts in and feel unpleasant during fast descents. Choosing the right size ensures a perfect fit and optimal comfort while skiing.

For the right size, measure three things: your waist circumference, your hip circumference, and your inseam. Measure your waist at the narrowest part of your torso, your hips at the widest point, and your inseam from your crotch to your ankle. If you are between two sizes, choose the larger size, especially if you plan to wear extra thermal layers underneath. Consult the size chart for an accurate comparison.

Women's ski pants

Women's ski pants are not simply a smaller version of men's pants. Well-designed women's ski pants are specially created for the female anatomy, and you'll notice that immediately in the comfort and freedom of movement on the slopes. Many women's ski pants have a high waist, offering extra warmth and support around the stomach. High-waist ski pants are perfect for those looking for extra warmth and support. Additionally, these ski pants are often stylish, ensuring you look fashionable while being comfortable on the slopes.

The feminine cut features a narrower waist, more room in the hips, and a higher waistband at the back. This combination gives you warmth on the back and lower back area, a spot often overlooked in men's models. The result is a pair of pants that sit comfortably without needing constant adjustment and can be worn all day without discomfort.

Do you want to combine your ski pants with a ski jacket or a full ski suit? Pay attention to color coordination and ensure the snow skirt of your pants fits well with your jacket. This prevents snow from entering through the waist and makes your outfit look sharp.

View the full assortment of women's ski pants and choose the pants that suit you.

Fit and size advice for women

For the right size, measure your waist circumference, hip circumference, and inseam. For women's pants, the hip circumference is extra important as the cut is specifically tailored to those measurements. Measure your hips at the widest point. If you are between two sizes, choose the size that best fits your hip circumference. The adjustable waist then ensures a perfect fit. Always consult the size chart for the most accurate advice.

Ski pants for children and families

Children experience the snow differently than adults. They play, fall, roll, and get back up. Children's ski pants must be able to handle all of that. They feature a comfortable fit and adjustable waistbands so they grow with the child and offer optimal protection against cold, snow, and wind. A good fit and the right protection ensure that even the youngest skiers have fun on the slopes all day long.

Children's ski pants have reinforced knees that withstand frequent falls and kneeling play. The snow gaiter keeps snow out during a fall in the powder. An adjustable waist allows for growth room so the pants still fit well next season.

For the right children's size, measure the waist circumference and the inseam. Compare these measurements with the size chart and, if in doubt, choose the larger size for extra space and growth margin. View the full range of children's ski pants and ensure your children also hit the slopes warm, dry, and protected.

How to take good care of your ski pants?

Good ski pants are an investment. With the right care, they will function for years and maintain their waterproofing. That starts with washing.

Always wash your ski pants at a low temperature, maximum 30 degrees, and use a technical detergent specifically developed for outdoor clothing. Never use fabric softener. Fabric softener attacks the DWR coating—the layer that ensures water beads off your pants instead of penetrating.

Do you notice water no longer beads on your pants but soaks through? Then the DWR coating is aged. You can easily solve this by drying the pants in the dryer on a low setting after washing. The heat reactivates the coating. For extra protection, treat the pants with a DWR spray afterwards.

Store your ski pants out of season in a dry, dark place, hung up loosely. Not compressed in a bag or cupboard, as this damages the materials and coating over time.

What does a good pair of ski pants cost?

Ski pants come in a wide price range, from affordable entry-level models to premium pants for demanding skiers. What you pay directly affects the specs you get.

In the entry-level class, you'll find ski pants that perform well for recreational use. They offer basic protection against wind and snow and are ideal for beginner skiers or families going on winter sports a few times a year. In the mid-segment, the water column and breathability increase, and you'll find more comfort details like ventilation zippers, a snow skirt, and an adjustable waist. Premium pants combine the highest waterproofing and breathability with lightweight, durable materials and a refined fit for skiers who are on the slopes frequently and intensively.

Even in the affordable category, you'll find ski pants that perform well and keep you dry and warm. You don't have to choose the most expensive model to have a great ski holiday. View the range, filter by your budget, and discover which ski pants best suit your adventure.

Frequently asked questions about ski pants

How waterproof should ski pants be?

A water column of 10,000 mm is a good lower limit for recreational skiing in normal conditions. If you often ski in wet snow, rain, or heavy weather conditions, choose a water column of 15,000 mm or higher. The higher the water column, the longer you stay dry under heavy load.

What is the difference between shell ski pants and insulated ski pants?

Shell ski pants have no insulation and are light and versatile. You wear thermal layers underneath and adjust your outfit to the temperature. Insulated ski pants are immediately warm without extra layers, ideal for beginners and colder destinations. Read the detailed explanation above for more advice on which type suits you best.

How do I choose the right size ski pants?

Measure your waist circumference, hip circumference, and inseam. Compare these measurements with the brand's size chart. Keep in mind that men's and women's pants are cut differently and if in doubt, it's better to choose a size larger, especially if you plan to wear thermal layers under your ski pants.

Can I wash ski pants in the washing machine?

Yes, you can. Wash at a maximum of 30 degrees with a technical detergent and do not use fabric softener. Then dry on a low setting in the dryer to reactivate the DWR coating. See the maintenance section above for the full step-by-step plan.

How do I combine my ski pants with a ski jacket or ski suit?

When combining ski pants with a ski jacket, ensure a good connection via the snow skirt. This prevents snow from seeping in through the waist. If you choose a sleek look without the hassle, a ski suit is the most convenient option: jacket and pants are already matched in fit and style. If you want to combine freely, coordinate the colors of your pants and jacket for a polished look. Don't forget your ski accessories for a complete outfit.