How to Choose Snowboard Pants

How to Choose Snowboard Pants
Photo Credit snowboarding image by Anna Chelnokova from Fotolia.com

Snowboarding in casual pants and jeans will leave you wet and cold on the mountainside. Before you hit the slopes, head to a ski shop or sporting goods retailer to purchase snowboard pants. These pants are crafted from water-resistant fabrics with layers of insulating materials. Snowboard pants are typically roomier than ski pants, according to the ABCs of Snowboarding website. This gives you more movement to perform tricks.

Step 1

Look at the label of the snowboard pants. Pick a pair that is labeled waterproof over water resistant. Although waterproof pants are less breathable, they stay dry for longer periods of time and more severe weather conditions, according to Dick's Sporting Goods. The seams of the pants should be sealed as well to keep ice and water from seeping through the seams.

Step 2

Choose a loose fitting pair. For even more warmth, a layer of long underwear is typically worn under the snowboarding pants. The pants you select should be roomy enough to allow for a layer beneath it. The waist of the pants remains secure with elastic, or suspenders are used to hold the pants up.

Step 3

Buy a pair of snowboard pants with extra padding in areas that take the most hits. The ABCs of Snowboarding website recommends having extra protection in the butt and knee areas to prevent rips and tears in the pants. Damage to the pants affects their waterproofing capabilities.

Step 4

Find a pair of pants with insulation. Insulation keeps you warm during wet and cold snowboarding conditions. Polyester and down are examples of insulators available for snowboard outerwear.

Step 5

Select snowboard pants with side zippers. The side zippers allow you to open air pockets on the pants to cool down when you heat up during boarding. They also give you a chance to ventilate if you perspire during snowboarding.

References

Article reviewed by Jen Raskin Last updated on: Jul 23, 2010

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