The Best Pants For Cross Country Skiing In 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best Pants For Cross Country Skiing
Best Pants For Cross Country Skiing

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Little Donkey Andy Women’s Winter Hiking Skiing Pants

These Women's are made of a lightweight and highly breathable fabric that keeps you warm and dry when the weather gets cold. The lining is a cozy and warm Micro Polar Fleece, which traps heat effectively and provides next-to-skin comfort. The semi-elasticized leg openings make these pants suitable for snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Spyder Active Sports Men's Mesa Gore-TEX Skiing Pant

The Spyder Pant is the ultimate winter day-to-day performance ski pant. With a GORE-TEX laminate and 40 grams of Thinsulate Insulation, you stay warm, dry, and happy on and off the slopes this winter. The Mesa pants feature an externally adjustable waist construction and belt loops for a secure fit. Critically seam taped to prevent tears and wear points. Read Review

3. Best Comfortable: Swix Women's Winter Cross Country Skiing Corvara Softshell Pants

These women's cross-country ski pants are incredibly comfortable and perfect for the winter. A stretch fabric makes these ski pants exceptionally versatile, while the durable construction keeps you warm and dry in any weather. The Swix softshell is lined with microfleece for superior moisture management and quick-drying comfort as well as warmth. Read Review

4. Best Quality: Spyder Active Sports Men's Boundary Insulated Skiing Pants

The Spyder Active Sports Men's Boundary Insulated Skiing Pants offer a versatile option for those looking for a lightweight, comfortable and durable ski pant. The stretchy, plain weave fabric is made of reprieve polyester and features 10K/10K laminate and a durable DWR finish. Read Review

For many, cross-country skiing is a new sport. But for those who have practiced it before, it’s not something that you take up on a whim. Cross-country skiing is an excellent form of exercise and a great way to explore the mountains or hills in your area. If you’re going to embark on this new activity, you should get the best possible set of clothing for it so that you don’t end up discouraged from doing it again soon.

Cross-country skiing involves standing upright while covered from head to toe in clothes with zippers and pockets. It also requires a pair of skis. Because of all these things, getting the right clothing can make the difference between enjoying your time outside and not. Here are some top tips when looking for the best cross-country ski clothes.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 18 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. As result, We believe the best pants for cross country skiing is Little Donkey Andy Women’s Winter Hiking Skiing Pants. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following buying guide & FAQs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Little Donkey Andy Women’s Winter Hiking Skiing Pants
Our Score:
9.8
Little Donkey Andy
  • WARM & WINDPROOF – Mid-layer of the fabric is made of windproof TPU material to seal the wind. The lining is 114 Micro Polar Fleece, which traps the warmth effectively and offer next-to-skin comfort. SEMI-ELASTICATED LEG OPPENINGS design prevents the wind from sneaking in and makes these pants suitable for snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. They keep you warm and comfortable in cold weather.
  • About the size: Warm enough to wear between 14 and 59 Fahrenheit. If you need extra mid-layer pants to wear under, we suggest ordering one size up.
  • FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT – Made of FOUR-WAY STRETCH materials, and features with preformed ARTICULATED KNEES and GUSSETED CROTCH, these lightweight soft shell pants are designed for full mobility and excellent fit.
  • WATER RESISITANT while BRETHABLE – A waterproof and breathable membrane is built in the fabric to repel water while maintain breathability. Polyester synthetic material helps improve the breathability and transfer the moisture away quickly. They help you maintain dry in damp weather.
  • FLEXIBLE WAIST and OTHER BENIFITS – Waist is partial elasticated at back part, belt loops and a removable belt offer better flexibility. TWO ZIPPERED POCKETS for outdoor essentials. Hook snap button to prevent popping open.
  • External adjustable waist construction and belt loops
  • Critically seam taped
  • 3M Thinsulate insulation (40g)
  • WEATHER PROTECTIVE - Nordic skiers agree on the Swix Corvara Softshell Pant for its performance-oriented combination of breathability and weather protection
  • FABRIC CONTENT- Material - body: 94% polyester, 6% spandex, stretch panels: 86% nylon, 14% spandex, lining: fleece
  • STRETCH MATERIALS - Stretch inserts ensure freedom of movement, soft-shell material enhances movement while resisting wind, water and snow
  • WARM AND BREATHABLE MATERIAL - Its fabric blocks brisk breezes and still breathes to keep you comfy whether you're on your first or umpteenth lap around the track.
  • SOFT LINING - Swix lined this pant in microfleece to enhance moisture management and quick-drying comfort as well as warmth. Stretch inserts make sure you can move freely cross the country
  • Removable adjustable suspenders
  • Stretch Recycled reprieve polyester Plain Weave with 10K/10K laminate and DWR
  • 3M Thinsulate insulation (60g)
  • Thigh ventilation system
  • Critically seam taped
  • FABRIC CONTENT- Material: face fabric - 100% polyester, DWR treatment, lining - 100% polyester mesh
  • FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT - Regular fit with slightly tapered legs provides room to move and room to layer; Fitted and articulated knees improve mobility and prevent unwanted flapping in the wind
  • COMFORTABLE CONSTRUCTION - These Nordic training pants feature full length two-way zippers to simplify changing from warm-up to race-ready, and a fitted cut around the knees encourages mobility during any activity
  • WEATHER PROTECTIVE - Swix Universal X pants offer an easy solution to ensuring your comfort during long days spent outside in winter weather
  • WARM AND BREATHABLE MATERIAL - Wind resistant fabric protects from harsh winter conditions and still breathes to keep you comfy whether you're on your first or umpteenth lap around the track
  • PRO ATHLETE TESTED & APPROVED - Dæhlie team has hand-selected some of the best female and male athletes to develop innovative apparel for outdoor endurance activities; A collaboration of champion's attitudes is stitched into our clothing
  • QUALITY & FIT YOU CAN TRUST - Daehlie is still made for, and by, people with a passion for cross-country skiing & other endurance workouts; Our clothing is true to size; if borderline between two sizes, order the larger size for a looser fit or the smaller size for a snug fit
  • MATERIAL & CARE - Athletic ski pants designed to maintain its shape with the blend of polyester, wool, & spandex, as well as with proper care; Machine washable on a delicate cold cycle; Do not use fabric softener
  • WOMENS ACTIVEWEAR - Cross Country ski pants for women that are perfect over-pants for that extra layer of protection from the winter elements; Wind and water-resistant microfiber in front, mesh lining inside
  • ATTENTION TO DETAILS - Ladies ski pant shell is constructed with stretch material on the backside for mobility and comfort and tailored legs for the best fit with a 3/4 zipper at the side and silicone border at the bottom to grip the shoe
  • UNRESTRICTED MOVEMENT - Stretch panels at back of seat, thighs and lower legs feature knit polyester/spandex for great breathability, moisture transport and stretchy comfort
  • DETAILS - Zippered pockets stash essentials for easy access; Shaped knees ensure a nonbinding, comfortable fit; Full length side zips dump excess heat when the sun pops out
  • COMFORTABLE CONSTRUCTION - Full-length, 2-way side zippers offer venting options and convenient on/off; elastic waist features adjustable snap closures on each side
  • WEATHER PROTECTIVE - Swix Universal X Pants feature polyester fabric that resists wind and water penetration, breathes well and dries quickly
  • FABRIC CONTENT - Material 100% polyester with W/R finish; Stretch sections: 100% polyester; Lining: 100% polyester mesh
8 B DÆHLIE Daehlie Men's Power Pant
Our Score:
8.8
B DÆHLIE
  • QUALITY & FIT YOU CAN TRUST - Daehlie is still made for, and by, people with a passion for cross-country skiing & other endurance workouts; Our clothing is true to size; if borderline between two sizes, order the larger size for a looser fit or the smaller size for a snug fit
  • PRO ATHLETE TESTED & APPROVED - Dæhlie team has hand-selected some of the best female and male athletes to develop innovative apparel for outdoor endurance activities; A collaboration of champion's attitudes is stitched into our clothing
  • ATTENTION TO DETAILS - Ski pant shell is constructed with stretch material on the backside for mobility and comfort and tailored legs for the best fit with a slanted ankle side zipper and silicone border at the bottom to grip the shoe
  • MATERIAL & CARE - Athletic ski pants designed to maintain its shape with the blend of polyester, wool, & spandex, as well as with proper care; Machine washable on a delicate cold cycle; Do not use fabric softener
  • PERFORMANCE ACTIVEWEAR - The classic cross country ski pants for men who prefer to wear close-fitting equipment; a modern cut snow pant made out of a lightweight softshell fabric that's wind and water-resistant
  • It is suitable for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobile, camping, hunting, hiking, climbing, cycling, traveling, and other outdoor sports.
  • [Multi Zipper Pockets] Multi zipper pockets are for simple and secure storage.
  • TSLA Softshell Winter Pants Series designed for winter outdoor activities
  • [Materials] Multi-layer construction for exceptional protection from extreme elements and heat retention.
  • [Reinforced Knee Fabric] The special knee fabric is durable and lightweight to support outdoor activities.
  • [Micro-Fleece Lining] Mix of Polyester & Spandex fleece fabric provides a warm and soft feeling.
  • [Metal Alloy Button Closure with Zipper] It helps quick adjustments and fastening
  • Material: polyester, Spandex. Lightweight, warm, durable, comfortable
  • Zip fly and button closure.Elastic waistband to allow the maximum comfort. (No Belt)
  • Thicken fleece lining and reinforced knees give you more freedom and warm when active.
  • Good choice in cold weather. Perfect for daily wear and outdoor activities like skiing, snowboard, hunting,camping,climbing, hiking,cycling,fishing travelling,mountaineering,biking,adventure, training and so on.
  • Zipper pockets: Two front pockets, one rear pockets, one hidden zip pocket on the thigh to keep your items safe.

How Can You Choose The best pants for cross country skiing Among Numerous Products From Different Brands?

It can take you much time to research the outcome of best pants for cross country skiing. It doesn't mean you can’t get the best one for yourself. We are the experts specializing in studying market and products. We will help you with your best pants for cross country skiing issues, no matter what time it is!

Please have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose the right best pants for cross country skiing for your need:

Activities

A good pair or several pairs of snow pants is essential for any outdoor activity you are involved in during winter. For snowmobiling and skiing you will want waterproof, insulated trousers. For active backcountry activities, such as skiing, backcountry skinning, and snowshoeing, you will need waterproof, breathable, flexible pants with little or no insulation.

Gaiters

The gaiters on snow pants make them look great. They prevent snow from getting in to boots or shoes. Contrary to external gaiters which are equipped with stirrups so they won't roll up, built-in gaiters fit around the boot ankle. Sometimes, an inner sleeve is included that fits into the boot.

Waterproofness And Breathability

Snow pants are the best for winter sports because they offer both water resistance and breathability. You can have a pant that is both waterproof and breathable. This will keep you comfortable during winter activities, while also keeping your skin from getting too hot. You will need a more breathable pant if you are more active. You can choose less breathable, waterproof pants if you are certain you will be outside in cold, wet weather. Many winter pants have sides vents at the legs and/or calves that reduce heat.

Pants Or Bibs

All this is up to each rider. Although snow pants are easy to remove and put on, it is more challenging to hold the hip when there are multiple layers. You may find pockets and bibs warmer. Suspenders can make it more difficult for you to go to the restroom in them. Some people also find they place too much downward pressure upon their shoulders all day.

Insulation

You will need more insulation if your plans include snowmobiling or skiing uphill. You'll need pants with little to no insulation if you plan on doing active sports like skiing uphill or hiking. To reduce the sweating associated with high-energy activities, wear pants that have very little insulation.

Fabric Type And Flexibility

The three primary fabrics for snow pants are hardshell, softshell, hybrid. Hardshell pants offer less flexibility, and are generally more elastic. The flexibility of hybrid and softshell pants is better for sports that demand more mobility. In the same way, hardshell pants generally are more breathable that their softshell relatives.

FAQs

Are Snow Bibs Better Than Snow Pants?

We've said it before: what do you like more, the convenience of pants or overalls? Consider purchasing matching sets if you also have plans to purchase a jacket. This allows the tops and bottoms to latch onto each other. Perhaps you'd like more choice with the bib. This will allow you to wear it under virtually any top you choose. That's your choice!

Should I Choose Insulated Or Uninsulated Pants?

It is easy to assume that uninsulated snow pants will be more stylish than insulated ones. This is not true. Both types of pants can be equally useful if they are used for the correct purpose. Insulated pants are made with a synthetic lining that keeps them warm in cold environments. They are best suited for those with low blood flow or who intend to travel in the snowy mountains for a week. The downsides to the extra layer include increased bulkiness, reduced breathability, and the possibility of becoming sweaty too fast. The uninsulated (also known as softshell pants) come in handy here. These pants are water-resistant, so snow is not absorbed but they don't get sweaty on the legs. The two-layered or three-layered models are divided into uninsulated and non-insulated. They include either a waterproof face fabric, and the other a layer with water resistance. Each option provides enough warmth to allow you to ski or snowboard in the resort. However, uninsulated snow pants aren't recommended for colder conditions.

Can You Put Snow Pants In The Washing Machine?

Generally, yes. You will be instructed by the manufacturer to wash them with cold water, on a gentle cycle, and dry them. You can find detailed washing and drying instructions at the manufacturer's website or on the laundry tag in the pants.

What Should I Layer Underneath My Snow Pants?

You should layer your clothes underneath the snow gear. It is worth investing in thermal and high-quality clothing under your snow clothes to ensure you stay comfortable throughout your entire ski trip. On a cold day, you should have at minimum one layer of ColdPruf and Terramar clothing. Make sure you pay attention what the fabrics of your layers are and select the best for warmth. You can choose synthetic if money is tight, while wool and merino wool are more affordable. The different thicknesses are available, so consider your circumstances to determine the most suitable thickness. According to a general rule, lighter models are best for the backcountry and heavy models better for the resort.

Should Ski Pants Fit Loose Or Tight?

The middle. The pants should be not restrict movement and shouldn't be too loose. Otherwise, you'll feel colder and lose more heat. You might consider increasing the size if you are wearing thicker or larger baselayers.
Ski pants should always be worn with thicker layers underneath. You might want to size up, or down depending on which base layers you have underneath.
When shopping for pants it is important to verify the size and length.

Is There A Difference Between Snow Pants And Ski Pants?

While ski pants have a tighter fit, snow leggings are more comfortable. Snow pants, on the other hand, are looser in size and are much more fluid. Nobody wants to be in tight pants when they go up the mountains.

We suppose that these descriptions above are accurate and objective since experts give them. The best pants for cross country skiing information, in other words, is continuously updated. Thus, don’t worry about the out-of-date data. Rest assured!

If you have any questions, let inform us. We will make all our effort to solve your problems, and please feel free to do that. Thank you!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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