Heli Ski Pants – Buyers Guide
For all skiing enthusiasts a good pair of ski pants are essential for any heli skiing vacation. As well as keeping you warm, and above all dry, they should fit well and be comfortable to ski in. Trying them on before you buy is also pretty important – as with most ski gear – but before making that final purchase, there are some other considerations.
Ski pants do come in specific gender varieties, the main differences being sizing and styles. Sizing is perhaps the most important thing to look at when deciding on those next new pants. You will want a pair that fit well, but are also slightly loose to enable dynamic movements. Areas that may hinder performance if too tight are generally around the hips and knees.
Ski pants that will see a lot of use, especially if you are heli skiing BC once or twice a year, will have to be durable as well as comfortable. Problem areas that see the most wear and tear whilst skiing or snowboarding are the lower knees, lower legs, and buttocks. Look for pants with added or good reinforcing materials around these areas. A well-made pair of ski pants should last you at least one season if you ski each week, or more if you get out less frequently.
Whether you opt for a pair of pants that use elastic around the waist, or go for some with suspenders, make sure the elasticity is snug enough so not to fall down after a few times of wearing, but not so tight so it restricts blood flow, actually becoming painful. Which style you choose entirely depends on personal preference. Some people may like the bib-style pants that almost guarantee snow will not get into those areas where it`s not wanted. Others may want to choose a pair from the same brand as their jacket to ensure compatibility. You’ll be thankful for easily adjustable straps on any style of pants, especially after putting on a few pounds gorging on the delicious food prepared by our top chefs here at Last Frontier!
Waterproofing and insulation is a vital part of ski pants, and can follow the same basic principles for that of jackets. Take a look at our waterproofing post to determine whether you think it worth it to shell out for the top of the range Gore-Tex material, or if something else will suffice. The insulation should be slightly thick, which will help retain heat and prevent painful bruising of tender areas, but not so much that they restrict movements or inhibit breathability.
Most quality brand name pants will come with a guarantee, and by purchasing them from a reputable store you will save yourself any hassles if problems do happen to arise. When you go along to the store, take your boots with you as well so you can see that the cuffs of the pants fit comfortably. Different people prefer different types of cuffs, and they range in style from elasticized, knitted, drawstring, or Velcro. No method of adjusting the style is better than the other; it will all depend on your personal preference.
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