Are you eager to hit the slopes in the coming months? If so, preparation is key in order to enjoy all that the powder has to offer. This is even more relevant when discussing the benefits of quality ski trousers. How can these seemingly humble garments be used to improve your performance and what features are available? Let us take a look at what the professionals have to say.
1. All About Comfort
Even novice skiers are aware that flexibility is essential from a purely practical point of view. Ski trousers provide superior levels of comfort when compared to possible alternatives such as bibs (1). This will enable you to negotiate tight turns, to easily bend your knees and to accommodate for changing terrain. It should also be pointed out that the majority of trousers are equipped with front zippers; taking the guesswork out of the occasional bathroom break.
Additionally, a well-designed pair of ski trousers can be worn off of the slopes. From enjoying a dinner with friends after an exciting day or warming up by the fire, many types of trousers will double as casual wear. This is not always the case with common bibs.
2. Keeping the Water at Bay
Another undeniable advantage of modern ski trousers involves waterproofing. This is also one of the factors that some skiers fail to take into account before setting out for a day on the slopes. It is quite easy to become cold if water is allowed to penetrate through to deeper layers. This can lead to real issues in terms of comfort and furthermore, the chances of developing hypothermia at higher elevations are very real. Waterproofing helps to mitigate these risks; providing you with a warm and effective barrier under even the harshest of conditions. Furthermore, you will not be forced to cut an excursion short as a result of becoming wet and uncomfortable.
3. The Ability to Dissipate Excess Heat and Moisture
We are all well aware of the fact that skiing is one of the most intense forms of cardiovascular exercise in existence. Not only does it require poise and balance, but the body will burn through many calories during an average excursion. Sweat and heat will be produced as a direct result. However, excessive sweating can actually be quite dangerous during cold weather. If this moisture is allowed to remain in place, hypothermia could once again occur (2).
Cutting-edge ski trousers are designed in such a way as to wick excess sweat away from the body; allowing it to efficiently evaporate. This is accomplished through the use of breathable fabrics alongside the presence of proprietary synthetic materials. You will therefore not have to worry about becoming overheated when performing vigorous exercise.
4. Second-to-None Level of Functionality
There is indeed much more than may initially meet the eye in terms of skiing trousers. Professional engineers have gone to great lengths in order to provide skiers with a host of adjustable options. For instance, many of the trousers offered by the team at Snow + Rock are equipped with accessories including (but not necessarily limited to):
- Pockets to warm your hands
- Multiple layers for additional protection against the elements
- An adjustable waistband
- Thigh vent zippers
- Boot gaiters
- Belt loops
- Inner leg scuff guards
Of course, these are only a handful of examples that should be taken into account before making a purchase.
5. A Touch of Style and Sophistication While Out and About
This article has mainly focused upon the practical advantages of ski trousers. While none of the points mentioned above can be denied, it is just as important to appreciate these garments from an aesthetic point of view. Such trousers are available in a wide array of colours, styles and designs (3). In other words, it is easy to make your decision based off of personal tastes as opposed to functionality alone. This is also due in no small part to a selection of well-known brand names such as Patagonia, Rossignol, Schoffel, Spyder, and Helly Hansen. Whether you desire a pair of high-visibility trousers when negotiating tougher trails or you are more interested in turning heads while out and about, a kaleidoscope of options await.
Have you recently been bitten by the skiing bug? Or, perhaps you are instead a seasoned white powder veteran. Either way, choosing a pair of reliable ski trousers will help to ensure that you make the most out of any session. Feel free to browse through the line of products offered by Snow + Rock. You will not be disappointed!