Best Snowboard Pants and Bibs for Every Rider (2026)
Snowboard pants and bibs from budget insulated to 20K waterproof shells, what waterproof ratings mean and how to choose the right fit.
What Makes Good Snowboard Pants?
Snowboarders sit in the snow, kneel to strap in and fall more often than skiers, so waterproofing matters. Good snowboard pants have a waterproof-breathable fabric (often rated 10K or higher), taped seams, boot gaiters and vents. You'll also choose between pants and bibs, insulated and shell, and how relaxed a fit you like.
Burton Cargo Pant
Best classic pant
- DRYRIDE 2-layer, 10K/10K
- Regular fit
- Cargo pockets
Burton Reserve 2L Bib
Best bib
- DRYRIDE 2-layer, 20K/20K
- Fully taped seams
- Relaxed fit
Arctix Essential Snow Pants
Best budget
- ThermaTech 85g insulation
- ThermaLock coating
- Wind, water and snow resistant
Snowboard Pants Compared
| Pant | Style | Waterproof / Breathable | Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burton Cargo Pant | Pant | 10,000 mm / 10,000 g | Regular |
| Burton Reserve 2L Bib | Bib | 20,000 mm / 20,000 g | Relaxed |
| Arctix Essential | Insulated pant | ThermaLock coating | Check listing |
| Burton Gloria Insulated (Women's) | Insulated pant | Check listing | Slim |
The Best Snowboard Pants and Bibs
1. Burton Cargo Pant
Burton's classic snowboard pant in a regular fit ("not too tight or too baggy") with DRYRIDE two-layer fabric rated 10,000 mm waterproof and 10,000 g breathable, plus roomy cargo pockets.
Good to Know
- Proven, versatile pant
Watch Out For
- 10K is fine for most days; very wet climates benefit from higher ratings
2. Burton Reserve 2L Bib
A relaxed-fit bib with DRYRIDE two-layer fabric rated 20,000 mm / 20,000 g, fully taped seams and an interior storm flap. Men's and women's versions are available.
Good to Know
- High waterproof rating
- Keeps snow out of your back
Watch Out For
- Bathroom breaks take longer
3. Arctix Essential Snow Pants
An affordable insulated pant with ThermaTech 85g synthetic insulation and a ThermaLock coating that resists wind, water and snow. A good budget choice for occasional riders.
Check Price on Amazon4. Burton Gloria Insulated Pant (Women's)
A women's insulated snow pant in a slim fit. Check the listing for waterproof ratings.
Check Price on AmazonWaterproof Ratings Explained
| Rating | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 5,000 mm | Light snow, dry climates |
| 10,000 mm | Most resort days |
| 20,000 mm+ | Wet snow, rain, sitting in snow |
How to Choose
- Pant or bib: bibs for deep snow and falls; pants for convenience.
- Insulated or shell: insulated for cold; shell for layering and spring.
- Fit: room for base layers and knee pads; check inseam.
- Features: vents, boot gaiters, reinforced cuffs and pockets.
Pair with a snowboard jacket and gloves, and read what to wear snowboarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do waterproof ratings like 10K and 20K mean?
They describe how much water pressure a fabric resists (in millimeters). Higher numbers stay drier in wet snow and when sitting down. Breathability ratings (g) measure how well sweat escapes.
Are bibs better than pants for snowboarding?
Bibs keep snow out of your lower back when you sit or fall, and stay up without a belt. Pants are easier on and off and cooler.
Should snowboard pants be insulated?
Insulated pants are warmer on cold resort days. Shell pants let you layer and suit spring, backcountry or riders who run warm.
What fit should snowboard pants have?
Room to move and layer, without dragging under your boots. Many riders like a relaxed fit; check the brand's size chart and inseam.
Do I need gaiters on snowboard pants?
Most snowboard pants have built-in boot gaiters that seal over your boots to keep snow out.