The snowboarding style has been a central component of the sport’s culture since its inception. Many of today’s riders still wear the same clothes made by some of the sport’s most prominent brands, such as Burton, Volcom, and Roxy. However, more mainstream companies such as Outdoor Research and Patagonia have started producing freeride-inspired apparel.

Below are a few of the market’s top brands and styles of snowboarding pants.

1. Burton AK Gore-Tex Cyclic

Since the early 1970s, Burton has been synonymous with snowboarding. The company’s men’s Cyclic pants are known for their high-quality construction and are perfect all-around pants. They feature a well-rounded feature set and are built with a durable and water-resistant Gore-Tex. The women’s version of the same pants, the Summit, features a tricot backer and a stretchy face fabric for added warmth.

A pair of snowboard pants should feature a durable and water-resistant outer layer and a flexible and breathable inner layer. The Cyclic uses Gore-Tex, which is widely regarded as the best in the industry. Its full seam taping ensures that the pants are protected from harmful substances. A mesh liner and inner thigh vents provide excellent ventilation, while the 3-layer version of Burton’s Hover will give you better temperature regulation. While the company’s 2-layer Ballast is an excellent alternative for those who prefer a more budget-friendly design, the Hover is a must-have for split boarders.

2. Volcom Freakin Snow Chino

Many resort-focused riders prefer to wear a budget pair of pants. Most major brands have entry-level offerings that feature trimmed-down feature sets and waterproof membranes at a low price. These pants are fully functional and keep you warm even if you’re not riding in Gore-Tex.

The Volcom Freakin Snow Chino pants are our favorite choice for men due to their smooth and sophisticated looks. It also features a durable and water-resistant 2-layer V-Science membrane and a stretchy face fabric for excellent mobility and comfort. Although the Freakin Snow Chino’s construction is fully waterproof, it’s important to note that the pants are only taped at the critical seams, which means that they’re not ideal for heavy snowfall or prolonged periods of warm weather. Despite this, the Volcom Freakin Snow Chino keeps you warm and dry on cold and dry days. Its relaxed fit also eliminates the need for additional material and allows you to layer underneath.

The Volcom Freakin Snow Chino also features a flexible and adjustable waistband, inner thigh vents, and a Zip Tech attachment for added protection. While the Burton Covert is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly alternative, the Freakin Snow Chino is our favorite choice.

3. Roxy Backyard

While some companies try to copy the “shrink it and pink it” approach when designing women’s clothing, Roxy is not one of them. The company’s new Backyard Pant is built for women and features a tailored fit and an adjustable waistband. The company’s new pants are also made for women looking for a more feminine look. They feature 60-gram synthetic insulation that can keep them warm during the winter season. The $140 price tag is an excellent value for those who only get out for a couple of days a year.

4. Trew Gear TREWth Bib

A Bib is a good choice for those looking for a stylish alternative to pants. Aside from being practical, a bib also provides excellent protection against snow and keeps you warm and dry. The Trew Gear TREWth Bib is a perfect choice for those looking for a well-built and durable alternative to pants. The design features a 3-layer construction reminiscent of Gore-Tex’s premium materials. Its water-resistant and feature-rich construction keeps you warm and dry even when the weather is freezing.

Although the Trew Gear’s chest storage is spacious enough, we wish they had included a more extensive version so that it could accommodate a phone or a beacon. Despite this, the company’s quality is second to none. The company’s Astoria and Jefferson Bibs are excellent options if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative.