The Ultimate Guide to Baggy Snowboard Pants

1. What Are Baggy Snowboard Pants?

Baggy snowboard pants are loose and oversized. They provide more space in the legs and hips than regular or slim pants.

This style is popular in snowboarding culture. It connects to the sport’s freestyle roots. In freestyle, mobility and a relaxed style are important, and isn't just an aesthetic decision.

(F4 - Cargo Baggy Snowboard pants)

Designers create them to wear with layers for warmth, comfort, and ease of movement.

While less popular for skiers, baggy ski bibs and pants have also gained popularity in the recent years.

2. The Evolution of Baggy Snow Pants

The baggy style did not start in snowboarding, but originated from contemporary fashion. However, things began picking up in the sport in the late '90s and early 2000s.

Early snowboarders, influenced by skate culture and streetwear, favored baggy clothing for its functionality and style. Baggy snowboard pants allowed for freedom of movement, which was essential for performing tricks and jumps in the terrain park.

Baggy snowboard pants have changed in materials and designs. However, their loose and comfortable style is still popular. Riders appreciate this style because it combines fashion and performance, regardless of the type of snowboarding.

For their iconic aesthetic, many manufacturers now design baggy snowboard bibs if bibs are more of your thing.

 

(OV12 - Cargo Baggy Snowboard Bibs)

While the baggy aesthetic originated in snowboarding, some skiers, in the freestyle genre, also began favoring the baggy fit. In functionality, there are no real differences between baggy ski pants and its snowboard equivalent.

3. Benefits of Wearing Baggy Snowboard Trousers

Style is important, but there are several benefits to choosing baggy snowpants instead of fitted ones:

Mobility

The loose fit lets you move more freely. This is important for doing tricks, jumps, or just riding comfortably. You won’t feel restricted while squatting, bending, or carving through the snow. Skiers also prefer baggy ski trousers to regular ones for this reason, especially if they are in the park.

 

Layering Flexibility

Baggy pants provide enough room to comfortably layer thermal gear underneath. In cold conditions, you need layers to stay warm, and the extra space allows you to move freely without bulk. In warm conditions, baggy snow pants with less included layering and good breathability can keep a rider cool.

Enhanced Ventilation

The loose fit promotes better airflow, helping to prevent overheating. This is particularly useful during warm spring sessions or intense riding where heat buildup can be an issue.

Style

And, of course, snowboarding has a distinct culture from skiing, and the baggy look is an iconic part of that style. Riders who value a relaxed, freestyle aesthetic often prefer baggy pants over slim-fit alternatives.

Weather Protection

Many manufacturers design baggy snowboard pants with waterproof and windproof materials that keep you dry and warm. The extra fabric keeps snow from getting to your inner layers. This is especially true if the pants have adjustable gaiters or cuffs.

4. Key Features to Look for in Baggy Snow Pants

When shopping for baggy snowboard pants, consider the following key features:

Waterproofing and Breathability

Look for a high waterproof rating (measured in millimeters) and breathability (measured in grams). Waterproof ratings of 10,000 mm to 20,000 mm are ideal for most conditions. Breathability ratings above 10,000 g are sufficient for active riders.

(our Women's Baggy Snowboard Pants with 20000mm and 10000g ratings)

Choose insulated pants for warmth or shell pants for better layering, based on the riding conditions you face. Insulated pants are great for cold conditions, while shells offer versatility for various temperatures.

Ventilation

Pants with zippered vents help you cool down when needed. This is helpful during tough rides or in hot weather.

Reinforced Knees and Seat

Snowboarders often sit or kneel in the snow. Pants with strong knees and seat areas last longer.

Adjustable Waist and Cuffs

Having an adjustable waist allows for a better fit, especially when layering. Adjustable cuffs or gaiters can keep snow out of your boots.

(KY10 - Baggy Snow Pants)

Pockets: Cargo snow pants have pockets, zippered pockets, and media pockets that are great for holding small items like snacks, lift passes, and phones. Cargo snowboard pants come in different pocket types (zipper, button), so make sure to chose whichever one is more convenient for you.

5. Materials and Technology

Baggy snowboard pants are typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials designed to handle harsh snowboarding environments. The two most important elements to consider are waterproofing and breathability.

DWR stands for Durable Water Repellent. Many snowboard pants have a DWR coating. This coating is water resistant and it stops water from soaking in.

(Check out our Baggy Snow Pants with DWR)

In the modern day, nylon and polyester are main components of snowboard pants. They are durable and resist wear and tear. These materials also wick away moisture and keep you dry.

6. How to Choose the Right Fit

Baggy snowboard pants come in various levels of bagginess. Make sure to choose the right fit for both comfort and performance. From loose fit snowboard pants to parachute snowboard pants, there is a wide array of baggy snowboard gear.

Too Loose

Pants that are too loose can cause problems, and a poor fit may even lead to injury. Make sure that your pants properly fit so your pants don't get catch in your bindings at the wrong time.

Just Right

Look for pants that offer a relaxed fit, but still provide enough structure to stay in place while riding. The pants should allow you to bend, twist, and move freely without feeling restricted.

Waist and Length

Check for adjustable waist features to customize the fit. The length should be long enough to cover your boots without dragging excessively when you're walking off the snow.

7. Top Brands for Baggy Snowboard Pants

Some of the top brands known for producing high-quality baggy snowboard pants include:

Après Blanche

A brand for the fashion-forward snowboard community, known to have some of the best baggy snowboard pants.

Volcom

Known for its stylish designs, Volcom’s snowboard pants blend functionality with streetwear-inspired aesthetics.

DC Shoes

Offers a variety of baggy snowboard pants known for their performance-driven designs.

Oakley

Known for its technical apparel, Oakley produces baggy pants with high waterproof ratings and breathability.

8. Style Tips for Baggy Snowboard Pants

Baggy snowboard pants are not just functional—they’re also a style statement. Here are some tips for rocking the look:

Coordinate Colors

Match your pants with your jacket for a cohesive look, or choose contrasting colors for a bold statement.

Layer Smartly

Wear base layers that don’t add bulk, so your pants retain their loose, stylish look without sacrificing warmth.

Footwear

Baggy snowboard pants look best with larger, bulkier snowboarding boots. The excess fabric can drape over the boots, creating a classic snowboarder style.

9. Caring for Your Baggy Snowboard Pants

Proper care will ensure your pants last through many seasons. Here are a few tips:

Wash Less Frequently

Over-washing can break down the waterproofing. Instead, spot clean and air out your pants regularly.

Use Proper Detergents

Use a detergent made for waterproof clothes, and avoid fabric softeners that can strip waterproof coatings.

Reapply DWR Coating

Over time, the DWR coating can wear off. Use a spray-on DWR treatment to refresh your pants' water repellency.

10. FAQ About Baggy Snowboard Pants

Q: Are baggy snowboard pants good for beginners?

A: Yes, the loose fit provides freedom of movement and room for layering, making them a comfortable choice for beginners.

Q: Can I wear baggy snowboard pants in warmer weather?

A: Yes, look for pants with ventilation options, such as zippered vents, and pair them with lightweight base layers.

Q: How do I know if my pants are too baggy?

A: If the pants are dragging on the ground, catching on your boots, or restricting movement, they may be too loose. Make sure that your pants fit properly for your safety.

 

Thanks for taking your time to read our ultimate guide to baggy snowboard pants! We hope you see you getting steezy in the slopes.

Browse our collection of the best baggy snow pants at Après Blanche!