Men's ski and snowboard trousers - quality models can be found at Sportano The men's ski and snowboard trousers category at Sportano is where you will find a wide selection of trousers dedicated to men who want to fully enjoy the winter season. Trousers from tried-and-tested brands such as Rossignol, Helly Hansen, The North Face, Maloja, Oakley, Picture and Volcom are designed with comfort, durability and functionality in mind, providing protection from the weather and allowing you to move freely whether on the slopes, cross-country trails or white untouched powder. Whatever your skill level and riding style, you will find a model from us that meets your expectations and allows you to enjoy winter activities at the highest level. Waterproof and breathability - key features of ski and snowboard trousers The two most important parameters of ski and snowboard trousers for men are waterproofness and breathability. It is important that the trousers are resistant to rain and snow, while at the same time the fabric allows moisture to escape efficiently from the interior to avoid sweating and heat loss.
The waterproof rating indicates how many millimetres of a column of water falls on the fabric before water starts to penetrate it. Higher values indicate greater water resistance. In general, ski and snowboard trousers with a waterproof rating of at least 10 000 mm H2O are suitable for most conditions on the slopes. For more demanding conditions, models with a higher parameter can be chosen. Men's ski or snowboard trousers often use waterproof membranes such as Gore-Tex, which provide excellent protection against rain and snow while allowing the skin to breathe. An additional layer of DWR (Durable Water Repellence) impregnation on the surface of the fabric helps to reflect water droplets, increasing the effectiveness of the waterproofing. In addition, the seams of winter sports trousers are usually taped to prevent water penetration.
Breathability, on the other hand, is a parameter that measures how many grams of moisture (in the form of water vapour) can evaporate through the material in 24 hours. The higher the rating, the better the material wicks moisture away from the inside of the trousers. This value in ski or snowboard trousers should be at least 5,000 g/m²/24h to ensure adequate air circulation in most conditions on the slopes. For intense exertion and warmer days, values above 10 g/m²/24h will be more suitable. In addition, it is a good idea to choose trousers with zips on the thighs or legs, which allow rapid heat dissipation when the intensity of exertion or the ambient temperature rises. Membrane in ski and snowboard trousers The membrane is a thin layer placed between the outer fabric of the trousers and the inner lining. Its main function is to prevent water penetration into the trousers. In addition to being waterproof, membranes must also be breathable, i.e. allow water vapour (sweat) to pass from the inside to the outside. Popular membranes used in ski and snowboard trousers are: Gore-Tex, eVent, Dermiza or H2No.
Membranes are part of what are known as laminates, which indicate how it has been combined with other layers of materials to provide optimum protection and performance in different conditions on the slopes.
Two-layer (2L) laminates consist of an outer layer of fabric and a waterproof membrane (middle layer). They are light and breathable, making them suitable for warmer days on the slopes. They provide basic protection against rain and snow. The lack of an inner liner may mean that the trousers are not as comfortable to wear as models with a liner.
Two-and-a-half-layer laminates (2.5L) contain an additional, thin layer of cover or laminate film on the inside of the fabric instead of a full liner. They provide better protection against rain and snow than 2L, while remaining light and breathable. They are more compact and suitable for variable conditions.
Three-layer (3L) laminates consist of an outer fabric, a waterproof membrane and a third, inner liner layer. They provide excellent protection against weather conditions, including rain, snow and wind. They are durable, abrasion resistant and offer a high level of thermal comfort. Thermal insulation in ski and snowboard trousers A factor in thermal comfort in harsh winter conditions on the slopes is thermal insulation, which should be matched to the temperature and activity level.
Ski or snowboard trousers with a natural down filling are extremely lightweight and guarantee excellent thermal comfort. Goose or duck down feels nice to the touch and compresses well, but can lose its insulating properties when wet. For this reason, it is important that the trousers have additional protection against moisture, such as DWR impregnation.
The second type of insulation is synthetic insulation made from synthetic fibres such as PrimaLoft or Thinsulate. These fibres are moisture-resistant and keep you warm even in wet conditions. In addition, synthetic fibres dry quickly, which you will appreciate if there is a fair amount of snowfall. Synthetic insulation can be slightly heavier than down insulation.
Ski and snowboard trousers can contain a combination of down and synthetic insulation, combining their benefits to guarantee excellent thermal insulation, both in dry and wet conditions.
Some ski and snowboard trousers are what are known as shells, or models without built-in insulation. These tend to be thinner and more suitable for warmer days or for those who prefer to regulate their temperature through a layered system of dressing in a so-called onion style. Men's softshell trousers will work well for cross-country skiing or skydiving. Other important features of ski and snowboard trousers for men In addition to the main features such as waterproofness and breathability, there are other details and design elements that affect the functionality and comfort of ski trousers. Here are some of these additional features:
leg cuff reinforcements - reduce the risk of damaging the material when coming into contact with a sharp ski edge or crampons, especially when riding in backcountry terrain;
reinforcements at the knees and groin area - are used to increase resistance to abrasion and damage;
legs with internal snow bands or hooks - prevent snow, water or cold air from getting under the trousers and into the boots;
pockets - their number and type depends on individual needs;
adjustable belt or braces - allow for a better fit of the trousers and keep them in place;
a high rise - protects the loins against cold;
side zipper on legs - makes it easier to put on and take off ski or snowboard boots;
reflective elements - increases visibility after dark or in reduced visibility conditions;
RECCO reflector - helps locate the skier in the event of a loss, for example due to an avalanche.
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