Best Cross-Country Ski Pants of 2026
Comfortable, breathable XC pants for aerobic activity in cold conditions
February 15th, 2026, updated with a new overall winner, a new lightweight winner, and two new models tested
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Cross-country skiing isn’t about bulk—it’s about moving efficiently, staying dry, and clamoring through cold terrain with fluid motion. The best Nordic ski pants feel more like high-performance running gear than downhill shell pants, offering breathability, stretch, and light weather protection.
Top Pick: The men's and women's Stio Pinedale earn the Best Overall title. They combine a weather-resistant softshell main panel, Capilene behind-the-knee breathability, slim but forgiving fit, and pockets that stay put without dragging. It’s the pair we trust across Nordic conditions—from groomers to snow-dusted trails.
Note: We use Nordic and cross-country skiing interchangeably, though technically, there are differences (Nordic is any skiing when your heel wouldn't be clipped in). But yeah for the sake of this guide, we stick with colloquial usage.
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Comparison Tables
Men’s
| SKI PANTS | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | SIZES | FIT | FABRIC | ZIPPERED ANKLES? | POCKETS | WIND PROTECTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stio Pinedale Pants | Best men's Read why |
$149 | 30-40 | Slim | Stio’s Everlight softshell with 4-way stretch and PFAS-free DWR | No | 2 zippered hand, 2 zippered butt, 1 thigh, 1 by right hand pocket | Wind resistant |
| Patagonia Wind Shield | Best lightweight Read why |
$179 | XS-3XL | Slim | Polyester, nylon, spandex | Yes | 2 side with no-bounce pocket bags | Windproof |
| Ortovox Col Becchei | Best backcountry Read why |
$330 | S-XXL | Slim | Polyamide, wool, elastane | Yes | 2 hip, 1 thigh | Wind resistant |
| Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Pants | Best tights Read why |
$139 | S-XXL | Slim | Polyester, spandex | Yes | 1 zippered thigh, 1 drop-in thigh | Windproof |
| KUIU Attack Pant | $149 | 30-46 (men’s) | Articulated | Polyester softshell with DWR treatment | No | zippered thigh, 2 hand | Wind resistant |
Women’s
| SKI PANTS | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | SIZES | FIT | FABRIC | ZIPPERED ANKLES? | POCKETS | WIND PROTECTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stio Pinedale Pant | Best overall Read why |
$149 | 0-16 | Slim | Stio’s Everlight softshell with 4-way stretch and PFAS-free DWR | No | 2 zippered hand, 1 thigh | Wind resistant |
| Patagonia Wind Shield Pants | Best lightweight Read why |
$179 | XXS-XL | Slim | Polyester, nylon, spandex | Yes | 2 side with no-bounce pocket bags | Windproof |
| Ortovox Col Becchei | Best backcountry Read why |
$330 | XS-XL | Slim | Polyamide, wool, elastane | Yes | 2 hip, 1 thigh | Wind resistant |
| Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Tights | Best tights Read why |
$139 | XS-XL | Slim | Polyester, spandex | Yes | 1 zippered thigh, 1 drop-in thigh | Windproof |
| KUIU Women's Attack Pant | $149 | 2-14 (women’s) | Articulated | Polyester softshell with DWR treatment | No | Zippered thigh, 2 hand | Wind resistant |
The Winners
Best Overall Cross-Country Ski Pants: Stio Pinedale Pants
Price: $169
Materials: Stio’s Everlight softshell with 4-way stretch and PFAS-free DWR
Fit: Slim
Available sizes: 0-16 (women’s) / 30-40 (men’s)
What we liked: Incredibly comfortable and stretchy, good weather resistance, versatile fit and style
What we didn’t like: Can be a little heavy and warm for the highest-output nordic, like skate skiing or use on warmer days
For all-around versatility on Nordic adventures from the groomed track to the trail, the Stio Pinedale pants have impressed us with their comfort, performance, and weather resistance. These pants are incredibly functional and comfortable, with a stretchy softshell material and useful features. Plus, they offer ample versatility when the skis come off, too. After testing over several days of Nordic skiing, including days with wind chill in the negatives, our men’s and women’s testers wholeheartedly agree that these are the best all around pants for cross-country skiing.
Stio Pinedale Pants
men's
Women's
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The Pinedale pants are made with Stio’s Everlight softshell material, which features a 4-way stretch design and a PFAS-free DWR treatment to add extra weather resistance. Our testers really noticed and appreciated the stretch in these pants, and both our men’s and women’s testers agree that these are some of the most comfortable softshell pants they’ve ever worn.
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While the Stio Pinedale pants are quite versatile (we found that we like them for cool and cold weather hiking just as much as Nordic skiing), what makes them ideal for Nordic skiing is the tapered style that’s slim but still allows for a base layer underneath—critical for those really cold days.
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The slimmer fit and taper on the legs makes it so these pants aren’t too baggy, particularly at the ankles, which would impede a smooth kick and glide motion when skiing. The design also makes it so the pants can fit either over or inside Nordic boots, depending on your preference and conditions. When backcountry cross-country skiing with fresh snow, our testers liked being able to pull the pants over their boots to stop snow from getting in.
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As for additional features, the Pinedale pants have an integrated, adjustable belt—you can remove it if you want, but our testers found it comfortable and beneficial. The women’s pants also have some stretch in the waistband which adds to their comfort. There are hand pockets and one zippered thigh pocket on both the men’s and women’s, and the men’s have an extra little zippered pocket above one of the hand pockets (we wish the women’s version had one too!).
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We tested the Stio Pinedale pants for multiple seasons on multiple Nordic skis around Breckenridge, Colorado, along with another tester who has used them extensively for Nordic skiing and winter hiking in northern Utah.
Our Colorado testers found that the Pinedale pants were great, even in super cold and windy weather when wind chill reached -5°F. On days like that they appreciated being able to fit a wool base layer underneath.
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The Stio Pinedale pants are also plenty breathable for warmer, higher output days too. Though if you often go hard and fast, or regularly skate ski, and want better breathability at the sacrifice of some weather protection and warmth, consider the Patagonia Wind Shield pants instead.
Best lightweight cross-country ski pants: Patagonia Wind Shield
Price: $179
Materials: polyester softshell with DWR treatment, Capilene behind the knee
Fit: slim
Available sizes: XXS-XL (women’s) / XS-3XL (men’s)
What we liked: comfortable, good weather protection, enough room for a base layer underneath, versatile, lightweight
What we didn’t like: women’s sizing range not as high as the men’s
When it comes down to it, dressing for Nordic skiing is a lot like dressing for winter running. That’s why it’s not too surprising that our favorite lightweight cross-country ski pants are also some of our favorite winter running pants. The Patagonia Wind Shield pants check all the boxes regarding fit and features that make a pair of pants ideal for Nordic skiing.
They’re slim but not skin tight, offer decent weather protection while remaining highly breathable, have good pockets, and are wonderfully comfortable. We’ve tested these on dozens of cross-country ski adventures at Nordic centers and in the backcountry, along with all our testing on winter runs. If you’re looking for lightweight Nordic ski pants that can stand up to high output days, put the Wind Shield at the top of your list.
For more on these pants, see our long-term, in-depth review of the Patagonia Wind Shield Pants.
Patagonia Wind Shield
Men's
Women's
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The Wind Shield pants are made with a weather-resistant softshell fabric on the main part of the pants, stitched to a layer of Capilene behind the knees on the back of the legs for maximum breathability.
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The pants are treated with a non-PFC Durable Water Repellent (DWR) to help with moisture repellency. The wide, mid-rise waistband is stretchy and comfortable, and has a drawstring to dial in the fit of the waist. The cuffs have outer zippers at the ankles, so you can wear them tucked both in or over Nordic boots. Dual thigh pockets on the sides hold a phone or snacks without causing the pants to sag while skiing.
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We found the Wind Shield pants to fit true to size and overall love the fit that treads the line between pants and tights. This fit is ideal for Nordic skiing because it’s ergonomic and sleek but leaves just enough room for a thin base layer underneath for those particularly cold days.
The fabric of these pants is very comfortable and stretchy, including the wide waistband (so comfy and stretchy, in fact, that our women’s tester was able to wear her regular size even at 7.5 months pregnant).
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We have not found many downsides with the Wind Shield pants, given that they lend to light layering when needed, making them quite functional and versatile. But these pants are designed for running, and that’s reflected primarily in the overall fabric and design. The Wind Shield pants will not be quite as weather protective overall as the Stio Pinedale Pants because of that design. So if that’s a priority, consider the Pinedale instead. But if you’d prefer high breathability in a more running-oriented package, the Wind Shield pants will suit you better.
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The only other thing we wish these pants had more inclusive sizing as they only go up to XL. They’re our favorite pants for a lot of high-output cold-weather activities, and we’d love to see them made available to a wider range of body types. For more options, see our Best Plus-Size Winter Outdoor Clothing, Best Women’s Plus-Size Snow Pants and Bibs, and Best Big and Tall Outdoor Clothing guides.
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We tested these pants over two seasons of Nordic skiing in a range of temperatures. They’re light and breathable enough for days above freezing but offer enough protection when the skies are gray, the wind is howling, and the temps dip into the teens or lower (below about 15-20 degrees, we appreciated a base layer underneath).
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Ultimately, if you’re looking for a lightweight pair of pants for cross-country skiing, we think you’d be hard-pressed to find a better all-around option than these. They’re comfortable, weather-protective, and wonderfully versatile for a wide range of conditions and activities from the Nordic center and beyond.
Best Backcountry Cross-Country Ski Pants: Ortovox Col Becchei
Price: $330
Materials: softshell outer with merino blend inner lining
Fit: slim with wider cuff
Available sizes: XS-XL (women’s) / S-XXL (men’s)
What we liked: durable outer softshell, merino wool lining adds warmth, cuff fits over a ski boot, PFC-free
What we didn’t like: expensive, pocket placement could be better, limited sizing given that they run small
Nordic pants (and winter running pants and tights often used for cross-country skiing) are generally designed to have a slim and minimal fit. That’s because much of Nordic skiing is highly aerobic and often takes place on nicely groomed tracks far from deep powder. But if you prefer to venture into the backcountry on your Nordic skis, you’ll likely want a more substantial pair of pants. The Col Becchei pants strike a nice balance of features, warmth, and weather protection without being as heavy or cumbersome as regular downhill or touring ski touring pants. If you primarily ski off the groomed track when cross-country skiing, these pants are ideal.
The Col Becchei pants are fully-featured yet lightweight softshell pants designed for winter activities like backcountry ski touring and Nordic skiing. They’re made with a durable and comfortable Schoeller softshell fabric with a good deal of stretch and breathability, while remaining wind and water-resistant.
Ortovox Col Becchei
Men's
Women's
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On the inside, the pants have a thin merino wool backer that does double duty by adding warmth and wicking sweat when needed.
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They have a classic zipper and button closure, with an elastic velcro tab to adjust the waist as needed. There are zippers at the outer ankles on the cuffs, and the pants are wide enough to fit over most ski boots (both Nordic and touring boots).
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The burlier design of these pants and the wider cuffs make these ideal for Nordic skiers who spend long days in the backcountry, and they double nicely as lightweight backcountry ski touring pants, too.
The pants do a better job of keeping snow from creeping into boots, especially in ungroomed areas or on trails that have not been packed down well. We tested them on multiple Nordic skis in the backcountry, including one day after several inches of fresh snow, and they kept us warm and dry.
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For pockets, the Col Becchei features two zippered hand pockets and one zippered pocket on the side of the thigh. These pockets are spacious, and we like having zippers instead of the drop pockets on most lighter, running-style pants.
But we think the pocket placement could be a little better. Specifically, on the women’s version, the side pocket sat too low to be useful; when we put a phone in that pocket, it bumps against the knee with movement. This could be due to having to size up for the right fit and is not a deal breaker given the excellent performance and quality overall.
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We love the materials and features of these pants, but, as with other Ortovox apparel we’ve tested, the fit can be tricky to get right. These run small, and we recommend sizing up for a good fit. Sized properly, the Col Becchei pants have a trim fit but are not too snug.
There is enough room for a base layer underneath these pants, and we appreciated that on days that dipped into the teens.
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Aside from dialing the fit and pocket placement, the only other downside to these pants is the price. They are the most expensive in our test, which may be a deal breaker for some. But we think the quality and performance of these pants is top of the line, and they’re ultimately worth the splurge. (The Ortovox Col Becchei Swisswool Hybrid jacket, made with the same softshell material and wool backer, is our favorite winter softshell jacket). Plus, we appreciate that these pants use sustainable materials, like responsibly sourced merino wool, and are free of PFCs.
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While some cross-country skiers may prefer pants that are more similar to running tights, if you like to get out into the backcountry and go out for long days in a variety of conditions, we think these are the best pants for that type of Nordic skiing.
Best Cross-Country Ski Tights: Outdoor Research Deviator Tights
Price: $139
Materials: polyester with PU lamination, spandex
Fit: tights (women’s) / slim pants (men’s)
Available sizes: XS-XL (women’s) / S-XXL (men’s)
What we liked: fit and material ideal for high-output winter activities, lightweight
What we didn’t like: windproof fabric is slightly stiff
Cross-country skiing is, for many folks, a high-output aerobic winter activity. That means the ideal gear is ready for fast and light movement while remaining weather-resistant and breathable. The Outdoor Research Deviator tights shine in these circumstances.
The windproof and water-resistant fabric on the front blocks nasty sun-freezing gusts and blowing snow, while the stretchy fabric on the back of the legs allows for freedom of movement and breathability. For the skiers who like to get their heart pumping on the Nordic track, these are the best pants for the job.
Outdoor Research Deviator Tights
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
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The Deviator tights are a lightweight option that breathes well while offering good protection from the elements.
The front of the pants features a PU-laminated shell layer that blocks wind and moisture, while the rest of the tights have a stretchy and breathable fabric that wicks moisture and prevents overheating.
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On the inside, the back and sides of the pants have a fleece backer that adds some warmth. With the wind-protective layer on the front, we think the placing of specific materials in these pants is pretty spot on.
We tested the Deviators on both sub-20-degree windy mornings and on days above freezing with plenty of sun. While they do block wind well, which helps a good deal in bad weather, they are not as warm as others in our test.
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These pants excel when working up a sweat and on warmer days. If you’re a more casual Nordic skier, these are probably not for you. But if you’re looking for a little more intensity with the pace, these are ideal.
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The men’s version has a slightly looser fit, leaving just enough room for a thin base layer underneath. The women’s version, however, fit more like true tights. While it’s possible to fit a thin and tight layer underneath, we found them to be much more comfortable on their own.
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One thing we really like about the Deviators is the pocket design. The pockets are placed on the thighs and one is a drop-in while the other is zippered. It’s nice to have the zipper option for things that are more sensitive to cold and moisture, like a phone, and use the other pocket for snacks and such.
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Additionally, both the men’s and women’s versions have a zip at the ankle to allow for adjustment with boots.
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We think the men’s version fits true to size, while the women’s are slightly on the small side. If you like a snug fit, stick with your regular size. If you want a roomier fit, size up. The waistband on these tights is snugger and a little stiffer than similar pants, like the Patagonia Wind Shield, and we’d like just a little more stretch there.
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The Deviator tights and pants are quite similar in design and features to the Patagonia Wind Shield. If you’re deciding between the two, consider that the Deviators have a slightly slimmer fit overall and that the Wind Shield pants offer a little more stretch in the fabric, especially the waistband. The Deviators do cost $30 less than the Wind Shield, so if budget is a top consideration, these will be a great option.
Other Cross-Country Ski Pants We Tested
KUIU Attack Pant
Price: $149
Materials: Polyester softshell with DWR treatment
Fit: Articulated
Available sizes: 2-14 (women’s) / 30-46 (men’s)
What we liked: Versatile, durable, comfortable
What we didn’t like: A little too bulky for Nordic skiing
Our men’s tester really enjoyed wearing the KUIU pants for both winter hikes and Nordic ski adventures. While they performed fairly well for Nordic skiing, they’re better suited to winter hiking, given that they’re thicker and bulkier overall than something like the Stio Pinedale. They’re made with hunting front of mind, and that’s clear in the design. There’s more bulk and a wider fit around the ankles than what’s ideal for Nordic skiing. If you don’t mind extra bulk and want a durable pair of pants that work well for a variety of uses in winter and colder weather, these are worth considering.
KUIU Attack Pant
men's
Women's
Fjallraven Keb Agile Winter Trouser
Price: $250
Materials: G-1000 Stretch
Fit: Straight
Available sizes: 2-18 (women’s) / 28-44 (men’s)
What we liked: Warm and durable, good for cold winter hikes
What we didn’t like: Too heavy and bulky for most Nordic skiing applications
While the Fjallraven Keb Agile Winter Trousers are indeed great for winter weather—they’re very warm, weather resistant, and durable—they’re overall too warm and bulky for most Nordic skiing. We like the amount of pockets and think these would be great for snowshoeing, winter backpacking, or slow-paced winter hikes. But Nordic skiers will find a slimmer, more ergonomic fit and a lot more breathability in other options, like the Stio Pinedale or Patagonia Wind Shield.
Fjallraven Keb Agile Winter Trouser
men's
Women's
Price: $150
Materials: polyester and elastane
Fit: jogger
Available sizes: XS-XL
What we liked: good weather protection
What we didn’t like: bulky fit
This pair of slim-fitting cold-weather pants from Kari Traa is another good option for women looking for something that’s not skin-tight like the Ruth Thermal tights. The Tirill Thermal pants have a weather-resistant outer shell material lined with a thin thermal backer for added warmth.
While these do offer more weather protection than the Ruth Thermal tights, we found the Ruths to be supremely comfortable, more so than these, and we like the thicker fleece lining in the tights as well. We found the Tirill Thermal pants to be a bit unnecessarily bulky, but if you prefer a burlier style of pants for Nordic skiing, these are worth considering. As with most Kari Traa, we recommend sizing up if you’re on the fence.
Kari Traa Tirill Thermal Pants
Price: $129
Materials: recycled nylon
Fit: jogger
Available sizes: XXS-3X
What we liked: comfort, breathability, size range
What we didn’t like: not as warm or weather-protective as others, ankle coverage could be better
Our longtime favorite women’s running tights, the Rainier Tights, have a sister in jogger form, which makes them nice for Nordic skiing since you can slip a thin base layer underneath when necessary. These joggers are made with a thick and stretchy material that breathes well and have a thin fleece backer for a little extra warmth. And we love that they come in sizes up to 3X, so if you’re looking for Nordic pants with a wider size range, consider these. There is currently limited stock available, however; we hope that changes soon.
Athleta Rainier jogger
What to look for in cross-country ski pants
Material and insulation
The material is one of the most important factors to consider in cross-country ski pants. Because Nordic skiing is so much more aerobic than downhill skiing, you don’t want pants that are as insulated or bulky as alpine ski pants. Instead, materials like polyester and nylon softshells that offer some weather protection while remaining breathable and stretchy are ideal. Some light insulation is nice, like a fleece lining, but fully insulated pants are almost always overkill for Nordic skiing since you’re generally moving the entire time.
Related: read our recent review on our favorite Insulated Pants for winter. (There are down, fleece, and synthetic options for everyone!)
Fit and comfort
Fit is another important aspect of cross-country ski pants. Since you’re making strides on the skis, you don’t want anything too loose or baggy. Opt for a slimmer fit instead. Many folks even prefer something like the fit of a winter running tight for Nordic skiing. And, like any good piece of gear, the tights should fit well and be comfortable. You want something sleek and slim enough but also comfortable and breathable that allows you to move dynamically and easily.
Waterproof and breathability ratings
Since Nordic skiing is more of an aerobic activity and you’re not spending time riding a cold chairlift, most Nordic ski apparel errs on the side of weather-resistance rather than fully waterproof. This is because you need breathability in order to avoid overheating and sweating while you’re moving. Look for breathable fabrics, like nylon and polyester softshells, that also have some level of weather protection, like a DWR coating.
Durability and construction
Durability is essential with any piece of quality outdoor gear, and that’s true of cross-country ski pants as well. Look for abrasion-resistant materials and quality zippers.
Mobility and flexibility
Your cross-country ski pants should allow you to move very comfortably, so pants that function more like running tights than downhill ski gear are ideal. Look for materials with stretch that give you a great range of motion for moving on your skis.
Additional features
Other features to consider when looking for Nordic ski pants are the number of pockets, whether those have zippers, and things like zippered cuffs. Zippered cuffs make it easier to layer thick socks and often allow you to cinch your pants over your boots for deeper snow conditions.
How to choose the right pair of cross-country ski pants
Determine your budget
Consider how much you want to spend on your Nordic ski pants; there are many options in a wide price range. Do consider that spending a little more often gets you better weather protection or more features.
Consider the weather and climate
If you ski in very cold climates, look for pants with some insulation, like a fleece backer. If you get out in all sorts of conditions, consider a pair that allows for layering so that you have something that works on both warmer and colder days. If you’re skiing in a particularly wet climate, look for pants with good weather resistance and a DWR coating.
Identify your skiing style
Consider how you like to cross-country ski. Are you a skate skier who is moving quickly on groomed tracks? A slimmer, tight-like pair of pants will probably be best for you. But, if you enjoy exploring the backcountry on your Nordic skis instead, look for a pair that has more coverage over the boot and more weather protection.
Check sizing and fit
Ensure that the pants fit you well and are comfortable. Look at sizing charts or try on to be sure before you buy.
Choose high breathability ratings
Yes, you want your pants to have some good weather resistance, but with an aerobic activity like Nordic skiing, breathability is arguably more important. When exercising in winter, one of the best ways to stay warm and comfortable is to stay dry, and that means not sweating. Choose pants with good breathability to avoid overheating, but don’t eschew all weather protection (as in, you need more than just your wool base layer).
Some pants in this category will list specific breathability ratings, while others don’t. That often depends on the type of pants (running tights are less likely to list this, while a softshell ski pant probably will). Overall, breathability ratings are more commonly listed for fully waterproof shells like GORE-TEX. Softshell materials and running tights in general are far more breathable than these fabrics, and it’s often not necessary to see a specific rating.
Choose the level of insulation based on the expected temperature
Consider the amount of insulation in the pants and your overall layering system based on the weather. Remember that you’ll be moving, so starting a little cold is best to avoid overheating. But you’ll want some level of protection from the elements, too.
Consult with experts
If you’re still unsure, talk to the folks at your local Nordic center or gear shop to find the right layering system for the conditions.
Cross-country ski pants vs regular ski pants
Cross-country ski pants are much more like winter hiking or running pants than they are like downhill ski pants. This is because, generally speaking, Nordic skiing is far more aerobic than downhill skiing.
Nordic ski pants have a slimmer fit with more stretch and breathability in the fabric, while regular downhill ski pants prioritize warmth and weather protection for cold chairlift rides and skiing in deep snow. Regular downhill ski pants are almost always overkill for Nordic skiing, making you likely to overheat and sweat.
If you're resort skiing or backcountry skiing, consider our Best Men's Ski Pants and Best Women's Ski Pants guides to find pants that are designed for downhill skiing.
Cross country ski pants maintenance and care
Taking good care of your cross-country ski pants will help them to last a long time.
Washing and cleaning recommendations
As with most technical outdoor apparel, you’ll want to note the washing instructions on your pants and avoid throwing them in a normal wash load. Wash according to the manufacturer's instructions and avoid detergents that are bad for technical fabrics. Learn more about how to wash your outdoor apparel in our gear care and cleaning guides.
In particular, pay attention to How to Clean and Repair Gore-Tex and other shells if your pants have any waterproofing or water-resistance.
Proper storage and drying
While you may not need to wash your Nordic ski pants after every use, you should store them in a dry place out of direct sun.
Repair and maintenance guidelines
If you need to repair your cross-country ski pants, look for things like Gear Aid Tenacious Tape to repair holes. Keeping your pants clean, especially the zippers, will also help with longevity.
FAQ
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Cross-country ski pants are generally more breathable and stretchy than regular alpine pants, making them more comfortable. They also offer more warmth and weather protection than other outdoor pants, like summer hiking pants.
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While you can wear regular snow pants for Nordic skiing, you’ll probably be less comfortable and more likely to overheat. It’s essential to avoid overheating to avoid sweating and subsequent rapid cooling.
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Cross-country ski pants are versatile for cold-weather, high-output activities, like winter running and hiking.
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This depends on both the pants and the weather conditions. Some Nordic pants fit like tights and don’t allow for additional layers underneath. Others have room for base layer bottoms, which may be necessary for particularly cold days. Ultimately, though, personal preference reigns here since everyone's body is different, and the conditions can vary significantly from region to region and even day to day.
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Cross-country ski pants prioritize breathability and mobility for aerobic activity, which means they are not as warm or protective as other winter pants. If you are going out in extreme cold, you will need more substantial layers than a pair of Nordic pants.
In addition, a fleece jacket is an excellent midlayer for cross-country skiing in extremely cold weather. Layering appropriately is key here.
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Avoid pants that are too insulated. Beginner Nordic skiers may assume that an insulated pair of snow pants is ideal, but instead, opt for something much lighter and more comfortable for movement. For example, it's easy to think that resort ski pants would be the best option for cross-country skiing. We often find that insulated ski pants for the resort are too warm for most Nordic adventures.
How we researched and tested
We began by researching dozens of pairs of Nordic ski pants and even many pairs of winter running pants and tights. We considered specs like materials, fit, and features, as well as customer and media reviews. From there, we selected the top contenders and tested them for ourselves. We went out on groomed tracks and in the backcountry on various high alpine trails near Breckenridge, Colorado, to test both men’s and women’s versions of multiple pairs of Nordic ski pants.
OUR TESTING PROCESS
Tried in classic and skate stride conditions, focusing on fit, mobility, moisture control, and warmth during long ski sessions
How we tested
- Worn on classic and skate ski sessions to assess motion
- Evaluated warmth and breathability over long outings
- Checked fit during varied stride patterns
- Assessed moisture control under sweat and wind
What we evaluated
- Mobility for classic and skate techniques
- Moisture wicking and breathability
- Warmth without restricting motion
- Fit comfort during long tours
About the author / why you should trust us
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR cert, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full-time freelance writer and editor working primarily in the outdoor recreation realm. Her bylines can be found in Backpacker, 5280, and REI’s Uncommon Path, among others, and she’s been testing and writing about gear for nearly a decade. She is also the managing editor of the new print zine, Trails Magazine.
Stasia has been living in the mountains her entire life and has multiple seasons of cross-country skiing in the books. She learned as a way to stay in shape in the winter and as a complement to downhill and backcountry skiing and generally gets out a few days a week in the winter. Aside from doing them herself, she’s been writing about winter sports, including all types of skiing, and testing winter gear for more than a decade.
For more on Stasia, see all her stories on her author page.
