Plus Sized Ski Pants

About Ski and Snow Pants

Skiing is a year-round sport that is enjoyed by many. Depending on where you live, your experience level and if you like to travel, you can find open slopes pretty much any time you want. Resorts in the United States, Europe and Canada offer fresh powdery slopes and trails just about every day of the year, although many more are open during the winter months. And to make it down the slopes without getting cold or wet, you will need a good pair of ski or snow pants, which come in three styles:

• Elastic waist pants
• Bib overalls
• One-piece hybrid suit

Most ski pants are made from a tightly woven nylon or polyester, which makes them water resistant and durable. Some pants are made from nylon and polyester microfibers, which makes them lightweight, breathable and wind-resistant as well. The pants come with or without insulation. Those without insulation are made from a simple waterproof outer layer, so you can add layers of clothing underneath. Snow pants with insulation are meant to be worn with a pair of long underwear. Snow pants can be worn for:

• Alpine skiing
• Sledding
• Tobogganing
• Snowboarding
• Cross-country skiing
• Ice boating
• Ice fis
• Playing in the snow
• Ice hockey

Shopping for Plus-sized Ski Pants

While your best bet will be to shop for plus-sized ski pants during the winter season, you can still find good deals on them throughout the year:

• Junonia carries a pair of lined ski pants with suspenders. It comes with side zippers for easy dressing and adjustable waist tabs to ensure a proper fit.
• Proctor Jones has a few styles of pants available including elastic waist pants and bibs.
• Dick's Sporting Goods has a taffeta and tricot lining and microfiber insulation. Hand-warming pockets are an included special feature.
• Sierra Trading Post sells a pair of insulated and water resistant ski pants.
• Just Gear offers a variety of styles including bibs, elastic waist and cargo ski pants.

Dressing up Your Snow Pants

Let's face it: Ski pants are not attractive. They can be bulky, loud and a bit of pain to take off when you have to use the restroom. But they will keep you warm and dry when it's cold and wet outside. There are, however, several ways in which you can dress up those frumpy snow pants:

• Choose a stylish jacket to match. If your pants are black or navy, find a winter jacket that adds some contrast. Choose something in bright colors so you will stand out in the snow.
• Wear a cute hat, scarf and gloves set. Nothing will help you stand out more on the slopes than some trendy accessories.
• Boots can make a statement. There are many choices available for fashionable snow boots.
• Sunglasses are recommended. To protect your eyes from UV rays, bring along a pair of trendy sunglasses.