PANTS: Best Women’s Shell Pants for Skiing & Snowboarding 2025/26
- Constance Traynor
- Oct 1
- 4 min read
No insulation. Just stormproof, rider-tested shell pants that actually fit.
If you’ve ever had to size up just to get your thighs through—or ended up in a pant that bunches, gaps, or quits mid-season—this guide is for you. We’ve tested, vetted, and field-backed the best women’s shell pants of 2025, from backcountry-ready builds to budget-friendly resort picks. Every pant here is non-insulated, built to layer, move, and perform.
Whether you’re chasing powder, bootpacking to the ridge, or just want a shell that fits your curves without compromise, this lineup delivers. We’ve tagged each pick with rider-first notes, terrain fit, and contributor favorites—so you can find your match fast.
Best for Freeride: Mammut Stoney HS Pants
Price: $389 USD
Sizes: 2–16 (Short, Regular, Long)
Fabric: DRYtechnology Pro 3-layer shell (20K/20K, PFC-free DWR)
Why It’s Good: These pants are built for serious weather and serious movement. With wide side vents, Cordura® edge protection, integrated snow gaiters, and a waistband that adjusts from the outside, they’re ready for storm days, skin tracks, and everything in between. We spent over 50 days last season in the Mammut Stoney Pant and were impressed with how well they performed and maintained their quality.
Who It’s For: Women who want a durable, no-insulation shell pant that performs in the backcountry and holds up inbounds. Great for women looking to send in resort and freeride. Bonus: Multiple lengths available for shorter and longer legs.
Sizing Tip: Need a little more room? Go up one of your pant sizes.
Fit Notes:
Straight cut with articulated knees
Mid-rise waist with external Velcro adjusters
Available in short, regular, and long lengths for a dialed fit
Where to Buy: Mammut Official Site
Full Review Coming Soon
Best for Room in the Bum: Helly Hansen Sogn Shell Pants
Price: $335 USD
Sizes: XS–XL
Fabric: HELLY TECH® Professional 3-layer shell (PFC-free DWR)
Why It’s Good: These are Helly’s top-tier shell pants without the bib. Built with a high, adjustable waist and articulated knees, they offer freeride mobility and a more forgiving fit through the hips and seat. Features include cargo and beacon-specific pockets, reinforced hems, snow gaiters, and RECCO® reflectors.
Who It’s For: Women who want a shell pant that fits curves, skips the bib, and holds up in deep snow and technical terrain.
Fit Notes:
Relaxed through the hips and seat
High waist with adjustable tabs
Slight taper below the knee—great with boots
True-to-size with layering room
Full review coming soon
Best Budget Shell For Women: Trew Gear McKenzie Pant
Price: $279 USD
Sizes: XS–XL
Fabric: PNW 2L shell (20K/20K, PFAS-free DWR)
Why It’s Good: A true shell pant with stormproof construction, flattering freeride fit, and snowboard-friendly features—without the bib or bulk. Includes inner leg vents, cargo and rear pockets, reinforced cuffs, and RECCO® reflector.
Who It’s For: Women who want a resort-ready shell pant with clean style, real waterproofing, and layering flexibility—at a sub-$300 price point.
Fit Notes:
Relaxed freeride fit
Mid-rise waist with hidden Velcro tabs
Slight taper through thigh—true-to-size with layering room
Where to Buy: Trew Gear McKenzie Pant
Best for Women's Luxury Pick: Norrøna Lofoten GORE-TEX Pro Pants
Price: $799 USD
Sizes: XS–XL
Fabric: GORE-TEX Pro ePE 3-layer shell (PFAS-free, 200D face fabric)
Why It’s Good: These are the flagship freeride pants from Norrøna—stormproof, breathable, and built to last. With massive thigh vents, Kevlar® reinforced cuffs, articulated knees, and a high waistband, they’re engineered for deep snow and demanding terrain. The updated ePE membrane delivers elite waterproofing with a lower carbon footprint.
Who It’s For: Women who want uncompromising protection, durability, and freeride pedigree—at a luxury price point.
Fit Notes:
Regular fit with articulated knees
High waist with snap closure and Velcro tabs
Slightly structured feel—built for layering and movement
Where to Buy: Norrøna Official Site2
Best for Snowboarders: Volcom Stone Mica 20K Pant
Stephanie's Pick Stormproof, burrito-proof, and built for boot packs—this one’s her go-to for deep days.
Price: ~$220 USD
Sizes: XS–L
Fabric: V-Science 2-layer shell (PFAS-free DWR)
Why It’s Good: With 20K waterproofing, fully taped seams, and Volcom’s Zip Tech® pant-to-jacket interface, these pants are built to keep snowboarders dry and moving. Mesh-lined vents, triple-reinforced rise, and a relaxed fit make them ideal for long days on the hill.
Who It’s For: Riders who want a stylish, storm-ready shell pant with snowboard-specific features and a forgiving fit.
Fit Notes:
Relaxed fit with mid-rise waist
Adjustable inner waistband
Slightly roomy through the hips and thigh—great with base layers
Where to Buy: Boardertown NZ4
Still unsure what’s right for you?
Explore our She-Shredz Shred Plans—curated gear kits and contributor-backed picks tailored to your terrain, goals, and riding style.
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